How about a week of birds, bikes, fishing and fungi?

Welcome to The Herald-News’ Will County Inside/Outside Guide. Each week, Features Editor Denise M. Baran-Unland (@Denise_Unland61) highlights a few ideas for you to enjoy your weekend in Will County.

Nothing rejuvenates the spirit like spending time in the natural world. So this week I’m featuring some outdoor, in-person events from the Forest Preserve District of Will County, as well as some virtual programs you can enjoy with a friend from the comfort of your own homes.

But perhaps you’ve had enough of nature this year and want to get back to “real life.”

Then you might want to register - soon - for the “Listening Party” at 7 p.m. March 27 at the Joliet Area Historical Museum, located at 204 Ottawa St. in Joliet. The evening includes music by Listening Party as well as a pulled pork sandwich, pasta salad and cookie. Cash bar is available. Attendees limited to 50.

To register, visit jolietmuseum.org/upcoming-programs.

Nature-lovers, read on:

Breakfast with the Birds

When: 8 a.m. Friday, March 26

Where: Zoom

Free, all ages.

Hang out at the Forest Preserve District’s Isle a la Cache preserve through Zoom. The camera will be on the very active bird feeders. A naturalist in the background, will share information about the birds as well as tips for turing your yard into a bird haven. I’ve done “Breakfast with the Turtles” with my two daughters - and one lives on the east coast. We really enjoyed it. Registration is required. Call 815-886-1467 or visit ReconnectWithNature.org.

Woodcock Walk for Families

When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 26

Where: Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, Channahon.

This free, all-age program begins with background on the American woodcock at McKinley Woods – Kerry Sheridan Grove. Then attendees will take a hike to observe the male’s courtship flight. Registration is required by Thursday, March 25. Call 815-722-9470 or visit ReconnectWithNature.org.

Kids’ Bicycle Safety Day

When: 10 a.m.-noon, Saturday, March 27

Where: Hickory Creek Preserve – LaPorte Road Access, Mokena.

This free event for ages 12 and up teaches kids basic bicycle safety. Features include safety instruction and the ABC quick check for bicycles, along with some fun activities. Participants must bring bicycles. Helmets are strongly encouraged. Registration for participating children is required by Thursday, March 25. A parent must remain on site. Call 815-727-8700 or visit ReconnectWithNature.org.

Fishing Will County Preserves

When: 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 31

Where: Zoom

Anyone age 10 and up can listen to a forest preserve naturalist discuss fishing hot spots, the common sport fish of Will County and local fishing ordinances. The forest preserve’s lakes, streams and rivers will be highlighted. Participants may share their own local fish stories. Registration is required. Call 815-886-1467 or visit ReconnectWithNature.org.

Mushrooms and Friends

When: 6 p.m. March 31

Where: Zoom

People of all ages are invited to explore the “fascinating world of fungi,” according to the forest preserve. Learn various types and how they live underground and connect with the greater world. This program includes an introduction to species in Will County and how they contribute to the county’s ecosystem. Registration is required. Call 815-722-9470 or visit ReconnectWithNature.org.

Thoughts? Drop me a line at dunland@shawmedia.com.