Weekly roundup
Hey Parents! 👋
Late August has that back-to-school hum, and this weekend keeps things easy. Friday night is baseball under the lights at Toyota Field, and Saturday splits three good ways: counting bees at Blevins Gap, a flat guided hike at Harvest Square, or a free acoustic jam at Lowe Mill. Pick one, pack the water bottles, and let’s go make some memories!
Friday, August 21 | 6:35 PM
Trash Pandas vs Biloxi Shuckers
Toyota Field
Summer is ending but there is still time to get some more baseball time in! The Trash Pandas will be taking on the Biloxi Shuckers at the Toyota Field this Friday night. Gates open at 5:30 PM the game is scheduled for 6:35 PM!
What to expect: A lot of fun and some amazing snacks to enjoy while you watch the game
Perfect for: All ages
Pro tip: Arrive early for all the pre-game festivities and to grab snacks!
Cost: Tickets vary
Saturday, August 22 | 9 AM - 12 PM
Pollinator Party
Blevins Gap Nature Preserve
Become a citizen scientist and help us collect data for the Great Southeast Pollinator Census! You don’t have to be an expert in plants or insects to participate. We will learn about pollinator plants and insects and count how many pollinators visit a plant in 15 minutes. The Madison County Beekeepers Association will lead a Beekeeping 101 Presentation to introduce us to the world of beekeeping. Join a Flower Walk to learn about the pollinator plants in Marie’s Garden.
What to expect: Other activities include Pollinator BINGO (with prizes!), children’s crafts, and educational displays.
Perfect for: Ages 5-14
Pro tip: There will be free snow cones from Southerland Sno Depot!
Cost: Free
Saturday, August 22 | 1 PM
Acoustic Jam
Studio 1038 Lowe Mill
Whether your family includes budding guitarists, curious listeners, or parents who still remember a few chords, this weekly tradition offers a rare chance to experience live music in an intimate, participatory setting. The atmosphere is deliberately low-key—there's no stage, no spotlight, just a circle of chairs where musicians swap songs and families can settle in to enjoy the spontaneous harmonies that emerge when people make music together.
What to expect: First-timers are encouraged to come as listeners—bring the kids, find a comfortable spot, and let them absorb the rhythm and energy of live acoustic music.
Perfect for: Families with school-age children who are learning instruments and might appreciate seeing adults play in a relaxed, non-competitive environment
Pro tip: The weekly rhythm means you can make this a regular Saturday ritual, gradually building confidence until your own musician is ready to add their voice to the mix.
Cost: FREE
Saturday, August 22 | 9 AM
Hike at Harvest Square Nature Preserve
Harvest Square Nature Preserve
If you've been looking for a gentle introduction to hiking with younger kids, Harvest Square Nature Preserve offers exactly what families need: flat, accessible trails that won't overwhelm little legs. This guided morning hike explores nearly two miles of the preserve on well-maintained crushed limestone paths and newly installed boardwalks, making it manageable for children as young as five. With only 20 feet of elevation gain across the entire route, parents can focus on spotting wildlife and enjoying nature rather than managing complaints about steep climbs.
What to expect: About an hour of walking as the leader guides your group through most of the preserve's trails, with the exception of part of the Senators Trail.
Perfect for: Families with elementary/middle school-aged children who are building their outdoor confidence.
Pro tip: Be sure to register in advance using the email you check regularly—the organizers will notify you there if weather or trail conditions require cancellation.
Cost: FREE
💡 My Weekend Picks
If I had to narrow it down…
Trash Pandas vs Biloxi Shuckers - Gates open at 5:30 for a 6:35 first pitch, which is exactly enough time to get snacks before anyone asks for snacks.
Pollinator Party - Free, three hours long, with Pollinator BINGO, prizes, and free snow cones. My kid will be counting bees for the snow cone, and honestly… same.
Hike at Harvest Square Nature Preserve - Two miles, crushed limestone, boardwalk, and only 20 feet of elevation gain. That is the rare hike where nobody negotiates a turnaround.
That’s it for this week.
📝 Before You Head Out:
Heads up on Saturday morning: the Harvest Square hike and the Pollinator Party both start at 9 AM, so pick a lane. The hike needs advance registration, and cancellation notices go out by email.
Know about something we missed? Hit reply and tell me. If you end up at any of these, come say hi! I’ll be the dad in Marie’s Garden counting pollinators with one eye on the snow cone line.
Happy adventuring,
Ryan 🚀