An upcoming event in Palisade will offer participants a chance to learn about hunting, fishing and a variety of other outdoor activities.

The 16th annual Outdoor Heritage Day Festival is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 27 at Riverbend Park. This event is free and open to the public.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the Town of Palisade, Moose 92.3, Cabela’s, Orchard Mesa Gun Club and other local organizations and businesses will offer demonstrations and prizes.

“Colorado has something to offer any outdoor adventurer,” said Jace Zundel, district wildlife manager with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. “With so many options for those new to outdoor recreation or those looking to try a new sport, a quick introduction to these fun activities is all they need to get started. That is why we created this event.”

The festival will include demonstrations of hunting and search and rescue dogs, wildfire safety, fishing and how responsible camping.

Youth 15 years and younger, will receive a free fishing pole while supplies last by going through a series of stations to learn about laws and regulations, casting techniques, fish identification and habitat. Afterward, they can head over to the pond and use their rods to fish for trout. Anyone 16 and older planning to fish will need a valid fishing license.

Attendees will also have an opportunity to see some of Colorado’s fish up close in a portable fish tank, thanks to the Rifle Falls Hatchery.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife organized Outdoor Heritage Day in 2007 as a way to encourage participation in outdoor activities, especially among the younger generations. Working with its many partners with similar goals, the event has grown in scope and attendance.

“Colorado is known for having a wide variety of amenities, but our natural resources are among the most treasured,” Zundel said. “If people do not learn about our state’s great outdoors, including the importance of conservation of wildlife and habitat, we risk losing a very valuable and important part of Colorado’s heritage.”