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Snakes, Lizards, Birds and More: Union County Hosts Special Nature Programs over President's Day Weekend

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 02/15/2023

(MOUNTAINSIDE, NJ) -- The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites families to enjoy “February Festivities,” a nature-filled weekend of shows and activities at Union County’s Trailside Nature and Science Center, located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside, this Saturday, February 18 and Sunday, February 19.

Spots are still available for Unique Creatures on Saturday, February 18 from 12:00pm to 1:00pm, and from 1:30pm to 2:30pm. The show features live animals including snakes, lizards, insects and birds.

“Along with special programs like February Festivities, the doors of Trailside are open all year ‘round for visitors to walk through and explore the exhibits,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “We are very proud to offer our residents the enriching experiences of our natural heritage in our County parks and at Trailside.”

Pre-registration and a modest fee are required for all February Festivities programs. To register, visit ucnj.org/trailside and follow the link to Union County’s secure online registration page. The fee per person per program is $7.00 for Union County residents and $8.00 for non-county residents.

The programs are recommended for families with children ages four and older.




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In addition to Unique Creatures, a limited number of spots are available for the following February Festivities activities:

The Journey of Sap to Syrup, from 9:30am to 10:30am and 10:45am to 11:45am on Saturday, February 18 and Sunday, February 19. See how real maple syrup is made and take part in a taste test to see if you can identify the real thing.

Winter Walk Scavenger Hunt, from 3:00pm to 4:00pm on Saturday, February 18 and Sunday, February 19. Search the woods for buck rubs, bird nests and bright red berries, and enjoy a campfire with hot chocolate and marshmallows. 

The Science of Magic, from 1:30pm to 2:15pm on Sunday, February 19 only, featuring mirrors, magnets and optical illusions.

For more details about February Festivities and other upcoming programs at Trailside, visit ucnj.org/trailside or call 908-789-3670.

Aside from special programming, Trailside welcomes visitors free of charge every day except Mondays and major holidays from 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Please note that Trailside is closed on Monday, February 20, for President’s Day.

For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, visit the Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.


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