CALENDAR ANNOUNCEMENT CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us Florida State Parks Weekend Happenings: April 19-21 ~Visit a Florida State Park this weekend for exciting events and activities~ Florida's 175 state parks are the perfect places to explore, reconnect, try something new and make lasting memories with friends and families. Check out some of the exciting events and activities planned statewide this weekend, and visit a state park near you. Learn more about Florida State Parks and monthly events, including Earth Day celebrations and volunteer opportunities. Don't forget to share your adventures on social media using #FLStateParks.  Northwest Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State ParkFriday, April 19: Celebrate Earth Day at Maclay with a free yoga class, live music, food trucks, ranger-led nature hikes, garden tours and more.  CentralDade Battlefield Historic State ParkSaturday, April 20: Hop to it! Dade Battlefield Historic State Park is hosting its annual Eggs in the Park Easter egg hunt. Southeast Bahia Honda State Park Saturday, April 20: Learn how to repurpose everyday household items by turning them into works of art at the park's Earth Day Celebration. Southwest Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs State ParkSaturday, April 20: Be sure to bring your Easter basket as you search for egg-citing prizes during the Spring EGG-stravaganza.  Northeast Gilchrist Blue State ParkSaturday, April 20: Spend the day with friends and family cleaning up the park and springs during the Spring Clean Up for Earth Day. South Oscar Scherer State ParkSunday, April 20: Explore the wonders of the park on a Guided Tram Tour. You might even see a Florida scrub jay or gopher tortoise along the way!

About Florida State Parks, Greenways and Trails  The Florida Park Service is the proud recipient of three National Gold Medals for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, making Florida America’s first three-time Gold Medal winner. The awards were received in 1999, 2005 and 2013 from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association. Florida’s 175 state parks, trails and historic sites inspire residents and visitors with recreation opportunities and scenic beauty that help strengthen families, educate children, expand local economies and foster community pride. With nearly 800,000 acres, 100 miles of beaches and more than 1,500 miles of multi-use trails, residents and visitors should plan to visit soon and often to enjoy Florida’s natural treasures. Download the Florida State Parks Pocket Ranger® mobile app, available on iTunes and Android Market, to plan your trip and enhance your experience. For more information, visit www.FloridaStateParks.org.

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