Reinstein Woods to Hold Annual Fall Festival on Sept. 21

19th Annual #RWFallFest to Celebrate Importance of Water in New Yorkers' Lives

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) invites the public to the 19th Annual Fall Festival at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve in Cheektowaga on Saturday, Sept. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can spend the day enjoying nature activities, exhibits, live animals, music, and more, with a special focus this year on the importance of New York's water resources.

Reinstein Woods Center Director Meaghan Boice-Green said, "As residents of the Great Lakes basin, we know how important clean water is. This festival is a fun way to explore how we use and affect water in our everyday lives."

A scavenger hunt leads families on an adventure to find some of the more than 20 nature and environmental organizations at the festival, including the New York Power Authority, Penn Dixie Fossil Park, and Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to decorate while they learn about water conservation. Visitors can also create fish print art and enjoy simulated fly fishing on their way to the Pond Exploration Zone. Kids of all ages can engage in water play activities in the Nature Play Area and enjoy face-painting, costumed characters, and crafts.

Special presentations happen throughout the day. DEC Forest Ranger Kennedy will perform a drone demonstration to show the public how rangers use the technology to help in search and rescues and wildland firefighting, along with a special appearance by Smokey Bear. Visitors can get an up-close look at live animals during the SPCA Wildlife talks. Festivalgoers can enjoy Mama Earth's interactive musical show while dining on treats available for purchase at Boy Scout Troop 500's food stand.

Reinstein Woods is located at 93 Honorine Drive, off of Como Park Boulevard in Cheektowaga. A donation to Friends of Reinstein Woods is appreciated at the door to support the festival. For a complete list of festival activities, call (716) 683-5959 or visit the festival webpage.