Sarasota County invites the community to celebrate National Public Lands Day and Take a Child Outside Week from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 27 at Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.
For more than 30 years, National Public Lands Day has inspired communities to give back to the nation's public lands in every state and U.S. territory. This September, communities across the country will unite to celebrate and care for public lands – for current and future generations.
The 2025 theme is “Our Home Outdoors” and is a reminder that these lands are not just physical spaces—they are where relationships grow, stories are shared, lasting memories are made and communities take shape.
Volunteers of all ages are encouraged to participate with Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources staff in various activities, including litter pick-up, nuisance plant removal and mulching at Phillippi Estate Park.
“Volunteers play a vital role in caring for our parks and natural areas. Their commitment reflects a shared responsibility to protect and enhance ‘Our Home Outdoors’ for future generations,” said Nicole Rissler, director of Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources.
Registration is required for the event. Volunteers are encouraged to bring hand pruners, work gloves, hats, sunglasses, a refillable water bottle, bug spray and sunscreen. Additionally, closed-toe and closed-heel shoes, such as hiking boots or sneakers are recommended.
Interested volunteers can register here.
Families and individuals of all ages also are encouraged to visit a variety of hands-on, nature-themed “Exploration Stations” at the park Sept. 27, as part of celebrating Take a Child Outside Week from Sept. 24 to 30.
The stations, organized by Sarasota County UF/IFAS Extension and Sustainability, include kayaking, birdwatching, live animals and more to showcase the benefits of time spent in nature for children’s growth and development, academic success and overall well-being. All stations are free, with no registration needed.
For more information about National Public Lands Day or park volunteer opportunities, please visit SarasotaCountyParks.com or call 311.
To learn more about UF/IFAS Extension and Sustainability and other opportunities to connect with nature, please visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasota.