Santa Monica Mountains Science Festival to be held at Paramount Ranch

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The second annual Santa Monica Mountains Science Festival begins Friday evening at Paramount Ranch in Agoura Hills.

Sponsored by the National Park Service in partnership with the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and California Science Center, the free festival will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and will give attendees a chance to ask and learn about the flora and fauna of one of our local national parks.

Friday’s nocturnal activities include a campfire singalong; a lantern-led tour of Western Town; a night-sky program; and a nighttime hike to learn about animals that come out after dark, with the opportunity to identify bats, bugs and owls.

Saturday’s events will include special presentations on native plant and animal species in the Santa Monica Mountains, bird and plant identification walks and hands-on demonstrations for children and adults. There also will be live animal shows, bird watching and booths and games to inform and entertain.

The number of food vendors on site will be limited, so attendees are encouraged to bring their own food and water, as well as any personal comfort items, such as jackets, sunscreen, sunglasses and hats.

-- Kelly Burgess
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