Dates: July 10, 11, 12 2026
Applications Due: June 1st - Participants Selected June 5th
10AM - 3PM daily
Nell’s Woodland invites ten emerging High School artists who demonstrate an interest in visual arts( five local and five from the St. Louis Region) to participate in an immersive, three-day collaborative art retreat. Selected through a competitive portfolio process, participants will engage in hands-on mentorship across a range of disciplines, including plein air painting, wet felting, cyanotype photography, and a shared collaborative project. At the heart of the retreat is the creation of a collaborative project. Each artist contributes an individual piece that becomes part of a unified work, symbolizing both personal expression and collective vision. This culminating artwork will be exhibited publicly, celebrating the power of collaboration and community. Set within the natural landscape of Nell’s Woodland, the retreat fosters connection, experimentation, and creative growth. Participants will explore new materials and techniques, exchange ideas with peers, and build meaningful relationships with fellow artists and experienced mentors. More than a workshop, this program is a dynamic space for inspiration, skill-building, and the formation of a lasting creative network. Lodging accommodations for non local students will be provided. All meals will be included for all participants.
![PXL_20221007_145001447[10847].jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/eee970_391c076eac784d40b12ac2f56c69a59c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_615,h_317,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/PXL_20221007_145001447%5B10847%5D.jpg)
Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
10AM - 12PM
Participants will enjoy a scenic walk along the trails at Nell’s Woodland, collecting leaves and plants to create their own cyanotype prints. This hands-on workshop explores cyanotype—the earliest form of photography—popularized by English botanist Anna Atkins, blending art, history, and nature into a creative outdoor experience.
Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
12:30PM - 1:30PM
Join us for a relaxed and welcoming hike at Nell’s Woodland designed to make nature enjoyable for everyone. We’ll explore flat, well-maintained trails at an easy pace, with bathrooms available on site. This hike is all about slowing down, staying together, and ensuring no one is left behind. Open to people of all ages and abilities, the Accessible Hike offers a supportive way to experience the outdoors comfortably and at your own pace.
Date: Saturday June 13, 2026
10AM - 11AM
The tour includes a 1-mile leisurely walk, narrated by Joe Jakupcak. Joe's passion for geology, native wildlife, and local history is showcased during the Nell's Woodland guided walk. Guided tours are given bi-weekly.
Date: Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building
6PM-7PM
T’ai chi comprises gentle and slow movement exercises which increase the accumulation, circulation and balancing of energy. The movements are easy to learn and appropriate for people of all ages and physical abilities. Those who regularly practice T’ai chi experience greater energy, better balance and enables and improved quality of life. This class will introduce you to T’ai chi while experiencing the benefits of practice. T'ai chi can be practiced from a standing or seated position depending on your level of flexibility. If you have special needs, please let us know prior to class so we can consult the instructor.
Date: Wednesday, June 17 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building
9:30AM-11:30AM
Join us for a fun, game day at Nell's Woodland dedicated for seniors to gather in community and try something new. This event is open to all seniors.
Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building & Trail
5PM-6PM
Slow down and reconnect through a peaceful, mindful walking practice. Take a gentle walk through the woods, practicing presence, breath awareness and appreciation for each step. No meditation experience is necessary – just bring comfortable shoes, and open heart and a willingness to slow down. Each session will focus on a different theme. In the event of inclement weather, class will be held indoors.
Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
6PM-7:30PM
“Fill Your Cup First” is a restorative, heart-centered class designed to help you pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll create a supportive space to gently release what you’ve been carrying and return to the grounding rhythms of body, breath, and heart. Through guided journaling and simple, intentional exercises, you’ll explore self-reflection, let go of stress, and reconnect with self-love. Leave feeling calmer, more centered, and better equipped to care for yourself from a place of balance and renewal.
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
9AM-11AM
Join IVCC instructor, Allie Dale, at Nell’s Woodland for a photography class designed to provide a creative, low-pressure experience. Slow down, observe your surroundings, and capture meaningful images. We will be focusing on composition, perspective, and mindful seeing rather than technical camera settings. Both DSLR camera users, mirrorless camera users, and smartphone photographers are welcome. Children under the age of 16 may attend when accompanied and enrolled with a participating adult. The goal of this class is to leave feeling confident, inspired and connected to your creativity, regardless of equipment or experience level. Register for one or both sessions.
