1212 Edge Hill Road
Abington, PA 19001
215-887-6603
info@briarbush.org
Programs for All Ages
Most programs require registration for participants ages 2+.
Please review all program information at the time of registration.
Questions or need help registering? Call 215-887-6603.
Slugs, Spiders, and Sorcery – Campfire Program
Step into a world full of magical and marvelous creatures! Meet the animal ambassadors that are often misunderstood as spooky, slimy, or scary, and uncover some of the “magical” abilities that help them survive in the wild. After, we’ll venture out on a guided night hike to search for these creatures in their natural habitat and discover why they play an essential role in healthy ecosystems. Then, enjoy s’mores around the campfire.
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Friday, October 23, 2026
Time: 7:00pm-8:00pm
Cost: $17.50 | Abington Resident: $15.75 | BBNC Member: $14.00
Notes:
-
This program requires registration for participants ages 2+. Children under 2 years of age do not require registration and are free of charge.
-
If registering children, adult registration is required; this is not a drop-off program.
-
The program will take place both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine, for varying durations of time.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather. You will be contacted in the case of cancellation due to extreme weather.
-
The campfire is weather dependent.
-
The indoor portion of the program will take place on the first floor of the Museum (accessible).
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
Registration closes 10/23/26 at 12:00pm.
-
Questions or need help registering? Call 215-887-6603.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel the program 15 days or more before its start date, you will receive an 80% refund (20% service fee). No refunds will be issued within 14 days of the program start date. To cancel, email Melissa Eldridge at melissa@briarbush.org.
Outdoor Survival
What would you do if you found yourself lost in the woods? In this exciting, family-friendly take on our popular summer camp, you’ll discover the essential skills to stay safe and confident in the wild. Learn how to build a shelter, safely start a fire, and make smart choices about what you eat and drink—because not every berry or sparkling stream is as harmless as it looks. Adventure, knowledge, and wilderness wisdom await!
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm
Cost: $15.00 | Abington Resident: $13.50 | BBNC Member: $12.00
Notes:
-
This program is recommended for participants ages 6+.
-
This program requires registration for participants ages 2+. Children under 2 years of age do not require registration and are free of charge.
-
If registering children, adult registration is required; this is not a drop-off program.
-
The program will take place outdoors, rain or shine.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather.
-
You will be contacted in the case of cancellation due to extreme weather.
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
Registration closes 11/6/26 at 12:00pm.
-
Questions or need help registering? Call 215-887-6603.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel the program 15 days or more before its start date, you will receive an 80% refund (20% service fee). No refunds will be issued within 14 days of the program start date. To cancel, email Melissa Eldridge at melissa@briarbush.org.
From Fall to Frost
As autumn fades and winter begins, the forest is full of subtle changes waiting to be discovered! Learn more about these seasonal changes during story time and live animal encounter. Then take a hike on the trails in search of the last signs of fall, like lingering leaves and seed pods, while also spotting the first hints of winter, from bare branches to animal tracks.
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Saturday, December 12, 2026
Time: 10:300pm-11:30pm
Cost: $15.00 | Abington Resident: $13.50 | BBNC Member: $12.00
Notes:
-
This program requires registration for participants ages 2+. Children under 2 years of age do not require registration and are free of charge.
-
If registering children, adult registration is required; this is not a drop-off program.
-
The program will take place both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine, for varying durations of time.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather. You will be contacted in the case of cancellation due to extreme weather.
-
The indoor portion of the program will take place on the first floor of the Museum and/or Bird Observatory (both accessible).
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
Registration closes 12/11/26 at 12:00pm.
-
Questions or need help registering? Call 215-887-6603.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel the program 15 days or more before its start date, you will receive an 80% refund (20% service fee). No refunds will be issued within 14 days of the program start date. To cancel, email Melissa Eldridge at melissa@briarbush.org.
WinterFest – Trees in Winter
Celebrate the magic of the winter season at our annual WinterFest! Learn about the history of maple sugaring, observe tree tapping demonstrations, and enjoy a variety of winter activities including guided hikes, live animal encounters, winter scavenger hunt, winter tree crafts, and more.
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Sunday, January 24, 2027
Time: 1:00pm-4:00pm
Cost: FREE (Sponsored by BLBB Charitable)
Notes:
-
No registration required.
