Earth Day at Hays Nature Preserve

Hays Nature Preserve transforms into an environmental celebration hub each April, offering families a chance to mark Earth Day with hands-on learning and outdoor fun. This free community festival brings together nature exhibits, live animal encounters, and activities that help kids understand why caring for our planet matters. The Rise Raptor demonstrations are always a highlight, giving children an up-close look at birds of prey while learning about their role in local ecosystems. A petting zoo adds another layer of animal interaction that's especially engaging for younger visitors. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 18 at Hays Nature Preserve, located at 7161 Hays Preserve Trail SE. Everything is free, including hot dogs, sno-cones, and cotton candy to keep energy levels up while you explore. Families can also take home free vegetable plants to start their own gardens, though these go quickly, so arriving earlier in the day improves your chances. Parking at the preserve itself fills up fast during this popular event, but the city provides a smart alternative—park at Mark Russell Recreational Center at 429 Taylor Road and catch a free Huntsville Transit shuttle directly to the festival entrance. The event works well for kids ages 3 to 14, with younger children gravitating toward the petting zoo and treats while older kids get more from the educational exhibitors and raptor presentations. Since you'll be outdoors for several hours, bring sunscreen, water bottles, and comfortable walking shoes. For questions about specific activities or accessibility, contact the Green Team at 256-532-5326.