Date: Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building
6PM-7PM
T’ai chi comprises gentle and slow movement exercises which increase the accumulation, circulation and balancing of energy. The movements are easy to learn and appropriate for people of all ages and physical abilities. Those who regularly practice T’ai chi experience greater energy, better balance and enables and improved quality of life. This class will introduce you to T’ai chi while experiencing the benefits of practice. T'ai chi can be practiced from a standing or seated position depending on your level of flexibility. If you have special needs, please let us know prior to class so we can consult the instructor.
Date: Saturday June 27, 2026
10AM - 11AM
The tour includes a 1-mile leisurely walk, narrated by Joe Jakupcak. Joe's passion for geology, native wildlife, and local history is showcased during the Nell's Woodland guided walk. Guided tours are given bi-weekly.
%20(1)_JPG.jpg)
Date: Tuesday June 30, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
10AM - 12PM
Create a painting that is sweet as can “bee” in this fun class! Use acrylic paints to design an adorable bumblebee-themed masterpiece on an 11 x 14 canvas. With step-by-step guidance, students will explore basic painting techniques like color mixing, brush strokes, and adding playful details to create a painting that is as “sweet as honey!”
Date: Tuesday June 30, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
1PM- 3PM
Step into the peaceful beauty of Nell’s Woodland in our Forest Friends: Woodland Deer painting class! Young artists (ages 6+) will create a heartwarming scene featuring a gentle fawn nestled in a woodland setting. Using acrylic paints on an 11 x 14 canvas, students will be guided step-by-step. Each child will leave with a charming masterpiece they’ll be proud to display.
Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building
6PM-7PM
T’ai chi comprises gentle and slow movement exercises which increase the accumulation, circulation and balancing of energy. The movements are easy to learn and appropriate for people of all ages and physical abilities. Those who regularly practice T’ai chi experience greater energy, better balance and enables and improved quality of life. This class will introduce you to T’ai chi while experiencing the benefits of practice. T'ai chi can be practiced from a standing or seated position depending on your level of flexibility. If you have special needs, please let us know prior to class so we can consult the instructor.
Next Story Time: Monday, July 6, 2026
10:30 AM
Join Reddick Library at Nell's Woodland on the first Monday of the month from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM for a nature themed story time. Enjoy stories, music, and a craft followed by a short hike through the park. This event is for children of all ages. Registration is required. Please register in person at the library or call (815)434--0509.
Date: Tuesday July 7, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
1PM- 2:30PM
Get ready to explore Nell’s Woodland as we examine the natural world around us through discovery, creativity and outdoor fun. Campers will dive into hands-on activities, from exploring animals that live in the woodlands and their habitats, what they eat, how they adapt with the seasons and discover how to connect to nature through movement and mindfulness. We will also spend some time on the trails. Join us for a program designed for curious minds and adventurous spirits
Date: Wednesday, July 8 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building
12PM-1PM
Learn something new, eat something great, enjoy nature! Lunch n Learn series is a fun monthly program for adults that combines a mini-healthy eating class with a make and taste lunch experience. In July, participants will explore quick tips for creating healthy lunches and snacks while making and tasting Chicken Shawarma together. Participants will also take home recipes and a helpful tip sheet filled with ideas for quick, healthy lunches.
Date: Thursday, July 9, 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building & Trail
5PM-6PM
Join IVCC instructor, Allie Dale, at Nell’s Woodland for a photography class designed to provide a creative, low-pressure experience. Slow down, observe your surroundings, and capture meaningful images. We will be focusing on composition, perspective, and mindful seeing rather than technical camera settings. Both DSLR camera users, mirrorless camera users, and smartphone photographers are welcome. Children under the age of 16 may attend when accompanied and enrolled with a participating adult. The goal of this class is to leave feeling confident, inspired and connected to your creativity, regardless of equipment or experience level. Register for one or both sessions.
Date: Tuesday July 14, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
10AM- 12PM
Discover how creativity and sustainability go hand in hand! You will transform everyday recyclable materials into imaginative works of art. From crafting a whimsical owl out of an egg carton to designing unique mixed-media creations, campers will learn how to see “trash” as treasure. Gain a greater appreciation for caring for our planet - all while having fun getting creative!
Date: Thursday July 16, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
6PM -7:30PM
Experience an interactive session that explores how breathwork and voice can be used as practical tools to support emotional regulation, reduce stress and improve communication. Through simple techniques such as guided breathing, humming and vocal toning, participants experience firsthand how sound and breath influence the nervous system. This is a participatory experience. By engaging the voice, participants build greater confidence, presence and self-awareness skills. You will leave with practical tools you can use throughout the day to reset, refocus and respond more effectively in both routine and high-pressure situations in your personal life and in the workplace.
