BEMIDJI — Here is a look at some upcoming events throughout July at Lake Bemidji State Park, 3401 State Park Road NE:
1 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 3: Lovely Lady’s Slippers. Join a park naturalist on a walk in search of these elegant orchids, the lady's slippers. Join the group at the bog boardwalk to search for these beautiful flowers. The gravel bog walk trail is an easy hike and is about one mile one way from the Aspen Lane parking lot, so a total of two miles round trip. Meet at the bog boardwalk sign by the bike rack at the start of the trail to the boardwalk. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes.
10 to 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 4: The Story Tree: My Little Book of Bald Eagles. Welcome to an enchanting nature story time, a magical experience specially crafted for curious minds ages 3 to 5, though all ages are welcome. Children will experience the wonders of the natural world through a delightful blend of storytelling, crafts, and other fun activities. Afterward, have fun exploring our playground and nature play area. Adults must accompany children. Meet at the Amphitheater. If it is raining, the group will meet in the Visitor Center.
1:30 to 2:15 p.m., Thursday, July 4: Bald Eagles: Guardians of the Sky. Come along on an exciting journey as participants uncover the secrets of the mighty bald eagle. From their colossal nests to their incredible fishing talents, get ready for an encounter with these awe-inspiring birds. First, learn more about these special raptors by playing a fun trivia game and then take a short walk to see the park's bald eagle nest up close. The group might even get to see the eaglet. Meet at the Amphitheater behind the Visitor Center.
10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Friday, July 5: Pond Critters. Discover the fascinating aquatic life living in Bass Creek and the marina. Get an up-close look at whirligig beetles, baby dragonflies, water boatmen and backswimmers. The group may even find crayfish, leeches or turtles. Stop by any time between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. at the picnic tables by the marina on the opposite end of the main parking lot from where the Visitor Center is.
7 to 8 p.m., Saturday, July 6: Summer Concert Series: Antonio Arce.
2 to 3 p.m., Sunday, July 7: Summer Concert Series: Bluebird.
2 to 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, July 10: Archery in the Parks. Archery in the Parks is hands-on instruction on shooting a bow and arrow from certified instructors in a safe and supportive environment. The course offers a family adventure with kid-friendly equipment designed for beginners aged 8 and older. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. All equipment is provided. Personal archery equipment is not allowed. Participants will be outside for the program so be prepared for standing in the sun. Bring along sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, insect repellant and water. The program will be canceled if it's raining. Meet in the west parking lot.
10 to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 11: The Story Tree: Some Babies are Wild.
2:30 to 4 p.m., Friday, July 12: Nature Discovery Table: Bug Quest. Come down to the front of the park office and discover all kinds of cool nature objects. Each week there will be a different theme to engage the senses and explore the natural world up close. This time, come take a peek at all the creepy-crawly bugs we can find in the park. Stop by any time between 2:30 and 4 p.m. Meet at the front of the park office. If it is raining, the table will be in the Visitor Center.
3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, July 13: Kids Quest: Navigation Challenge. Never get lost again! Meet at the visitor center to learn how to navigate around the great outdoors using a compass. Then practice those new skills with a scavenger hunt around the park to find waypoints, nature facts and more. This program is best suited for kids aged 7 and older.
7 to 8 p.m., Saturday, July 13: Summer Concert Series: Bemidji Bogtrotters.
2 to 3 p.m., Sunday, July 14: Summer Concert Series: Acoustofiddle.
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10 to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 18: The Story Tree: Over and Under the Pond.
2:30 to 4 p.m., Friday, July 19: Nature Discovery Table: Mammal Match.
10 to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, July 20: Bog Discovery: Ask a Naturalist.
2 to 3:30 p.m., Saturday, July 20: Outstanding Owls. Enter the realm of silent flight and piercing eyes in this captivating program as we explore the mysterious world of these special birds of prey. This presentation will shed light on the fascinating lives of these nocturnal hunters, uncovering the secrets behind their silent flight, acute senses and remarkable adaptations. There will even be live owls for participants to meet courtesy of the Nature Connection! Meet at the Amphitheater. If it rains, the program will be in the Visitor Center.
7 to 8 p.m., Saturday, July 20: Summer Concert Series: No Rest For The Pickers.
2 to 3 p.m., Sunday, July 21: Summer Concert Series: The Fogelsons.
10 to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 25: The Story Tree: What Eats That?
2 to 2:30 p.m., Friday, July 26: 15 Reasons Not To Be In A Play. Bemidji Community Children’s Theater and Starbridge Academy presents “15 Reasons Not To Be In A Play” at the Lake Bemidji State Park Amphitheater. This production is about a group of students protesting being in a play and the many reasons, from having to hold someone’s hand to being stuck in a tree costume, why they should not have to be in a play. Written by Alan Haehnal and directed by Hannah Fletcher.
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2:30 to 4 p.m., Friday, July 26: Nature Discovery Table: Fun With Rocks.
2 to 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 27: 15 Reasons Not To Be In A Play. See previous description.
2 to 3 p.m., Sunday, July 28: Summer Concert Series: Bemidji Bogtrotters.
Those who need accommodations should contact Christa at christa.drake@state.mn.us or (218) 308-2328 two weeks before the event.
