Outdoors with Beth El

Guided Bird Walk
Wednesday, May 7 at 6:00am

Please join us for our first-ever Beth El bird walk at Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Concord. The walk is for total novices as well as experienced birders; we will all learn from one another. We will walk for about 2 miles along level but probably muddy trails and are likely to see and hear a nice variety of springtime birds. In addition to viewing the birds and chatting about their natural history, we will have a chance to practice “auditory mindfulness” as we listen to the early morning bird song. Meet us either at Beth El at 6:00am or at Great Meadows NWR at 6:30am! Register here.

Shabbat in Nature
Saturday, May 17 at 2:00pm: meet at Nobscot Scout Reservation Parking Lot

Celebrate Creation with a moderate spring hike with views from Tippling Rock. We’ll offer moments to appreciate the natural world as we connect to Shabbat through conversation, stories and song. All are welcome!

Saturday, June 21 at 2:00pm: meet at Beth El Parking Lot

Embrace the splendor of nature with a guided walk through the Gray Reservation! Enjoy sights such as a lovely bridge over an old dam as we take time to appreciate the beauty of the world on Shabbat. All are welcome!

Shavuot on the Farm
Sunday, June 1 at 1:00pm at Robb Elkind’s Farm

Celebrate Shavuot like never before! Play with the goats and chickens, learn how to make your own ice cream and butter, and much more! Register here.

Shavuot at the Drumlin
Monday, June 2 at 10:00am at Drumlin Farm in Lincoln

Celebrate Shavuot in the beauty of nature with our annual walk up the drumlin! Together, we’ll carry the Torah to the top of the hill and hear the Ten Commandments in the sanctuary of Creation. Bring a picnic snack (and some songs to share) as we relax together following the reading.

NB: We have special permission to access the drumlin as the nature center (and bathrooms) will be closed that day.

Shabbat at the Beach
Friday, July 11 & Friday August 8 at 5:00pm at Wayland Town Beach

Welcome Shabbat with a joyous, energetic and musical service, open to everyone! Enjoy the sound of water, the voices of children at play, and voices raised in song as we welcome Shabbat. Bring your beach chairs and towels, as well as picnic food – shoes are optional.