1

July 2025

Canada Day at Ellis Nature Centre

Make Ellis Nature Centre a part of your Canada Day celebrations! We’ll have classic favourites like lawn games, kids activities, and a scavenger hunt. Butterfly Wings & Wishes will also be visiting again with a variety of their educational creatures. We’ll also be offering information about beavers and playing chicken poop bingo! Check out the photo for the full line up of events.

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

1

July 2025

Naturalist Walk

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff on Tuesdays in July and August for guided naturalists walks on our site, taking place from 10-11:30am. We will lead folks around various areas of our site and teach about may features such as plants, birds, insects, and more. These walks are meant to connect folks with the nature around them and help them be able to identify common species found in Central Alberta. These walks are free, but only 15 spots per walk are available, so pre-registration is encouraged.

Date: Tuesdays, July 1-August 26, 2025
Time: 10-11:30am
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 15 per walk

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

1

July 2025

Fibers & Firs

Calling all stitchers! We invite you to join Ellis Nature Centre’s new craft group Fibers & Firs, focused on the art of stitching. All fiber art mediums are welcome – embroidery, crochet, cross stitch, knitting, etc. We will meet weekly on Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm from May 20-August 26 to work on current projects, get tips from other stitchers, and build community. Please note that this is not an instructional workshop, but time for folks who love fiber arts to get together and work on their projects surrounded by the beauty of the Ellis Nature Centre site. If weather permits, we will work outside! Light refreshments (non-alcoholic) and baked goods will be provided for the first few sessions, with the hope that as we build a steady group everyone will be willing to contribute occasionally to the selection of baked goods.

Date: Weekly on Tuesdays, from May 20 to August 26
Time: 6-7:30pm

Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!

No registration required, simply drop in!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

2

July 2025

Site & Garden Tour

Ellis Nature Centre staff will be leading site and garden tours on Wednesdays in July and August from 1:30-2:30pm. Come take in the beauty of our site and gardens while learning about the history of Ellis Nature Centre. If you’re interested in history, learning about all of the key features on our site, and the purpose of each of our gardens, this is the tour for you. The tour takes place on the fully accessible main path of our site, but spaces to sit are limited. Only 15 spots are available for each tour, and the fee is $8 per person. Pre-registration is encouraged!

Date: Wednesdays, July 2-August 27, 2025
Time: 1:30-2:30pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: $8 per person
Spots available: 15 per tour

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

3

July 2025

Forest Bathing

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff for Forest bathing on Thursdays in July & August from 1-3pm! Forest bathing is the act of spending time in a forest or natural environment to improve physical and mental well-being through sensory engagement. It is more than a walk in the woods but rather a mindful immersion in nature, using all senses to connect to ones surroundings. Our staff will lead folks out to the West Woods on our site, where will we practice various mindfulness and forest bathing techniques. Participants must be able to walk on uneven ground and be willing to sit on the ground or a stump (or carry a chair to our spot). This event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged as there are only 20 spots available each week. All ages welcome so long as children can be mindful and silent along with the group.

Date: Thursdays, July 3-August 28, 2025
Time: 1-3pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 20 per session

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

3

July 2025

QNSRD Art Club Night!

Join us the first Thursday of each month for Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer's Art Club! You don't need experience, just enthusiasm! Bring the project you are working on or wanting to start, and create among friends. Allies always welcome, and parents with children too!

Join us by the big windows at the far end of the library.

  • GH Dawe Library, 56 Holt Street
  • 6:25 PM - 7:50 PM

6

July 2025

Purple Martin Condo Tours

Join our staff and purple martin experts for an inside look into the purple martin condos on our site! We’ll lower the condos so you can see how they’re laid out inside and the stages of the nesting process. These tours will be first come, first served and have no cost. They will also be dependent on weather and the nesting process, so keep an eye on our social media for the most current updates for these tours.

Date: Sundays: June 8, 22 and July 6, 20
Time: 1-2pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free
Spots are first come, first served

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Rd 26-0
  • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

8

July 2025

Naturalist Walk

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff on Tuesdays in July and August for guided naturalists walks on our site, taking place from 10-11:30am. We will lead folks around various areas of our site and teach about may features such as plants, birds, insects, and more. These walks are meant to connect folks with the nature around them and help them be able to identify common species found in Central Alberta. These walks are free, but only 15 spots per walk are available, so pre-registration is encouraged.

