APRIL – SEPTEMBER

VIEW A MAP OF BUILDING LOCATIONS

REMINDERS & REGISTRATION INFORMATION

ADULT & FAMILY PROGRAM REFUND POLICY

Make an Online Date with Give Local
Look out for Ana’s emails and prompts between 7 AM on April 21 to 7 PM on April 22. Give Local is a wonderfully easy way to support Flanders with a donation as low as $10. If you love Flanders, if preserving land and wildlife habitat and getting children outside mean a lot to you, please give. Make it an Earth Day must do! All of you who use Facebook and Instagram, please share this link to encourage your friends to participate in Give Local. https://www.givelocalccf.org/organizations/flanders-nature-center-land-trust

  PLEASE NOTE:  ALL VIRTUAL PROGRAM LINKS WILL BE E-MAILED BY NOON, DAY OF PROGRAM

You may be videotaped or photographed when attending events / programs and may appear in publications and social media

Please Note:  Program processing fees are non-refundable

COMMUNITY EVENTS

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Natalie Van Vleck Art Exhibition – Views of a Timeless Nature
The Van Vleck Art Galleries are open and feature works from our founder. This year’s exhibition is themed “Natalie Van Vleck, Views of a Timeless Nature,” highlighting the enduring beauty and perspective found in Natalie’s art.
Open Now Thru May 30 Thursdays – Saturdays | 10 AM to 2 PM | Van Vleck House 

Community Service Day:  Earth Day
Help us make a positive and lasting impact by joining us for a day of service!  Volunteers will remove non-native plant species on a Flanders property. The goal is to reduce, minimize, or eliminate the invasive plants, clearing the way for local species to reclaim their territory. Community service hours can be provided for this event. Meeting location, what to pack, what to wear and what to bring will be sent to those who have signed up to volunteer. Please leave all furry friends at home. Wednesday, April 22 | 9:30 AM |  PLACE TBD | REGISTER

Flanders Festival: Celebrating America 250
The United States will celebrate its semi quincentennial this year and Flanders is celebrating as well! We are honoring our nation’s 250th birthday with many exciting programs and events. This year’s festival will have a unique focus on the colonial era in our history. By spotlighting our legacy, we also look forward to all the future has to hold! Save the date to celebrate with us! For more information
See what other towns are doing to celebrate!

Our Field & Forest 5K is back! Join us for a fun and scenic evening run or walk through Flanders’ beautiful fields and forest trails—then stick around to celebrate. After you  cross the finish line, enjoy an after party celebration featuring live music and food trucks—the perfect way to relax, refuel, and celebrate with friends, family, and fellow participants. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or bringing the whole family, this beloved community event is a great way to enjoy nature while supporting Flanders’ conservation and education mission.
Friday, June 5 | 6 PM | Sugar House | Register by MAY 5TH for a FREE race shirt (for 11+ years) | Ages up to 10 $22.20 by June 4 (same day $30) |Ages 11+  $32.80 by June 4 (same day $40) | REGISTER

Flanders Summer Soirée – Gather. Celebrate. Support Flanders
The celebration begins with an exclusive VIP Hour from 4:00 to 5:00 PM, featuring elevated bites, specialty drinks, and early access to the silent auction. The main event opens at 5:00 PM, welcoming all guests for a warm, nature-filled gathering with hearty season appetizers, refreshing beverages, and live music drifting through the sanctuary. Stroll the grounds, connect with friends and neighbors, and explore a curated silent auction filled with unique experiences and local treasures—all in support of Flanders’ mission to protect land, inspire environmental learning, and strengthen our community. Come together for a joyful evening of conservation, connection, and celebration at Flanders!  For more information
Sunday, Aug 30 | VIP Hour 4 PM & Main Event 5 PM | Van Vleck Farm & Nature Sanctuary 

  CHILDREN & YOUTH PROGRAMS

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Adventure Days

Enrich time out of school with nature-based learning! During school vacation days, Flanders offers a camp-like day of adventures outside, ecological learning, crafts & activities and student-interest driven fun. Journeys on the land together are led by our experienced nature mentors, together exploring hidden brooks, farm pastures, open meadows, amphibian-loving marshes, pine forests and more across Flanders’ 200-acre main campus. Now enrolling for grades K–5 winter and spring vacation days!  Pre-registration required.

