Saturday, Oct. 28, 10 a.m.—QUECHEE—The Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) invites children and adults alike to its 13th annual Hoots & Howls event on Saturday, Oct. 28, at the VINS Nature Center in Quechee. Hoots & Howls returns this year with another “spook-tacular,” fun-filled, family day and evening of exciting adventures. A host of other activities, guaranteed to add spice to this year’s festivities, will run from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Discover the truth about owls in “Owls: Myths and Misconceptions,” followed by a performance of Raq-On Dancers. Face painting sessions will be offered throughout the day — create an owl mask, a bat, or a creepy spider. Additional programs will include Spooky Crafts, Skulls & Bones, and Cider Pressing. Peeps & Squeaks, an event tailored specifically for young children, will take place from 4:30-5:30 p.m. with Halloween-themed activities and stories as well as a live animal encounter.
VINS’ famed Hoots & Howls guided tours will be offered from 5:30-8 p.m. to visitors of all ages. Individual groups will be guided through the VINS Nature Center along trails lit by jack-o-lanterns with frequent stops to enjoy storytelling, live animals, skits, and more. Wrap up the evening with mouth-watering Tricky Treats and a chance to encounter a raptor up close. Don’t forget to dress in costume.
Admission is free for VINS members and children age 3 and under. Admission for non-members for the day and evening is $15 for adults; $14 for seniors, 62 and over; and $13 for youth, ages 4 to 17. Admission for just the evening, 4:30-8 p.m.: $10 adults; $8 youth (ages 4-17); 3 and under free.
Discounts may be applied toward admission to the VINS Nature Center. EBT cards are welcome. Reservations are encouraged. Contact 802-359-5000, ext. 201 to reserve a spot for a Hoots & Howls Tour. Walk-ins are welcome.
Photo by Phillip Chitwood
Get up close and personal with VINS’ raptors during the annual Hoots & Howls event.
