Summit Metro Parks We're Your Back Yard

Programs & Events

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.

MarchAprilMay

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 02, 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

WINTER TREES


Join a naturalist for a guided hike to enjoy the serenity of a forest in winter and learn some tips and tricks for identifying trees without their leaves. F/Little Turtle Pond

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 03, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED: STORYBOOK TRAIL


Bring the family to enjoy some exercise and fun while following a self-guided story trail based on the book “North Country Spring,” by Reeve Lindbergh. This experience will be available along Rock Creek Trail through March 24.  FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 03, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 12. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/23: 330-865-8065. FASN

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 03, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist online for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to12. All you need is a pencil and paper. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registration. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/23: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, March 04, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, March 04, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

SKUNK CABBAGE SURPRISE


How’s that plant already blooming? Hike the 1.4-mile Alder Trail and discover spring’s first flower and the clever trick it employs to get its footing before the snow is gone. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Tuesday, March 05, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF GUIDED: F.A. SEIBERLING & FAMILY


Learn about the creation of what is now F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, the man behind it and his family! Enjoy a spring hike along the easy .6-mile Cherry Lane Trail through March 19 to discover interesting facts about how this important and much-loved park came to be. FASN

Leaf Icon Tuesday, March 05, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/28: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 06, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF GUIDED: AMPHIBIAN LIFE


Enjoy a hike on the 1.1-mile Redwing Trail while learning all about our local amphibians. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 06, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 06, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: EARTH AND SUN AND MOON OH MY!


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions explore all about our earth and moon, and how their movements result in special events like a solar eclipse. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/29: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 06, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist online for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing. No experience is necessary; all you need are pencils, paper and a sense of humor. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/28: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 07, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/28: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 07, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 07, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDEN TALKS: SEED STARTING FOR THE VEGETABLE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron and OSU Extension to learn best practices for starting seeds for the vegetable garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 07, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

LET'S GET CRAFTY: NATURE EMBROIDERY


Start an embroidery project with park staff while learning about the wildlife in your creation, then finish the project at your own pace. Guidance and supplies are included in the registration fee. For crafty people 16 and older. Cost is $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/1: Register here. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, March 08, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

PIGEONS: MANS' BEST FRIEND?


From being revered as a symbol of fertility to reviled as rats with wings, pigeons have a history full of twists and turns. Join a naturalist to learn about the history of this common bird and its extinct relatives. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 09, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

SALAMANDER SLIME OPEN HOUSE


Slime is all around us, even if we don't notice it! Stop by to learn about slime in nature. Afterwards, we will make our very own slime. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 10, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

ANTS GO MARCHING 2X2


Kids ages 3 to 6 are invited to celebrate the season with stories, games and a musical craft to learn about some of our busiest bugs! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/1: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 10, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. Registration required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/29: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 10, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

ECLIPSE EXPLORATION OPEN HOUSE


All ages are invited to drop in and discover the science of the eclipse and how to safely view the celestial event of a lifetime through fun hands-on demonstrations, crafts, a campfire and more. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 10, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. Registration required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/29: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Monday, March 11, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 13, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

SOUNDS OF SPRING(FIELD BOG)


Birds, Bugs and the breeze. Discover the sounds of spring as we hike the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail. SFB

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 13, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

MILK JUG SEED STARTERS


Learn how to transform a clean gallon milk jug into a mini greenhouse as an easy way to start seeds and have healthy young seedlings when it's time to start planting in your garden. All supplies provided. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 14, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

LIL' SPROUTS


This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and an accompanying adult in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/8: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 14, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE COLLAGE


Let's make a beautiful, nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist for this easy, fun lesson. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/7: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 14, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE COLLAGE


Let's make a beautiful, nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist online for this easy, fun lesson. A list of materials and a Zoom invite will be emailed after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/7: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 14, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Friday, March 15, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

SPRING NATURE TALES


Spring is almost here! Young children and their adult companions can celebrate the change of seasons in an interactive, spring-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the nature play area after the program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 16, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WATERFOWL WATCH


They're back! Join a naturalist at Nimisila Reservoir to search for the amazing migrating waterfowl that we can view in our area this time of year. We will hop between parking lots looking for birds, so prepare for short drives around the lake in your vehicle. Bring binoculars, and hopefully we'll see some beautiful birds! NR/Lot C1

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 16, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

SNOWDROP ARRIVAL


Winter is ending, and snowdrops are arriving! Come join a naturalist to learn about the flowers know as snowdrops and other plant happenings. We will be hiking around the park, so dress for weather! FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 16, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

SUNSET BIRDING


Celebrate our waterfowl's journey northward with this naturalist-led birding hike. Binoculars will be available to borrow on a first come, first served basis. SLNC

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 17, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

GOING GREEN HIKE


Grab your greenest garb and join a naturalist on the trail! Along the way we will discuss the upcoming spring season, search for emerging green foliage and explore ways to be more sustainable this season. SFB

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 17, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

BACK YARDS GONE WILD: DIY BLUEBIRD BOXES


Join a naturalist for this monthly series focused on creating nature-friendly backyards. This month we will learn about cavity-nesting birds such as chickadees, bluebirds and wrens. After a short presentation, participants can make a bluebird box to take home, free of charge, courtesy of Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Participants must register to reserve a kit, limit one per household. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/6: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 17, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

BACK YARDS GONE WILD: DIY BLUEBIRD BOXES


Join a naturalist for this monthly series focused on creating nature-friendly backyards. This month we will learn about cavity-nesting birds such as chickadees, bluebirds and wrens. After a short presentation, participants can make a bluebird box to take home, free of charge, courtesy of Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Participants must register to reserve a kit, limit one per household. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/6: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 20, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: EARTH AND SUN AND MOON OH MY!


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions explore all about our earth and moon, and how their movements result in special events like a solar eclipse. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/29: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 21, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: SOLAR ECLIPSE


Homeschoolers ages 7 to 12: Join us to discover the science of the eclipse, take a safe look at the sun and make an eclipse viewer to take home. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/14: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 21, 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: SOLAR ECLIPSE


Homeschoolers ages 7 to 12: Join us to discover the science of the eclipse, take a safe look at the sun and make an eclipse viewer to take home. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/14: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 21, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 21, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. Registration required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/13: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 21, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. Registration required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 3/13: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, March 22, 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

WAKE UP, WINTER'S GONE


Winter has gone and spring has sprung! Join a naturalist on a morning hike as we talk about seasonal change, who might be waking up from hibernation and more while we shake off the winter blues. CV/Valley View

Leaf Icon Friday, March 22, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

SENIOR SAUNTER


Whether you're a senior by age or just want to enjoy the outdoors at a leisurely pace, join us for a stroll to enjoy nature as spring arrives and the maple sap is rising. Bring a mug and enjoy a warm beverage, fire and more nature conversation afterward. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, March 22, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT FROGS


Venture out on a night hike in search of frogs and discover the important roles amphibians play in our world. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight and come prepared to step off trail in wet conditions. BHT/Young Road

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 23, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

MAPLE MANIA OPEN HOUSE


Everyone loves maple syrup! Join a naturalist as we learn the ins and outs of maple syrup production. See how the trees are tapped, how sap is collected and how it's boiled down to that sweet amber syrup we all know and love. The best part? You can satisfy your sweet tooth by sampling our fresh, local syrup! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 23, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

BIRD NERDS: MIGRATION


Newbies and experts alike are welcome to join us in this lively series for a fun, approachable discussion on a new bird topic each month. This month, we'll dive into the amazing world of bird migration, exploring both why and how they move around the globe. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 24, 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

WEEKEND BIRD WALK


Catch the first wave of migrants returning for spring alongside familiar feathered friends as we walk Pheasant Run Trail. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 24, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

MAPLE MANIA OPEN HOUSE


Everyone loves maple syrup! Join a naturalist as we learn the ins and outs of maple syrup production. See how the trees are tapped, how sap is collected and how it's boiled down to that sweet amber syrup we all know and love. The best part? You can satisfy your sweet tooth by sampling our fresh, local syrup! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, March 25, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an online exercise session with a certified BalloFlex instructor. BalloFlex is a seated workout that incorporates the elements of dance and fitness together in a safe, low impact and fun system. It is designed for all ages and abilities! Zoom meeting ID: 849 6465 8634 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Tuesday, March 26, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

HOOKING NEW BIRDERS WITH KEVIN RUEGG


Join the Greater Akron Audubon Society for a wholesome evening as we explore an unconventional approach to hooking new birders with Interpretive Naturalist Kevin Ruegg. Discover the humorous, accessible and downright entertaining program series “Bird Nerds” and fall in love with birds all over again. Meet in the West Room. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 27, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: EARTH AND SUN AND MOON OH MY!


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions explore all about our earth and moon, and how their movements result in special events like a solar eclipse. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/29: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Wednesday, March 27, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN: DAHLIA GROWING INTENSIVE


Join Jud and Sharon Allen, owners of Bloom Hill Farm, to learn tips and tricks for growing dahlias. Learn about planting, digging, dividing and storing these beautiful blooms. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 28, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

LIL' SPROUTS


This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and an accompanying adult in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/8: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, March 28, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Leaf Icon Friday, March 29, 6:30 AM - 2:00 PM

MIGRATION MADNESS FIELD TRIP


Join park naturalists on a bus trip to Wayne County for a morning of migrating waterfowl and shorebirds in the wetlands of Killbuck Marsh and Funk Bottoms. Pack binoculars, spotting scopes, snacks and a lunch. Dress for all day comfort out in the elements. Cost is $55/person.  ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/28: Register here. FASN

Leaf Icon Friday, March 29, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

EGGSTRONAUTS!


Getting into space is one thing, getting back safely is another! Ages 10 to 15 are invited to engineer your own landing craft for our SMP eggstronauts. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 3/20: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 30, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WATERFOWL WATCH


Spring is a great time to view ducks, geese, swans and other waterfowl. Join us to explore Eagle Point and Seven Ponds Trails during migration. Bring binoculars.  LP/Tinkers Creek SNP

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

WANDERING WILDLIFE


The past few centuries have dramatically changed the environment of the eastern United States. Join a naturalist for a hike along the 2-mile Chippewa Trail highlighting the changes in our landscape and stories of the sometimes surprising ways wildlife responded. SC/Big Oak

Leaf Icon Saturday, March 30, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

CELESTIAL BODIES EXHIBIT OPENING


Get ready for the solar eclipse and enjoy the opening reception of the Celestial Bodies Photography Exhibit. Photographer Kathy Neugebauer will share her experience and tips for creating amazing nighttime photography. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 31, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

DROP-IN DISCOVERY: EGGS


Kids of all ages can drop in to get egg-cited about eggs! See real bird nests and eggs up close, make a simple craft and enjoy an egg-themed scavenger hunt around the nature center. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, March 31, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

SPRING CRAFT: DIY KITES


Take advantage of the spring winds by making and flying your very own kite. The breeze blowing off Summit Lake will send our creations soaring! SLNC