A unique festival planned in Grand Bend this weekend encourages a closer connection to nature.
The Lakeshore Eco-Network (LEN) has partnered with the Lambton Heritage Museum to host the Spirit of the Forest Festival at the museum on October 1.
Museum Curator/Supervisor Dana Thorne said it will include children's activities, tree story time, walks, live animals, informative displays, food and more.
“We’re happy to support this unique event," said Thorne. "The museum grounds provide the perfect backdrop with its oak savannah surroundings. We hope this event raises awareness of environmental matters and provides fun opportunities for learning.”
Practitioner Katie Van den Berg will help people experience forest bathing.
The practice involves spending enough time in nature to soak up the sights, sounds, and smells.
"Some of the benefits of forest bathing include decreasing your anxiety, strengthening your immune system, reducing your blood pressure, having more energy, and a better ability to focus," said Thorne.
LEN co-Chair James Corcoran says trees are worth celebrating.
“They clean the air, shelter wildlife, reduce flooding and erosion, and reduce noise pollution," Corcoran said. "Most important of all, they sequester carbon dioxide and give off oxygen, playing an important role in fighting climate change.”
Museum admission will be free during the event on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Oct 1)
The Friends of the Pinery Park will also be on site, hosting a native plant sale.
Free maple or hemlock seedlings will be given to the first 200 participants.