Big Waters’ Wild About Nature Festival Returns to Bay Preserve in 2026

OSPREY, FL (March 5, 2026) — Presented by Big Waters Land Trust, the beloved Wild About Nature Festival returns on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Bay Preserve in Osprey. This free, family-friendly community celebration invites guests of all ages to connect with nature along the shores of Little Sarasota Bay.

Each year, Wild About Nature brings together regional nonprofits, environmental partners, and community organizations for a day dedicated to outdoor exploration and environmental education. Festivalgoers can enjoy hands-on, nature-based activities including tree climbing, kayaking experiences, wildlife identification, crafts, games, and interactive learning opportunities designed to inspire the next generation of conservation stewards. Live music, special presentations, and a variety of local food trucks will round out the day’s festivities, creating an engaging experience for the entire family.

“Wild About Nature is one of our favorite ways to bring the community together outdoors,” said Tianna Boswell-Porter, Director of Marketing and Events at Big Waters Land Trust. “This festival reflects what conservation looks like in action – families learning, exploring, and building lasting connections with the land and water that make our region so special.”

Registration is not required for this free community event, though guests are encouraged to RSVP through the Wild About Nature Facebook event page to stay informed. Parking will be available off-site at First Baptist Church of Osprey, Victory Baptist Church, and the historic Osprey Library, with continuous trolley service transporting attendees to and from the festival. Limited accessible parking will be available onsite.

Community members interested in sponsoring, volunteering, or participating as exhibitors are encouraged to visit bigwaterslandtrust.org/wild26 for more information.

About Big Waters Land Trust

Big Waters protects land and water for the benefit of people and nature. Through strategic collaborations with individuals, groups, organizations, and government, they work to ensure all people have access to clean water, fresh air, nutritious food, abundant wildlife, beautiful natural areas to enjoy, and all the other physical and mental benefits nature provides. Their vital work strengthens the region’s resiliency to storms and floods, enriches lives, and helps safeguard our community for generations to come. Learn more at bigwaterslandtrust.org.