Date: Tuesdays, July 1-August 26, 2025
Time: 10-11:30am
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 15 per walk

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

8

July 2025

Fibers & Firs

Calling all stitchers! We invite you to join Ellis Nature Centre’s new craft group Fibers & Firs, focused on the art of stitching. All fiber art mediums are welcome – embroidery, crochet, cross stitch, knitting, etc. We will meet weekly on Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm from May 20-August 26 to work on current projects, get tips from other stitchers, and build community. Please note that this is not an instructional workshop, but time for folks who love fiber arts to get together and work on their projects surrounded by the beauty of the Ellis Nature Centre site. If weather permits, we will work outside! Light refreshments (non-alcoholic) and baked goods will be provided for the first few sessions, with the hope that as we build a steady group everyone will be willing to contribute occasionally to the selection of baked goods.

Date: Weekly on Tuesdays, from May 20 to August 26
Time: 6-7:30pm

Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!

No registration required, simply drop in!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

9

July 2025

Site & Garden Tour

Ellis Nature Centre staff will be leading site and garden tours on Wednesdays in July and August from 1:30-2:30pm. Come take in the beauty of our site and gardens while learning about the history of Ellis Nature Centre. If you’re interested in history, learning about all of the key features on our site, and the purpose of each of our gardens, this is the tour for you. The tour takes place on the fully accessible main path of our site, but spaces to sit are limited. Only 15 spots are available for each tour, and the fee is $8 per person. Pre-registration is encouraged!

Date: Wednesdays, July 2-August 27, 2025
Time: 1:30-2:30pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: $8 per person
Spots available: 15 per tour

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

10

July 2025

Forest Bathing

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff for Forest bathing on Thursdays in July & August from 1-3pm! Forest bathing is the act of spending time in a forest or natural environment to improve physical and mental well-being through sensory engagement. It is more than a walk in the woods but rather a mindful immersion in nature, using all senses to connect to ones surroundings. Our staff will lead folks out to the West Woods on our site, where will we practice various mindfulness and forest bathing techniques. Participants must be able to walk on uneven ground and be willing to sit on the ground or a stump (or carry a chair to our spot). This event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged as there are only 20 spots available each week. All ages welcome so long as children can be mindful and silent along with the group.

Date: Thursdays, July 3-August 28, 2025
Time: 1-3pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 20 per session

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

12

July 2025

Bluebird Festival

Our annual festival celebrating mountain bluebirds and other songbirds is back on Saturday, July 12. Join us on our mountain bluebird trail, observe the purple martin colony up close with a demonstration of what goes on inside those large birdhouses or watch expert bird banders capture and band songbirds.  

We also celebrate a local mountain bluebird trail owner with our Blue Feather award!  Join us for crafts, games and activities all day long. 

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

12

July 2025

Purple Martin Condo Tour

Join our staff and purple martin experts for an inside look into the purple martin condos on our site! We’ll lower the condos so you can see how they’re laid out inside and the stages of the nesting process. These tours will be first come, first served and have no cost. They will also be dependent on weather and the nesting process, so keep an eye on our social media for the most current updates for these tours.

Date: Sundays: June 8, 22 and July 6, 20
Time: 1-2pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free
Spots are first come, first served

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Rd 26-0
  • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

12

July 2025

Bluebird Embroidery

As part of our Bluebird Festival celebrations (Saturday, July 12), we’ll be hosting a bluebird embroidery workshop from 1-4pm! Come learn how to embroider your very own mountain bluebird (and if bluebirds aren’t your fancy, other songbirds are available!). No experience with embroidery is necessary, as Jasper (The Lil Embroidebee) will guide folks through each step. Ages 10+ are welcome to attend. $40 per person and only 30 spots are available! 

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

13

July 2025

Nestbox (Birdhouse) Building

We’ll have nestbox building stations set up on our site! If you purchase a bluebird or chickadee nestbox from our gift shop on one of these days, you can then stay to build it on our site with staff help. No registration is required and the building stations will be set up from 10am-4:30pm. Simply drop-in, purchase your kit, and build it, all during your visit!

Chickadee kits are $18 and Bluebird kits are $20. Receive 10% off if you’re a Friend of Ellis!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

13

July 2025

Soap Making Workshop

Learn how to make your own soap with Susan Nielsen of Eliza Jane Studios! You’ll get to choose the scents and colours of your soap to make a truly unique soap bar that is exactly to your liking. Participants will go home with 6-8 bars worth of soap, perfect for stocking up or gifting to others. This workshop is $85 per person and all materials are provided for you. There are only 12 spots available, and is open to adults only. 

