Museum to Host Nature-Themed Family Day on Saturday, March 28, 2026
The Old Independence Regional Museum will host its 18th annual Spring Family Day event on Saturday, March 28, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Join us as we discover why Arkansas is known as the Natural State.
Family fun activities include wildlife-themed crafts, live bird demonstrations, wild game cooking demos, living history interpreters, and so much more! Visitors will learn how Arkansans have interacted with native plants and wildlife in the past and present. “We are excited to partner with so many wonderful organizations and individuals to host this family day,” states Museum Director Taylor Fitterling.
Raptor Rehab of Central Arkansas will provide on-site education with their “animal ambassadors,” wild birds that cannot be released back into the wild. “This is your chance to get an up-close look at various hawks, owls, and other majestic birds of prey,” says Brianne Reed Kolton, long-time museum volunteer. Raptor Rehab will be presenting from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, so don’t miss it!
The county chapter for the National Wild Turkey Federation will hold a turkey calling demonstration for youth and adults. Don’t know how to call a turkey? Volunteers will be on hand to teach you the basics of using a call and some fun turkey facts. The Turkey Federation will also be handing out door prizes.
The Arkansas Trappers Association will display furs and teach visitors about responsible conservation and wildlife management. A representative from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will help visitors learn fly-fishing techniques. Local flintknappers will also demonstrate their ancient craft. Finally, the Tri-County Antique Tractor Club will return with tractors on display in front of the museum.
Fay Brinkley will speak with visitors about Ozark folklore and herbal remedies. “;Wild and cultivated plants and herbs played a vital role in the life of early Arkansas pioneers. Being able to identify plants that are helpful and which to avoid is still an important lesson today,” states Brinkley. Sandee Steiner has taught physical geology for nineteen years and is excited to share more about her favorite subject. Bring your favorite rock and learn a little more about its origins!
Brave folks can sample game stew, squirrel dumplings, turkey tenders, canned deer on crackers and other wild delicacies. Fresh, hot popcorn from Riley’s Traveling Treats will also be available free to guests. “This year’s Spring Family Day is possible thanks to the museum’s members, donors, sponsors, staff, and all the people who volunteer their time and energy to create these programs, which attract people from all across the state and beyond,” remarks Fitterling. Since 1998, the OIRM has presented quality programs,
tours, genealogy, records, and archives to the public to bring the past to life. Bring your family, bring your friends, and make some memories!
Community support helps make these programs possible. To become a member, donate, or learn about volunteer opportunities, please contact the museum at (870) 793-2121 or visit oirm.org. Contributions help fund new exhibits and educational programming.
