Great Hollow

Harvest Moon Hike **SOLD OUT**
2022-09-10 19:30 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
**REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT IS NOW FULL**

Enjoy a moonlit, naturalist-guided hike at Great Hollow while learning what this month’s “Harvest Moon” is all about. We’ll also look and listen for owls and other nocturnal animals as we trek up to the Tucker’s Run waterfall. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring a flashlight or headlamp. The hike is weather-dependent. Appropriate for children ages 8 and up. Please, no dogs. Free for members; a suggested donation of $5/person for non members is greatly appreciated. Advanced registration is required. Please sign up by emailing John at jfoley@greathollow.org. We’ll meet at 7:30 pm in the visitor’s parking area by Great Hollow’s main entrance.

Hunter Moon Hike
2022-10-09 19:00 - 20:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Take a moonlit hike with Great Hollow’s naturalist, John Foley, and learn about this month’s “Hunter Moon”. We’ll look and listen for owls and other nocturnal animals as we trek up to the Tucker’s Run waterfall. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring a flashlight or headlamp. The hike is weather-dependent. Appropriate for children ages 8 and up. Please, no dogs. Free for members; a suggested donation of $5/person for non-members is greatly appreciated. Advanced registration is required. Please sign up by emailing John at jfoley@greathollow.org. We’ll meet at 7:00 pm in the visitors’ parking area by Great Hollow’s main entrance.

*SOLD OUT* Kids’ Nature Night: Fall Foliage
2022-10-14 17:45 - 19:45 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Why do leaves change color in the fall? What’s the difference between an oak leaf and a maple leaf? Why are fallen leaves good for forests? Kids, join us for an evening of fall foliage exploration. We’ll start with a short hike to view the fall forest up close and then head inside to discuss the science behind leaves changing colors. We’ll also inspect leaves of different tree species and do some leaf rubbings. Finally we’ll finish up with a fall foliage-inspired craft. Registration is $10 per child for family-level members and above, and $15 for non-members. Space is limited and advance payment and registration are required. This is a drop-off program open to children ages 6-12. *Cancellations after October 12th are non-refundable. This event is sold out. Please contact our education coordinator Tara at tewers@greathollow.org to join our waitlist.

*SOLD OUT* Kids’ Nature Night: Halloween Hike
2022-10-28 18:00 - 20:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Kids, bring your flashlights and join us for an early evening hike. We’ll hike along the red trail looking for hidden facts about Halloween along the way. When we’re done we will return to the lecture room to decorate pumpkins and roast s’mores. Registration is $15 per child for family-level members and above, and $20 for non-members. Space is limited and advance payment and registration are required. This is a drop-off program open to children ages 6-12. *Cancellations after October 26th are non-refundable. Please contact our education coordinator, Tara, at tewers@greathollow.org to join our waitlist.

*SOLD OUT* DIY & Wine Night: Natural Grapevine Wreaths
2022-11-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Adults, join us for a relaxing evening of crafting and conversation with our next DIY & Wine night. In this workshop, we’ll use dried and preserved natural materials to decorate grapevine wreaths. No previous experience is necessary. Registration is $30 per person and includes all of the supplies you’ll need. Please feel free to bring your own wine, beer, or whatever you like to enjoy while crafting. Space is limited and advanced registration and payment are required. Please email our education coordinator Tara to be added to our waitlist. *Cancellations after October 31st are non-refundable.

*SOLD OUT* Kids’ Drop-off Program: Turkey Talk
2022-11-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Kids, join us for an afternoon of turkey-tastic fun! First we’ll go on a short hike to see the places where wild turkeys live. Then we’ll head indoors to learn some fun facts about turkeys and make a turkey-inspired craft. Finally, we’ll end our day with a game of turkey tag. Registration is $15 for non-members and $10 for members. Space is limited and advance payment and registration are required. This is a drop-off program open to children ages 6-11. *Cancellations after November 16th are non-refundable. Please contact our education coordinator Tara to join our waitlist.

**Sold Out** Family Wreath Workshop
2022-12-03 15:00 - 16:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Join us for an afternoon of crafting and fun for the whole family. In this workshop, you’ll decorate a pre-made balsam fir wreath with winter greens and a handmade bow. You may also bring in any of your own decorations that you would like to add. No previous experience is necessary. Children will be given a holiday ornament to decorate. S’mores and hot cocoa will be served by our firepit. Registration is $45 per family (5 people max) and includes all of the supplies you’ll need. Space is limited and this event typically sells out, so advanced registration and payment are required. To join our waitlist please email our education coordinator Tara at tewers@greathollow.org. *Cancellations after November 25th are non-refundable.