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

15

July 2025

Naturalist Walk

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff on Tuesdays in July and August for guided naturalists walks on our site, taking place from 10-11:30am. We will lead folks around various areas of our site and teach about may features such as plants, birds, insects, and more. These walks are meant to connect folks with the nature around them and help them be able to identify common species found in Central Alberta. These walks are free, but only 15 spots per walk are available, so pre-registration is encouraged.

Date: Tuesdays, July 1-August 26, 2025
Time: 10-11:30am
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 15 per walk

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

15

July 2025

Fibers & Firs

Calling all stitchers! We invite you to join Ellis Nature Centre’s new craft group Fibers & Firs, focused on the art of stitching. All fiber art mediums are welcome – embroidery, crochet, cross stitch, knitting, etc. We will meet weekly on Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm from May 20-August 26 to work on current projects, get tips from other stitchers, and build community. Please note that this is not an instructional workshop, but time for folks who love fiber arts to get together and work on their projects surrounded by the beauty of the Ellis Nature Centre site. If weather permits, we will work outside! Light refreshments (non-alcoholic) and baked goods will be provided for the first few sessions, with the hope that as we build a steady group everyone will be willing to contribute occasionally to the selection of baked goods.

Date: Weekly on Tuesdays, from May 20 to August 26
Time: 6-7:30pm

Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!

No registration required, simply drop in!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

16

July 2025

Site & Garden Tour

Ellis Nature Centre staff will be leading site and garden tours on Wednesdays in July and August from 1:30-2:30pm. Come take in the beauty of our site and gardens while learning about the history of Ellis Nature Centre. If you’re interested in history, learning about all of the key features on our site, and the purpose of each of our gardens, this is the tour for you. The tour takes place on the fully accessible main path of our site, but spaces to sit are limited. Only 15 spots are available for each tour, and the fee is $8 per person. Pre-registration is encouraged!

Date: Wednesdays, July 2-August 27, 2025
Time: 1:30-2:30pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: $8 per person
Spots available: 15 per tour

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

17

July 2025

Forest Bathing

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff for Forest bathing on Thursdays in July & August from 1-3pm! Forest bathing is the act of spending time in a forest or natural environment to improve physical and mental well-being through sensory engagement. It is more than a walk in the woods but rather a mindful immersion in nature, using all senses to connect to ones surroundings. Our staff will lead folks out to the West Woods on our site, where will we practice various mindfulness and forest bathing techniques. Participants must be able to walk on uneven ground and be willing to sit on the ground or a stump (or carry a chair to our spot). This event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged as there are only 20 spots available each week. All ages welcome so long as children can be mindful and silent along with the group.

Date: Thursdays, July 3-August 28, 2025
Time: 1-3pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 20 per session

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

20

July 2025

Purple Martin Condo Tours

Join our staff and purple martin experts for an inside look into the purple martin condos on our site! We’ll lower the condos so you can see how they’re laid out inside and the stages of the nesting process. These tours will be first come, first served and have no cost. They will also be dependent on weather and the nesting process, so keep an eye on our social media for the most current updates for these tours.

Date: Sundays: June 8, 22 and July 6, 20
Time: 1-2pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free
Spots are first come, first served

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Rd 26-0
  • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

20

July 2025

Wire Bird Art Workshop

Ellis Nature Centre is thrilled to be hosting Laura Ouimet for a wire bird workshop on Sunday, July 20 from 1-4pm. Participants will be taught how to bend and shape wire to make their own bird sculpture. Bring a piece of wood that has special meaning for you, or be provided with one on our site. The fee for this workshop is $95 per person, which covers all materials aside from the wood perch. Only 16 spots available! Ages 16+ are welcome to do this workshop solo, and ages 12-15 can participate with adult support. Registration will close on July 10!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

22

July 2025

Naturalist Walk

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff on Tuesdays in July and August for guided naturalists walks on our site, taking place from 10-11:30am. We will lead folks around various areas of our site and teach about may features such as plants, birds, insects, and more. These walks are meant to connect folks with the nature around them and help them be able to identify common species found in Central Alberta. These walks are free, but only 15 spots per walk are available, so pre-registration is encouraged.

Date: Tuesdays, July 1-August 26, 2025
Time: 10-11:30am
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 15 per walk

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

22

July 2025

Fibers & Firs

Calling all stitchers! We invite you to join Ellis Nature Centre’s new craft group Fibers & Firs, focused on the art of stitching. All fiber art mediums are welcome – embroidery, crochet, cross stitch, knitting, etc. We will meet weekly on Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm from May 20-August 26 to work on current projects, get tips from other stitchers, and build community. Please note that this is not an instructional workshop, but time for folks who love fiber arts to get together and work on their projects surrounded by the beauty of the Ellis Nature Centre site. If weather permits, we will work outside! Light refreshments (non-alcoholic) and baked goods will be provided for the first few sessions, with the hope that as we build a steady group everyone will be willing to contribute occasionally to the selection of baked goods.

