Evanston Ecology Center birthday parties, programs and classes focus on environmental education, natural history and conservation. Please register early! Classes fill quickly; please call us at 847/448-8256 for class status.

The Ecology Center is located at 2024 McCormick Blvd. Scholarships are available to qualified Evanston residents for Evanston Ecology Center classes. All our programs take place at the Ecology Center unless otherwise noted.

Pre-registration required for all classes and programs with a class number. Please call 847/448-8256 to register or for questions.

For the City of Evanston Arts & Recreation link to the same information in .pdf form, please click here.

Birthday Parties

Information and Guidelines

The Evanston Ecology Center offers nature-themed birthday party programs for children ages 4 years and older (see themes below). Each program is a staff-led class involving nature-oriented games and hands-on activities. Following this 45-minute to one-hour program, the room is open for you to have treats, presents, and activities of your own. Please contact us at 847/448-8256 or via email to reserve your special birthday party today!

• Fee: Birthday party prices are as follows: Resident: $175; Non-resident: $200; EEA member: $150 (so sign up now for membership in the EEA and get lots of other great discounts, too!). This includes the two hour building rental. A $25 non-refundable deposit is required for reservations.
.
• Availability: Birthday Party Programs are available uring the school year from September to May. Hours of availability are 10:00am to 4:30pm, Monday through Saturday. Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance. Not all dates and times are available due to other Ecology Center Programs.
• Facility: The Ecology Center classroom is used for the birthday party rental . We have several six-foot tables and chairs. You are welcome to come 1/2 hour early to decorate the room as you wish (please no sequins, confetti, or piñatas). There are washrooms and a drinking fountain, but there are no kitchen facilities available.
• Guidelines: Alcoholic beverages and smoking are prohibited in the Ecology Center. There is maximum of 15 children in addition to the birthday girl or boy, and a ratio of 1 adult to 5 children is requested. You are responsible for cleaning up after your portion of the birthday party. We will clean up our supplies from the program portion.

Birds of A Feather: Discover some astounding facts about our flying feathered friends, the birds! We will look at local songbirds, feathers, nests, and make an edible bird nest to take home!

Bug Birthday: Get to know the most numerous of the Earth's inhabitants, insects! Learn about their exciting lives and even go on an insect scavenger hunt! Make your own bug to take home.

Animal Party: Learn about some of the wonderful animals that call Evanston home. We'll even take out some of the Ecology Center's critters for a visit. A set of rubber stamps will be used to make a take home project.

Rocks, Fossils and Dinosaur Bones: Explore the secrets from the Earth's past by looking at rocks and fossils and learning about the animals that lived here long ago. Make your own fossil replica to take home.

Space Out: This party is way out there! Learn about what's in our solar system, celestial bodies and other things that are out there. Make your own model comet to take home.

Reptile Romp: Learn about Evanston's reptilian residents, who they are, how they live and where they live. You'll even get to meet some reptiles up close! Make your own reptile to take with you.

Compass Course: (ages 8 & up) Are you a survivor? See if you and your friends can find your way through a compass course in the arboretum. You'll learn how a compass works and how to use it. Each participant gets a certificate of completion at the end of the course.

Nature Rubber Stamping: (ages 8 & up) Make amazing artwork with nature-themed rubber stamps. Learn to use different techniques and media to make create a wonderful finished product! Each child will make a set of three cards to take home.

Back to top.

Special Events

Arboretum Egg Hunt

Sonja Spider is looking for young helpers! Come to the Arboretum to collect her misplaced eggs and exchange them for small prizes. You'll have a great time learning about the different spiders which live in our area. Activities and a craft follow the egg hunt. Bring a basket or bag for collecting. A special area is reserved for egg hunters ages 11?2 to 4 years. All attendees must register in advance. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 1 1/2 years and older
Fee: $4.50 per person
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Earth Day/ Arbor Day Celebration

Join the Ecology Center for some festive activities featuring music, earthly games, nifty crafts and organic food. Information stations will be set up to help guide you to a smaller environmental footprint. Bring the whole family to honor our home, sweet home! This event is free! 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: All ages
Fee: Free
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Eco-Garage Sale

Practice your three R's (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) by finding a use for something that someone no longer needs. Our supporters are providing gently-used articles for us to sell. Proceeds will benefit the Evanston Environmental Association. Donations are welcome April 21 through April 25; please call 847/448-8256 for details.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: All ages
Fee: Free
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Garden Fair

Don't miss this great event!

Sponsor: Evanston Garden Council
Days/Dates: Sat., May 17 and Sun., May 18
Times: Sat., 9am-4pm; Sun., 11am-4pm
Location: Independence Park, Central St. at Stewart St. (west of Green Bay Rd.)
Admission: Free

Back to top.

