Stargazing, bird-watching on tap

Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority is hosting a variety of free public programs this summer.

For information, e-mail tracy.young@mrca.ca.gov.

Programs at King Gillette Ranch are free. Parking is $5.

•King Gillette Ranch will host Family Fun Night from 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Tuesday throughout the summer, July 8, 15, 22, 29 at 26800 Mulholland Hwy., Calabasas. Meet at the parking lot to the left of the bridge.

Scheduled activities include storytelling, songs, a nature program, and marshmallows. Bring a blanket or chair to sit in. The ranch will provide the marshmallows, skewers, and, weather permitting, a campfire.

•A night hike is scheduled from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. today, Thurs. July 3 at King Gillette Ranch. Easy walk.

•Morning Birds birdwatching will be from 8 to 10 a.m. Sun. July 13 at King Gillette Ranch. Meet at the Botanic Center. Bring binoculars. Beginning birders are welcomed. Casual 1-mile walk.

•Trail to the Stars will be from 8 to 9:30 or 10 p.m. Fri., July 11 at Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve, located at the end of Victory Boulevard near Valley Circle intersection, Woodland Hills. Meet at the Victory entrance.

Astronomy event with moderate half-mile walk. Event is free; $1 parking fee.