New Jersey Audubon Society’s Weis Ecology Center in Ringwood, New Jersey invites everyone to kick off the Christmas season with a visit to their Holiday Nature Festival on Saturday, December 7. The day will feature activities for the whole family: craft corners,face painting, an opportunity to meet the Center’s live hawk, owl, turtle and snakes; and nature walks every hour. Families can spend some time “window birding,� watching the activity on our bird feeders and getting tips on how to create your own bird feeding stations at home. The Nature Store and Bake Shop will be full of gifts for the nature lovers in your family, including books and accessories for the budding and experienced naturalist, tee shirts, homemade baked goods, and bird feeding supplies. This event also kicks off Weis’ annual Christmas tree sale fundraiser. Fresh-cut Christmas trees, from a tree farm in Pennsylvania will be for sale throughout the day and weekends in December. Sponsor a Hawk, Owl, Turtle or Snake: Critter Care Sponsorship packets make great gifts for friends and family. Packets include a field guide, a certificate of appreciation, and a photograph of your sponsored animal. All proceeds support the care and maintenance of Weis edu-critters. Sponsorship packets are available throughout the month of December.

The New Jersey Audubon Society's Weis Ecology Center is a private, not-for-profit environmental education center whose goal is to enhance people's awareness and appreciation of their environment. Specializing in residential and full-day environmental educational programs for students and scouts, the Center is also recognized for its popular weekend public programs. Our Nature Store, which is open during business hours and located in the main building, offers visitors a selection of field guides, trail maps, educational supplies and more.