Trailside Nature & Science Center Matinee Series

We may live in the suburbs, but the beauty and magic of nature is right nearby.  And if you’ve never taken advantage of the beautiful grounds, hiking trails, programs, and science center at the Trailside Nature & Science Center in nearby Mountainside, then now is the time to check it out.

Once again, Trailside is offering a “Matinee Series” of shows catering to young children and their families.   Each program begins at 1:30 PM, and runs approximately 45 minutes. All shows are recommended for children ages 4 and older. Admission is $5 per person, or $4 per senior citizen (62 & older with ID), and can be purchased beginning at 1:00 on the day of the show. They ask that strollers be left home or in the car.

Wednesday, July 16th – Magician Joe Fischer, who is outstanding at working with children,  will dazzle everyone with the “Fantasy, Illusion and Magic” performance.

Wednesday,  July 23^rd –  “Rizzo’s Reptiles” is a nature and conservation program featuring live snakes, turtles,  and an alligators.

Wednesday, July 30^th – “Kids Going Green” teaches the audience how even the smallest  things that we do can add up to big changes.   In this fast-paced puppet show,  Goldilocks is searching for a planet to live on that is “just right!”

Wednesday,  August 6^th –  “Up, Up and Away” is a “Mad Science Show” that will amaze the audience while it teaches about earth’s atmospheric pressure. This is a highly visual show, with lots of audience participation, and it even features a hovercraft in action and a vortex generator that creates giant smoke rings.

Wednesday,  August 13^th –  “The Science of Magic” with Lisa Lou will reveal the secrets of magic, using magnetism, light, air, condensation, and optical illusion.

Wednesday, August 20 – “Mammal Mania” will finish out the series.  Back by popular demand, Travis Gale of “Wallaby Tales” will present an interactive show that allows families to get an up-close and personal look at live animals from around the world.   This show is sponsored by The Trailside Museum Association, an organization dedicated to assisting Trailside staff in their ongoing efforts to educate people in all aspects of nature, science, and conservation by assisting with funding, volunteering and advocacy.

For more information about the Wednesday Matinee Series or other upcoming programs and special events, you can call 908-789-3670.  Or simply visit the Trailside website at www.ucnj.org/trailside . The Trailside Nature & Science Center is located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside, and is a facility of the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation.  It is a magical resource that we are lucky to be living so close to.  What a fun thing to o with the family!