Date: Tuesday July 21, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
10AM- 11:30AM
Step into a fun and uplifting adventure where music, movement, and mindfulness come together! In this unique camp, kids will explore rhythm and sound using hands-on instruments like drums, chimes and sound bowls while also learning simple techniques to feel calm, focused and confident. Through playful activities, light movement, breathing exercises and grounding techniques, campers will discover new ways to relax, express themselves, and connect with their inner creativity. Weather permitting, we may even make music in the woodlands! This program encourages self-expression, builds confidence and helps develop lifelong tools for balance and well-being - all while having fun!
Date: Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
5PM-7PM
Join IVCC instructor, Allie Dale, at Nell’s Woodland for a photography class designed to provide a creative, low-pressure experience. Slow down, observe your surroundings, and capture meaningful images. We will be focusing on composition, perspective, and mindful seeing rather than technical camera settings. Both DSLR camera users, mirrorless camera users, and smartphone photographers are welcome. Children under the age of 16 may attend when accompanied and enrolled with a participating adult. The goal of this class is to leave feeling confident, inspired and connected to your creativity, regardless of equipment or experience level. Register for one or both sessions.
Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
8PM - 9:30PM
The University of Illinois Extension invites the public to a fascinating Insect Night Lighting program in celebration of National Moth Week. National Moth Week is an annual, global event that invites people of all ages and backgrounds to participate in the mothing hobby by sharing photos of moths they find for citizen science. Participants will learn about common moths found in Illinois, how to participate in the National Moth Week BioBlitz on the iNaturalist app, and engage in an insect night lighting activity. This special evening program will offer attendees an exciting opportunity to delve into the hidden world of these often-overlooked, nocturnal creatures. Attendees are encouraged to bring a flashlight and wear insect repellent. This program is suitable for all ages and no prior experience is necessary.
Date: Tuesday July 28, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
12PM- 1:30PM
Featuring new activities for 2026! Get ready for a hands-on, creative journey where science, art and movement come together! In this exciting STEAM camp, kids will explore how movement works by using everyday household items to create a rocket. Campers will also practice chemistry to take home slime and art with milk. With a mix of physical activity, creative expression, and problem-solving, this camp encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and fun!
Date: Tuesday July 28, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
2PM- 3:30PM
Featuring new activities for 2026! Get ready for a hands-on, creative journey where science, art and movement come together! In this exciting STEAM camp, kids will explore how movement works by using everyday household items to create a rocket. Campers will also practice chemistry to take home slime and art with milk. With a mix of physical activity, creative expression, and problem-solving, this camp encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and fun! [1 week-1 session]
Date: Thursday, July 30, 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building & Trail
5PM-6PM
Get ready to energize your body and uplift your mood in this dynamic, feel-good fitness class that blends yoga, Pilates, and barre into one seamless experience. Move through a balanced combination of stretching, strengthening and low-impact toning exercises designed to improve flexibility, build core strength and enhance overall body awareness. Class will meet at the Wellness Building before heading out to the bridge in the Woodlands, where you’ll enjoy a refreshing outdoor setting that brings movement and nature together. Expect a supportive, welcoming atmosphere with options for all fitness levels - whether you’re looking to build strength, increase mobility, or simply enjoying a new experience
Date: Wednesday, Aug 5 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building
12PM-1PM
Learn something new, eat something great, enjoy nature! Lunch n Learn series is a fun monthly program for adults that combines a mini-healthy eating class with a make and taste lunch experience. In July, participants will explore quick tips for creating healthy lunches and snacks while making and tasting Chicken Shawarma together. Participants will also take home recipes and a helpful tip sheet filled with ideas for quick, healthy lunches.
Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
10AM - 12PM
Insect collections play an important role in education, research, and conservation. We’ll cover ethical and effective ways to collect insects, which species are appropriate to collect, and how specimens are preserved for study. Participants will also view a reference collection and observe a live, narrated demonstration of insect pinning. If time and weather permit, the program will include an outdoor demonstration of basic insect collecting methods.
Date: Thursday, Aug 13, 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building & Trail
5PM-6PM
Yoga Nidra is a deeply restful practice that lies between shavasana and meditation - a state where the body relaxes fully while the mind remains gently aware. Nidra is a Sanskrit term meaning “sleep.” In this early evening session, you’ll be guided through the foundations of Yoga Nidra, learning how to enter this restorative state of conscious rest. It's an accessible and calming practice suitable for all levels. Come unwind, reset and explore the art of deep relaxation. This session will focus on the concept of healing. Bring a yoga mat, water, and any props that support your comfort such as blocks, bolsters or belts. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and athletic shoes.
8PM - 9:30PM
Join us for an immersive nocturnal hike where you'll use specialized acoustic detectors to listen for the inaudible calls of bats. Learn about about the 13 species of bats that call Illinois home, why their populations are in decline, and what you can do to help. Then experience the thrill of “listening in” on a short hike with specialized acoustic equipment as they forage and navigate the night sky. All ages are welcome. Space is limited. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a flashlight or headlamp.
Date: Thursday, August 20, 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building & Trail
5PM-6PM
Slow down and reconnect through a peaceful, mindful walking practice. Take a gentle walk through the woods, practicing presence, breath awareness and appreciation for each step. No meditation experience is necessary – just bring comfortable shoes, and open heart and a willingness to slow down. Each session will focus on a different theme. In the event of inclement weather, class will be held indoors.
Date: Tuesday, August 20, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
5PM-7PM
Join IVCC instructor, Allie Dale, at Nell’s Woodland for a photography class designed to provide a creative, low-pressure experience. Slow down, observe your surroundings, and capture meaningful images. We will be focusing on composition, perspective, and mindful seeing rather than technical camera settings. Both DSLR camera users, mirrorless camera users, and smartphone photographers are welcome. Children under the age of 16 may attend when accompanied and enrolled with a participating adult. The goal of this class is to leave feeling confident, inspired and connected to your creativity, regardless of equipment or experience level. Register for one or both sessions.
10AM - 12PM
Kids are invited to explore the fascinating world of native bees and other insect pollinators during this fun, hands-on program. Participants will learn why pollinators matter and then get creative by building their own “bee hotel” using recycled and natural materials to take home and support local bees. This program is free to attend. All youth must be accompanied by an adult.
Date: Wednesday, September 9 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building
12PM-1PM
Learn something new, eat something great, enjoy nature! Lunch n Learn series is a fun monthly program for adults that combines a mini-healthy eating class with a make and taste lunch experience. In July, participants will explore quick tips for creating healthy lunches and snacks while making and tasting Chicken Shawarma together. Participants will also take home recipes and a helpful tip sheet filled with ideas for quick, healthy lunches.
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2026
Room: Oak Room, Ecology Building
5PM-7PM
Join IVCC instructor, Allie Dale, at Nell’s Woodland for a photography class designed to provide a creative, low-pressure experience. Slow down, observe your surroundings, and capture meaningful images. We will be focusing on composition, perspective, and mindful seeing rather than technical camera settings. Both DSLR camera users, mirrorless camera users, and smartphone photographers are welcome. Children under the age of 16 may attend when accompanied and enrolled with a participating adult. The goal of this class is to leave feeling confident, inspired and connected to your creativity, regardless of equipment or experience level. Register for one or both sessions.
Date: Wednesday, October 7 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building
12PM-1PM
Learn something new, eat something great, enjoy nature! Lunch n Learn series is a fun monthly program for adults that combines a mini-healthy eating class with a make and taste lunch experience. In July, participants will explore quick tips for creating healthy lunches and snacks while making and tasting Chicken Shawarma together. Participants will also take home recipes and a helpful tip sheet filled with ideas for quick, healthy lunches.
Date: Wednesday, November 11 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building
12PM-1PM
Learn something new, eat something great, enjoy nature! Lunch n Learn series is a fun monthly program for adults that combines a mini-healthy eating class with a make and taste lunch experience. In July, participants will explore quick tips for creating healthy lunches and snacks while making and tasting Chicken Shawarma together. Participants will also take home recipes and a helpful tip sheet filled with ideas for quick, healthy lunches.
Date: Wednesday, December 9 2026
Room: Violet Room, Wellness Building
12PM-1PM
Learn something new, eat something great, enjoy nature! Lunch n Learn series is a fun monthly program for adults that combines a mini-healthy eating class with a make and taste lunch experience. In July, participants will explore quick tips for creating healthy lunches and snacks while making and tasting Chicken Shawarma together. Participants will also take home recipes and a helpful tip sheet filled with ideas for quick, healthy lunches.
