Collegeville Colors allows first-hand look at changing fall foliage

Fall in central Minnesota gives us a chance to vividly see the colors of the changing seasons. If you're looking for a great outdoor family event, join Saint John's Outdoor University for Collegeville Colors in the Abbey Arboretum from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16 at Saint John's Abbey and University. Registration will be near Saint John's Preparatory School. 

This is no ordinary walk in the woods. Attendees are invited to walk a three-mile loop on the Arboretum's Chapel Trail while enjoying various activities and presenters along the way. If you have youngsters that are not up for the full loop, join them on the shorter "Kids' Loop" near the Preparatory School. 

Some of the trail activities and presenters included are: Johnnie Blend a cappella group; community painting and poem; folk musicians; classical musicians; Minnesota Herpetological Society; wool felting demonstration; kids' scavenger hunt; St. John's Boys' Choir; and slackline demonstrations. There will also be a bonfire with music, lawn games and light refreshments. Come enjoy the sights and sounds of Collegeville Colors, where art and nature invite you for a walk. 

The cost for Outdoor University members are $3 pre-registered and $4 the day of the event; children of members (ages 17 and under) are admitted free. The non-member fee is $6 pre-registered and $7 the day of the event; children of non-members (ages 4-17) are $3 pre-registered and $4 the day of the event, with children ages 3 and under admitted free. 

Pre-register by 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 14, to receive the discount. Call 320-363-3163 or visit the Outdoor University website for more information and to register. 

The event is entirely outdoors — rain or shine. Dress for the weather and please leave pets and bikes at home. 

Saint John's Outdoor University provides environmental and outdoor education through classes, events, and initiatives with the Abbey Arboretum, Saint John's University and the College of Saint Benedict. 

Saint John's Abbey Arboretum is more than 2,500 acres of lakes, prairie, oak savannah and forest owned by Saint John's Abbey and surrounding Saint John's University. Together, we celebrate the unique beauty and richness of God's creation in central Minnesota and foster the Benedictine traditions of land stewardship, education and environmental respect.