Date: Weekly on Tuesdays, from May 20 to August 26
Time: 6-7:30pm

Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!

No registration required, simply drop in!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

23

July 2025

Site & Garden Tour

Ellis Nature Centre staff will be leading site and garden tours on Wednesdays in July and August from 1:30-2:30pm. Come take in the beauty of our site and gardens while learning about the history of Ellis Nature Centre. If you’re interested in history, learning about all of the key features on our site, and the purpose of each of our gardens, this is the tour for you. The tour takes place on the fully accessible main path of our site, but spaces to sit are limited. Only 15 spots are available for each tour, and the fee is $8 per person. Pre-registration is encouraged!

Date: Wednesdays, July 2-August 27, 2025
Time: 1:30-2:30pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: $8 per person
Spots available: 15 per tour

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

23

July 2025

Затишні Вечори: Cozy Evenings for Ukrainian Seniors

 

A welcoming space for Ukrainian seniors to gather, connect, and enjoy warm conversations over tea.

Join us for Zatyshni Vechory, an informal and friendly evening club designed especially for Ukrainian seniors. These gatherings provide a comfortable space to share stories, make new friends, and enjoy warm tea with delicious treats. Whether you want to chat, reminisce, or simply relax in good company, our club is the perfect place to unwind.

Each meeting features engaging conversations, light entertainment, and a cozy atmosphere filled with laughter and hospitality. Come and enjoy an evening of warmth, friendship, and Ukrainian traditions!

Тепла зустріч для українських літніх людей, де можна поспілкуватися та насолодитися приємною атмосферою за чашкою чаю.

Приєднуйтесь до Затишних Вечорів – затишного клубу для українських людей старшого віку, де панує дружня атмосфера та тепло спілкування. Це місце, де можна поділитися спогадами, знайти нових друзів і просто насолодитися приємним вечором за чашкою чаю та смаколиками.

На кожній зустрічі на вас чекають цікаві розмови, легкі розваги та атмосфера, сповнена сміху та гостинності. Запрошуємо вас провести вечір у колі добрих людей та українських традицій!

  • Red Deer Public Library Dawe Branch, 56 Holt St
  • 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

24

July 2025

Forest Bathing

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff for Forest bathing on Thursdays in July & August from 1-3pm! Forest bathing is the act of spending time in a forest or natural environment to improve physical and mental well-being through sensory engagement. It is more than a walk in the woods but rather a mindful immersion in nature, using all senses to connect to ones surroundings. Our staff will lead folks out to the West Woods on our site, where will we practice various mindfulness and forest bathing techniques. Participants must be able to walk on uneven ground and be willing to sit on the ground or a stump (or carry a chair to our spot). This event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged as there are only 20 spots available each week. All ages welcome so long as children can be mindful and silent along with the group.

Date: Thursdays, July 3-August 28, 2025
Time: 1-3pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 20 per session

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

26

July 2025

Rainbow DnD

We will play Dungeons and Dragons or whatever else you might request or bring. Parents, children, allies always welcome! Find us in the programming room at the GH Dawe Library the last Saturday of each month.

  • 56 Holt Street
  • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

26

July 2025

Bats N' Beers Night

Our ever popular Bats N’ Beers Night is back for another season, this year on Saturday, July 26 from 8-11pm! Join us as we host Cory Olsen from the Alberta Community Bat Program for an informational evening all about bats. We’ll begin the night indoors with a presentation about bats in Alberta and current research being done. At dusk, we’ll head outside where folks will have the opportunity to use various technology to see and hear the bats in the bat boxes on our site. Of course, we’ll have craft beer for sale during the event, courtesy of Blindman Brewing!

All ages are welcome for this event, but please note that we won’t be able to view the bats until after dusk, so this will be a late night for small children. Adult tickets are only $10 each!

Adult tickets are $10 each. Family Tickets are $15 each and include admission for 2 adults and 2 children. Please email us at info@ellisnaturecentre.ca if you require additional children tickets.

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM

27

July 2025

Nestbox (Birdhouse) Building

We’ll have nestbox building stations set up on our site! If you purchase a bluebird or chickadee nestbox from our gift shop on one of these days, you can then stay to build it on our site with staff help. No registration is required and the building stations will be set up from 10am-4:30pm. Simply drop-in, purchase your kit, and build it, all during your visit!

