Indianapolis, Indiana – Newfields is gearing up for a unique and exciting event this spring with the grand opening of the Wake Up, Woods StoryWalk installation at The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. Set for Saturday, April 19, this event marks a special partnership between Newfields and The Indianapolis Public Library, inviting families to celebrate literacy, nature, and the joys of reading in an outdoor setting. The StoryWalk is free to both members and the public, with an easy registration process available at newfields.com.
The StoryWalk installation features the children’s book Wake Up, Woods, written by Mike Homoya, a former State Botanist and well-respected figure in the field of plant life. As families walk along the path in the park, they’ll encounter weather-resistant panels displaying the pages of Homoya’s enchanting book, which brings nature’s wonders to life for young readers. The StoryWalk not only encourages children and families to read but also promotes physical activity and a deeper connection to the environment. It’s an experience that beautifully merges literacy with outdoor exploration.
The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park, where the StoryWalk is located, provides the perfect backdrop for this new installation. As visitors walk the short path, they will notice that the Indiana Native Plant Society will be planting native species mentioned in the book throughout the surrounding area. The Indianapolis Garden Club funded the planting of these native plants, enhancing the StoryWalk’s connection to both the book and the natural world. This spring, the plants will bloom, allowing families to not only read but also experience the flora featured in the story.
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One of the highlights of the grand opening will be a special opportunity to meet the author himself. Mike Homoya will lead two StoryWalks on opening day—one at 10 a.m. and another at 1 p.m. Each walk will be followed by a book signing in the Ruth Lilly Visitors Pavilion, giving attendees a chance to chat with the author, have their copies of Wake Up, Woods signed, and dive deeper into the book’s natural themes in celebration of Earth Day.
For those looking to enjoy a bit of refreshment, Newfields will also be offering a variety of themed snacks and treats at the snack truck near the pavilion, available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The combination of nature, books, and snacks makes for a fun, family-friendly event that encourages learning in the great outdoors.
“This StoryWalk is not just about enjoying a good story,” said a representative from Newfields. “It’s about engaging the community in a meaningful way, celebrating the beauty of nature, and inspiring children to develop a love for reading while fostering an understanding of the world around them.”
Whether you’re an avid reader, a nature lover, or just looking for a way to spend quality time with your family, the Wake Up, Woods StoryWalk promises to be an unforgettable experience. With free access to the installation and the added bonus of meeting the author, it’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Earth Day while enjoying everything that Newfields and The Indianapolis Public Library have to offer.
