Visitors can expect live animal shows and ambassador presentations at the event. Photo by Alan Sheckter

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) – The Effie Yeaw Nature Center will host its annual NatureFest from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 7 in Carmichael, inviting families and community members to explore nature through hands-on activities, live animal experiences and interactive exhibits.

This year’s event is part of the Nature Center’s 50th anniversary celebration — marking five decades of connecting people with nature, culture and community.

Held along the American River Parkway, NatureFest is one of the Nature Center’s largest community events, offering a full day of educational programming and outdoor exploration.

Visitors can expect live animal shows and ambassador presentations, educational exhibits and environmental demonstrations, science and nature themed games, investigations, and hands-on activities, cultural and environmental education booths, nature-inspired crafts and activities for children and food trucks and local vendors.

NatureFest brings together local organizations, businesses, and educators to share information about conservation, wildlife, and sustainable practices in an engaging, family-friendly setting. Photo by Alan Sheckter

New this year, attendees can take part in the Acorn Cup, a friendly, bracket-style competition to crown the Nature Center’s favorite animal or plant. Kicking off at NatureFest, visitors will vote for their top picks from 50 featured species — one for each year of the Nature Center’s history. The competition will continue throughout the summer with head-to-head matchups, inviting the community to follow along and vote as their favorites advance.

NatureFest brings together local organizations, businesses, and educators to share information about conservation, wildlife, and sustainable practices in an engaging, family-friendly setting.

“NatureFest reflects what the Nature Center has been about for 50 years — creating opportunities for people to connect with the natural world in meaningful, hands-on ways,” said Rachael Cowan, interim executive director. “Whether it’s a child seeing a live animal up close or a family discovering something new together, those moments build curiosity and a lasting connection to nature.”

The event is hosted by the American River Natural History Association, the 501c3 nonprofit that operates Effie Yeaw Nature Center and its expansive educational programs. Proceeds help provide nature-based learning opportunities for thousands of children and families each year.

New this year, attendees can take part in the Acorn Cup, a friendly, bracket-style competition to crown the Nature Center’s favorite animal or plant. Photo by Alan Sheckter

Tickets are available in advance, with admission priced at $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-12, and free for children ages 3 and under.

NatureFest will take place rain or shine at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center, located at 2850 San Lorenzo Way in Carmichael.

Organizations and businesses interested in participating as a vendor or exhibitor are encouraged to apply online by May 15. Space is limited, and priority is given to those offering nature-related products, services or educational activities. Contact Jaclyn Teofilo at [email protected] for any questions.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.effieyeawnature.org/nature-fest-2026.

The event offers educational exhibits and environmental demonstrations, science and nature themed games, investigations, and hands-on activities. Photo by Alan Sheckter

About the Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, the Effie Yeaw Nature Center is where people of all ages and backgrounds connect with nature and with each other. As a community hub for environmental education along the American River Parkway, the Center sparks curiosity, nurtures stewardship, and shares the natural history and living cultural heritage of the land.

EYNC offers a museum, animal ambassadors and a 100-acre Nature Study Area that showcases the region’s oak woodland and riparian habitat. EYNC is operated by the American River Natural History Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental education and community engagement. Learn more at www.effieyeawnature.org.