Winter Solstice RETREAT

Winter Solstice Retreat: A Season of Light & Learning
Sat., December 5, 2026 from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Robinson Nature Center
Columbia, MD

Early birds - register today to reserve your spot! 

About this Nature-Based Training

Winter is on the way! Join us in Columbia, Maryland for an inspiring day of training full of ways to help children welcome the winter season. This hands-on training will awaken your senses, kindle curiosity, and spark more ideas for outdoor learning with young children. 

Our Professional Learning Retreats bring together experts in the field of nature-based education to share ideas and practices, with a variety of workshops to choose from. ANBE will provide a professional development certificate at the conclusion of the event (pending 6 MSDE clock hours). Please dress for the weather, as most of this training takes place outdoors, rain or shine. Coffee/tea with lite breakfast and lunch are included on Saturday, but remember your canteen for drinks throughout the day. 

Note: We strive for zero waste during our training events; please bring your canteen for drinks.

This training is ideal for educators, caregivers, and others working with children in programs that prioritize nature-based experiences. Our participants work in all kinds of settings, from nature-based schools and forest kindergartens to public schools, traditional preschools, HeadStart programs, child care settings, and more.

Workshop Descriptions and Presenter Bios

More details coming soon! This is a sampling of typical session topics and workshops:

• Astronomy for children
• Wildcrafting
• Winter Solstice Celebrations and Traditions
• Forest Bathing
• Candlemaking
• Birding
• Seasonal crafts
• Foraging
• Yule Log making

...and more!

With special thanks to our partners at:

Have questions? Email us at programs@anbe.org. Please note that all participants are required to complete this waiver during registration. Our refund policies are found here as well.