Touch of Nature Buffalo Tro
Touch of Nature Buffalo Tro on November 20, 2026
Join us for one of Touch of Nature’s most beloved traditions as the Buffalo Tro returns on Friday, November 20, 2026. Rooted in the legacy of outdoor education pioneer L.B. Sharp, the Buffalo Tro honors the timeless power of storytelling, shared meals, and gathering in community around a fire.
Today, this event continues as a celebration of Touch of Nature’s mission to enhance the lives of all people through outdoor experiences, recognizing the hard work, dedication, and impact made throughout the year. It is an evening that honors where we’ve come from, invites us to be fully present in the moment, and inspires us to look toward the future.
What to Expect
Enjoy an evening of great food, local beverages, and time around the fire. The program is hosted outdoors, so please come dressed in layers and bring anything that will help you stay warm and comfortable.
The signature Buffalo Tro meal includes a steak cooked over hot, stacked hardwood coals, baked potato, salad, rolls, dessert plus local beer and wine available for purchase!
Event Schedule:
5:00 PM – Doors & Bar Open
6:00 PM – Buffalo Tro Program
7:15 PM – Dinner Served
Ticket Information
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General Admission: $50 per person - Includes one entrée and two glasses of local wine
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Table Reservation: $375 - Seats up to 8 guests and includes the same beverage benefits for each attendee
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SIU Student Ticket: $35 - Includes full admission and the meal; wine is not included.
A valid SIU student ID must be presented at the door.
Registration for the 2026 Buffalo Tro will be available soon. For questions or additional information, please call 618-453-1122.
The Legacy of the Buffalo Tro
The Buffalo Tro tradition was introduced to Touch of Nature by L.B. Sharp, who believed deeply in the value of community, shared experiences, and the lessons learned around a campfire. The act of cooking steaks over hot coals, paired with storytelling and reflection, became a foundational ritual—one that built identity, belonging, and connection among all who participated.
Today, the Buffalo Tro continues this legacy not only by honoring Sharp’s vision but by highlighting the stories of our present day—the moments, people, and programs that define who we are now. It is a living celebration of community and connection, carried forward through good food, shared firelight, and the collective stories that shape our future at Touch of Nature.