June 1 — Region 15 Prof. Development Day | HALF DAY: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM or  12:30 PM – 4:30 PM or FULL DAY: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |Trail House | HALF DAY: $36 member & $46 non-member or FULL DAY: $72 member &  $92 non-member | REGISTER

NATURE’S LITTLE EXPLORERS – Early Childhood Education Programs

(Programs are for Caregivers and children ages 3 – 5)

Join us for one or attend all of our winter and spring programs to engage little minds and hearts. Each class is designed to foster nature connection, socialization and caregiver bonding.

K – 5 Next Generation Science Standards – Aligned Programs 

Flanders offers an exceptional collection of field-based K-5 learning experiences to complement the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). These 2-hour immersive programs are fun, engaging, and authentic in a classroom of nature’s design.
Each NGSS program focuses on grade-specific standards, helping to prepare students to meet key grade-level performance expectations. Each can be incorporated into a teacher’s unit plans, or can stand as a self-contained experience. >> For More Information

Birthday Parties at Flanders!

We offer birthday parties on Saturdays or Sundays year round! Affordable and fun there are a variety of nature themed parties to choose from including animals and art to fairy fun. Hiking, games and stories, live animals and even tractor rides can all be made a part of the celebration!  Call Amber McDonald at (203) 263-3711 x12 for more information to brainstorm what will make for an unforgettable party for your birthday child!  For more information, download a new Birthday Flyer!

Scout Programs

We can help your Boy and Girl Scouts earn badges and complete community service projects! Programs can be tailored to the needs of individual troops.  Eagle Scout and Gold and Silver Award projects have been done at Flanders.  For a list of ideas which we feel would benefit Flanders—or with an idea of your own, email Program Coordinator, Ana Jordan, at ana@flandersnaturecenter.org.

Supervised Agricultural Experience

Do you know (or are you) an agricultural education student searching for placement in an organization to complete your Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE)? Look no further, Flanders is the perfect place to obtain those SAE hours! (for more information) We welcome students from the local area agricultural education programs. Our North Barn, under the guidance of our Farm Manager, offers an excellent opportunity to learn and apply knowledge about the care of livestock. Our sanctuary with its forest, fields, trails and ponds is a superb location to further your understanding and utilize your skills in environmental systems! Contact flanders@flandersnaturecenter.org for more information.

SPRING SUMMER TRAIL HIKE SERIES

Senior Hikes With Arthur and Kathy

Join retired Flanders Executive Director, Arthur Milnor and Flanders volunteer, Kathy Haven for easy to moderate casual walks taken on forest trails. A great opportunity to get outside, observe what’s happening in the natural world in winter and early spring, learn something new, and maybe even meet new friends. These hikes are not just for seniors. All are welcome!

Hike 1: Tuesday, May 12 | March Farms, 160 Munger Lane, Bethlehem | Complimentary, but registration required | Call to Register
Hike 2: Tuesday, June 9 | Van Vleck Farm & Nature Sanctuary, 5 Church Hill Rd, Woodbury | Complimentary, but registration required | Call to Register
Hike 3: Tuesday, September 8 | Bassett Preserve, 350 Turrill Brook Dr, Southbury | Complimentary, but registration required | Call to Register

Whittemore Sanctuary Hike

Flanders Land Management Volunteer, Karen Esslinger, will lead this spring hike of the Whittemore. The extensive 8-mile trail system winds through a wide range of ecological habitats, including woodlands, streams, ponds, and a large bog. The bog and wetlands support endangered, threatened, and rare plants. The forest on the property is, historically, one of the oldest privately managed forests in Connecticut, containing planted white pine, regenerated oak, and several large laurel and tulip tree stands. The hike is moderate, 90 to 120 minutes, and a 3-mile loop.
Saturday, May 2 | 10 AM | Whittemore Sanctuary, Rt. 64 (Sherman Hill Rd.), Woodbury | Complimentary members & $6 non | REGISTER

