Media Advisory Contact information: Amy Landon 502-797-1608
July 31, 2023,
Bernheim in August brings opening of a historic Fire Tower, CONNECT, Happy Hour and more:
August Activities kick-off with August 5 with ECO Kids Discovery Days
CLERMONT, Ky July 30, 2023– August at Bernheim bring one of our favorite annual events CONNECT, along with the opening of our historic fire tower, the Playcosystem Happy Hour for adults, ECO Kids Discovery Days and more. The highlights of Bernheim’s events and programming throughout August are listed below. Visit bernheim.org/events for a complete list.
Fire Tower Opens:
Experience stunning natural views from atop Bernheim’s historic fire tower. Each Saturday and Sunday, from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m., join volunteer naturalists as they guide you to one of the state’s best views of the natural landscape.
Fire tower opening is weather permitting. Please call (502) 215-7155 or check at the Visitor Center to confirm it’s open before heading in that direction.
This is a free drop-in program. A $15 per vehicle donation at the gate for non-members is appreciated. Call (502) 955-8512 or visit Bernheim.org for more information.
Playcosystem Happy Hour:
Play is healthy for us regardless of age. To that end, we have reserved Playcosystem on Friday, August 11, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for an evening for adults to gather, have a bit of fun, meet others, build a box fort, and share a playground. Hilarity will ensue, and adult beverages will be available.
We will be spinning vinyl – so if you have a favorite record, you feel good about bringing onto a playground – get it.
This is a free event, but registration is appreciated. Call (502) 955-8512 or visit Bernheim.org to register.
Birding for Beginners:
If you’re looking for a great introduction to the fascinating world of birds, join Volunteer Naturalists Karen and Jim Scout on Saturday, August 12, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. for this program that provides the basics of bird identification using size, shape, behavior, and location. Not only do the Scouts know a lot about birds, but they know how to make birding more engaging, rewarding, and relevant.
Binoculars are available to borrow for use during the program.
The cost is $10 for Bernheim members and $15 for non-members. Registration and payment are due by 4 P.M. the day before the start of the program. Visit Bernheim.org or call (502) 215-7155 to register.
Bernheim at Night: Perseid Meteor Shower Watch and Laser-guided Star Tour:
Experience the Perseid Meteor Shower set against the twinkling darkness of Bernheim.Join Volunteer Naturalists to observe the night sky, investigate meteors, and unearth tales of historical meteor showers that have coincided with unusual events.
Telescopes are not needed for viewing, but binoculars are recommended. Bring a lawn chair, blanket, or pillow to lie on the ground and look up to watch the skies.
The cost is $10 for Bernheim members and $15 for non-members. Night hikes are very popular, so register early to ensure your space. Registration and payment are due by 4 P.M. the day before the start of the program. Visit Bernheim.org or call (502) 215-7155 to register.
Mellow Morning Stroll:
If you are a morning person, these quiet, reflective strolls are designed with you in mind. Each slow-paced walk will focus on nature’s small details, hidden connections, and the sensory-rich tapestry of life. Join Bernheim staff and Volunteer Naturalists on Wednesday, August 16, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. near Bernheim’s Sensory Garden and start your day attuned to nature’s beauty and abundance.
The cost is $10 for Bernheim members and $15 for non-members. Registration and payment are due by 4 p.m. the day prior by visiting Bernheim.org or calling (502) 955-8512. No pets are allowed.
ECO Kids Discovery Days:
The E-C-O stands for Every Child Outside, and that’s exactly where kids can be found during ECO Kids Discovery Days. Discovery Days take place the first and third Saturday of each month near Bernheim’s Visitor Center and may include:
Hands-On Discovery Stations from 1 to 4 p.m.
Hike of the Day, led by a Bernheim guide, starts at the Visitor Center at 2 p.m. and runs 45-60 minutes.
Pop-Up Story Circles because everything and everyone has a story. Watch for our storytelling and story-sharing circles.
ECO Kids Discovery Days are weather dependent. Call (502) 215-7155 on the day of the event for weather-related updates. For details on ECO Kids Discovery Days, visit Bernheim.org. No registration is necessary. January ECO Kids will take place on the following dates:
- August 5
- August 19
CONNECT:
Discover the enchanting intersection of art, science, and nature during CONNECT, Bernheim’s annual eclectic evening event. Join us on August 26, 2023, 4:21 – 10:21 p.m. to experience Lake Nevin. It comes alive with spontaneous art, drum circles, light sculptures, renowned artists’ musical performances, and hands-on art and science activities.
Visitors of all ages can bask in the glow of sunset in the forest, march to the beat of the drum circle, and enjoy unique experiences throughout the day and evening. Refreshments from local food trucks, wine and beer vendors will also be available throughout the event.
Advance tickets may be purchased through August 25 and are $10 per person for Bernheim members (ages 14+), and non-member adults (ages 14+) are $15 per person; children 13 and under are free. Day-of tickets are $15 per person for Bernheim members $15; non-member adults (ages 14+) are $20 per person.
Tickets may be purchased at Bernheim.org/connect.
*Note: In preparation for CONNECT, Bernheim will close at noon on Saturday, August 26, and reopen at 3:21 p.m. At that time, all visitors will be charged CONNECT ticket rates. Forest Hill Drive and Guerilla Hollow will be closed all day.
Highlights of Bernheim’s events and programming throughout August are listed below. Visit bernheim.org/events for a complete list.
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About Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest
Bernheim’s mission is to connect people with nature. At 16 140 acres, it is the largest privately held contiguous forest block in the eastern United States dedicated to conservation and education. Bourbon maker Isaac Wolfe Bernheim established the arboretum and forest in 1929 as a gift to the people of Kentucky. Fun, educational programs, diverse tree collections, a renowned art collection, 40 miles of hiking trails, and varied landscapes are available every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. A $15 per car donation is suggested for non-members. For more information about Bernheim, visit https://bernheim.org/.