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.

AprilMayJune

Leaf Icon Friday, December 01, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

OWL PROWL


Explore for owls with a naturalist. Patience and silence are essential. Program for ages 6 and older. No dogs, please. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 02, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

HIKE & FIRE: FULL MOON


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to hike Bluebird Trail and the meadow surrounding the nature center, looking at the moon and stars. Afterward, warm up with hot chocolate around a fire. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 03, 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

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 03, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

KIDS HIKE AND 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 will include a short hike. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel, and drinking water. Some mats provided, while supplies last. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 03, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

METRO PARKS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR


We've hiked a different trail each month, taking a photographic record of the seasonal changes that happen. Our last hike is Alder Trail. Afterward, we'll come in from the cold and review the year in pictures at the lodge. You can take your own pictures or just enjoy the hike. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 03, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

METRO PARKS IN PICTURES


We have been taking photos of seasonal changes every month in the Metro Parks. We'll review the year in pictures, inside the lodge. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 03, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

SUPERMOON HIKE


Take a hike by moonlight and learn about the supermoon overhead. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Monday, December 04, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ADAPTATIONS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn how adaptations help animals survive. Includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/28: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, December 04, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

CARDIO HIKE


Hike Schumacher Trail, and parts of the Valley Link and Towpath trails, at a vigorous pace. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Drinking water is recommended. CV/Schumacher Valley

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 06, 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 11/25: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 06, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

EARTH-FRIENDLY GIFTS


Join Naturalist Becca Zak to explore easy, practical and sustainable gift ideas for the holiday season, then make a sample to take home. Come prepared to share gift ideas of your own! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 07, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

GET READY FOR WINTER


Take a hike to discover how our animal neighbors prepare to take on frigid Northeast Ohio winters. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 07, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA IN THE PARK: VINYASA


Enjoy a vinyasa yoga practice indoors with a certified instructor. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/18: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, December 08, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

BEESWAX CANDLE-MAKING WORKSHOP


Make and take your own 4-oz beeswax candle and decorative gift tag, and learn about beneficial bees. Cost: $15/person ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/17: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 09, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


You hiked eight trails to earn the 2017 Fall Hiking Spree shield, but attaching it to your hiking staff was harder than completing the hikes. Volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge.  GYH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 10, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join Naturalist Renell Roebuck for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area. We will find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Bring a mug. Coffee is provided. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 10, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

EXTREME MIGRATORS AND HIBERNATORS


Did You Know? Wood frogs freeze solid during winter. Monarch butterflies can travel up to 2,500 miles during their migration. Learn more about Ohio's most extreme migrators and hibernators on a hike along Oxbow Trail. Please dress for the weather and wear waterproof shoes. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 10, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 10, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Ages 6 to 12 join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 10, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WINTER BIRD FEEDING


Stroll with a naturalist in search of feathered friends and learn how to help them through the winter. Afterward, try your hand at feeding chickadees by hand and warm up with hot cocoa in the nature center, while supplies last. FASN/Visitors Center

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

WINTER HIKE


Stroll the Quarry Trail, with frequent stops to discover nature and history along the way. DLQ

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 13, 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 12/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 13, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ADAPTATIONS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn how adaptations help animals survive. Includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/28: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 13, 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 12/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 13, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WINTER TREE I.D.


How do you identify trees when there are no leaves? Learn how to look at bark patterns, twigs, and buds to distinguish differences between species. WH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 13, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

PAPER CRAFTING


Join Naturalist Becca Zak to create holiday card mosaics of the natural world with tiny, colorful and patterned pieces of paper. Space is limited. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 13, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

A YEAR OF HERBS: HERBAL CRAFTS


This month, learn about different crafts that use herbs to add relaxation and beauty to your home or office. Participants will make a craft to take home, while supplies last. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 14, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

LOOKIN' FOR SCAT


Join Naturalist Becca Zak to become #1 at identifying #2 on a hike to search for things animals left behind. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Friday, December 15, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ADAPTATIONS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn how adaptations help animals survive. Includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, December 15, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: ADAPTATIONS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn how adaptations help animals survive. Includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/28: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, December 15, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

HIKE & FIRE


Join a naturalist for a hike along Seneca Trail to discover nature. Afterward, warm up by a fire. Marshmallows will be provided, while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 16, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

