December 2025 • Nebraskaland 31
What to Do in December
Christmas Bird Count for Kids
Dec. 29, 10 a.m.-Noon | Schramm Education Center, Gretna
Learn more about the birds that call Schramm home during the winter
while participating in the longest-running community science project in the
country. During the event, participants can choose to help count birds indoors
near the bird feeders, or on a 1-mile hike in the prairie or down to the Platte
River. Participants who choose to hike should dress for the weather, as they
will be going out in rain, snow or sunshine.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own binoculars, as a limited number
of binoculars are available for loan. The cost to participate is $5 per person
(ages 3 and under free), which includes the program and admission to the
Schramm Education Center after the program. Schramm Family Pass Members
participate free. A state park vehicle permit is not required. JOEL JORGENSEN
Wise & Wild - Animal
Tracks and Signs
Dec. 9, 2:30 p.m. | Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, Ashland
What happened here? Even though animals tend to avoid people, we can see
the clues they leave behind. Nature enthusiasts ages 55+ are invited to attend
the Wise & Wild program at Eugene T. Mahoney's newly renovated James
Family Conservatory and Nature Center. This program is designed for seniors
who love the outdoors and want to enjoy time in the parks. Join us on your
own or bring along friends of any age. These programs are free, but a state
park vehicle entry permit is required.
JENNY NGUYEN-WHEATLEY, NEBRASKALAND
Night Hike at
Schramm Park
Dec. 11, 7-8 p.m. | Schramm Park, Gretna
Join Schramm naturalists on a hike in the forest
after nightfall. Meet at the pond trailhead and
bring a flashlight or headlamp. Participants will
hike for about one hour and walk about 2 miles
from the Pond Trailhead along the Hackberry
Trail to the full Red Cedar Trail loop. There
are stairs at the trailhead and some elevation
change. This is a free program, but a state park
vehicle entry permit is required. GETTY IMAGES
