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Program & Events Calendar

To join a virtual program, visit www.zoom.com and enter the Zoom meeting ID.

Summit Metro Parks staff can adapt many programs to be accessible to anyone who would like to participate. Please make the request at the time of registration and/or at least 72 hours prior to the program. Contact us at 330-865-8065.

On the rare occasion of a program cancelation or change, please visit us on social media to see the latest information.

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Leaf Icon Monday, January 01, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

INAUGURAL NEW YEAR'S DAY SNOWSHOE HIKE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur for this inaugural New Year's Day program at Liberty Park. A few snowshoes will be available to use free of charge, or you may bring your own. Hot chocolate and a warm fire will be waiting for us afterward. There still will be a hike if snow conditions are not adequate. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/22: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

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Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 02, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

NATURE PLAY: SNOW


All ages can come to our Nature Play area in Goodyear Heights, along Alder Trail, and engage in fun, hands-on experiences with snow. No snow? We'll make our own! GYH/Pioneer

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 03, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

CARDIO HIKE


Start your New Year's resolution off strong while hiking four miles at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Snow- and ice-friendly footwear is recommended. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 03, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

THE LAST STRAW


Turn National Drinking Straw Day on its head and instead celebrate sustainability. Learn why straws and other single-use products must go. GYH/Lodge

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Leaf Icon Thursday, January 04, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

DROP-IN NATURE CRAFTS


All ages can join Naturalist Renell Roebuck for nature-crafting fun in the nature center. Please dress for a mess. LP/Nature Center

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Leaf Icon Thursday, January 04, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HISTORY OF ICE HARVESTING


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse to learn the history of ice harvesting. Discover why it was harvested and for what it was used. Reach Opportunity Center: 390 W. Crosier St. Akron, OH 44311

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Leaf Icon Thursday, January 04, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

TRIVIA HIKE


Take a hike to celebrate National Trivia Day! Learn some interesting tidbits about the history and wildlife of Sand Run while hiking Dogwood Trail. SR/Wadsworth

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Leaf Icon Friday, January 05, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

NOCTURNAL CRITTER CRAFT & STORY


Children ages 5 to 7 and their adult companions will enjoy this nature-inspired story time, during which we'll learn about the wildlife that is awake and active at night. A critter craft is included, so please dress for a mess. LP/Nature Center

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Leaf Icon Friday, January 05, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

OWL PROWL


Explore for owls with a naturalist. Patience and silence are essential when prowling for owls. Program for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. MF/Lake Area

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Leaf Icon Saturday, January 06, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

NATURE PLAY: ANIMAL TRACKS


*Due to the weather, this program has been moved inside the nature center.* All ages can come to our Nature Play area in Liberty Park, along Maple Loop Trail, to play and learn about different animal tracks. A naturalist will be on hand to help guide you. Getting dirty is encouraged, so dress appropriately.  LP/Nature Center

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 07, 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

WINTER TREE I.D.


 CV/Chuckery

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 07, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

KIDS YOGA


Kids, ages 7 to 12, and their adult companions join certified yoga instructors for a program focused on connecting with nature. Weather permitting, this class may include a short hike. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel, and drinking water. Some mats are provided, while supplies last. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 07, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT RECEPTION


Join Summit Metro Parks for the opening reception of the 2017 Amateur Photography Exhibit. Meet the photographers, enjoy light refreshments and see the natural beauty of the Metro Parks through the eyes and cameras of folks like you. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 09, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL TAILS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families explore a wide variety of animal tails. Includes a hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/2: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

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Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 09, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA: VINYASA


Enjoy an active vinyasa yoga practice with a certified instructor. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/29: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 10, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Old Mill Trail, with frequent stops to discover history and nature along the way. FR/Brushwood

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 10, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

NIGHT HIKE & FIRE


Listen to nighttime sounds and search for nocturnal creatures while strolling through the dark. Afterward, enjoy a campfire and marshmallows, while supplies last. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

