Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Location: Rainbow River (Chimera & Meraki Properties)
Target Audience: Families, College Students, Nature Enthusiasts, & Eco-Explorers!
Get ready to dive into 4.5 miles of crystal-clear, emerald waters for a weekend packed with adventure, learning, and hands-on conservation! Whether you’re paddling down the river, snorkeling alongside local wildlife, or learning how to protect Florida’s vibrant ecosystems, this 3-day edutainment getaway offers the ultimate blend of fun, relaxation, and purpose.
🌟 Event Highlights & Activities
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🗺️ The Great Eco-Scavenger Hunt: Grab your camera or phone! Compete in a multi-day wildlife and conservation photo scavenger hunt along the riverbank and on the water. Spot native birds, track spring features,and win eco-friendly prizes!
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🚤 Guided Pontoon Boat Safari: Sit back and explore the scenic natural beauty of the river with local wildlife experts.
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🚣 Paddle & Play (Free Time): Kayak, canoe, swim, or snorkel at your own pace surrounded by breathtaking natural springs.
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🧠 "Springs & Trivia" Night: Put your knowledge to the test during evening socials while connecting with fellow nature lovers.
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🌱 Actionable Conservation: Learn real-world ways you can help protect Florida's fragile spring ecosystems forever.
📅 Weekend Schedule at a Glance
DAY 1: Welcome to the River!
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4:00 PM: Arrival & Chill – Check in, unpack, and grab your welcome itinerary.
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5:00 PM: Sunset Mixer – Kick off the weekend with refreshing drinks & hors d’oeuvres while meeting fellow adventurers.
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6:30 PM: Welcome Dinner – Enjoy a classic Italian dinner (Spaghetti, Fresh Salad, & Warm Garlic Bread) to fuel up for the weekend ahead!
DAY 2: Explore, Learn & Play
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7:30 AM: Southern Breakfast Meet & Greet – Start your day right with a hearty Southern breakfast spread.
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8:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Florida Springs: Now and, Hopefully, Forever? – Interactive presentation by the Florida Springs Council, followed by an open Q&A and discussion on how we can save our waters.
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11:00 AM: Guided Pontoon Boat Tour – Take to the water to see wildlife up close and kickoff The Great Eco-Scavenger Hunt!
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1:00 PM: Springside Picnic Lunch – Sandwiches, chips, and cold drinks by the river.
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2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Free Water Time – Launch canoes or kayaks, swim, or work on your scavenger hunt list!
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4:00 PM: Deep Dive into History – Learn the rich heritage and lore of Dunnellon & The Rainbow River.
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5:00 PM: Full Feast Dinner – Unwind with a delicious chef-curated dinner.
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6:00 PM: Protecting Florida Springs: What You Can Do – Empowering interactive session with tips and hacks for individual conservation action.
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8:00 PM: Starlight Social Hour – Games, socializing, and relaxed evening fun under the stars.
DAY 3: Final Splash & Farewell
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7:30 AM: Rise & Shine Continental Breakfast
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8:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Morning Paddle & Photo Submissions – Final chance for canoeing, kayaking, or completing your scavenger hunt challenges.
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11:00 AM: Checkout & Boxed Lunch to Go – Turn in scavenger hunt cards, claim your eco-swag bag, grab your packed lunch, and head home inspired!
