Coming up at Hills Creek State Park at 111 Spillway Road, Wellsboro, PA 16901-9676 are free in-person programs this Friday and Saturday, July 7 and 8. The park is seven miles northeast of Wellsboro in Charleston Township via Charleston Street and Hills Creek Lake Road.

Fireflies – Nature’s Fireworks is This Friday, July 7 from 9:30pm to 10:15pm

Firefly, lightening bug, or glow bug – whatever you may call them, stop by the park’s nature center to learn about the science behind these spectacular summer bugs. Learn why and how fireflies flash, their habitat requirements and what you can do to help protect Pennsylvania’s state insect. The program will conclude with a firefly watch in the field by the park’s nature center.

Venus and the Mid Summer Sky is This Saturday, July 8 from 8:30pm to 10:30pm

Join members of the Pennsylvania Wilds Astronomy Club (PaWildsAstro.org) for an evening observation session. Observing will start at about 8:30pm with Venus in its large crescent phase. Once it is completely dark, the telescopes will move to objects highlighting the midsummer sky, including clusters, nebulas, and double stars. In the event of clouds, a demonstration of night vision equipment will be substituted. This event will not be held if it is raining. It is recommended that those camping in the park walk to the program. Those who need to drive are asked to arrive early and park in the field past the nature center. Bring a small flashlight with a red lens. 

For more information, call the Hills Creek State Park office at 570-724-4246 between 9am and 5pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday.