Bristol Prepares for 27th Annual Wildlife Weekend with Art, Education, and Photography Contests

Join the Fun at Bristol’s 27th Annual Wildlife Weekend!

Hey there, Bristol! Are you ready for some outdoor fun and artistic inspiration? Next month, our beloved Steele Creek Park will be buzzing with excitement as it hosts the 27th Annual Wildlife Weekend. Mark your calendars for October 11th and 12th because this is one event you don’t want to miss!

Art Meets Nature

This year, the weekend will embrace the theme of “Arts in the Natural World”, celebrating the wonderful connection between art and nature. The festivities kick off on Friday, October 11th at 6:30 PM, with a special reception featuring a keynote address from talented artist and author Suzanne Stryk. You might be familiar with her breathtaking nature paintings that have graced galleries across the U.S. Well, now’s your chance to hear from her directly as she shares insights on “Taking the Pulse of Place: Connecting to the Natural World through the Arts.”

Stryk will also be signing copies of her new book, “The Middle of Somewhere: An Artist Explores the Nature of Virginia”. The book is a delightful journey through various spots in Virginia, showcasing the natural beauty and rich history of the area. You can pick up your copy for just $20!

Photography, Prizes, and More

As the evening unfolds, excitement builds for the Amateur Photography Contest awards ceremony. Participants will be recognized for capturing the stunning natural aspects of Steele Creek Park. Cash prizes will be awarded in both adult and youth categories, and you can expect to see prints of the winning photographs displayed at The Nature Center throughout the weekend. It’s an inspiring way to encourage budding photographers and recognize their talent!

A Day of Learning and Fun

But wait, there’s more! The weekend continues with a bang on Saturday, October 12th, packed with educational programming for all ages. Starting at 11 AM, various mini-sessions led by knowledgeable experts will provide insights into the wonders of wildlife.

First up, Matt Keller will host a 30-minute session on wildlife photography, where he’ll not only share tips but also invite you to join him in the park for a photo-taking experience. So, don’t forget to bring your cameras! Capture the beauty of the park and maybe even a few feathered friends along the way!

Next, you won’t want to miss Vanessa Hawley from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. At 11:45 AM, she’ll present Raptor Rehab. In this captivating session, she will bring along a red-tailed hawk, a great horned owl, and a screech owl. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about raptor preservation and what we can do to ensure these magnificent birds are safe and sound.

Join Us for a Great Time!

Entry to this engaging event is only $2 per vehicle for park access, and best of all, all of the activities are free! Space is limited, so make sure to reserve your spot at bristoltn.recdesk.com to join in on the fun!

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a delightful way to spend your weekend, the 27th Annual Wildlife Weekend is set to offer something for everyone. So gather up your friends and family and come on out to experience the beauty of nature through art in the heart of Bristol!