While holiday chaos makes hibernation a tempting option, winter is the perfect time to get outside and explore nature. Check out a sampling of the events offered by Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space in December – they’re sure to become a few of your favorite things.

Christmas at Oak View Farm
Dec. 2–21
Historic Oak View County Park
This holiday tradition features free guided tours for organized groups and the general public that focus on historical periods in the farm’s history. Advance registration is required. For more details, please visit wakegov.com/ChristmasOV.​ Historic Oak View County Park is located at 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh.

Wildlife in Winter
Wednesday, Dec. 4, 10:30 a.m.–noon
Harris Lake County Park
What happens to our wildlife during the winter? They have a variety of adaptations to help them get through the cold months. Explore some of their techniques then take a walk to search for our winter residents! This program is for all ages, and preregistration is required. Meet at the Cypress Shelter. Harris Lake County Park is located at 2112 County Park Drive, New Hill.

Birding with Vernon
Saturday, Dec. 7, 8:30–10 a.m.
Lake Crabtree County Park
Join our bird enthusiast for an easy walk while you look and listen for our feathered friends. Registration is not required. Meet at the Waterwise Garden (first parking lot on the right). Lake Crabtree County Park is located at 1400 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville.

Geminids Meteor Shower Watch
Saturday, Dec. 14, 6:30–8 p.m.
American Tobacco Trail
Local astronomers will help us observe the Geminids Meteor Shower and other phenomena in the night sky—and as a bonus, we may see or hear some of our nocturnal wildlife. Bring a chair or a blanket. There is no special equipment needed, but you may bring your own viewing instrument if you have one. This program is for all ages, and preregistration is required. Meet at the New Hill parking area at the picnic table near the restrooms located at 1309 New Hill-Olive Chapel Road, Apex.

Natural Explorations: Winter Wonders Walk
Saturday, Dec. 21, 2–3 p.m.
Historic Yates Mill County Park
Winter is coming! Take a walk with a naturalist to explore the seasonal changes that can be observed in nature, discover how various kinds of wildlife prepare for the cold and look for animal tracks and other wildlife signs. Make sure to dress in layers. This program is for all ages, and preregistration is required. Historic Yates Mill County Park is located at 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh.

Family Wildlife Series: Fossil Fundamentals
Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2–3 p.m.
Blue Jay Point County Park
What is a fossil and where do you find them? Your family can start your very own collection as you explore the basics of fossils. Preregistration is required for all participants. Blue Jay Point County Park is located at 3200 Pleasant Union Church Road, Raleigh.

Walk in the Woods
Monday, Dec. 30, 3–4 p.m.
Crowder County Park
Take a walk in the woods, discover the animals and plants that call our park home, and help collect data for our Natural Resources Inventory Database and other citizen science projects. All experience levels are welcome. This free program is for all ages, and registration is not required. Meet at the Park Office. Crowder County Park is located at 4709 Ten Ten Road, Apex.

To see a full list of upcoming programs and events, visit wakegov.com/parks.

Reminder
Our Park Locator makes it easy to explore all the parks and preserves in Wake County! Filter results by activity or location and get customized directions.

About Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space
Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space strives to provide outdoor recreation and educational opportunities while promoting environmental and cultural stewardship through a managed system of parks and open spaces. In 2018, more than 1.3 million people visited Wake County’s 10 parks and nature preserves. 

To learn more about Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space, follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @WakeGovParks. You can also check out each of our parks on Facebook.