**Sold Out** Wine and Wreath Night: Holiday Wreaths
2022-12-03 18:00 - 20:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Adults, join us for a relaxing evening of crafting and conversation with our next DIY & Wine night. In this workshop, you’ll decorate a pre-made balsam fir wreath with winter greens and a handmade bow. You may also bring in any of your own decorations that you would like to add. No previous experience is necessary. Please feel free to bring your own wine, beer, or whatever you like to enjoy while crafting. Registration is $40 per person and includes all of the supplies you’ll need. Space is limited and this event regularly sells out, so advanced registration and payment are required. Small groups may be seated at mixed tables. To join our waitlist pease email our education coordinator Tara at tewers@greathollow.org. *Cancellations after November 25th are non-refundable.

Kids' Drop-off: Holiday Cookies & Crafts
2022-12-17 15:00 - 17:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Kids, join us for an afternoon of crafting and fun. You’ll decorate a large gingerbread man from American Pie Company with icing and candy and also get to create two ornaments and a holiday bell door hanger to take home with you. This is a drop-off program open to children ages 6-12. Registration is $20 for non-members and $15 for members. Price includes the gingerbread house and all decorating supplies. Space is limited and advanced registration and payment are required. Please email our education coordinator Tara to reserve your space. Cancellations after December 10th are non-refundable.

DIY & Wine Night: Gingerbread House Decorating
2022-12-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Adults, join us for a relaxing evening of crafting and conversation with our next DIY & Wine night. In this workshop, you’ll decorate a pre-assembled gingerbread house with icing and candy, and any additional décor you may wish to bring. Please also feel free to bring your own wine, beer, or whatever you like to enjoy while crafting. Registration is $40 for non-members and $35 for members. Price includes the gingerbread house and all decorating supplies. Space is limited and advanced registration and payment are required. Please email our education coordinator Tara to reserve your space. Cancellations after December 10th are non-refundable.

Kids' Nature Night: Hoo Goes There?
2023-01-21 17:00 - 19:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Did you know that Connecticut is home to eight owl species? Or that owls lack a sense of smell and swallow their prey whole? Come join us for this Nature Night program where we’ll learn all about these nighttime predators, listen to owl calls, dissect owl pellets, and visit our resident barred owls and screech owls. This is a drop-off program that is open to children ages 6-12. Registration is $20 for non-members and $15 for family-level members and above. To register your child, please email our education coordinator Tara. *Cancellations after January 18th are non-refundable.

**SOLD OUT** Winter Birding & Introduction to eBird
2023-01-28 09:00 - 10:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
** SOLD OUT** Come take a hike with our naturalist John Foley to go winter birding and learn how to use the citizen science platform, eBird. eBird is an online database of bird observations that provides scientists and birders with real-time data about bird distribution and abundance. Those with minimal or no birding experience are welcome, as John will show us the basics of identifying birds by sight and sound. Remember to bring binoculars (or a camera equipped with a long telephoto lens) and a smartphone capable of downloading apps. We’ll meet in the visitors’ parking area by the main entrance. Free for members; a suggested donation of $5/person for non-members is greatly appreciated. Join our waitlist by emailing John at jfoley@greathollow.org.

Snow Moon Hike **CANCELLED**
2023-02-04 18:00 - 19:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
**This event has been cancelled due to dangerously cold temperatures**
Enjoy a moonlit, guided hike up to Great Hollow’s waterfall with our naturalist John Foley and learn what this month’s “Snow Moon” is all about. We’ll also look and listen for owls and other nocturnal animals while taking in the beauty of a forest that’s bathed in moonlight. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring a flashlight or headlamp. The hike is weather-dependent and reservations are required. Appropriate for children ages 8 and up. Please, no dogs. Free for members; a suggested donation of $5/person for non-members is greatly appreciated. Please sign up in advance by emailing John

