Thorne Nature Experience turned a dream into reality with the grand opening of the Lafayette Nature Center on June 15th, 2024. We welcomed over 1,200 members of our community with delicious food, fantastic performers, and a beautiful day of nature connection.
Smiles were ubiquitous when Jeff and Paige took to the stage in their signature rainbow socks, a nod to the Rainbow Socks nonprofit “that helps bring affordable nature and science-based musical and theatrical programming to all.” Audience members danced, clapped, and sang along to favorites. The crowd was left in high spirits for Payaso Salarín’s engaging performance that included everything from potato sack races to tug-of-war.
Children of all ages enjoyed swinging, climbing, and sliding on our nature play structures. Curious minds sifted through the sandpits, while makers transformed the loose materials into grand buildings. Grupo Folklórico Bailes de Mi Tierra & Grupo Folklórico’s mesmerizing dance stylings brought us to our feet as the dancers helped us find our rhythm, just in time for us to feel the heart of Bateria Alegria’s percussion-style music. Miguel & Guillermo closed the event with a composition like no other.
After months of planning and years of dreaming, the Grand Opening of Lafayette Nature was far better than we ever could’ve imagined. Thank you to all who came to celebrate with us. We can’t wait to embark on this next chapter with the Lafayette community.
CLICK HERE to see the event photo album!