Trash Bash
2025-12-13 08:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | West Gator Creek Kiosk, W Gator Creek Trail, Titusville, FL, 32796
The Fish and Wildlife Service holds a Trash Bash clean-up for the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge every second Saturday, October through April. Please join MINWR staff and volunteers for the December Trash Bash. Check-in will begin at West Gator Creek Kiosk located at the entrance of the Refuge when crossing over Max Brewer Memorial Bridge. Check-in is rolling so please feel free to come and go as is convenient during that time window. Cleanup locations will be assigned at check-in. Trash pickup supplies will be provided on a first come, first serve basis. Closed toe shoes, long pants, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.

Mysteries of Mycology: Mushroom Walk and Talk
2025-12-13 09:00 - 11:30 | Chuluota Wilderness Area, 3895 Curryville Road, Chululota, FL, 32766, United States
Mysteries of Mycology Walk
Join us for a guided exploration into the fascinating world of wild mushrooms! This field-based program invites participants to discover the diversity of fungi found in natural habitats and learn how to identify them through their unique features, forms, and ecological roles.
Led by the founder of the Florida Mycological Society, this interpretive walk will highlight key characteristics used in mushroom identification—such as cap shape, gill structure, and growth patterns—while emphasizing observation and respect for these remarkable organisms in their natural settings.
Following the walk, participants will have the opportunity to examine collected specimens and practice using field guides and identification resources to deepen their understanding of Florida’s fungi.
This educational program is recommended for ages 16 and older due to its detailed scientific focus and field-based format. The session emphasizes identification and ecological learning.
REGISTER HERE

Nature Journaling Workshop
2025-12-14 14:45 - 16:45 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Classroom, 4490 Grand Ave, DeLeon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
’Tis the Season! Nature Journaling for Adults
As we prepare for the upcoming arrival of winter, we invite you to join us for a program where we will practice nature journaling skills that can help us explore “phenology”—the changing of the seasons. In this beginner-friendly lesson, participants will learn some fun facts about Florida phenology, and get hands-on experience with a few artistic and creative writing methods that can be used to record the natural world.
Although much of the journaling portion will take place in our indoor classroom, there will be a component of outdoor exploration, so come prepared for a 30 minute adventure into our pollinator garden, where we will explore what the plants, insects, and other animals are doing at this time of year!
All supplies will be provided (you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer). Refreshments and seasonal snacks will be available. If you have dietary needs or restrictions, you are welcome to bring your own snacks or meals to ensure your preferences are accommodated.
REGISTER HERE

Final 2025 Dine to Donate at Village Inn
2025-12-16 16:00 - 21:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Thanks to all who have supported MIWA through visits, meals and takeaway at Village Inn. Village Inn gives 10% back to MIWA for all purchases made from 4-9pm on December 16, our final night for 2025. If you can’t make it in for a meal, order takeaway and enjoy at home; every little bit helps!

Holiday Art with Heart
2025-12-18 16:00 - 18:30 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Join us for Holiday Art with Heart for a hands-on painting session where participants will apply color and creativity to hand-carved bird and butterfly balsa-wood ornaments. Each guest will paint beautifully handcrafted ornaments designed by a Women of the Cloud Forest fair-trade artisan. Painting kits are just $10 each and available in limited quantities. During the session, we’ll hear from the artisan, gaining insight into the cultural inspiration, carving process, and meaning behind each piece. It’s a warm, artful holiday experience that blends creativity, connection, and conservation—resulting in a keepsake that truly has heart.
Register and purchase painting supplies here
Kit includes 2 balsa wood carved ornaments (1 bird, 1 butterfly) and paints.

Naturally Festive: Gift Shop Jingle & Mingle
2025-12-18 16:00 - 18:30 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Join us for a festive evening of after-hours holiday shopping at our Nature’s Treasures Gift Shop on December 18, 2025, from 4:00–6:30 PM. We’re keeping the doors open late so you can browse our nature-inspired gifts, puzzles, books, and wildlife-themed treasures at your leisure—perfect for finding something special while supporting conservation. The night will feature exclusive discounts, cheerful refreshments, holiday treats, and exciting door prizes throughout the event. It’s a warm, community-focused way to wrap up your shopping, enjoy a little seasonal sparkle, and give back to the Lake Woodruff and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuges with every purchase.

