Protecting Habitats Protects Life
Habitats provide homes for all living things, from the tiniest ant to the tallest tree. The exhibition Habitat explores the critical need for varied habitats, how interconnected and fragile they are, and what we can do to protect them. The experience showcases the unique habitats throughout the gardens and landscapes of Conner Prairie.
Habitat was developed by Smithsonian Gardens and is made available by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service.
Upcoming Programs & Events
Knifesmithing: Building the Hand-Forged Knife
March 3
During this five-session workshop, you can expect to complete at least one knife. When signing up, please make sure you can attend all classes in this workshop to get the full experience. Guests must supply their own 120 grit sandpaper, an 8 or 10-inch, half-round file with handle, and a 10 or 12-inch flat file with handle.
Woodworking: Shaker Side Table
March 5, 12 and 19
In this weekly workshop, consisting of three sessions, students will build a small table with a single drawer using hand tools and locally sourced walnut wood. We will use the same methodology as woodworkers from the few Shaker communities in this region during the early 1800s.
Metalworking, Copper Bracelet: Morning Class
March 7
Creating wearable art is a unique and personal metalworking experience. We provide the tools and techniques for you to make a copper bracelet. You will begin with soft copper. Using hammers, you will flatten, texture, and shape metal into a beautiful, custom piece for yourself or someone special.
Metalworking, Copper Bracelet: Afternoon Class
March 7
Creating wearable art is a unique and personal metalworking experience. We provide the tools and techniques for you to make a copper bracelet. You will begin with soft copper. Using hammers, you will flatten, texture, and shape metal into a beautiful, custom piece for yourself or someone special.
Fun in the Forge
March 8
Experience the thrill of being a blacksmith for the day. At Fun in the Forge, you will learn how to use a coal forge and anvil to create some simple yet impressive products. From wall hooks to BBQ skewers, flint and steel to a dinner bell, this program guides you through the process of learning new skills and refining techniques.
Knifesmithing: Building the Hand-Forged Knife
March 10
During this five-session workshop, you can expect to complete at least one knife. When signing up, please make sure you can attend all classes in this workshop to get the full experience. Guests must supply their own 120 grit sandpaper, an 8 or 10-inch, half-round file with handle, and a 10 or 12-inch flat file with handle.
Blacksmithing: One Piece Knife
March 14
In this class, you will learn how to use our traditional coal forge, gain hammer and anvil techniques, and perfect the use of files and grinders. After you have crafted your knife, you will heat treat the metal for a hardened finish. Upon completion, you not only get to leave with an enhanced understanding of history, but you also get to take home your creation.
The Magic and Science of Dairying: Making Soft Cheese, Cultured Butter and Other Dairy Treats
March 15
This hands-on experience focuses on how important and easy it is to learn the techniques of dairying. In this five-hour workshop we will focus on wholesome soft cheese and two types of butter, plus other historic dairy treats!
Knifesmithing: Building the Hand-Forged Knife
March 17
During this five-session workshop, you can expect to complete at least one knife. When signing up, please make sure you can attend all classes in this workshop to get the full experience. Guests must supply their own 120 grit sandpaper, an 8 or 10-inch, half-round file with handle, and a 10 or 12-inch flat file with handle.
Wheel Thrown Pottery: Afternoon Sessions
March 18, 25, and April 1 and 8
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether you are a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to develop skills at your own pace.
Wheel Thrown Pottery: Evening Sessions
March 18, 25, and April 1 and 8
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether you are a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to develop skills at your own pace.
Blacksmithing: One Piece Knife
March 21
In this class, you will learn how to use our traditional coal forge, gain hammer and anvil techniques, and perfect the use of files and grinders. After you have crafted your knife, you will heat treat the metal for a hardened finish. Upon completion, you not only get to leave with an enhanced understanding of history, but you also get to take home your creation.
Woodworking: 19th Century Puzzle Box
March 22
Pocket-size boxes with trick lids were popular in the nineteenth century for carrying tobacco, among other things. These novelty boxes could take many shapes, from simple rectangles to coffins, shoes, and more. Easy to make and fun to use, this project makes for a great handmade gift or keepsake.
