Conservation district Holiday Walk Dec. 7

Boone County Conservation District will host the Annual Holiday Walk on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 5-8 p.m., at Spencer Conservation Area at 1121 N. Appleton Road, Belvidere, IL 61008.

Start the holiday season by strolling along a luminaria-lit pathway at Spencer Conservation Area and see how the holidays were celebrated during the 1800s in Northern Illinois. The Holiday Walk is free, but registration is required. You can find out more about the event at www.bccdil.org/explore/winter-holiday-walk.

Festivities at the Holiday Walk include live music in the one-room schoolhouse, carolers, historic cabins, a demonstration from a blacksmith at the forge, and holiday treats to enjoy. Don’t forget to take a peek at the two historic cabins constructed in the 1800s in Boone County to see how families would have prepared for the holidays.

Food items for sale include kettle-popped popcorn, warmed spiced apples, roasted nuts, ponché navideño (spiced fruit punch), and buñuelos (cinnamon and sugar tortilla chips). This is a cash only event, so plan accordingly to be able to enjoy these tasty treats.

Musicians will perform holiday music in the one-room schoolhouse for guests to enjoy. Carolers from Belvidere North High School alternate with readings of holiday stories at the outdoor stage. Warming areas are located next to the food tents and inside the schoolhouse for this outdoor event. Register to attend the event at: www.bccdil.org/explore/winter-holiday-walk.

The Boone County Conservation District’s mission is to preserve and manage natural areas and open spaces for ecological, educational, and recreational benefits for present and future generations.