Fishing Fundraiser

Help Keep Our Fishing Program Free! This event will help support the popular Access to Fishing program for children. The fun includes games, fishing clinics, prizes and even a fish fry lunch! Please preregister; call the Ecology Center at 847/448-8256 for details.

Location: Lovelace Park
Age Level: All ages
Fee: $10 per person
Length: 1 session Class # Date Day Time

Back to top.

Family Programs

Evening Ecology

We've brought the fun of our campfire programs indoors for the winter! We'll have activities, stories, songs, and, of course, campfire snacks - everything except the real fire! This campfire is all about why we depend on a flaming ball of gas! 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 2 and older with a caregiver
Fee per person: $3.50 R or NR
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

The Buckthorn Brigade

We need helping hands to improve biodiversity in the Ladd Arboretum and around the North Shore Channel by removing alien plant species. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee: Free Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Family Campfires - Lake Life

Join the Ecology Center staff for fun-filled campfires with nature themes. Each evening includes stories, songs and, of course, the ever-popular s'mores! Each campfire focuses on a different creature of Lake Michigan. Topics include Macroinvertebrates, Piscivores, Lake Invaders, and Lake Shore birds. Space is limited; pre-registration is required by phone or in person at the Ecology Center. 847/448-8256.

Location: Council Ring at Grosse Point Lighthouse
Age Level: 2 years and older
Fee per person: $4 R or NR
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

TV Tune-Out Week

It's that time of year again when we pull ourselves away from the TV and computer screens and notice that there's a whole wonderful world that doesn't need to be plugged in! In correlation with Earth Day, enjoy self-guided after-school activities that will get you and your children outside, as well as an indoor projects in the classroom. 847/448-8256.

Location: Ecology Center and Ladd Arboretum
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee: Free
Length: Three drop-in sessions

Back to top.

Free Access To Fishing

This popular free program, which is sponsored by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, is a great way to introduce your child age 5-15 to the "catch and release" process. Equipment, bait and fishing expertise are provided! Access to Fishing is held Saturdays from 9am-noon at Lovelace Park, Gross Point Road at Thayer from May 3 through October 25. No license is needed for those under age 16. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Questions? Call 847/448-8256.

Back to top.

Canoe the Canal

Spring marks the return of "Canoe the Canal." Learn the basic strokes and canoe safety before heading out on a fun canoe trip! Children must be 5 years or older and there is a maximum of 2 adults and 2 children in one canoe. Please register by phone or in person at the Ecology Center. Programs will be held unless there is lightning; dress appropriately. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee per person: $20 R/$22 NR; $17, EEA Member
Fee per child 5-11 years: $8 R/NR; $6, EEA Member
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Planning A Family Camping Trip

A family campout is great adventure, and it doesn't have to be stressful to plan! We'll show you what to bring and what NOT to bring on your trip. You and your family will learn how to set up your campsite, plan meals and be tuned into essential tips for every camping trip! Participants will make "sizzle burgers" (veggie available) over an open fire and even make a dessert that goes beyond s'mores. Pre-registration required. 847/448-8256.

Location: Council Ring at Grosse Point Lighthouse
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee per person: $12 R or NR
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Canoeing & Steak 'N' Shake

We'll start off at the Ecology Center with safety and canoe instruction, then head south to the Steak 'N' Shake on Oakton Street, have lunch, rest, and return to the Ecology Center full and happy! There is a maximum of 2 adults and 2 children in one canoe. Please register by phone or in person at the Ecology Center. Fee does not include the cost of the meal. Programs will be held unless there is lightning; dress appropriately. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee per person: $24 R/$26 NR; $21, EEA Member
Fee per child 5-11 years: $8 R/NR; $6, EEA Member
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Teen/Adult Programs

Choices for Sustainable Living

In cooperation with the Northwest Earth Institute (NWEI), the Ecology Center is hosting this innovative and informative discussion course. The course includes a book of essays and excerpts compiled by the NWEI. Each session allows for participants to help facilitate discussion. Session topics include: a call to sustainability, ecological principles, food, buying, communities, business and economy, and visions and sustainability. Fee includes $20 course book. Preregistration by March 4 is required. No class April 1. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Adult
Fee: $40 R or NR (includes book)
Length: 8 sessions

Back to top.

