Press Release  DCR Offers Family-Friendly School Vacation Programming

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today announced that the agency will be offering many family-friendly programs throughout the Massachusetts state parks system during the traditional February school vacation week (programming starts on Saturday, February 16, 2019). Children and their families’ will have the opportunity to enjoy guided experiences or to create a park adventure on their own. The wide ranging selection of programs include guided hikes, wildlife observation opportunities, crafting activities, games, stories, and more. A full list of activities and programming can be found on the DCR’s website. 

“Fresh air and family fun are an excellent combination for February school vacation activities, and the Department of Conservation and Recreation is happy to offer additional programming during the upcoming school break,” said Department of Conservation and Recreation Commissioner Leo Roy. “The Baker-Polito Administration continues to increase both access within our state parks system and opportunities for the public to enjoy the many resources available to them.”

In addition to the special school vacation week programming, DCR will continue to offer its normal recreational and interpretive programming, as well as adaptive programming through the agency’s Universal Access Program. Furthermore, during school vacation week, the agency will extend public skating at DCR managed rinks from 10:00AM to 2:50PM. In total, 84 programs will be offered in state parks across all five regions of Massachusetts with 12 Visitor Centers open and fully staffed. Some programming highlights include:

Adaptive Winter Sports Program

Location: Leo J. Martin Ski Track, 190 Park Road, Weston
Date/Time: Monday, February 18, 2019, and Sunday, February 24, 2019 from 12:00PM–4:00PM

This program is for people with disabilities and their family and friends. The Leo J. Martin Ski Track is a popular location that offers outdoor recreation on a groomed course. Individuals can register for an hour-long adventure on the trails using a kicksled, sit-ski, snowshoes, or cross-country skis. Participants must meet the DCR’s essential eligibility criteria for winter outdoor programs and fill out a release form. To register, please call (413) 259-0009.

Maple Sugarmakers Weather Watch

Location: Blackstone River & Canal Heritage State Park, 287 Oak Street, Uxbridge
Date/Time: Thursday, February 21, 2019 from 1:00PM–2:00PM
This program offers information about the science of maple sugaring that includes a discussion that highlights what the proper weather conditions are for sap production. Afterwards, participants will head out on the trail for some hands-on action, that includes measuring and marking trees for tapping. This is approximately a one-mile walk. For more program information, please call (508) 278-7604.

Ice Harvesting with historian Dennis Picard

Location: Walden Pond State Reservation, 915 Walden Street, Concord  
Date/Time: Wednesday, February 20, 2019 from 11:00AM–1:30PM
Join historian and ice harvester Dennis Picard for an interactive program on the fascinating story of the ice trade in New England. The order of activities include:

• 11:00AM-12:00PM presentation at the Walden Pond Visitor Center; and,
• 12:30PM-1:30PM a demonstration of ice harvesting on Main Beach (if conditions permit; if not, a guided one-mile walk to Ice Fort Cove will be offered). 

 For more information, please call (978) 396-3254.

Full Moon Hike

Location: Borderland State Park, 259 Massapoag Avenue, North Easton
Date/Time: Tuesday, February 19, 2019 from 7:00PM–9:00PM
Participants will join park staff for a three-mile stroll under the full moon along the Pond Walk Trail around Lower Leach Pond. The program is great for older children and adults (all children must be accompanied by an adult). After the hike, hot chocolate by the fire inside the visitor center will be offered while supplies last. For more information, please call (508) 238-6566.

Get in Touch with Winter, and Not Get (too) Cold – A Family Program

Location: Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls

Date/Time: Tuesday, February 19, 2019 from 10:30AM–11:30AM

This program will focus on how animals survive during the winter months, and will offer hands-on experiments and demonstrations. This program is for school-age children, their guardians, siblings and friends (admission to the museum and the program is free; the facility is also accessible). For more information, please call (413) 863-3221.

Due to the unpredictability of the weather, such as low temperatures, precipitation, or wind, the DCR asks that all visitors call ahead to confirm that the scheduled program is able to take place. Proper outerwear, including coats, boots, hats, and gloves, is encouraged for all participants of outdoor programs to ensure an enjoyable and safe outing. Additionally, parking fees may apply at some locations.

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