HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Naturefest will ring in fall in Hopkinsville on Sept. 20 with a day full of outdoor activities for local families. Spread out over the entire property of Jeffers Bend Environmental Center including the lake, trails, and gardens, this year’s event will take place between 1-5 p.m. with dozens of booths set up with activities for families.
This includes a walk in the woods, birding activities, information about bees, canoe rides on the lake, hayrides, face painting, a petting zoo, pumpkin painting, plant and insect teachings, and rock and tile painting, and more.
Leading up to that Saturday, people are encouraged to stop in at Jeffers Bend all week long and explore various aspects of their multiple acres of property and gardens. City and county officials will hold a ceremony on Sept. 9, proclaiming Sep. 14-20 as Naturefest Week in the Pennyrile Area.
Here are the day-to-day plans at Jeffers Bend starting on Monday, Sept. 14.
- Monday: The public is encouraged to walk the three miles of trails at Jeffers Bend, to give citizens the opportunity to exercise in a quiet environment, while observing birds, squirrels, wild turkey and other wildlife, various trees and other plants.
- Tuesday: The public is urged to visit Jeffers Bend to see the variety of gardens that include the Botanical Garden, children’s garden, rain garden, butterfly garden, and master gardeners garden.
- Wednesday: Those who love birds, are encouraged to bring bird seed to the Jeffers Bend Welcome Center.
- Thursday: Bird lovers and novice alike, are encouraged to visit the bird observatory to observe birds feeding.
- Friday: Individuals are encouraged to visit the Jeffers Bend Welcome Center and talk to volunteers about the history, accomplishments and ongoing programs.
- Saturday: Naturefest.
Everyday entry into Jeffers Bend is free, but on the day of Naturefest admission will be $10 per car, with active-duty military and first responders entering for free.