-
The festival will take place both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine, for varying durations of time.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather. In extreme weather, the festival may be cancelled.
-
The indoor portion of the program will take place on the first floor of the Museum (accessible).
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
Briar Bush parking is limited. Off-site parking is available at Highland Elementary School.
-
Questions? Call 215-887-6603.
Native PA Wildlife – Campfire Program
You don’t have to travel to another country to encounter incredible wildlife. Right here in Pennsylvania, fascinating animals live all around us, often just beyond our doorstep. Meet some of our native Pennsylvania animal ambassadors, discover the unique adaptations that help them thrive in our local ecosystem, and learn why they deserve our hometown pride and protection. Then, enjoy s’mores around the campfire.
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Friday, February 26, 2027
Time: 7:00pm-8:00pm
Cost: $17.50 | Abington Resident: $15.75 | BBNC Member: $14.00
Notes:
-
This program requires registration for participants ages 2+. Children under 2 years of age do not require registration and are free of charge.
-
If registering children, adult registration is required; this is not a drop-off program.
-
The program will take place both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine, for varying durations of time.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather. The campfire is weather dependent. You will be contacted in the case of cancellation due to extreme weather.
-
The indoor portion of the program will take place on the first floor of the Museum (accessible).
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
Registration closes 2/26/27 at 12:00pm.
-
Questions or need help registering? Call 215-887-6603.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel the program 15 days or more before its start date, you will receive an 80% refund (20% service fee). No refunds will be issued within 14 days of the program start date. To cancel, email Melissa Eldridge at melissa@briarbush.org.
Family Nature Night - Science in Nature
A program for children with sensory processing differences and their families
Bring the whole family for a fun night complete with live animal encounters and interactive stations relating to the theme of the night – all at your own pace. Family Nature Nights are geared toward children with sensory processing disorders and feature a forest sensory experience!
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Friday, March 12, 2027
Time: 6:00pm-7:30pm
Cost: FREE (Sponsored by the Child Development Foundation)
Notes:
-
This program requires registration for participants ages 2+. Children under 2 years of age do not require registration. Adult registration is required; this is not a drop-off program.
-
The program is scheduled from 6:00pm-7:30pm; families may arrive at any time during this window and are welcome to stay for a quick visit or for the entirety of the program.
-
The program is designed to be flexible and welcoming for all families. Participants are free to explore a variety of activity stations at their own pace, choosing to participate in any or all activities of interest. Station activities are primarily geared toward preschool through early elementary ages, with some advanced activity options available.
-
The program will take place both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine, with opportunities to participate in outdoor activities for varying lengths of time.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather. You will be contacted in the case of cancellation due to extreme weather.
-
The indoor portion of the program will take place on the first floor of the Museum (accessible).
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
A quiet corner will be available throughout the event for anyone who may need a break from the activity.
-
Light snacks will be provided.
-
Registration closes 3/12/27 at 12:00pm.
-
Questions or need help registering? Call 215-887-6603.
Cancellation Policy:
If you are unable to attend this program, please call Briar Bush Nature Center at 215-887-6603.
EarthFest – Be a Neighbor to Nature
Learn how to be a neighbor to nature at this year's EarthFest celebration! Enjoy a variety of activities including guided hikes, animal encounters, games, crafts, and more.
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Sunday, April 25, 2027
Time: 1:00pm-4:00pm
Cost: FREE (Sponsored by BLBB Charitable)
Notes:
-
No registration required.
-
The festival will take place both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine, for varying durations of time.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather. In extreme weather, the festival may be cancelled.
-
The indoor portion of the program will take place on the first floor of the Museum (accessible).
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
Briar Bush parking is limited. Off-site parking is available at Highland Elementary School.
-
Questions? Call 215-887-6603.
Seed to Sprout
Join us in exploring the fascinating world of seeds! Discover the inside of a seed and learn what they need to grow into healthy plants. Meet some of our animal ambassadors that depend on seeds and plants for survival before heading outside to look for wild animals that eat seeds. Be sure to take a native plant seedling home and watch it grow!
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Saturday, May 8, 2027
Time: 10:30am-11:30am
Cost: $15.00 | Abington Resident: $13.50 | BBNC Member: $12.00
Notes:
-
This program requires registration for participants ages 2+. Children under 2 years of age do not require registration and are free of charge.
