Big Fish, Little Fish | New Times Broward-Palm Beach

Big Fish, Little Fish

Boca Raton drops some marine biology

SAT 3/13 It's no revelation that sea life harbors a strong influence in much of our community, from restaurants to recreation. For those not acquainted with life in the great sea beyond what they might have picked up from Animal Planet, Boca Raton's Daggerwing Nature Center offers "Ocean Fest," a lengthy afternoon workshop on all things marine life.

Free and open to the public, Ocean Fest promotes awareness about life in the deep blue sea. It features enticing tutorials from the folks at Gumbo Limbo Environmental Complex, a nature center that focuses on the life of sea turtles. Also making an appearance are representatives from the Okeeheelee Nature Center in West Palm Beach, who present a more interactive atmosphere with their "touch tank," where kids can connect with such intriguing submarine species as starfish and sea urchins. In addition, reps from Boca Raton Ocean Rescue discuss ethical ways to set up saltwater aquariums. Boca Raton Ocean Rescue also brings a stingray and living rock along for the ride for kids to admire. Ocean Fest takes place from 1 to 4:30 p.m. at South County Regional Park (11200 Park Access Rd., Boca Raton). Free crafts are available while they last. Call 561-488-9953. -- Kirin Aditham

Gold Rush

Where's me Lucky Charms?

SAT 3/13

Though some idealists try to chase the ends of elusive rainbows, none has ever succeeded. Even though a mythic pot o' gold is supposed to await lucky adventurers, it has until now evaded us beyond the colorful spectrum of our imaginations. For those grounded in reality, we call this the lottery. For the young ones, however, a scavenger hunt just might be the next best thing. Lake Forest Park (3450 SW 48th Ave., Pembroke Park) caters to kids ages 6 to 17 by hosting a St. Patrick's Day-themed scavenger hunt. Participants, divided into teams, will scour the park for clues that lead them to candy, prizes, toys, and games. The free event begins at 10 a.m. and promises to be a fun time for kids and adolescents alike. There may not be gold, but candy's just as good. Call 954-985-1915. -- Kirin Aditham