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The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission

Meadowside Nature Center – Birthday Party Guidelines

Party at Meadowside

Plan your party set-up, cleanup, nature program, and party activities within your 3-hour reserved time. You have the use of the classroom and pavilion during this time.

Payment is required in full at the time of reservation. We only give refunds if the nature center has canceled your reservation. Please make checks payable to M-NCPPC or Meadowside Nature Center. Write your reserved date and time on your check.

We do not have kitchen facilities, so bring your food items in coolers or other appropriate containers. Bring everything you need, including plates, cups, napkins, plastic ware, birthday candles, matches, tablecloths, and decorations.

Morning and Afternoon Start Times

Typical party schedules as follows.

  • 9:30am to 12:30pm
    • 9:30-10:00 Set-up
    • 10:00-10:30 Guest Arrival
    • 10:30-11:30 Naturalist Led Program
    • 11:30-12:30 Party Activities and Cleanup
  • 1pm to 4:00pm
    • 1:00-1:30 Set-up
    • 1:30-2:00 Guest Arrival
    • 2:00-3:00 Naturalist Led Program
    • 3:00-4:00 Party Activities and Cleanup

Party Guidelines 

  • The birthday child must be turning at least 3 years old.
  • Parties are limited to 20 children.
  • The maximum number of adults and children allowed is 35.
  • All food and party activities must be kept inside the classroom.
  • Decorations are limited to the classroom and can only be affixed to the walls with tape. Do not attach any items to the ceiling.
  • The following items are not allowed: piñatas, confetti, candles (except for birthday cake candles), and balloons.
  • Adults must accompany and supervise children, at all times, including the exhibit area, lobby, curiosity corner room, raptor walkway, trails, and restrooms.
  • No climbing, running, screaming/loud noises, or other inappropriate behavior inside the center or outside around the raptors..
  • Do not feed or put items into the animal cages or the pond.
  • All trash and recyclables must be disposed of in proper receptacles. Brooms, dustpans, and trash bags are available for cleanup.