Knifesmithing: Building the Hand-Forged Knife
March 24
During this five-session workshop, you can expect to complete at least one knife. When signing up, please make sure you can attend all classes in this workshop to get the full experience. Guests must supply their own 120 grit sandpaper, an 8 or 10-inch, half-round file with handle, and a 10 or 12-inch flat file with handle.
Corn to Cocktail: Rye
March 27
In this hands-on class, guests learn about the versatility of Indiana’s top crop–corn! Attendees learn about corn’s influence on history and also on the spirits that we consume. We will practice some basic bar skills, mix up two historical cocktails and hear the often-colorful stories behind each one, while sipping socially.
Gardening for the Beginner
April 12
Join us in the garden for an introductory class where you learn all the basics to get your garden growing in the right direction. Learn how to select the perfect site, test the soil, prepare the ground, and when to know that your soil is ready for planting. We will plant some seeds for you to take home and start germinating for your very own garden.
Fun in the Forge
April 19
Experience the thrill of being a blacksmith for the day. At Fun in the Forge, you will learn how to use a coal forge and anvil to create some simple yet impressive products. From wall hooks to BBQ skewers, flint and steel to a dinner bell, this program guides you through the process of learning new skills and refining techniques.
Corn to Cocktail: Vodka
April 24
In this hands-on class, guests learn about the versatility of Indiana’s top crop–corn! Attendees learn about corn’s influence on history and also on the spirits that we consume. We will practice some basic bar skills, mix up two historical cocktails and hear the often-colorful stories behind each one, while sipping socially.
We Can Camp!
April 26–27
Love the idea of camping as a family but don't know where to start? Join us as you learn basic camping skills, enjoy fun outdoor experiences and spend the night on our grounds in a tent! This program is perfect for first-time campers or anyone looking for a refresher. We provide all the camping gear you'll need, along with modern restrooms and overnight security.
Woodworking Unplugged: Spoon Carving
April 26
Learn how to carve a simple spoon in this one-day, beginner friendly class. Lessons will cover safe carving techniques, tools, differences in carving greenwood* and “dry” wood, and the use of finishes. Finally, students will be given ample time to carve a simple spoon design as part of a group session. This process will further develop the skills and passion to continue carving on your own.
Woodturning for Beginners
May 3 and 4
In this class, learn the basics of woodturning while making simple and elegant projects including a candleholder, a rolling pin, and a honey dipper. This two-session class celebrates all the possibilities created from a single machine and a few hand tools.
Forest Therapy
May 4
Experience the pleasures of nature through all your senses, led by a certified Forest Therapy guide. Forest Therapy is a guided walk that invites participants to slow down and experience nature spaces in new ways. It’s a time to intentionally surround yourself in nature without distraction.
Heritage Breeds Week
May 15 - 21
Participate in exciting activities, watch fascinating demonstrations, learn about Conner Prairie's efforts to preserve heritage breeds and discover what makes these rare animals so special. Meet and Greet with animals all across the grounds.
Leaf and Flower Pounding
May 18
Spring brings out the best in nature’s colors as blooms come to life in a palette of endless possibilities. The season’s natural materials can be an inspiration for you to use your green thumb and create beautiful and impressive works of art in unconventional ways. Leaf and flower pounding is where you can learn how to transfer the color from flowers and leaves onto various items by using a hammer.
Corn to Cocktail: Bourbon
May 22
In this hands-on class, guests learn about the versatility of Indiana’s top crop–corn! Attendees learn about corn’s influence on history and also on the spirits that we consume. We will practice some basic bar skills, mix up two historical cocktails and hear the often-colorful stories behind each one, while sipping socially.
Forest Therapy
May 22
Experience the pleasures of nature through all your senses, led by a certified Forest Therapy guide. Forest Therapy is a guided walk that invites participants to slow down and experience nature spaces in new ways. It’s a time to intentionally surround yourself in nature without distraction.
Black Birders Week
May 25–31
Sunset Stroll
May 29
A glowing sunset that stretches across the open prairie is an unforgettable experience. Take an evening stroll with fellow nature enthusiasts and engage in insightful conversations about nature. Each stroll focuses on a different theme to build knowledge, connection, and appreciation of the natural world around us.