Polar-Palooza Returns To Creek Bend Nature Center

ST. CHARLES, IL — Polar-Palooze will return to the Creek Bend Nature Center in St. Charles on January 17.

The event will run from 12 to 3 p.m. at the nature center, which is located at 37W700 Dean Street, and will feature a mix of hands-on games, interactive learning stations and winter crafts, according to a news release from the Forest Preserve District of Kane County. Guests can move at their own pace through themed stations, earning tickets along the way that can be redeemed for prizes.

Indoor activities focus on wildlife, habitats and seasonal survival strategies where families can test their knowledge by matching animals to their winter adaptations, identifying which birds build different types of nests or tossing bean bags to place animals in the correct Kane County habitat—prairie, wetland, or woodland.

Another popular game challenges participants to “knock out” invasive species while learning how non-native plants and animals impact local ecosystems, according to the news release.

Outdoor stations add movement and adventure to the experience. Visitors can take part in “Animal Olympics,” comparing their speed, strength and agility to wildlife experts of the natural world, or try “Migration Headache,” a life-size game that simulates the challenges birds face during seasonal migration.

Families can also explore the preserve through a winter scavenger hunt or follow clues on a letter-boxing adventure to uncover hidden stamps along the trail.

Hot chocolate and light refreshments will be available while supplies last, and activities are suitable for all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Admission is free, and no registration is required.