(Joplin, MO) – This month, the Wildcat Glades Nature Group along with other partners, will be hosting a Preschool Connections Program, a Nature Explorers program, a Natural Wreaths Class, two craft classes, and their Ozark Christmas Tree Revival sale. They will also continue to work on their Habitat Restoration project along the trails at Wildcat Park.
Wildcat Park Habitat Restoration Initiative & KCU Student Trail Initiative
Various dates throughout the month | Ongoing project – check Facebook page for workday schedule
Wildcat Glades Nature Group, in partnership with Missouri Southern State University (MSSU), continues to have work days to remove invasive species out at Wildcat Park. Invasive species are detrimental to native plants and wildlife in the Park. Removing the invasive species provides better habitat for plants and animals, and in turn, benefits us. The Restoration Plan is an ongoing project that will be carried out over the next ten years. The work days are completed by Wildcat volunteers, representatives from MSSU, and Wildcat staff. Workdays are held nearly every Thursday or Saturday during the year.
Festive Holiday Craft Workshop for Adults
Monday, December 1 | 6:00 to 8:00 pm | For ages 14+ | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage | $15
Come join Wildcat Glades for a fun and festive evening as they create three delightful holiday crafts that are perfect for gifting to loved ones or adding a special touch to your own home decor. Attendees will get to make creative saltshaker tassels, whimsical snow globe frames, and more seasonal treasures. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays, get inspired, and enjoy the magic of the season together!
Pre-registration is required and space is limited, so make sure to sign up here.
Ozark Christmas Tree Revival
Saturday, December 6 | 10:00 am to 3:00 pm | Families welcome
Steph into the magic of the season at Wildcat Glades!
Whether you’re searching for the perfect juniper tree or fragrant cedar wreath, warming up with hot cocoa, or capturing a moment with Father Christmas, this festive fundraising event is one you won’t want to miss. Bring your friends and families for a joyful day and help support natural spaces. Guests can enjoy:
- Hand-picked juniper trees and cedar wreaths for sale
- Delicious hot cocoa for all ages
- Memorable photos with Father Christmas
Prices for trees range from $5 to $35 while wreaths range from $15 to $65. Photos with Santa are $25 and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Gather your community, celebrate the holidays, and make a difference in one cheerful afternoon!
Preschool Connections: Owl in the Christmas Tree
Wednesday, December 10 @ 10:00 am | Saturday, December 13 @ 1:00 pm | Ages three to seven, accompanied by an adult | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage | Sponsored by Calvin Cassidy
This December, join us for a cozy holiday edition of Preschool Connections!
This month, we’ll be reading Owl in the Christmas Tree, a delightful story about a curious little owl who finds a home among the twinkling lights. After story time, children will create an owl ornament for their Christmas tree and discover a few facts about real owls. Come celebrate the season with storytelling, crafting, and nature discovery — a perfect mix of wonder and winter cheer.
Register your littles by visiting the Wildcat Glades’ Facebook page or by emailing sara@wildcatglades.org.
Holiday Makers Workshop for Kids: Creative Fun and Festive Memories
Saturday, December 13 @ 9:30 to 11:30 am | Children ages 4 and older | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage | Free event
Children ages four and older will embark on a festive, nature-inspired adventure this month!
Wildcat Glades staff will separate the kiddos into two groups (ages four to seven and ages eight and older) so they can work on specially themed crafts. Each group will get to create three unique holiday crafts that celebrate the wonders of the natural world. Think pinecone ornaments, nature-inspired decor, and sparkling snowflake mobiles. These hands-on projects are designed to spark imagination and capture the magic of the season, all while connecting with nature.
Make sure to save your kiddos a spot by visiting the Wildcat Glades’ Facebook page or by clicking here.
Holiday Open House
Saturday, December 13 @ 10:00 am to 3:00 pm | Wildcat Glades Nature Store inside the Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center
Don’t miss the chance to make this season special with a unique gift from Wildcat Glades Nature Store!
Join the Wildcat Glades Nature Group for their Open House on December 13 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm for special deals, including a 20% discount on wonderful gits that nature enthusiasts of all ages will love.
Solstice Hike
Sunday, December 21 @ 2:00 pm | Meant for adults | Free event
Join Wildcat Glades and other nature enthusiasts for a Solstice Hike!
Meet at the Wildcat Glades Education Cottage and bring your favorite comfy shoes and hiking gear for an enjoyable afternoon together. The first 20 participants who register will receive some fun Wildcat merchandise, but space is limited! Make sure to save your spot by visiting their website or checking out the Wildcat Glades’ Facebook page.
Winter Wonder Workshop for Kids
Tuesday, December 23 @ 1:00 to 5:00 pm | For children ages six to 12 | Wildcat Glades Education Cottage | $35 per child
Give your kids a memorable holiday experience at Wildcat Glades’ Kids Holiday Craft Day, which is designed for children ages six to twelve!
Drop your kiddos off for an afternoon of creativity and fun while you wrap up some holiday shopping. Each child will have the opportunity to make thoughtful gifts for their loved ones, enjoy delicious treats, and take part in festive activities. The cost to attend is $35 per child, and pre-registration is necessary as space is limited.
Don’t miss out on this chance for your kids to create, celebrate, and make lasting memories!
About Wildcat Glades Nature Group:
The Wildcat Glades Nature Group is dedicated to protecting the area known as Wildcat Park and the surrounding chert glade environment, habitat, and wildlife by promoting awareness and sustainability, providing education and recreation space and programs, and sponsoring nature-based activities.
Reference:
Robin Standridge, Executive Director
Wildcat Glades Nature Group
robin@wildcatglades.org
417.708.7713 or 417.629.3434, ext. 4540
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