In-person programs at Hardberger Park that were suspended in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic have come back to the north San Antonio park.

The return of such activities kicked off Oct. 2 with a live bee hive demonstration and a lesson on how to plant for pollinators. The event was part of the monthlong Monarch Butterfly and Pollinator Festival.

Now registration is open for Growing Up Wild, where attendees—especially young children—can learn about bats. Classes are scheduled for 10-11:30 a.m. Oct. 19, 20 and 21.

Each class is to be held outdoors, and volunteers will wear a mask to protect young children in the crowd. Each class is limited to 15 children.

From 9-11 a.m. Oct. 9, visit the Phil Hardberger Park Conservancy’s table to pick up a grab-n-go kit filled with activities to help people explore the park.

This month’s theme is bats. The kit includes information on looking for pollinators in the park and instructions on how to make origami critters.

The conservancy representatives will be available in the nature play area near the 8400 NW Military Hwy. entrance.

The park conservancy is still offering virtual events. Wildlife biologist Christine Westerman will discuss the ecology and wildlife of Hardberger Park during a Zoom presentation from 9-10:30 a.m. Oct. 23.

Register for the chat at https://philhardbergerpark.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7340d10cf7eef9f3fc41200d6&id=ba319066a5&e=6d9be7314f.

All nature programs are free. Visit www.philhardbergerpark.org for more information about the park and conservancy.