The Nature Center Puts the Fun in Fungi at the 12th Annual Wild Mushroom Festival

From a press release

The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (DPNC) will put the fun in fungi with a celebration of mushrooms of the forest, field and garden at the Wild Mushroom Festival on Sunday, September 29, 2013 from 2 to 5 p.m. This year marks the twelfth year of the annual event that takes place on the grounds of the Nature Center. The festival offers guided forays into the woods led by fungi experts from the CT Valley Mycological Society (CVMS) to identify local specimens.

Foraging for fungi is not the only highlight for this uniquely flavored event. There’s also live bluegrass music and samples of mushroom inspired dishes prepared by local restaurants. Some of the participants donating their time, skills and presentations include Gray Goose Cookery, 84 Tavern on Canal, Daniel Packer Inne, Drawbridge Ice Cream, Zest Fresh Pastry, Maize n’ Manna, the Brazen Hen, Mango’s, Mystic Cheese Company and more. Locally produced beverages will also be available for sampling. 

And if you’re really a mycophile, bring your own mysterious find for the experts from the CVMS to identify. The CVMS has been active in Connecticut for over three decades and members of this renowned mushroom club will be at the festival to exhibit an extensive collection of mushrooms freshly foraged featuring all sorts of shapes, colors and varieties from the deadly to delectable. A special slideshow presentation by CVMS will also highlight the variety and beauty of mushrooms. 

Tickets to the Wild Mushroom Festival are on sale now for $12.50 for DPNC members and $15 for non-members. The event is held rain or shine. Four food tickets are included with the price of admission. Additional food tickets may be purchased after admission for $1 each. Proceeds support environmental and educational programming at the Nature Center. The event is made possible through the generosity of participants and sponsors. McQuade’s Marketplace, Gray Goose Cookery and the Connecticut Valley Mycological Society are this year’s event sponsors and proudly support the efforts and mission of DPNC. 

Since 1946, the Nature Center has provided visitors and the community with experiential science programs that further the Center’s mission: to inspire and nurture appreciation and scientific understanding of the natural world and foster a personal environmental ethic. The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center serves 50,000 people each year with environmental science programs. Made possible through the generosity and commitment of the Denison Homestead, the Nature Center is a private, not-for-profit organization funded by admission fees, memberships and contributions. With 10 miles of trails, live animals, and a natural history museum, the Nature Center provides many rewarding recreational and educational opportunities. More information about DPNC and its programs can be found at www.dpnc.org.