Green Inside

With the right information, you can make some ecosmart choices for your home. You'll learn tips and techniques for turning the indoors green with alternative products for your home and learn how they help the planet. You'll see samples and learn about area resources to help you with your eco-choices. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Adult
Fee: $12 R or NR
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Using a Rain Barrel

Here's how you can help the environment and even save a little money! Collecting rain water for use in the dry months is an ancient practice that is still practical today. Learn the basics of setting up and maintaining a rain barrel for your home. Class will include style choices, placement and basic maintenance. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Adult
Fee: $12 R or NR
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Composting

Celebrate Earth Month by learning how to compost and improve your soil! You'll be introduced to different techniques of composting, as well as learn which items you should add to your compost and which items to avoid. Bring your ideas and questions. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 14 & up
Fee: $12 R or NR
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Home Landscaping Series

Learn the basics from the best! John Jaminski of the City of Evanston Parks Division returns to share his gardening knowledge. "Beginning Gardening" will include the basics of starting out and what to plant where. "Annuals and Perennials" will include information about native plants, as well as choices for sun and shade. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 16 years and older
Fee: $12 R or NR
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Container Gardening

A garden in a container is an easy, low-maintenance way to add color and interest to your yard, deck or balcony. Learn tricks on what to put in your garden and how to maintain it through the seasons. Starter plants and containers are included in the fee. Questions? Please call 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 16 & up
Fee: $20 R or NR
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Child & Parent Programs

Nature Pals: Spring Things

You and your child will learn the wonders of spring through stories, songs, nature activities and walks in the Arboretum. We'll use spring happenings as a tool to jump-start the basics, such as numbers, letters, colors and more! Child must be two years old by the first class. No class April 4, April 5. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 2 years and a caregiver
Fee per couple: $66 R or NR; $60, EEA Member
Length: 6 sessions

Back to top.

Tiny Trekkers: Green and Growing

Spring is the time of the "Great Awakening!" So, awaken your child's senses in this 6-week series about plants. How do plants get so big when they start out so small? What do plants really need to grow? What do animals have to do with it? There are so many plant mysteries to be discovered by your child! Child must be 3 years old on or before the first class. No class April 6. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 3-5 years and a caregiver
Fee per couple: $78 R or NR; $70, EEA Member
Length: 6 sessions

Back to top.

Small Fry Science

Introduce your child to the wonderful world of science! You and your child will make amazing discoveries with age-appropriate experiments, activities and projects. Topics vary; see below. Child must be age 4 by the first class. Pre-registration required. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 4-6 years with a caregiver
Fee per couple: $12
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Make A Garden Stone

A great Mother's Day idea! A garden stone is a wonderfully creative way to add individual style to any garden plan. Make a decorative stone that you can keep in your garden or give as a gift. Fee includes all materials for one stone per couple. Pre-registration is required. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 8 years and older
Fee per stone: $25 R or NR; $20 EEA member
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Backyard Bee Buds

Learn about some of the different species of bees that are North American natives and the crisis that they now face. You'll learn a few tips on how to build places for native bee species to raise their young. Everyone will leave with a bee home they can put in their yard to help out our little bee buds! 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: 5 years and older
Fee per couple: $12
Length: 1 session

Back to top.

Youth Classes

After-School Science Club

In this new program, we'll take our usual science investigations a little further. The club meets on the first Monday of the month. Experiments, topics and "what's new" segments are geared for those middle schoolers who are excited about science. Each month features a new experiment from start to finish and we'll even have snacks! 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Grades 6-8
Fee: $15 per child
Length: 6 sessions

Back to top.

Home School Science: Environmental Science

The Ecology Center provides an educational, interactive hands-on experience to fulfill science and nature requirements for home-schooled children. Each week focuses on a different scientific discipline; participants learn about various scientific processes and how they relate to environmental issues. Then we'll put it all together for our Home-School Science Expo! Pre-registration required. No class April 1 & 2. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Varies, see below
Fee per child: $60
Length: 6 sessions

Back to top.

Ecology Spring Break Mini-Camp: Earth, Wind & Fire

The Ecology Center will take your spring break camper on a groovy ride to discover how erosion, weather and heat all shape and change this "boogie wonderland" we call Earth. We'll even add a little water, too! Games, crafts, and mini-experiments will fill our days. Each day involves outside adventures in the Arboretum and beyond, so dress for the weather! Extended care is available from 4-6pm (information follows at right). 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Grades K-5
Fee per child: $180 R/NR
Length: 5 sessions

Spring Break Extended Camp

For those signed up for our Spring Break mini-camp, we offer extended day service with low-key activities such as board games, reading and arts & crafts. Snacks will be provided. Please indicate which days you will need when registering. 847/448-8256.

Location: Evanston Ecology Center
Age Level: Grades K-5
Fee per child: $8 per day
Length: Choose up to five days

Back to top.