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Leaf Icon Thursday, January 11, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL TAILS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families explore a wide variety of animal tails. Includes a hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/2: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

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Leaf Icon Thursday, January 11, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Hike four miles at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. SC/Big Oak

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Leaf Icon Thursday, January 11, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

WOODPECKERS


Learn about Ohio's seven woodpeckers and their fascinating adaptations. LP/Nature Center

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Leaf Icon Friday, January 12, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: WINTER WATER


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Discover some of the amazing adaptations that wildlife have developed to survive beneath the ice. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/5: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Friday, January 12, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: WINTER WATER


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Discover some of the amazing adaptations that wildlife have developed to survive beneath the ice. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/5: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Friday, January 12, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

NANO NATURE


Get up close and personal with this presentation of extremely magnified images of wildlife and their features. Program includes a presentation and hands-on microscope demonstration. Recommended for ages 10 and older. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Saturday, January 13, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

PINECONE BIRD FEEDERS


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to make pinecone bird feeders to use this winter, and then head outside to feed the birds from your hand. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 14, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

ARCHERY FOR KIDS


Children 9 to 15 can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 1/10: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 14, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

BALD EAGLE EXTRAVAGANZA


Join us for an afternoon about bald eagles during this family-friendly open house event. Learn about the birds' natural history and where to view them, discover current-day challenges and much more. There will be live eagle programs at 1 p.m. and 2 p.m., but space will be limited. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 14, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

ARCHERY FOR ADULTS


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Participants 16 and older can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 1/10: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

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Leaf Icon Monday, January 15, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

ARCHERY GAMES FOR KIDS


Ages 9 to 15 will play different games to build archery skills in a fun and exciting way. Participants must have already taken one of our Intro to Archery programs. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: Free. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 1/11: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

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Leaf Icon Monday, January 15, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking four miles at a vigorous pace. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. HH/Main Entrance

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Leaf Icon Monday, January 15, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT COOKOUT


Bring your own hot dogs and buns to cook over an open fire, and we’ll provide drinks and condiments. Enjoy nature trivia while cooking and eating your lunch. LP/Nature Center

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Leaf Icon Monday, January 15, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

ARCHERY GAMES FOR ADULTS


Ages 16 and older will play different games to build archery skills in a fun and exciting way. Participants must have already taken one of our Intro to Archery programs. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Cost: Free. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 1/11: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

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Leaf Icon Monday, January 15, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

NATURE PLAY: KEEPING WARM


All ages can come to our our Nature Play area along Alder Trail and learn how animals keep warm in winter. Hot cocoa will be available, while supplies last. GYH/Pioneer

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 17, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/9: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 17, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL TAILS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families explore a wide variety of animal tails. Includes a hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/2: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 17, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/9: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Thursday, January 18, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

ROADSIDE ECOLOGY


They're noisy, polluted and, this time of year, covered in salt. They are also places of hardy life and sanctuary. Join Naturalist Becca Zak to discuss the ecology on and near our roadsides. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Friday, January 19, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: WINTER WATER


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14: Discover some of the amazing adaptations that wildlife have developed to survive beneath the ice. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/5: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Friday, January 19, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

ANIMAL TRACKS IN THE SNOW


Children ages 5 to 7 and their adult companions enjoy a short hike to search for animal tracks in snow, and then create animal tracks as part of a fun take-home craft. Please dress for a mess. Meet in front of the visitors center. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Saturday, January 20, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

WINTER ADAPTATIONS


Take a hike to learn about the unique traits that help plants and animals survive winter. GYH/Pioneer

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Leaf Icon Saturday, January 20, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WINTER TREE AND SHRUB I.D.


