I have a formula for predicting when the last cold snap of the season will happen that’s more accurate than any Farmer’s Almanac or meteorologist. It’s simple. First, starting in about late March or early April I keep track of the weather for several weeks. When we’ve had several weeks of warm temperatures and it looks like spring is here to stay, I pack away all my warm winter clothing. After all my sweaters, leggings and jackets are all neatly packed in plastic containers and stored in the garage until fall, a record-breaking cold front will blow through Dallas the very next weekend. It happens every. single. year. It’s like Mother Nature is saying to me, “Ha! Fooled ya again!”
The last gasp of winter happened last weekend –I know because I had no warm clothes to wear. Sure, there’s still a slight chance for another Blue Norther, but I’d say, given my tried and true formula, we’re likely finished with the freezing temperatures until next fall.
The bright spot for shivering through last weekend is now we get to enjoy spring all over again. And the springlike weather couldn’t have come at a better time, because even though Earth Day isn’t until April 21, it just so happens that Earth Day events and celebrations are already popping up all over North Texas.
Here are just a few happening this weekend and next.
On Saturday, head out to River Legacy Living Science Center in Arlington for their Earth Day Festival. Little ecologist can make crafts like wildflower seed balls, t-shirt bracelets, and magazine origami. They can also get their faces painted and join in an animal exploration. While you’re there be sure to take in a nature walk. There are 8 miles worth of trails to enjoy among the center’s adjacent 1,300-acre River Legacy Parks.
You can commit to saving the environment and have a good time while you’re doing it EcoCoppell’s Earthfest this Saturday at the Coppell Farmers Market in Old Town Center Plaza. You and kiddos can have an entertaining and educational experience as you visit the many environmental education booths while you learn how you can lead a more sustainable lifestyle. There will also be a plant sale, food, and live music by the Boxcar Bandits and the Coppell Community Choral. If that isn’t enough, you can also play some lawn games, get your picture taken in a photo booth, and create a masterpiece with the arts and crafts activities.
Also this Saturday, young nature enthusiasts can learn all about Texas’ state insect which also happens to be the most famous butterfly at Texas Discovery Gardens. Entomologist, John Watts will on hand to talk about the fabulous Monarch, its annual migration, and how they benefit our gardens. The one-hour program starts at 10 a.m. Afterward be sure to check out the indoor butterfly house.
Photo: Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area
When I saw Art Boat come up on the Art&Seek calendar a few weeks ago I just knew I had to include it in this week’s picks. I mean, c’mon. What better way to embrace Mother Earth than doing a nature painting while you’re kayaking? Join the folks from Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area Saturday afternoon for a peaceful paddle up the Elm Fork of the Trinity River. When the mood suits you, stop, dip a paintbrush in the water, and create a painting. All skill levels are welcome, and all the equipment is provided in this unique kayak trip. Participants need to be 7 and up and will receive an introduction to kayaking on dry land before pushing off into the water. You must register before April 13. This event is likely to fill up so don’t delay.
Photo: EARTHx 2018
If you’re looking for all things Earth Day you won’t have to look any further than the EARTHx Expo. The three-day event (formerly know at Earth Day Texas) happens April 20-22 at Fair Park and is packed with the cool and engaging demonstrations, displays and exhibitions the whole family will enjoy. You can catch a family-friendly film at the educational film festival, make a furry friend at the petting zoo, climb a tree, take a peek at the tiny house village, or do yoga with baby goats!
Another environmental celebration happening weekend after next is Denton’s Redbud Festival. The award-winning community festival is actually Denton’s official Arbor Day celebration, which falls on April 27 this year. The Lorax couldn’t compete with all of the activities going on here. For starters, the Denton Public Library is hosting a special tree-themed storytime at 11 a.m. There will also be a free tree giveaway, bounce houses, face painting, and live music performances throughout the day. And be sure to see TRASHion Fashion Runway Show at noon on the outdoor stage. Creativity abounds as trash is turned into fashion. The fun happens Saturday, April 21 at the Denton Civic Center.
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