Chickadee kits are $18 and Bluebird kits are $20. Receive 10% off if you’re a Friend of Ellis!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

29

July 2025

Naturalist Walk

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff on Tuesdays in July and August for guided naturalists walks on our site, taking place from 10-11:30am. We will lead folks around various areas of our site and teach about may features such as plants, birds, insects, and more. These walks are meant to connect folks with the nature around them and help them be able to identify common species found in Central Alberta. These walks are free, but only 15 spots per walk are available, so pre-registration is encouraged.

Date: Tuesdays, July 1-August 26, 2025
Time: 10-11:30am
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 15 per walk

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

29

July 2025

Fibers & Firs

Calling all stitchers! We invite you to join Ellis Nature Centre’s new craft group Fibers & Firs, focused on the art of stitching. All fiber art mediums are welcome – embroidery, crochet, cross stitch, knitting, etc. We will meet weekly on Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm from May 20-August 26 to work on current projects, get tips from other stitchers, and build community. Please note that this is not an instructional workshop, but time for folks who love fiber arts to get together and work on their projects surrounded by the beauty of the Ellis Nature Centre site. If weather permits, we will work outside! Light refreshments (non-alcoholic) and baked goods will be provided for the first few sessions, with the hope that as we build a steady group everyone will be willing to contribute occasionally to the selection of baked goods.

Date: Weekly on Tuesdays, from May 20 to August 26
Time: 6-7:30pm

Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!

No registration required, simply drop in!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

30

July 2025

FREE Alberta Young at Heart Seniors Expo 2025

Our Young at Heart events have proven to be vital to our communities to allow our more senior community to get out, learn new things, discover new ventures and businesses, connect with the community, and have some fun with friends and family alike!

Mark your calendars for July 30, 2025! The Pidherney Curling Centre in Red Deer, Alberta, is the place to be from 11 AM to 4 PM.

  • Pidherney Curling Centre, 4725 43rd Street
  • 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

30

July 2025

Site & Garden Tour

Ellis Nature Centre staff will be leading site and garden tours on Wednesdays in July and August from 1:30-2:30pm. Come take in the beauty of our site and gardens while learning about the history of Ellis Nature Centre. If you’re interested in history, learning about all of the key features on our site, and the purpose of each of our gardens, this is the tour for you. The tour takes place on the fully accessible main path of our site, but spaces to sit are limited. Only 15 spots are available for each tour, and the fee is $8 per person. Pre-registration is encouraged!

Date: Wednesdays, July 2-August 27, 2025
Time: 1:30-2:30pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: $8 per person
Spots available: 15 per tour

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

30

July 2025

Read or Reread Book Club - Jane Austen

For ages 16 +
Registration not required.

Step into – or back into – the world of Jane Austen to celebrate the 250th anniversary of her birth in December 2025! Join us every second month throughout the year for a discussion of each of her finished works.

  • Red Deer Public Library Timberlands Branch, 300 Timothy Dr
  • 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

31

July 2025

Forest Bathing

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff for Forest bathing on Thursdays in July & August from 1-3pm! Forest bathing is the act of spending time in a forest or natural environment to improve physical and mental well-being through sensory engagement. It is more than a walk in the woods but rather a mindful immersion in nature, using all senses to connect to ones surroundings. Our staff will lead folks out to the West Woods on our site, where will we practice various mindfulness and forest bathing techniques. Participants must be able to walk on uneven ground and be willing to sit on the ground or a stump (or carry a chair to our spot). This event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged as there are only 20 spots available each week. All ages welcome so long as children can be mindful and silent along with the group.

Date: Thursdays, July 3-August 28, 2025
Time: 1-3pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 20 per session

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

3

August 2025

Nestbox (Birdhouse) Building

We’ll have nestbox building stations set up on our site! If you purchase a bluebird or chickadee nestbox from our gift shop on one of these days, you can then stay to build it on our site with staff help. No registration is required and the building stations will be set up from 10am-4:30pm. Simply drop-in, purchase your kit, and build it, all during your visit!

Chickadee kits are $18 and Bluebird kits are $20. Receive 10% off if you’re a Friend of Ellis!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

5

August 2025

Naturalist Walk

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff on Tuesdays in July and August for guided naturalists walks on our site, taking place from 10-11:30am. We will lead folks around various areas of our site and teach about may features such as plants, birds, insects, and more. These walks are meant to connect folks with the nature around them and help them be able to identify common species found in Central Alberta. These walks are free, but only 15 spots per walk are available, so pre-registration is encouraged.

