The Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department invites the community to celebrate the changing season and explore the outdoors during Discovery Day at The Patch, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3 at Los Flores Ranch Park.
The activities will be in the event parking area, accessible through the gate at 6245 Dominion Road.
The family-friendly event will feature nature and environmental activities throughout the ranch.
Visitors can meet Los Flores Ranch Park rangers; plant seedlings; participate in recycling games with the Santa Maria Utilities Department; explore science activities with local Scouts; learn about the Land Trust of Santa Barbara County; enjoy seasonal crafts; and pick up a free book from the Santa Maria Public Library Bookmobile.
Participants can also explore the Los Flores Ranch Mobile Observatory and Nature Center, where they can safely observe the sun through a telescope equipped with a specialized solar filter.
Discovery Day is held in conjunction with The Patch, a student-led seasonal pumpkin patch that features bounce houses, photo opportunities, and pumpkins available for purchase.
Admission to Discovery Day is free; however, a $5 parking fee will be collected to support The Patch and local agriculture students. Visitors should follow posted event signs to the designated parking area.
Los Flores Ranch Park offers more than 22 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding through oak trees, rolling hills, and chaparral.
Direct questions to the Recreation and Parks Department, 805-925-0951 ext. 2260.