Great Backyard Bird Count
2023-02-18 09:00 - 22:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Come take a winter hike with our naturalist John Foley to participate in the annual Great Backyard Bird Count. This bird count is a worldwide event that takes place over four days in February each year! Those with minimal or no birding experience are welcome, as John will show us the basics of identifying birds by sight and sound. Remember to bring binoculars or a camera equipped with a long telephoto lens. We’ll meet in the visitors’ parking area by the main entrance. Free for members; a suggested donation of $5/person for non-members is greatly appreciated. Please sign up in advance by emailing John at jfoley@greathollow.org. Photo by Tim White/Macauley Library

Eagle Viewing Field Trip to the Shepaug Dam
2023-02-25 09:00 - 10:00 | Shepaug Dam, 2150 River Road, Southbury, CT, 06488, United States
Join our naturalist John Foley for a special field trip to a significant bald eagle observation area near the Shepaug Dam, on the Housatonic River in Southbury. The movement and temperature of the water released by the hydroelectric station below the dam prevents the water from freezing and creates an attractive opportunity for bald eagles to catch fish. Just a few weeks ago, monitors from the Connecticut Audubon Society, which manages the observation station, counted a new record of 35 eagles in just one morning! Aside from eagles, we can also expect to see various waterfowl, hawks, and great-blue herons. John will be there to discuss interesting facts about bald eagles and their remarkable comeback from the threat of extinction, and to help identify other birds we are likely to see. Spotting scopes will be available, but attendees are encouraged to bring their own binoculars if you have a pair. There is no fee for this program, but reservations must be made in advance and space is limited. Attendees are responsible for their own transportation to the site, located at 2150 River Rd., Southbury, CT. Email John at jfoley@greathollow.org to register and for directions. Pets are not allowed.

Maple Syrup Demonstration
2023-03-05 11:00 - 12:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Maple syrup season has arrived! Come to Great Hollow and learn all about making maple syrup right in your backyard. No fancy evaporator systems here; just a hot open fire to gather around for good conversation and to watch the process of boiling sap into syrup, or as the old-timers call it, “liquid gold.” We’ll learn how to identify and tap maple trees, hang buckets, and collect sap, and then finally, how to boil it down. Best of all, we’ll have the opportunity to taste the product of our hard work – pure 100% backyard style maple syrup! And if there’s enough, we will also have a limited number of small bottles for you to fill and take home. Please dress warmly and meet in the visitor parking area by the main entrance. There is a suggested donation of $15 for non-members and $10 for members. Advanced registration is required; please sign up by emailing John at jfoley@greathollow.org.

"Worm Moon" Hike
2023-03-07 18:30 - 20:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Did you know there are about 30 different species of earthworms in New England and only one of them is native?! Most of the earthworms that you see are non-native, invasive species that have been introduced from other continents. Come enjoy a moonlit, guided hike up to Great Hollow’s waterfall with our naturalist, John Foley, to learn more about these fascinating creatures and what this month’s “Worm Moon” is all about. We’ll talk about invasive earthworms and the dramatic effect they are having on our forests. Please wear sturdy footwear and bring a flashlight or headlamp. Appropriate for children ages 8 and up. Please, no dogs. Free for members; a suggested donation of $5/person for non-members is greatly appreciated. Sign up by emailing John at jfoley@greathollow.org

Seminar: Vernal Pool Ecology & Conservation *Cancelled*
2023-03-24 17:30 - 19:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
**Please note this event has been cancelled. Please check our events calendar for information about the trip to the Towner Hill Preserve’s vernal pools tentatively scheduled for April 1**
It’s that time of year when vernal pools are on the brink of buzzing with life. Join us for this first part of our 3-part series on the ecology of vernal pools and the critters that call them home. We’ll begin the series with this indoor presentation about the characteristics of vernal pools, how to identify them, and the natural history of the unique species that depend on them. We’ll also discuss the conservation challenges facing these special habitats and how to adequately protect them from development and other threats. Free for members; a suggested donation of $5 per person for non-members is greatly appreciated. To register, email John jfoley@greathollow.org.

First Signs of Spring *Rescheduled due to rain*
2023-03-25 10:00 - 11:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
**Due to forecasted rain for the 25th, this event will be rescheduled. Please check back here for a new date**
Join naturalist, John Foley, and our partners from Friends of the Great Swamp for a special (almost) spring hike. We’ll explore the fields and forests of Great Hollow in search of early blooming, spring ephemeral wildflowers, learn some helpful tips for spring plant and tree identification, and keep our eyes and ears open for any early spring migrant birds. We’ll meet in the visitor parking lot by Great Hollow’s main entrance. Please, no dogs. Free for members; a suggested donation of $5 per person for non-members is greatly appreciated. Advanced registration is required; please sign up by emailing John at jfoley@greathollow.org.