Date: Tuesdays, July 1-August 26, 2025
Time: 10-11:30am
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 15 per walk

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

5

August 2025

Fibers & Firs

Calling all stitchers! We invite you to join Ellis Nature Centre’s new craft group Fibers & Firs, focused on the art of stitching. All fiber art mediums are welcome – embroidery, crochet, cross stitch, knitting, etc. We will meet weekly on Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm from May 20-August 26 to work on current projects, get tips from other stitchers, and build community. Please note that this is not an instructional workshop, but time for folks who love fiber arts to get together and work on their projects surrounded by the beauty of the Ellis Nature Centre site. If weather permits, we will work outside! Light refreshments (non-alcoholic) and baked goods will be provided for the first few sessions, with the hope that as we build a steady group everyone will be willing to contribute occasionally to the selection of baked goods.

Date: Weekly on Tuesdays, from May 20 to August 26
Time: 6-7:30pm

Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!

No registration required, simply drop in!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

6

August 2025

Site & Garden Tour

Ellis Nature Centre staff will be leading site and garden tours on Wednesdays in July and August from 1:30-2:30pm. Come take in the beauty of our site and gardens while learning about the history of Ellis Nature Centre. If you’re interested in history, learning about all of the key features on our site, and the purpose of each of our gardens, this is the tour for you. The tour takes place on the fully accessible main path of our site, but spaces to sit are limited. Only 15 spots are available for each tour, and the fee is $8 per person. Pre-registration is encouraged!

Date: Wednesdays, July 2-August 27, 2025
Time: 1:30-2:30pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: $8 per person
Spots available: 15 per tour

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

7

August 2025

Forest Bathing

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff for Forest bathing on Thursdays in July & August from 1-3pm! Forest bathing is the act of spending time in a forest or natural environment to improve physical and mental well-being through sensory engagement. It is more than a walk in the woods but rather a mindful immersion in nature, using all senses to connect to ones surroundings. Our staff will lead folks out to the West Woods on our site, where will we practice various mindfulness and forest bathing techniques. Participants must be able to walk on uneven ground and be willing to sit on the ground or a stump (or carry a chair to our spot). This event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged as there are only 20 spots available each week. All ages welcome so long as children can be mindful and silent along with the group.

Date: Thursdays, July 3-August 28, 2025
Time: 1-3pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 20 per session

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

7

August 2025

QNSRD Art Club Night!

Join us the first Thursday of each month for Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer's Art Club! You don't need experience, just enthusiasm! Bring the project you are working on or wanting to start, and create among friends. Allies always welcome, and parents with children too!

Join us by the big windows at the far end of the library.

  • GH Dawe Library, 56 Holt Street
  • 6:25 PM - 7:50 PM

12

August 2025

Naturalist Walk

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff on Tuesdays in July and August for guided naturalists walks on our site, taking place from 10-11:30am. We will lead folks around various areas of our site and teach about may features such as plants, birds, insects, and more. These walks are meant to connect folks with the nature around them and help them be able to identify common species found in Central Alberta. These walks are free, but only 15 spots per walk are available, so pre-registration is encouraged.

Date: Tuesdays, July 1-August 26, 2025
Time: 10-11:30am
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 15 per walk

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

12

August 2025

Fibers & Firs

Calling all stitchers! We invite you to join Ellis Nature Centre’s new craft group Fibers & Firs, focused on the art of stitching. All fiber art mediums are welcome – embroidery, crochet, cross stitch, knitting, etc. We will meet weekly on Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm from May 20-August 26 to work on current projects, get tips from other stitchers, and build community. Please note that this is not an instructional workshop, but time for folks who love fiber arts to get together and work on their projects surrounded by the beauty of the Ellis Nature Centre site. If weather permits, we will work outside! Light refreshments (non-alcoholic) and baked goods will be provided for the first few sessions, with the hope that as we build a steady group everyone will be willing to contribute occasionally to the selection of baked goods.

Date: Weekly on Tuesdays, from May 20 to August 26
Time: 6-7:30pm

Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!

No registration required, simply drop in!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

13

August 2025

Site & Garden Tour

Ellis Nature Centre staff will be leading site and garden tours on Wednesdays in July and August from 1:30-2:30pm. Come take in the beauty of our site and gardens while learning about the history of Ellis Nature Centre. If you’re interested in history, learning about all of the key features on our site, and the purpose of each of our gardens, this is the tour for you. The tour takes place on the fully accessible main path of our site, but spaces to sit are limited. Only 15 spots are available for each tour, and the fee is $8 per person. Pre-registration is encouraged!

