Potomac — Montgomery Parks is offering two family-friendly events on the weekend of Oct. 20-21: Locust Grove Nature Center’s Nocturnal Neighbors Festival and the annual Fall Apple Festival at Brookside Nature Center.
On Oct. 20 from 5-8 p.m., visitors to Locust Grove Nature Center in Bethesda can enjoy the crisp evening air as they discover the secret world of nature at night. Animal experts will spin “tails of the night” as they introduce a few live nocturnal animals that share the neighborhood. Following a twilight hike through the woods and nighttime-themed crafts and games, guests can enjoy a toasty treat around the campfire ring. Course number #213700
The autumn celebrations continue on Sunday, Oct. 21 when Brookside Nature Center in Wheaton hosts its annual Fall Apple Festival. From 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., apples, apples, apples and more apples will take center stage. Visitors can taste an apple in all forms, hand-pressed into cider or dipped in gooey caramel to rolled into a flaky turnover or just plain natural, sweet and crunchy. On-going crafts, games, demonstrations and apple-lore round out this delightful, tasty event. Course number #209849
Locust Grove Nature Center is located at 7777 Democracy Blvd, Bethesda. Visit www.LocustGroveNature.org or call 301-765-8660.
Brookside Nature Center is located at 1400 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton. Visit www.BrooksideNature.org or call 301-962-1400.
Both festivals require registration at www.ParkPASS.org under Special Events; admission for each event is $5 per person.