Tuning in to the shifting of the seasons is restorative on many levels. In the Upper Delaware River region, it’s time to shake off the shackles of the snow-laden season and wake up our winter-weary senses to spring’s arrival.

It should go without saying that this can’t be accomplished from the comfort of one’s couch. Reaping the benefits of interacting with the natural world requires that we actually go outside to experience the beauty and mystery of all that is happening now.

Opportunities to re-connect are all around, including two Earth Day festivals coming up this weekend.

Hawley Earth Fest happens April 24-26 in Hawley, PA (see page 31), with a Species Parade slated for Saturday morning, followed by an Environmental Expo in Bingham Park. Children, adults and friendly dogs are encouraged to come in costume as their favorite plant, animal, or fungus. Local businesses and conservation organizations will offer programs, activities and events throughout the weekend, such as a presentation about the effects of climate change on more than 500 bird species, given by Barbara Leo of the NEPA Audubon Society. For more invormation, visit www.hawleyearthfest.com.

Pocono Environmental Education Center in Dingmans Ferry, PA will host its Earth Day Festival on April 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with hands-on learning stations, interpretive hikes, conservation exhibits, animals, crafts, food, music and more. And on April 26 from 1 to 3 p.m., learn more about the amphibians living in our midst, during “Salamanders, Frogs and More.” Be prepared to get muddy while exploring breeding pools for these species. Visit www.peec.org for more information.