Date: Wednesdays, July 2-August 27, 2025
Time: 1:30-2:30pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: $8 per person
Spots available: 15 per tour

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

14

August 2025

Forest Bathing

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff for Forest bathing on Thursdays in July & August from 1-3pm! Forest bathing is the act of spending time in a forest or natural environment to improve physical and mental well-being through sensory engagement. It is more than a walk in the woods but rather a mindful immersion in nature, using all senses to connect to ones surroundings. Our staff will lead folks out to the West Woods on our site, where will we practice various mindfulness and forest bathing techniques. Participants must be able to walk on uneven ground and be willing to sit on the ground or a stump (or carry a chair to our spot). This event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged as there are only 20 spots available each week. All ages welcome so long as children can be mindful and silent along with the group.

Date: Thursdays, July 3-August 28, 2025
Time: 1-3pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 20 per session

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

19

August 2025

Naturalist Walk

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff on Tuesdays in July and August for guided naturalists walks on our site, taking place from 10-11:30am. We will lead folks around various areas of our site and teach about may features such as plants, birds, insects, and more. These walks are meant to connect folks with the nature around them and help them be able to identify common species found in Central Alberta. These walks are free, but only 15 spots per walk are available, so pre-registration is encouraged.

Date: Tuesdays, July 1-August 26, 2025
Time: 10-11:30am
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 15 per walk

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

19

August 2025

Fibers & Firs

Calling all stitchers! We invite you to join Ellis Nature Centre’s new craft group Fibers & Firs, focused on the art of stitching. All fiber art mediums are welcome – embroidery, crochet, cross stitch, knitting, etc. We will meet weekly on Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm from May 20-August 26 to work on current projects, get tips from other stitchers, and build community. Please note that this is not an instructional workshop, but time for folks who love fiber arts to get together and work on their projects surrounded by the beauty of the Ellis Nature Centre site. If weather permits, we will work outside! Light refreshments (non-alcoholic) and baked goods will be provided for the first few sessions, with the hope that as we build a steady group everyone will be willing to contribute occasionally to the selection of baked goods.

Date: Weekly on Tuesdays, from May 20 to August 26
Time: 6-7:30pm

Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!

No registration required, simply drop in!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

20

August 2025

Site & Garden Tour

Ellis Nature Centre staff will be leading site and garden tours on Wednesdays in July and August from 1:30-2:30pm. Come take in the beauty of our site and gardens while learning about the history of Ellis Nature Centre. If you’re interested in history, learning about all of the key features on our site, and the purpose of each of our gardens, this is the tour for you. The tour takes place on the fully accessible main path of our site, but spaces to sit are limited. Only 15 spots are available for each tour, and the fee is $8 per person. Pre-registration is encouraged!

Date: Wednesdays, July 2-August 27, 2025
Time: 1:30-2:30pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: $8 per person
Spots available: 15 per tour

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

21

August 2025

Forest Bathing

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff for Forest bathing on Thursdays in July & August from 1-3pm! Forest bathing is the act of spending time in a forest or natural environment to improve physical and mental well-being through sensory engagement. It is more than a walk in the woods but rather a mindful immersion in nature, using all senses to connect to ones surroundings. Our staff will lead folks out to the West Woods on our site, where will we practice various mindfulness and forest bathing techniques. Participants must be able to walk on uneven ground and be willing to sit on the ground or a stump (or carry a chair to our spot). This event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged as there are only 20 spots available each week. All ages welcome so long as children can be mindful and silent along with the group.

Date: Thursdays, July 3-August 28, 2025
Time: 1-3pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 20 per session

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

26

August 2025

Naturalist Walk

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff on Tuesdays in July and August for guided naturalists walks on our site, taking place from 10-11:30am. We will lead folks around various areas of our site and teach about may features such as plants, birds, insects, and more. These walks are meant to connect folks with the nature around them and help them be able to identify common species found in Central Alberta. These walks are free, but only 15 spots per walk are available, so pre-registration is encouraged.

Date: Tuesdays, July 1-August 26, 2025
Time: 10-11:30am
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 15 per walk

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

26

August 2025

Fibers & Firs

Calling all stitchers! We invite you to join Ellis Nature Centre’s new craft group Fibers & Firs, focused on the art of stitching. All fiber art mediums are welcome – embroidery, crochet, cross stitch, knitting, etc. We will meet weekly on Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm from May 20-August 26 to work on current projects, get tips from other stitchers, and build community. Please note that this is not an instructional workshop, but time for folks who love fiber arts to get together and work on their projects surrounded by the beauty of the Ellis Nature Centre site. If weather permits, we will work outside! Light refreshments (non-alcoholic) and baked goods will be provided for the first few sessions, with the hope that as we build a steady group everyone will be willing to contribute occasionally to the selection of baked goods.