-
If registering children, adult registration is required; this is not a drop-off program.
-
The program will take place both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine, for varying durations of time.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather. You will be contacted in the case of cancellation due to extreme weather.
-
The indoor portion of the program will take place on the first floor of the Museum and/or Bird Observatory (both accessible).
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
Registration closes 5/6/27 at 12:00pm.
-
Questions or need help registering? Call 215-887-6603.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel the program 15 days or more before its start date, you will receive an 80% refund (20% service fee). No refunds will be issued within 14 days of the program start date. To cancel, email Melissa Eldridge at melissa@briarbush.org.
Soil Science – Popsicle Program
Dig into the world beneath your feet! Explore the components of soil through an interactive “cooking show,” meet some of our live animals that depend on soil for survival, and discover how soil supports life on a guided hike along the trails. Then, enjoy refreshing popsicles after the program.
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Wednesday, June 23, 2027
Time: 7:00pm-8:00pm
Cost: $17.50 | Abington Resident: $15.75 | BBNC Member: $14.00
Notes:
-
This program requires registration for participants ages 2+. Children under 2 years of age do not require registration and are free of charge.
-
If registering children, adult registration is required; this is not a drop-off program.
-
The program will take place both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine, for varying durations of time.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather. You will be contacted in the case of cancellation due to extreme weather.
-
The indoor portion of the program will take place on the first floor of the Museum and/or Bird Observatory (both accessible).
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
Registration closes 6/23/27 at 12:00pm.
-
Questions or need help registering? Call 215-887-6603.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel the program 15 days or more before its start date, you will receive an 80% refund (20% service fee). No refunds will be issued within 14 days of the program start date. To cancel, email Melissa Eldridge at melissa@briarbush.org.
Herp, Herp, Hooray! – Popsicle Program
Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians. But what is the difference between these two classes of animals? Join us as we learn how to distinguish between the two with the help of some of our resident animals, a pond exploration, and other fun activities. Then, enjoy refreshing popsicles after the program.
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Wednesday, July 14, 2027
Time: 7:00pm-8:00pm
Cost: $17.50 | Abington Resident: $15.75 | BBNC Member: $14.00
Notes:
-
This program requires registration for participants ages 2+. Children under 2 years of age do not require registration and are free of charge.
-
If registering children, adult registration is required; this is not a drop-off program.
-
The program will take place both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine, for varying durations of time.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather. You will be contacted in the case of cancellation due to extreme weather.
-
The indoor portion of the program will take place on the first floor of the Museum and/or Bird Observatory (both accessible).
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
Registration closes 7/14/27 at 12:00pm.
-
Questions or need help registering? Call 215-887-6603.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel the program 15 days or more before its start date, you will receive an 80% refund (20% service fee). No refunds will be issued within 14 days of the program start date. To cancel, email Melissa Eldridge at melissa@briarbush.org.
Creatures of the Night – Popsicle Program
At night, the Briar Bush forest is filled with animals we may not see during the day such as raccoons, skunks, bats, foxes, owls, and insects. Meet some of our nocturnal animal ambassadors and explore the trails to learn more about their habitat! Then, enjoy refreshing popsicles after the program.
Location: Briar Bush Nature Center
Date: Wednesday, August 11, 2027
Time: 7:00pm-8:00pm
Cost: $17.50 | Abington Resident: $15.75 | BBNC Member: $14.00
Notes:
-
This program requires registration for participants ages 2+. Children under 2 years of age do not require registration and are free of charge.
-
If registering children, adult registration is required; this is not a drop-off program.
-
The program will take place both indoors and outdoors, rain or shine, for varying durations of time.
-
Please dress appropriately for the weather. You will be contacted in the case of cancellation due to extreme weather.
-
The indoor portion of the program will take place on the first floor of the Museum and/or Bird Observatory (both accessible).
-
Trail surfaces include asphalt (accessible), woodchips, gravel, compacted soil, exposed roots, and/or water bars. The trails may be sloped/uneven.
-
-
Registration closes 8/11/27 at 12:00pm.
-
Questions or need help registering? Call 215-887-6603.
Cancellation Policy:
If you cancel the program 15 days or more before its start date, you will receive an 80% refund (20% service fee). No refunds will be issued within 14 days of the program start date. To cancel, email Melissa Eldridge at melissa@briarbush.org.