Frog Frolic w/ Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy
2023-04-01 11:00 - 12:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Join Great Hollow and the Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy for a guided hike to witness the spring migration and breeding of wood frogs. Every spring, wood frogs emerge from hibernation underground and migrate as far as a half mile to their unique and ephemeral breeding habitats known as vernal pools. We’ll hike up to the vernal pools at the top of the Towner Hill Preserve in Sherman to see wood frogs in action and listen to their chorus of mating calls. We will meet at the White Silo Winery in Sherman (32 Route 37) and then carpool just up the street to the Preserve. The hike is somewhat steep in some sections. Kid friendly and recommended! No dogs, please. Reserve a space and sign up to receive updates about the date and time by emailing John at jfoley@greathollow.org. Free for both members and non-members.

Please note – This date is just tentative and will be determined based on weather conditions.

Woodcock Walk
2023-04-02 19:00 - 20:30 | CT
Every April, an odd-looking migratory bird returns to the Northeast from its far-away wintering grounds to engage in one of the more bizarre mating rituals in the Animal Kingdom. It’s the American woodcock, also known as the “timberdoodle.” During the last few moments of daylight, male woodcocks perform an unusual courtship display that the famous naturalist, Aldo Leopold, called “the sky dance.” The males repeatedly spiral high up into the air and then return to the ground in a wild zig-zag, all in hopes of impressing and attracting one of the females watching and judging their performance. Join us on a guided evening walk to one of the locale places where woodcocks can often be seen engaging in their aerial displays. We will meet at the Great Swamp Wildlife Management Area off Cornwall Hill Rd. in Patterson, NY. You may also meet us there directly if you prefer (190 Cornwall Hill Rd., Patterson, NY, 12563). Please dress appropriately for the weather, and bring a flashlight, as we will be returning to our vehicles in the dark. Free for members; a suggested donation of $5 per person for non-members is greatly appreciated. No dogs, please. Advanced registration is required and space is limited. Sign up by emailing John at jfoley@greathollow.org. *Please note that while we will do our best to see woodcocks, there is no way to guarantee it.

Deadline to Enter 2023 GHPC Art Show
2023-04-15 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Calling all painters and photographers who love nature and would like to participate in the sixth annual Great Hollow Photographers Club Juried Painting and Photography Show. Over the past five years, we have raised more than $7,000 for Great Hollow Nature Preserve and we hope you will join us for this sixth year of fundraising.
The deadline for submissions is April 15, 2023. For a prospectus, click here.
The Opening Reception is on Friday, May 19, 2023, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. The show will be open for viewing and sales from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday May 20 and Sunday May 21, 2023. The show will also be online from May 19 to June 30, 2023

Spring Break Drop-off: Spring Ecology
2023-04-19 09:30 - 15:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
During this full-day program, children will learn what our local wildlife is up to in the spring. We’ll learn about salamanders, turtles, and spring bird migration, and look for spring wildflowers. We’ll also have some time for crafting and exploration of our hiking trails. This is a full-day drop-off program open to children ages 7-12. Advanced registration and payment are required. Space is very limited. Registration is $50 per child for family-level members and above, and $60 for non-members. To register, please email our education coordinator Tara. *Cancellations after April 17th are non-refundable.

Spring Break Drop-off: Earth Day Art
2023-04-20 09:30 - 15:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
During this full-day program, children will learn how to make various “upcycled” art projects and handmade recycled paper, and get to play with watercolor paints to create nature-inspired mini-masterpieces. We’ll talk about why each of these activities is good for our planet and spend time between projects hiking the trails. This is a full-day drop-off program open to children ages 7-12. Advanced registration and payment are required. Space is very limited. Registration is $50 per child for family-level members and above, and $60 for non-members. To register your child, please email our education coordinator Tara. *Cancellations after April 17th are non-refundable.

Kids' Drop-off Program: Mother's Day Bouquet
2023-05-12 17:30 - 19:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Mother’s Day is coming up and we’ve got you covered! In this program, we’ll be making a faux-flower bouquet and card for a special adult in your child’s life. In between crafting we will learn all about nature’s most famous animal mothers. Registration is $15 per child for family-level members and $20 per child for non-members. All supplies included. Space is limited and advance payment and registration are required. This is a drop-off program open to children ages 5-12. To register your child, please email our education coordinator, Tara.

