BEEC Signature Events

Forest of … Mystery, Melody, Fashion

Forest of Mystery (October)
Forest of Fashion (April)
Forest of Melody (June)

Forest of Mystery

The Fractured Mind of Franklin Kind
Traverse a torch-lit trail through the woods and enter the whimsical mind of a scared young boy. But once you enter his imagination, will you find your way out?

Every October, Bonnyvale’s lands are transformed through the magic of theater into a spectacle of the imagination! Staged in a dozen scenes along torch-lit trails that meander through fields and into the dark woods, “travelers” move through this otherworld in a quest to save nature. Their participation in each scene uncovers the intricacies of the quest, which culminates with a bonfire of revelation at the summit of Heifer Hill. Director and writer James Gelter brings extensive theater experience to these productions, having worked with groups such as Vermont Theatre Company, Main Street Arts, and Sandglass Theatre.

The Forest of Mystery is BEEC’s biggest community event and fundraiser. Last year we welcomed over 500 people to Heifer Hill! Your participation supports our work, including school programming, community & youth programs, and citizen science initiatives.

Thursday – Saturday, October 23 – 25, 2025

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Thursday shows from 6:15-7:45
Friday and Saturday shows from 6:15-8:30
Hour-long, 1/2 mile journeys begin every 15 minutes

Arrival: Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of your journey. Journeys begin every 15 minutes on Thursday from 6:15pm to 7:45pm, and on Friday & Saturday from 6:15pm to 8:30pm.

Refreshments: Warm beverages and baked goods will be available by donation in the courtyard.

The Trail: You will travel together on a trail that is about 1/2 mile in length for roughly one hour. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and dress warmly for the October night. Flashlights may be used on the trail, but must be turned off during scenes. Please bring a walking stick or hiking poles if they will help you navigate a dark forest trail. Children must be accompanied by an adult and stay within their immediate proximity. The show is recommended for ages 6+.

Tickets:
BEEC members: Adult $22, Child $12
Non-members: Adult $26, Child $16
Adult: 18 years and older; Child: 6 to 17 years; 5 years and under are free.

Join or renew your membership here, or contact us if you have questions, are unsure of your membership status or need help purchasing tickets.

A Big Thanks To Our Sponsors

Our sponsors are a big part of what make this event possible. We send immense gratitude to the following businesses who are supporting this year's event:

Want to show your support and align your brand with an impactful community event?

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Sponsorship with BEEC

We invite you to become a valued partner in our mission and connect your brand with a community and a cause that matters.

Our Forest of Mystery production is our largest fundraiser of the year. Last year we sold out with 500+ attendees, and we've increased the showtimes this year to expect our biggest turnout yet.

Sponsorship gives your business great visibility—posters, e-news (2.1K readers), social media (1.9K+ followers), our website, and the show's event banner—while supporting Bonnyvale Environmental Education Center's mission to bring nature education to local schools and the community. By aligning your business with this cherished event, your also aligning your business with BEEC's local environmental education initiatives.

Whether through sponsorship or an in-kind donation, we’d love to partner with you for this beloved event.

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Forest of Fashion

During this one-day event, attendees will enjoy a walk through our woods, taking in a live fashion show along the trail. The garments, created by local schools, community organizations, and local artists/designers, all express an anti-fast fashion attitude by using upcycled, repurposed and natural materials. “Eco-style” explores the nexus of science, sustainability, and self-expression.

Spring 2026
Specific dates TBD
This event is FREE and open to all!

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No reservations or tickets required – just make sure you’re on the trail by 1:30pm to see the whole show! A special show for those with mobility challenges will take place in our accessible courtyard at 2:15pm. The Good Spot & Bratt Bakes will have beverages and baked goods for sale!

We’re partnering with Jay Calderin, founder of Boston Fashion Week. Jay is a Latinx educator at the School of Fashion Design Boston, MA College of Art and The Museum of Fine Arts Boston. His own fashion design has graced the pages of Elle, Vogue, and The NYT Sunday Styles section.

Jay has been working with BEEC as the lead consultant on the Forest of Fashion project, coaching participants towards executing their vision – from concept to finished garment – via a series of Zoom meetings through the 24-25 school year leading up to the event. We are no longer accepting submissions, and are looking forward to seeing what everyone has created!

Supported in part by Vermont Humanities & the Brattleboro Town Arts Fund—thank you!

Forest of Melody

Discover the magic of nature’s stage! Join us for an enchanting musical event celebrating spring at BEEC! Forest of Melody is a one-of-a-kind celebration that brings together music, nature, and community in a joyous tribute to the beauty of the season. Enjoy a variety of live musical performances along trails through our meadows and woodlands.

This event serves as a key fundraiser to help us continue our important work throughout the year. Your participation and generosity make a significant difference!

Summer 2026
Specific dates TBD
Hourlong, 1/2 mile journeys begin every 20 minute

See Event Details

Arrival: Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of your journey.

Refreshments: Light refreshments will be available for purchase, or you can bring your own portable beverages and snacks.

The Trail: You will travel together on a trail that is about 1/2 mile in length for roughly one hour. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, dress appropriately for the weather, and feel free to bring a walking stick or hiking poles to help you to navigate the trails. Children must be accompanied by an adult and stay within their immediate proximity.

The Performers: Info coming soon!

Ready to join the fun?

BEEC members support our work and enjoy discounted tickets–and they become a part of our amazing community!

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