Date: Weekly on Tuesdays, from May 20 to August 26
Time: 6-7:30pm

Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!

No registration required, simply drop in!

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

27

August 2025

Site & Garden Tour

Ellis Nature Centre staff will be leading site and garden tours on Wednesdays in July and August from 1:30-2:30pm. Come take in the beauty of our site and gardens while learning about the history of Ellis Nature Centre. If you’re interested in history, learning about all of the key features on our site, and the purpose of each of our gardens, this is the tour for you. The tour takes place on the fully accessible main path of our site, but spaces to sit are limited. Only 15 spots are available for each tour, and the fee is $8 per person. Pre-registration is encouraged!

Date: Wednesdays, July 2-August 27, 2025
Time: 1:30-2:30pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: $8 per person
Spots available: 15 per tour

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

28

August 2025

Forest Bathing

Join Ellis Nature Centre staff for Forest bathing on Thursdays in July & August from 1-3pm! Forest bathing is the act of spending time in a forest or natural environment to improve physical and mental well-being through sensory engagement. It is more than a walk in the woods but rather a mindful immersion in nature, using all senses to connect to ones surroundings. Our staff will lead folks out to the West Woods on our site, where will we practice various mindfulness and forest bathing techniques. Participants must be able to walk on uneven ground and be willing to sit on the ground or a stump (or carry a chair to our spot). This event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged as there are only 20 spots available each week. All ages welcome so long as children can be mindful and silent along with the group.

Date: Thursdays, July 3-August 28, 2025
Time: 1-3pm
Location: Ellis Nature Centre
Cost: Free!
Spots available: 20 per session

  • Ellis Nature Centre, 39502 Range Road 260
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

30

August 2025

Rainbow DnD

We will play Dungeons and Dragons or whatever else you might request or bring. Parents, children, allies always welcome! Find us in the programming room at the GH Dawe Library the last Saturday of each month.

  • 56 Holt Street
  • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

4

September 2025

QNSRD Art Club Night!

Join us the first Thursday of each month for Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer's Art Club! You don't need experience, just enthusiasm! Bring the project you are working on or wanting to start, and create among friends. Allies always welcome, and parents with children too!

Join us by the big windows at the far end of the library.

  • GH Dawe Library, 56 Holt Street
  • 6:25 PM - 7:50 PM

27

September 2025

Rainbow DnD

We will play Dungeons and Dragons or whatever else you might request or bring. Parents, children, allies always welcome! Find us in the programming room at the GH Dawe Library the last Saturday of each month.

  • 56 Holt Street
  • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

2

October 2025

QNSRD Art Club Night!

Join us the first Thursday of each month for Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer's Art Club! You don't need experience, just enthusiasm! Bring the project you are working on or wanting to start, and create among friends. Allies always welcome, and parents with children too!

Join us by the big windows at the far end of the library.

  • GH Dawe Library, 56 Holt Street
  • 6:25 PM - 7:50 PM

25

October 2025

Rainbow DnD

We will play Dungeons and Dragons or whatever else you might request or bring. Parents, children, allies always welcome! Find us in the programming room at the GH Dawe Library the last Saturday of each month.

  • 56 Holt Street
  • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

6

November 2025

QNSRD Art Club Night!

Join us the first Thursday of each month for Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer's Art Club! You don't need experience, just enthusiasm! Bring the project you are working on or wanting to start, and create among friends. Allies always welcome, and parents with children too!

Join us by the big windows at the far end of the library.

  • GH Dawe Library, 56 Holt Street
  • 6:25 PM - 7:50 PM

29

November 2025

Rainbow DnD

We will play Dungeons and Dragons or whatever else you might request or bring. Parents, children, allies always welcome! Find us in the programming room at the GH Dawe Library the last Saturday of each month.

  • 56 Holt Street
  • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

4

December 2025

QNSRD Art Club Night!

Join us the first Thursday of each month for Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer's Art Club! You don't need experience, just enthusiasm! Bring the project you are working on or wanting to start, and create among friends. Allies always welcome, and parents with children too!

Join us by the big windows at the far end of the library.

  • GH Dawe Library, 56 Holt Street
  • 6:25 PM - 7:50 PM

27

December 2025

Rainbow DnD

We will play Dungeons and Dragons or whatever else you might request or bring. Parents, children, allies always welcome! Find us in the programming room at the GH Dawe Library the last Saturday of each month.

  • 56 Holt Street
  • 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

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