Discovering the Science of Fall

The changing season makes October an ideal time to explore the outdoors and observe these natural phenomena firsthand. Crossroads at Big Creek offers several opportunities for community members to connect with nature throughout the month.

Winnie-Pooh-Looza, a month-long countywide celebration of A.A. Milne’s beloved bear presented by Friends of Door County Libraries continues throughout October. As a community partner, Crossroads is bringing a touch of Hundred Acre Wood magic to the preserve with self-guided activities, indoor and outdoor discoveries, and a special Winnie-the-Pooh Trail Tale inspired by Pooh and friends.

You are also invited to participate in Wandering Wednesday hikes at 1:30 p.m., where naturalists lead easy walks through the preserve, highlighting seasonal changes and the wonders of the natural world, from colorful foliage and forest ecology to weather patterns and signs of approaching winter.

For those fascinated by both science and storytelling, Lasers and Lightsabers: From Fusion Energy to Movie Magic on October 22 and 23 blends cutting-edge science with behind-the-scenes insights from the world of filmmaking in a dynamic and visually engaging presentation.

Families looking to make the most of a school holiday can join the School’s Out Excursion: Bees & Bears on October 23. Guests can explore interactive exhibits, enjoy self-guided games, and visit the special Winnie-the-Pooh and Hundred Acre Wood Trail Tale while discovering connections between nature, pollinators, and beloved storybook characters.

The celebration of pollinators continues on October 24 during the Bee’s Knees Honey Workshop: Inside the Hive. Participants can meet local beekeepers, learn how honey is made, discover why pollinators are so important, and even try on a real beekeeper suit during this family-friendly event.

Garden lovers won’t want to miss Tales (and Tails) of the Secret Garden on October 27 presented by the Door County Master Gardeners Association and Wild Ones – Door Peninsula. Door County musician Colin Welford will share the story of creating his three-quarter-acre Secret Garden in Ephraim, discussing the hardscaping, plant selection, and pollinator-friendly practices that transformed the space into a place of beauty and tranquility.

Crossroads at Big Creek encourages everyone to slow down and enjoy the wonders of autumn. From the chemistry behind vibrant fall colors to the work of decomposers on the forest floor, the season offers countless opportunities to witness the remarkable processes that shape our natural world every day.