CT Trails Day – Leavenworth Preserve Hike

Join Flanders volunteer, Mike Carlo, for a guided hike of our Leavenworth Preserve. This 126-acre property contains former logging roads that have been developed into a low-impact trail system. The hike is an easy to moderate, 60 to 90 minute, 1.5 mile loop.
Saturday, June 6 | 10:30 AM | Leavenworth Preserve: Pilgrim Trail, Woodbury | Complimentary, but registration required | Call to Register

Farm Past & Present: An Assessible Trail Experience

Enjoy a leisurely hike along our new accessible trail, designed for visitors of all abilities. Along the way, Alex Thomson will share insights into Flanders’ collection of antique tractors, highlighting their history and role on the farm. The walk also includes a visit to the North Barn with a talk and live introduction to our resident farm animals by Heather Kokinchak. This relaxed, engaging program offers a closer look at Flanders’ agricultural past and present in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Saturday, Aug 15 | 9 AM | Van Vleck Farm & Nature Sanctuary, 5 Church Hill Rd, Woodbury | Complimentary, but registration required | Call to Register

Manville Kettle Hike

Join Flanders’ Land Management Volunteer, Cameron Gardella, on a late summer hike of the first property held in trust by Flanders. This unique property contains an open field, mixed trees and a swamp. Located in the center of town the preserve is known as a “kettle” because geologists believe the depression was formed during the last ice age and filled with water from melting ice. The hike is an easy, 60 minutes, 1 mile out and back.
Saturday, Sept 19 | 10 AM | Manville Kettle: School St and Judson Ave., Woodbury | Complimentary, but registration required | Call to Register

FOR ALL HIKES DRESS FOR THE WEATHER AND WEAR TERRAIN-APPROPRIATE FOOTGEAR

  ADULT & FAMILY PROGRAMS

Wildflower Walks
Celebrate spring with a guided wildflower walk on Flanders’ award-winning Botany Trail, led by a member of the Pomperaug Valley Garden Club. Established in 1965, the trail features wildflowers rescued from the proposed path of I-84 and other development projects. Dress for walking in the woods; rain will cancel the hike.
Sundays, April 19 CANCELLED, and May 3 & 10 (Rain Date: May 17) | 2 PM | Sugar House | Complimentary, but registration required |  REGISTER

Trail Work Days
Join our monthly trail work party! Help us remove invasive plants from our trails at the Van Vleck Sanctuary. No experience necessary, just a willingness to get your hands dirty and have fun. Flanders volunteer, Sandy Carlson, is leading this initiative and will provide instruction. Bring pruners and loppers, if you have them and make sure to dress appropriately. Long pants, shirts and sturdy closed toe shoes are recommended.
Saturday, May 9  | 8 AM | Sugar House | Complimentary, but registration required | REGISTER

Flanders Artist Day 2026
CALLING ARTISTS IN ALL MEDIA! Spend a day creating plein air artwork inspired by the scenic grounds of Flanders, followed by a group exhibition of finished work. The show opens Friday, October 2 with a public artist reception and runs through Sunday, October 11.
Saturday, May 9 |  9 AM – 1 PM | Van Vleck Sanctuary | Complimentary, but registration required | REGISTER

Goat Yoga
Connect with nature—and adorable Nigerian dwarf goats—at Goat Yoga! Led by experienced instructor Sharon Poarch, this one?hour gentle class is suitable for all levels. Practice outdoors as playful goats frolic and cuddle alongside you on the scenic farm grounds. Dress comfortably for an outdoor class with live animals, bring a yoga mat or towel, and be ready for a little messiness—and a lot of silliness.
Sundays, May 31, June 14, July 12, Aug 23, and Sept 13 | 6 PM | North Barn |  Adults: $21 members &  $26 non and Ages 15 under $11 | REGISTER