Guest Seminar: Moose on the Loose!
2023-05-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
It is unclear whether moose ever historically occurred in Connecticut, but they sure do now! Moose have been gradually colonizing Connecticut from neighboring Massachusetts over the past few decades, with the first confirmed evidence of reproduction in the state occurring as recently as 2000. A small population has since become established, mainly in towns bordering Massachusetts. Join us for a talk by Andrew LaBonte, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection moose and deer biologist, about the history and status of moose in Connecticut, and future expectations for the species in our state. Discover where you might be able to catch a glimpse of this illusive and rare animal in Connecticut, and what you should do if you’re lucky enough to see one! And if you’re wondering what on Earth is going on in this photo, Andrew says you’ll just have to come to the talk to find out!
Free for members; a suggested donation of $5 per person for non-members is greatly appreciated.

Spring Migration Bird Walk
2023-05-14 08:00 - 09:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
**Rescheduled from 4/29 due to rain**
They’re heeere! Join us for a guided walk as we look for migratory songbirds that are currently making their arduous journeys from the Neotropics all the way to northern North America. We’ll show you the best places to find them and share tips on how to identify the many species that can pass through Great Hollow this time of year. We’ll also talk about some of the research Great Hollow is doing on the effects of invasive plants on birds and the quality of their habitat. Remember to bring binoculars and wear sturdy footwear for walking on trails. A suggested donation of $5/person is greatly appreciated. We’ll meet in Great Hollow’s visitor parking area by the main entrance at 8 am. No dogs, please. Advanced registration is required. Please email John Foley to sign up.

*DATE CHANGED* Live Music on the Lawn: An Original Take on the Beach Boys Songbook
2023-08-26 18:30 - 20:00 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
*Rescheduled from August 19th*
Unfortunately, due to an illness in the band, this event has been postponed to Saturday, August 26th. If you are unable to attend and would like a refund for tickets you purchased for the originally scheduled date, please email us at info@greathollow.org. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.

Celebrate endless summer with award-winning jazz composer, Charley Gerard, and his Broken Reed Saxophone Quartet, who will perform unique reinterpretations of the brilliant music of Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys — with a little injection of humor too. Charley Gerard, a local resident of Sherman, CT, is a recipient of the prestigious New Jazz Works award from Chamber Music America and has performed with the Broken Reed Saxophone Quartet throughout New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Connecticut, as well as Austria. This event is BYOE (“bring your own everything,” such as food, drinks, lawn chairs or blankets). And don’t forget to wear your favorite Hawaiian shirt or other Beach Boys attire! Tickets are only $10 and must be purchased online, in advance. No walk-ins will be allowed. Children under the age of 10 do not need a ticket.
Please either print or take a screen shot of your order confirmation to show staff upon entry.
Tickets purchased on or after August 25th are non-refundable. All sales final.
Purchase tickets here

Jazz Night on the Patio
2023-09-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Join us for the return of an annual favorite – Jazz Night on the Patio. Our friends from the BnB Jazz Trio will be back to provide an intimate night of great music by the likes of Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Duke Ellington, alongside a roaring outdoor fire. The event is BYOE (bring your own everything), so pack yourself whatever food and beverages you would like to enjoy during the show (alcohol permitted for those 21 and over). Tickets are $15 per person and must be purchased in advance, below. Children under the age of 12 are free and do not need a ticket.
*Rain date September 30th, 6pm*

Foraging for Autumn Wild Edibles
2023-09-17 11:00 - 12:30 | Great Hollow Nature Preserve, 225 CT-37, New Fairfield, CT, 06812, United States
Join local farmer, forager, educator, and special guest Sarah Lucas of Harlem Valley Homestead to learn how to forage for wild edible plants and mushrooms of the late summer/early autumn. Wild foods can be rich in antioxidants, electrolytes, anti-bacterials, and phytonutrients that industrial foods increasingly fail to provide. Whether for health, hunger, convenience or curiosity, come and meet some of your backyard resources as Sarah shows us how to find, identify, and responsibly harvest wild edibles this time of year. We will be hiking Great Hollow’s trails, so be sure to wear proper footwear. No dogs, please. Registration is $15 per person and you must sign up in advance by emailing Sarah at sl3026@utsnyc.edu