YOUTH: Discover Archery Day--Have a Go at the Bow!
2025-12-22 09:00 - 11:00 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Classroom, 4490 Grand Ave, DeLeon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Discover the thrill of archery in this open, beginner-friendly session—no experience required! Participants will learn the basics and take their first shots using equipment we provide. Whether you’ve never held a bow or are just curious to see what you can do, come give it a go and let your inner archer take aim at something new!
Youth class is for ages 10-18 years old.
REGISTER HERE

ADULTS: Discover Archery Day--Have a Go at the Bow!
2025-12-23 09:00 - 11:00 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Classroom, 4490 Grand Ave, DeLeon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Discover the thrill of archery in this open, beginner-friendly session—no experience required! Participants will learn the basics and take their first shots using equipment we provide. Whether you’ve never held a bow or are just curious to see what you can do, come give it a go and let your inner archer take aim at something new!
Adult class is for 18 years and older.
REGISTER HERE

Eco-Buggy Tour of D Ranch Preserve
2026-01-09 09:00 - 11:00 | D Ranch Preserve, 2655 Reed Ellis Road, Osteen, FL, 32764, United States
Please join us for a private eco-buggy tour of the breathtaking habitats including pine flatwoods, wetlands, and oak hammocks at D. Ranch Preserve. Thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous donor, Conservation Florida purchased this 476-acre preserve to permanently protect its diverse landscapes and native wildlife. D Ranch Preserve is now open with 3.5 miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. The Preserve is a home for many of Florida’s most iconic wildlife, such as the Florida black bear, gopher tortoise, and bald eagle.
The program will include an overview of Conservation Florida, background about the Preserve, and short guided hikes at various stopping points around the Preserve. The eco-buggy has low step access with handrails for mobility assistance. The buggy is not wheelchair accessible. Joan Tague, experienced birder & naturalist, will complement the D Ranch trip leaders to assist with bird observations and identifications. Conservation Florida team members will share highlights about the plant life and wildlife regularly seen on the property.
Limited Seats: REGISTER HERE

Village Inn Dine to Donate
2026-01-29 16:00 - 20:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Join us for the first Dine to Donate of 2026. Village Inn generously donates 10% of all proceeds (dine-in and carry-out) from 4pm – 8pm, to MIWA.

Culver's Cuisine for Conservation
2026-02-24 17:00 - 20:00 | Culver’s Restaurant, Titusville, FL, 2855 Cheney Highway, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Scoop up some fun at Culver’s Titusville! During this sweet fundraiser, MIWA Board Members and volunteers will join the Culver’s crew as greeters, food runners, and dining room helpers—while also sharing exciting conservation stories from the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge complex.
To sweeten the deal, Culver’s will contribute a progressive donation based on total sales—the higher the sales, the greater the gift to conservation. It’s the perfect chance to try out their menu items including fish, chicken, salads and desserts while making a difference for local wildlife!

Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Camp(ish) Outdoors
2026-03-16 09:00 - 2026-03-20 14:30 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Nature Center, 2045 Mud Lake Road, Deleon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Aim, Cast, Explore: Spring Break Camp(ish) Outdoors is an interactive day camp experience where youth and their accompanying adult learn side by side. Each day includes hands-on instruction in fishing, archery, and wilderness exploration, building practical outdoor skills in a supportive setting. Families may choose individual days or participate in the entire week. Please note: this is not a drop-off camp, adults must remain onsite and engaged with their youth participant. All equipment and supplies will be provided. Open to youth ages 8 to 18.
Aim, Cast, Explore is made possible through the generous support of the Embraer Foundation, whose commitment to youth development helps bring hands-on outdoor skills to life.
· No drop-offs. Just discovery.
· Different adventures, every day.
· Skills, curiosity, and the wild outdoors.
· Where spring break meets the outdoors.
REGISTER HERE–Free

Manatee Education Day
2026-03-21 10:00 - 14:00 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Manatee Education Day brings you up close to the biology and fun facts about the gentle residents of our coastal waters. Learn how manatees depend on healthy seagrass, clean waterways, and protected spaces including the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
During this event, you’ll engage in hands-on learning, dive into manatee trivia and interactive challenges, and discover practical ways to steward local wildlife.

Meet the Manatee Up Close (Scientifically Speaking!)
Discover what makes manatees true marine mammals through bite-sized biology, surprising fun facts, and kid-friendly explanations that don’t shy away from real science.
Hands-On Science Artifacts
Examine a real manatee skull alongside detailed scientific illustration panels and life-size interpretive displays to explore anatomy, adaptations, and how structure supports a slow-moving, plant-powered lifestyle. A rare chance to experience the science that usually stays behind the scenes.
Wild Manatee Watch
Step onto our manatee observation deck for a chance to spot manatees in their natural habitat. Nature writes the schedule, so sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the experience is always is memorable.