Nature Observed and Imagined
Woodbury-born artist Marc Chabot presents Nature Observed and Imagined in the Van Vleck House Galleries. The exhibition features landscape monotypes and imaginative drawing caprices, along with figure studies from life, including a suite of monotypes shown together for the first time in 26 years. The opening reception is Saturday, June 6th at 6:00 PM in the galleries with a brief talk and walk through the exhibition by Marc Chabot. The exhibition will then be open to the public until the end of July, Monday Through Friday 10 AM to 4 PM.
Saturday, June 6 (Opening Night) |6 PM |  Van Vleck House Galleries | Complimentary, but registration required | Call to Register

Summer Foraging: Talk, Walk and Food Tasting!
Join The 3 Foragers to learn about the edible wild plants and mushrooms of Summer that can be found all around us. The program begins with a slideshow of original images, and then a hands-on walk and talk in the woods surrounding the Sugar House. We will finish the day with a tasting of prepared items made from wild foods. We will use all of our senses, including taste, to explore edible wild foods. Bring a camera and your sense of adventure, we provide the food!
Saturday, June 13 | 10 AM | Sugar House | $21 members & $26 non | Call to Register

Introductory Tai Chi for All Levels
This class will review fundamental ideas and movements of Tai Chi, catering to beginners while also providing challenging practice for intermediates. All will gain the benefits of increased balance, calm, and concentration. The movements will improve stability, coordination, and energy. The class will entail Qi Gong movements for general well-being, followed by a series of Tai Chi postures from the traditional forms.
Thursdays, June 18, July 16, Aug 13 & Sept 10 | 6 PM | Pavilion | $11 members & $16 non | Call to Register

Leaf Printing
Join local artist Joan Anthony as she demonstrates the technique of leaf printing, shows examples of leaf printing, and leads adult participants in learning how to print with leaves. Participants will make several cards and a small artwork using leaves and acrylic paint to create a leaf print. All materials will be supplied. Participants may bring fresh leaves, special papers, jars of acrylic paint, or rubber stamps.
Saturday, June 20 | 9:30 AM – 12 PM | Studio | $41 members &  $46 non | Call to Register

Introduction to Stone Carving
Led by sculptor Justin Perlman, this beginner level workshop introduces the materials and methods of stone carving. Designed for those curious about this ancient art form, the four hour workshop serves as an accessible primer. Through discussion and live demonstration, Justin will introduce a range of stone carving techniques, covering both classic hand tools and modern diamond tools. Participants will also have the opportunity to carve their own piece of limestone with guided instruction.  This workshop takes place outdoors; please dress accordingly. Participants are encouraged to wear boots, bring leather garden or work gloves, and carry their own water bottle. This program is in collaboration with the Green Feather Foundation.
Saturday, June 27 | 9 AM – 1 PM | Pavilion | $65 members & $75 non | Call to Register

Designing Astrological Totems
In this hands-on workshop, participants will create a small artwork representing their astrological birth sign using collage, watercolor, colored pencil, and acrylic paint. We’ll explore the four elements—fire, earth, air, and water—and how they relate to the zodiac. Participants will leave with a personal totem on a small canvas and a deeper understanding of the gifts and tendencies associated with their sun sign. No prior knowledge of astrology is required. Materials are provided; participants are welcome to bring meaningful personal items.
Saturday, Sept 12 | 9 AM | Studio | $41 members & $51 non | Call to Register

Autumn Foraging:  Walk, Talk, and Tasting!
Join The 3 Foragers as they teach the flavors of autumn foraging for wild plants and mushrooms with an educational slideshow of all-original photos. We will take a hands-on walk on the property to touch, smell, and examine some of the living specimens. The program will end with a tasting of the seasonal bounty, prepared by Karen and Robert using fresh plants and mushrooms, and sharing goodies from their pantry and preserved stash. Come taste the wild!
Saturday, Sept 12 | 10 AM | Sugar House | $21 members & $26 non | Call to Register

Flanders Letterbox Series 

Flanders has planted several letterboxes on the family friendly trails at their preserves and sanctuaries. Combining art and nature in a fun interactive way, letterboxing is a popular treasure hunting activity done world-wide.  GET MORE INFORMATION

LAND TRUST HOT TOPICS SERIES

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Are you currently a land trust volunteer and want to hear ways to improve your stewardship work? Are you interested in getting more involved in stewardship activities, helping to keep our lands preserved for future generations? Check back for upcoming programs!

