Arboretum at Penn State Festival Explores ‘Wild Wellness’

UNIVERSITY PARK — The community is invited to explore the benefits of movement, art and wellness in the natural surroundings of the Arboretum at Penn State during the annual Wild Wellness Festival and Market on Sunday, April 26.

The event will be held from noon to 5 p.m. and include a combination of free children’s programming, paid wellness activities for adults ages 18 and above and an outdoor market with food trucks and vendors.

Registration for adult classes is available on the Wild Wellness Festival and Market web page or during the event.

With a plethora of wellness experiences, the event offers an opportunity for community members to explore new ways to focus on health and connect with nature, said Rachel Duke, public programs manager for the Arboretum.

“Wild Wellness is a great way to celebrate spring and new beginnings, and this festival does just that. With our buffet of programming, it really lets people try new things and see if they like them and how they can bring them into their lives in a healthy way,” Duke said.

During Wild Wellness, experts in herbalism, art and physical wellness will lead adult sessions focused on a wide variety of wellness activities, including botany 101, herbal first aid, mindful nature journaling, rope making, yoga and more, all in a tranquil outdoor setting.

“A lot of people feel rejuvenated when they go outside, and studies have shown that nature is healing. So, we are combining that outdoor experience with education that is based in nature, plants and physical wellness,” said Duke.

Free activities include children’s programming in the Childhood’s Gate Children’s Garden and a market featuring 14 central Pennsylvania–based vendors.

“We are so excited to bring in small, local businesses that are really focused on sustainability, keeping things locally made and supporting our community,” said Duke.

In the evening, teams of individuals over the age of 21 can test their knowledge with environmental trivia and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the Arboretum.

“We hope people come on out and make new connections and learn about the opportunities that are available at the Arboretum,” she said. “It’s about feeling a sense of belonging in the gardens and knowing that you have access to these types of programs.”

Visit the Arboretum website for more information about the event. The Arboretum at Penn State is part of Penn State Outreach.