Registration for the 14th Natural Impression Presque Isle Student Art Competition opens Dec. 1, 2025, and runs through Feb. 13, 2026. This year’s theme, “Presque Isle 250,” invites students to illustrate 250 years of history at Presque Isle through their artwork in honor of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
To register, participants should email Brian Gula at bgula@pa.gov to receive an entry form and full competition details. The event is part of America250PA, a statewide initiative established in 2018 to commemorate the nation’s founding and Pennsylvania’s role in shaping its history.
In addition to the art competition, several educational and family-friendly programs are scheduled throughout December.
Presque Isle Waterfowl where guests can learn about the peninsula’s migratory and nesting waterfowl through a presentation and exhibit tour at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC) on Dec. 9, 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. Registration is required by Dec. 3, 2025.
Nighttime Tapestry where guests can explore the wonders of the night sky with a park naturalist during this online virtual program on Dec. 12, from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. Registration is required by Dec. 9.
Erie Bluffs After Dark on Dec. 15, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. guests can take a guided 1.5-mile evening walk along Lake Erie’s shoreline and discover local wildlife. Guests should dress for the weather and hiking boots are recommended. Interested parties should meet at the Elk Creek Access parking lot.
Nature enthusiasts are invited to join a park naturalist for an educational program exploring the habits of Presque Isle’s two apex predators: the coyote and the fox. The virtual event will take place on Friday, Dec. 19, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Registration is required by Dec. 16.
Participants will learn about the behaviors, roles, and ecological importance of these fascinating species within the park. A link to join the program will be emailed the day before the event. Registration is required by Dec. 16, 2025.
TREC Natural Ornaments on Dec. 20, 1:00 until 3:00 p.m., create holiday decorations using natural materials collected from the park. Cost is $3 per person, exact cash only.
The Natural Wonders will take place on Dec. 23, from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. Enjoy a virtual journey through Presque Isle’s unique landscapes and wildlife. Registration required by Dec. 18.
Registration is required for all programs by the listed deadlines. For more information, visit the Tom Ridge Environmental Center website or contact park staff directly.