  FLANDERS CLUBS

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Flanders Garden Club

Flanders Environmental Book Club

March meeting has been canceled. Next Meeting Date: Tuesday,  April 28 | Book:  Full List of ALL Upcoming Books and Planned Meeting Dates

Flanders Trail Blazers 4-H Club

Do you have a child age 7–18 who loves animals, hands-on learning, teamwork and being outdoors?
UCONN 4-H is a youth organization whose mission is to engage youth in reaching their fullest potential with the motto “To make the best better!” This winter and spring, the Flanders 4-H club will focus on hands-on skills in the areas of natural sciences, environmental conservation, sustainability and community engagement. Interactions with farm animals and agriculture-themed activities will take place during warmer months at Flanders North Barn under the guidance of new Farm and Land Manager Heather Kokinchak. As a club member, you’ll have a voice at group educational meetings, go on unique field trips and strengthen your leadership skills!  FOR MORE INFORMATION: please contact the Flanders office at 203.263.3711, x12.
Date, Time & Location to be Announced | Complimentary, but registration required | REGISTER

Photography Club 2025

Want to join the Flanders Photography Club?  Our focus is outdoor nature photography “to foster understanding and appreciation of nature, art and the wonders of the natural world . . .” The Club’s purpose is to promote the  development of photographic skills and the art of photography. Meetings will include instruction on the basics of outdoor photography, camera operation, features, techniques and tips as well as presentations, forums, and guest speakers. Plus there will be outdoor exercises and projects, such as macro, wildlife and bird photography.
Third Wednesday of the Month  | 5:30 PM | Studio |$20 members & $40 non per year  | REGISTER

  FOREVER CONNECTED

Volunteer Your Time – A gift of your time and talent is a very important contribution. Flanders offers regular opportunities for members and friends to share their skills and interests with the organization and community. Seasonal events at Flanders, such as Maple Sugaring, Flanders Festival, Field & Forest 5K, Flanders Annual Benefit & Auction, and our Holiday Wreath Making Workshops depend upon the work of hundreds of dedicated volunteers to make them successful. From a Land Trust perspective, Flanders relies on its volunteers to carry on its mission of preserving and caring for more than 2,400 acres of protected property in the region. Whether you would like to volunteer regularly or just help when you have the time, Flanders needs you!

Consider Joining A Committee – Ready to get more involved with Flanders and share your expertise? Join one or more of our volunteer lead committees to help us meet our goals and objectives and further our mission and vision. By being a committee member you will help grow Flanders and make a deep impact! Here is a list of our committees with a brief description:
»  LEARN Committee—Promoting and teaching the understanding and appreciation of art, farming, and nature to adults and families.
»  Art Committee—Organize art related programs and conserve founder Natalie Van Vleck’s history and archives.
»  Land Management Committee—Managing Flanders’ 2,400+ acres of open space.
»  Land Acquisition Committee—Acquiring important open space lands.
»  Development/Fundraising Committee—Helping raise funds to support Flanders’ Mission.
»  Historic Van Vleck Committee—Ensuring Flanders facilities are properly maintained and/or restored.

Want To Lead A Hike, Program Or Class?  Do you have a talent that you would like to share? Flanders is always looking for new instructors.

TO LEARN MORE – Contact Flanders’ volunteer coordinator Ana Jordan to learn more about becoming a Flanders ambassador or other available volunteer opportunities today!

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Flanders Wish List!

To help reduce  expenses,  the donation of supplies, services and/or equipment that are used for fulfilling our mission are greatly appreciated! >Learn more