PREPARING FOR WINTER


Winter is quickly approaching. Join a naturalist for a leisurely hike to talk about adaptations of plants and animals that help them survive colder temperatures. Please dress for the weather. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 17, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

WHITE TAILS IN WINTER


Stroll along Bluebird Trail with a naturalist in search of rabbits, deer, coyotes and more. Afterward, come back to the nature center to enjoy a fire and hot cocoa, while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 17, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

GLACIAL GEOLOGY OF SUMMIT COUNTY


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we look at how the last Ice Age shaped many of the features in the Metro Parks. Learn what kettle lakes are, why the Cuyahoga River turns north, and how Sand Run got its name. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 17, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

PINE TREES FOR KIDS


Families are invited to learn all about pine trees through fun activities! Children will make a craft to take home, while supplies last. Summit Lake's Reach Opportunity Center: 390 W. Crosier Akron, OH 44311

Leaf Icon Monday, December 18, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: ADAPTATIONS


Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn how adaptations help animals survive. Includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/28: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Monday, December 18, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

BUILDING THE METRO PARKS: CCC


During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps provided job opportunities across America. We’ll learn about the influence this program had on Summit Metro Parks and recognize the CCC work still visible in our parks today. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 20, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Enjoy this leisurely stroll along Downy Loop Trail, with frequent stops to discover nature along the way. WH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 20, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

OWL PROWL


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

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 21, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

HIKE & FIRE


Hike Bluebird Trail with Naturalist Becca Zak to learn about wildlife, and then cozy up to a bonfire, listen to stories, drink hot chocolate and roast marshmallows (while supplies last). LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 23, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WINTER BIRD HIKE


Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to search for birds that reside in Ohio year-round, along with winter's winged visitors. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Tuesday, December 26, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

AN ASTRONOMICAL VIEW OF THE STAR OF BETHLEHEM


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur as we discover the astronomical origins of the Star of Bethlehem and look for celestial bodies and constellations. Afterward, warm up by the fire with hot chocolate in the nature center, while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 27, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

WINTER DAY CAMP: WINTER TRACKERS


Kids 7 to 10 can enjoy this winter adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. We will be exploring the park and looking for signs of winter animals. Pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 12/6: Register here. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 27, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

LANTERN WALK


Take a walk after dark with lanterns to guide your way. Afterward, enjoy a fire and roast marshmallows, while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 28, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

WINTER DAY CAMP: ART & NATURE


Kids 7 to 10 can experience nature through art with fun, hands-on experiences. Pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Meet at the lodge. Cost: $10/person ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 12/6: Register here. SR/Mingo

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 28, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

WINTER "I SPY"


Search for bobwhite quail, teasel, cardinals and more while hiking through Springfield Bog. Please dress for the weather. SFB

Leaf Icon Friday, December 29, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM

WINTER SURVIVOR SKILLS FOR ADULTS


Adults, ages 18 and older, work in teams to develop winter survival skills. Learn the basics of shelter-building, fire-starting and choosing activity-appropriate gear. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/15: 330-865-8065. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Friday, December 29, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT COOKOUT


Celebrate the start of another winter season! Bring your own hot dogs and buns to cook over an open fire, and we'll provide drinks and condiments. Then, hike with a naturalist to investigate how animals survive the winter. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Friday, December 29, 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM

WINTER SURVIVOR SKILLS FOR FAMILIES


Calling all families! Work as a team and develop winter survival skills. Learn the basics of shelter-building, fire-starting and choosing activity-appropriate gear. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/15: 330-865-8065. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Friday, December 29, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

HIKE & FIRE: WINTER WILDLIFE


Learn how nature deals with the cold of winter while we warm up around a toasty fire and roast marshmallows (while supplies last). LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 31, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

NEW YEAR'S CELEBRATION


Enjoy a morning filled with fun for the entire family! Crafts, activities and refreshments will help us ring in the New Year at noon! Take a hike while you are here, and then warm up by the campfire. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 31, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

NEW YEAR'S EVE BIRD WALK


Join Naturalist Becca Zak to send off 2017 with a relaxing walk to look for winter birds, and then enjoy a cup of hot cocoa, while supplies last. Binoculars recommended. SFB