Visit each education station to complete your learning journey and earn a special manatee-themed giveaway as a thank-you for diving in!
REGISTER HERE–Free

Opossums and Pours
2026-03-26 17:00 - 19:00 | Playalinda Brewing Company, 5220 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Enjoy social time with a side of science while learning about marsupial marvels at Opossums & Pours. Join us for an evening brewed for curious minds where biology meets a well-crafted beverage.
Meet Blossom the Opossum, ambassador from the Florida Wildlife Hospital. Explore the peculiar physiology of North America’s only marsupial, from their prehensile tails to the science behind their famously theatrical “playing possum” performance.

CANCELLED--Strike Up Support for Wildlife: Bowl-A-Thon Fundraiser
2026-03-29 13:00 - 15:00 | River Lanes Family Entertainment Center, 800 Cheney Highway, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
We apologize, but we have to cancel the planned bowl-a-thon fundraiser. We hope this hasn’t caused any inconvenience and we look forward to seeing you at other MIWA and MINWR events!
Join us for a bowl-a-thon that brings our conservation community together for a shared cause. Form a team of up to six bowlers and enjoy an afternoon of connection, laughter, and friendly competition, all while supporting wildlife and habitat protection. Every frame rolled helps fuel hands-on conservation efforts in our community, so gather your team and let’s roll for the wild.
Each registration includes 2 hours of bowling and shoe rental for up to 6 people. Don’t miss the 50/50 raffle and a chance to win a nature-themed raffle basket during the event.
REGISTER HERE

Diurnal to Nocturnal – Insects & Arachnids After Dark
2026-04-14 06:30 - 20:30 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Nature Center, 2045 Mud Lake Road, Deleon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Join us for Insects & Arachnids After Dark, an evening hands-on science field experience that starts with a guided walk along a nature trail at sunset in search of the small but remarkable creatures that come alive after dark. Using red-light flashlights and UV lights, we’ll look for movement, glowing clues, eye shine, web builders, hunters, and other nighttime behaviors while exploring how insects and arachnids are specially adapted for life in the dark. Along the way, participants will sharpen their observation skills and learn how to notice the field marks and characteristics that help distinguish one species from another.
This program also invites you to be part of community science. As we document what we find, participants will help observe, describe, and assist volunteers with recording species using iNaturalist, contributing valuable sightings that can support wildlife knowledge and biodiversity tracking.
After the trail walk, we’ll gather in the classroom to examine and compare the species observed, practice identification techniques, and discuss the clues that help naturalists tell one arthropod from another. This field activity is made possible through a Special Use Permit to access the Refuge after closing time.
Field Trip Leader: Professor Candido Diaz, Stetson University
Professor Diaz’s academic passion has always bounced between physics and biology. Ultimately, he obtained a degree in Physics and Astronomy from Vassar College. He was lucky enough to conduct acoustics research during his undergrad but then found the call of biology too strong. Professor Diaz an Ecomechanist who travels into the field to study the material properties of the glue produced by rare spiders to capture moths. At heart, Professor Diaz loves evolutionary specialist animals and the weird things they can do. These amazing spiders use a combination of strange web structures, pheromones, and a special silk glue to retain hard-to-catch prey.
REGISTER HERE

April Village Inn Dine to Donate
2026-04-21 17:00 - 20:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Join us on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, for our next Dine to Donate event at Village Inn in Titusville, FL. Village Inn generously donates to MIWA based on all purchases (dine-in and carry-out) from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm.

May Day for Pollinators: Butterflies & Nature in Bloom
2026-05-01 10:00 - 23:30 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
Celebrate the magic of May Day with a morning dedicated to pollinators and the butterflies that bring our landscapes to life. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or simply curious about what’s fluttering through your neighborhood, this event offers a welcoming way to connect with the natural world.
We’ll begin with a short, engaging program on Appreciating Butterflies, highlighting species commonly found in our local area and introducing the broader groups that make butterfly identification both approachable and fun. You’ll leave with simple tips to help you recognize patterns, behaviors, and field marks—turning every future sighting into a small moment of discovery.
After the program, we’ll step outside for a guided Butterfly Walk along the nature trail behind the Visitor Center. Our walk includes a stop at the pollinator garden, where one of our dedicated garden volunteers will share insights into native plants, seasonal blooms, and the role these habitats play in supporting butterflies and other pollinators. It’s a chance to see the connections between plants and wildlife in action.
The celebration continues inside the Nature Store with special pollinator-themed promotions, featuring items like bee puppets, insect-inspired mugs, and native plant books. Guests can also enjoy door prizes and take part in opportunities to earn free plants, including Milkweed for Members and our Going Native for Wildlife promotion—perfect for bringing a bit of pollinator habitat home with you.
REGISTER HERE

