Free Programming
All Ages | Activities, Crafts, and More
Jones Beach is apart of a major migratory pathway--the Atlantic Flyway--and we get a front row seat to the migration of monarch butterflies, humpback whales, and hundreds of different bird species! Let's party and wish our favorite animals a safe journey south. Make a craft, learn to use binoculars, and compete in our fashion show!
Crafts:
11:00am-3:00pm Bird, Whale, and Butterfly Puppets (All Ages)
Make your own little animal popsicle-stick puppets and take them on the go—just like the real animals that migrate in the wild!
11:00am-12:00pm Migration Animation Workshop (All Ages)
Help a bird take flight! We will be coloring in drawings of a bird flapping its wings, and our educator will help you put it together to make a bird take flight.
1:00pm-2:00pm DIY Animal Accessories (All Ages)
Make simple accessories like headbands, bracelets, and ear-cuffs inspired by migratory species. Show off your gear at our fashion show right after!
Activities:
11:00am-12:30pm Wildlife Dune Walk (Recommended Ages 7+)
Walk down to the water with an educator and keep an eye out for migrating birds, whales, and dolphins! Binoculars provided.
11:00am-2:00pm The Last of the Monarch Butterflies (Recommended Ages 7+)
Most of the monarchs have headed south for the winter, but meet with an educator to learn more about these wonderful creatures, and if you’re lucky, find the last few butterflies in our garden using a bug net!
2:00pm-3:00pm Animal Fashion Show
“Steal Their Look” by coming dressed up like a different migratory animal! Birds, butterflies, and marine mammals are all accepted. Don’t worry if you show up without a costume—join us the hour before to make a quick animal accessory to wear instead!
Games:
11:00am-3:00pm Humpback Whale Hopscotch & Field Games (All Ages)
Do you know how big humpback whales are? Jump on the back of our concrete whale shapes and play other fun field games like ring-toss and corn-hole.
Outdoors/Indoors?: Indoors and Outdoors.
Weather: In the case of inclement weather, all activities will be indoors.
RSVP: RSVP needed for crafts, not admission