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we hike Indian Spring Trail, identifying several trees and shrubs along the way. By the end of the program you will be able to easily tell the differences between beech, maples and oaks. MF/Lake Area

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 21, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join a naturalist-artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/12: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 21, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join a naturalist-artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/21: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Monday, January 22, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

UNDERWATER HIBERNATORS


Where do turtles, dragonflies, frogs and other aquatic creatures go in winter? Stroll along the Towpath Trail to learn how these animals survive the cold. TT/Manchester

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 24, 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

NATURE STORIES


Young children and their adult companions will enjoy this interactive, nature-inspired story time intended for ages 18 months to 3 years. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/16: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 24, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HIKE THE GLENS


Take a hike with Naturalist Becca Zak to learn about the nature and history of the Cuyahoga River. G/Main Entrance

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 24, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn about hydrangeas. Presented by Dayton Nursery owner Tom Dayton. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Thursday, January 25, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

WHERE DO BUTTERFLIES GO IN WINTER?


Butterflies, dragonflies, bees and more: Where do these creatures go when Ohio gets cold, and how do they make their way back in spring? Find out! FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Thursday, January 25, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

OWL PROWL


Explore for owls with Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse. Patience and silence are essential. Program for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. SR/Treaty Line

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Leaf Icon Friday, January 26, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL TAILS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families explore a wide variety of animal tails. Includes a hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Friday, January 26, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: ANIMAL TAILS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their families explore a wide variety of animal tails. Includes a hike and craft. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Friday, January 26, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

CALLING ALL COYOTES


Join a naturalist for a short presentation to learn all about a misunderstood mammal: the coyote! Afterward, we will go on a quiet hike and listen to the calls of coyotes. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

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Leaf Icon Saturday, January 27, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

AKRON: THE FIRST 100 YEARS


Learn about the first 100 years of Akron's industry, transportation and culture including the formation of the Akron Metropolitan Park District in 1921. *Please note: The original location of this program has been changed and it will now take place at F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm.* FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Saturday, January 27, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

AFTERNOON STROLL


Stroll along the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail, with frequent stops to discover nature and history along the way. SFB

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Leaf Icon Saturday, January 27, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

COPING WITH THE COLD


Hibernation may get all of the hype, but there are many ways animals survive and thrive in the winter months. Join a naturalist on a leisurely hike to discover the various ways that Ohio's wildlife make it through winter. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 28, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WINTER WONDERS HIKE


Follow a naturalist on Ledges Trail to discover how wondrous nature can be in winter. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 28, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse for a peaceful discussion at the wildlife viewing area, and find out why it's a favorite of our winged winter residents. Bring a mug. Coffee is provided. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 28, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

SNOWSHOE HIKE


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to snowshoe the trails around the nature center. A few snowshoes will be available to use free of charge (please call for sizes), or you may bring your own. Hot chocolate and a warm fire will be waiting for us afterward. There still will be a hike if snow conditions are not adequate. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/19: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

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Leaf Icon Sunday, January 28, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

RE-PURPOSED BIRD FEEDER WORKSHOP


Join a naturalist to learn how to attract birds to your yard in winter, and create a take-home bird feeder out of re-purposed materials. Bring an old coffee mug or tea cup and saucer, if possible. Some will be provided. FASN/Visitors Center

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Leaf Icon Monday, January 29, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

A HISTORY OF WINTER RECREATION


Ice skating, skiing, tobogganing and more: Learn how winter recreation has transformed over the years. Get an up-close look at historic recreational gear and view photos dating back to the park district's early days. SR/Mingo

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Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 30, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

EARLY BIRD PARENTS


Learn from Naturalist Elizabeth Kresse about the animals that get a jump start on courtship and breeding. Unlike most Ohio animals, these soon-to-be parents begin when temperatures are low and snow is in the forecast. ONW/Trail Lot

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 31, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

HIKE & COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join us for a peaceful morning bird walk. Afterward, we'll come inside for coffee and watch birds at our wildlife viewing window. Find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Bring a mug. Coffee is provided. LP/Nature Center

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Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 31, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

FIRE & A FULL MOON


Join a naturalist for an evening hike under the full moon, followed by a campfire. Feel free to bring your favorite folklore and not-so-scary campfire stories. Marshmallows will be provided for roasting, while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

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