Source: MDWFPJACKSON — The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks and its Mississippi Museum of Natural Science will host the annual “NatureFEST!” event April 11, offering a full day of outdoor-themed activities for visitors of all ages.
The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the museum, located in LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. Organizers describe NatureFEST as a combination of a festival, nature outing and museum experience designed to encourage exploration and hands-on learning.
Visitors can expect live animal encounters, demonstrations, and opportunities to interact with museum scientists, along with a variety of outdoor activities throughout the day.
“NatureFEST is one of our favorite days of the year,” Museum Director Angel Rohnke said. “It is an incredible opportunity for families to connect with Mississippi’s natural world in fun, memorable ways and to see firsthand how science, conservation, and discovery all come together here at the Museum.”
Activities will include animal presentations from Wild Acres, Freedom Ranch and the Hattiesburg Zoo, fish feedings in the museum’s aquariums, and access to exhibits such as “Giants of the Ice Age.” Guests can also take part in interactive programs, watch artist Ellen Langford at work and meet author Kay Meadows.
The event will also feature plant sales from Camp Creek Native Plants, local vendors and food trucks, including Skenny Burgers, Gator’s and Mo’Betta Desserts. Food and vendor purchases are not included with admission.
Admission to NatureFEST is included with regular museum entry or a Mississippi Museum of Natural Science Foundation membership. General admission is $9 for adults, $7 for youth ages 3 to 18 and $8 for seniors ages 60 and older.
The day will begin with the Buffalo Peak Outfitters Hoka 5K Hike/Run, which requires registration and includes admission to NatureFEST.
The Mississippi Museum of Natural Science is located at 2148 Riverside Drive in Jackson and offers exhibits and programs focused on the state’s natural heritage year-round.
