A tree giveaway, identification hike, painting events and more are just some of the ways Hoosiers can celebrate Arbor Day this year at Indiana State Parks.
Indiana recognizes Arbor Day on Friday, April 27, although some state park events will take place on Saturday, April 28.
Chain O’Lakes State Park in Albion is hosting “A is for Arbor Day” at 10 a.m. on Friday. Visitors can learn to plant and care for trees. Each participant will go home with a tree to plant, as supplies last. The historic Stanley Schoolhouse will host stories, crafts and hands-on activities for children.
Learn tree identification during a hike at Versailles State Park at 2 p.m. on Saturday. The park’s naturalist will lead the hike, which is rated as moderate. Participants are encouraged to bring a field guide and wear hiking boots.
A free, all-ages painting workshop to celebrate Arbor Day at Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell starts at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Call 812-849-3534 or email interpretive naturalist Wyatt Williams at wwilliams1@dnr.IN.gov to reserve a spot.
Brown County State Park is hosting two events. From 8 to 11 a.m. on Friday, visitors can watch award-winning local artist Patricia Bartels paint en plein air. Bartels will set up at an overlook near the fire tower. Stop by and learn about the painting method that helped make Brown County famous.
The 33rd annual Spring Wildflower Foray will take place in Brown County April 27-29. Programs will be offered at natural areas throughout the county that feature spring ephemerals. The state park is hosting hikes at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, and at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Saturday. Call 812-988-5240 for more information.