Culver's Fundraiser in May
2026-05-12 17:00 - 20:00 | Culver’s Restaurant, Titusville, FL, 2855 Cheney Highway, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Join us on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 for our next fundraiser at Culver’s Restaurant in Titusville, FL. Culver’s generously donates to MIWA based on all sales from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Keep an eye out for MIWA volunteers delivering your food, whether in the drive-through or in the dining room. We can’t wait to see you!

May Village Inn Dine to Donate
2026-05-19 17:00 - 20:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Join us on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, for our next Dine to Donate event at Village Inn in Titusville, FL. Village Inn generously donates to MIWA based on all purchases (dine-in and carry-out) from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm.

2026 Sea Turtle Program and Walk
2026-06-03 20:00 - 2026-07-29 23:30 | Merritt Island NWR Visitor Center, 1987 Scrub Jay Way, Titusville, FL, 32782, United States
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Step into the night with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for a guided sea turtle walk—an unforgettable chance to experience one of Florida’s most remarkable natural events. Guests will learn about the nesting habits, habitats, and conservation of loggerhead sea turtles that return to our local beaches each summer.
Following an educational session focused on sea turtle conservation, nesting behavior, and coastal habitats, participants will caravan in their own vehicles to Playalinda Beach. Dedicated scouts will search for nesting sea turtles. If conditions align and a nesting turtle is located the group will be invited down to the beach for a respectful observation once a turtle begins laying her eggs,.
Sea turtle walks are offered Wednesday and Thursday evenings throughout June and July, beginning at 8:00 PM. Advance tickets are required.
Please read before purchasing:

Understand that this event requires walking on the beach at night. Often this means a long walk at a moderate pace through loose sand. Please evaluate your abilities and health before attending.

Tickets are required for every attendee. ($25 Adults, $10 Ages 8 – 15)
Minimum age is 8 years old.
Walks start after the education program and may go as late as 11pm.
Permit requirements limit the walks to a maximum of 30 total attendees

Tickets are non- refundable unless the walk is cancelled by US FWS for non-weather reasons.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing (long sleeves & pants are recommended). Closed toed shoes suitable for walking on the beach at night are suggested – NO FLIP FLOPS.
It will be very dark; there may be mosquitoes and no-see-ums. Bug repellent is suggested.

Make sure your vehicle is fueled. Participants will be driving their personal vehicles to the beach.

Cameras, mobile phones, smart devices with screens or video recording, and flashlights are NOT permitted on the beach portion of the program.
The classroom program will be held rain or shine unless lightning is present.
We cannot guarantee a turtle sighting or that all participants will observe the eggs drop.

Thank you for supporting the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and for being part of the effort to protect this federally listed threatened species.

Community Fishing Day at Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge
2026-06-13 09:00 - 12:00 | Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge Nature Center, 2045 Mud Lake Road, Deleon Springs, FL, 32130, United States
Cast a line and connect with the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge
Join us for nature-filled adventures at our Community Fishing Day where anglers of all ages and experience levels are invited to enjoy a relaxing morning outdoors. Whether you are casting a line for the very first time or have years of fishing experience, this family-friendly event is designed to connect people with nature, recreation, and the unique beauty of the Refuge.
Participants will have the opportunity to meet local exhibitors sharing information about outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the region, while also enjoying a variety of hands-on activities for all ages.

Explore interactive educational stations focused on fish identification, ethical fishing practices, how to rig a fishing pole, and the important role plants play in aquatic ecosystems.
Meet Local Scouting troops, 4-H groups, and Refuge volunteers to learn about wildlife species that call the Refuge home
Participate in nature themed arts-and-crafts

Cast a line, catch a memory, and connect with the wild side of the Refuge.
REGISTER HERE

June Village Inn Dine to Donate
2026-06-23 17:00 - 20:00 | Village Inn Titusville, 2925 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL, 32780, United States
Join us on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, for our next Dine to Donate event at Village Inn in Titusville, FL. Village Inn generously donates to MIWA based on all purchases (dine-in and carry-out) from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
