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 Sunday, December 01, 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE STORIES


Young children and their adult companions will enjoy this interactive, nature-inspired storytime intended for ages 18 months to 3 years. Make it a fun, family-friendly afternoon by hiking, picnicking or visiting our Nature Play area after the story. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/15: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, December 02, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: BEARS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about black bears and what they do during winter. Each program includes a craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/16: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, December 02, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: BEARS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about black bears and what they do during winter. Each program includes a craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/16: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 04, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

NATURE TRIVIA HIKE


Come learn something new about wildlife. Test your knowledge to see how much you know about your wild backyard neighbors. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 04, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

ALL ABOUT OWLS


Join a naturalist to discover the fascinating world of owls. During an indoor presentation, learn some identification tips along with the life history of the owls that call Summit Metro Parks home. Then enjoy a hike while prowling for these year-round residents. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 05, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

BEDTIME - SEE YOU NEXT SPRING!


Young ones and their adult companions can join a naturalist to learn about hibernation and some of the cool critters sleeping the winter away. There will be a short hike to observe signs of hibernation and hands-on activities to further explore the topic. Participants are encouraged to wear pajamas! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, December 06, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

MORE S'MORES CAMPFIRE


Come out and enjoy a winter campfire with a naturalist and learn different s'more recipes. Bring unique recipes of your own to share, if you have them. S'mores will be provided while supplies last. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 07, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

NATIVE EVERGREENS OF OHIO


What makes the best Christmas tree? Are all pine needles sharp? Does a "fir" tree have shaggy hair? Join a naturalist to learn about the native evergreens in Ohio. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 08, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Fill your mug with a warm beverage and sit fireside for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area. We will find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Coffee and tea are provided, but please bring a mug. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 08, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKING SPREE SHIELD ASSISTANCE


Is attaching the hiking spree shield more challenging than actually hiking the eight trails? Summit Metro Parks volunteers will gladly attach it for you at no charge. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Tuesday, December 10, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

PRESCHOOL EXPLORERS


Get outside and enjoy nature through this monthly series for children ages 3 to 5. Each month we will explore a seasonal topic to engage the senses and encourage self-exploration. Program will be outside, so please dress for the weather. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, December 10, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM

NATURE JOURNALING: CONIFERS


Learn basic journaling techniques to record your nature observations. This month we'll learn about conifer trees first by taking a walk, then by journaling. Taking photos is optional. A one-time registration fee for the monthly series includes a journal, journal pen and pencil. Cost: $20/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 11/22: Register here. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 11, 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 11/26: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 11, 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 11/26: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 11, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WILDLIFE FOLKLORE


Are bats really blind, and does it ever rain cats and dogs? Learn the fun truth about local wildlife while hiking Oxbow Trail. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 11, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

PAPER CRAFTING


'Tis the season! Create your own holiday cards, bookmarks or other artwork using colorful scraps of patterned paper. Personalized presents never looked so good! GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 12, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: BEARS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about black bears and what they do during winter. Each program includes a craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/16: 330-865-8065. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 12, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

FULL MOON HIKE AND FIRE


Under the glow of a full moon, enjoy the sights, sounds and crisp air as we walk the trail. Following the hike, we'll enjoy some hot chocolate and perhaps a campfire (if there is snow cover). SFB

Leaf Icon Friday, December 13, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

YULE LOG CRAFT AND EVERGREENS


Bring back an old tradition by making a Yule log this year with your family. Participants will learn about the different evergreens in our area and incorporate them into the craft. Some natural materials will be provided but you may want to bring some from home to personalize it. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/4: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 14, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

CHICKADEE FEEDING CAMPFIRE FOR FAMILIES


Drop in and join a naturalist to experience the wonder of hand-feeding black capped chickadees! Discover the fascinating features of this tiny, feathered friend while attempting to get one to feed from your hand. Seed will be provided. Enjoy a toasty campfire and marshmallows, while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 14, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM

NATURE ART FOR TEENS


Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 13 to 17 are invited to join our interpretive artist for lessons in nature-inspired art. This is a drop-off program. Please dress for a mess. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/29: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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

COCOA AND A CRAFT


Drop into Liberty Park for a cup of cocoa and to make a fun nature craft to take home! Cocoa and crafts will be available while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 15, 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM

DISTANCE HIKE


Shake off the winter blues and stretch your legs as we hike more than 5 miles at a continuous pace on trails that are difficult or primitive. There will be few, if any, rest stops. Please wear appropriate footwear and bring drinking water. SR/Wadsworth

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 15, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this hands-on lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 12. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 15, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

BIRD WALK & HAND-FEEDING


Stroll along trails to spot winter birds and pause to hand-feed them along the way. Binoculars are recommended. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 15, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this hands-on lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to 12. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/30: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, December 16, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WINTER WALK


Enjoy a winter's walk along the beautiful Rock Creek Trail. We'll look for evidence of the animals that stay active all winter long. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 18, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

AFTER SCHOOL ADVENTURES: TALES OF TREES


Calling all kids! Join a naturalist to discover the fascinating world of trees. You'll even learn how some trees can save your life! We will be outside for part of the program, so please dress for the weather. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 19, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

HIKE THE HILLS


Come out and hike at a steady pace along Spring Hollow Trail to learn about the wildlife in Hampton Hills Metro Park. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 19, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

LANTERN WALK


Enjoy a short nighttime stroll through the woods guided by the glow of luminaries. Afterward, celebrate the winter solstice around the campfire with marshmallows and hot chocolate. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 19, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

A YEAR WITHOUT PLASTIC: THE RESULTS


After living one year while trying to avoid plastic, listen to a naturalist's thoughts on living as a plastic-free environmentalist in the age of convenience and disposability. GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Friday, December 20, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

LIFE UNDER LENSES


Get an up-close view of nature under microscopes! Enjoy a brief presentation of extraordinary micro-photography, then look through lenses to view our native flora and fauna. Attendees will have a chance to win a Foldscope! GYH/Lodge

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 21, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WINTER BIRD HIKE


Join a naturalist to search for birds that reside in Ohio year-round, along with winter's winged visitors. Afterwards, grab a warm beverage and relax around the bird viewing area inside the nature center. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 21, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: BEARS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about black bears and what they do during winter. Each program includes a craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/16: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 21, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Fill your mug with a warm beverage and sit fireside for a peaceful discussion at the wildlife viewing area. We will find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Coffee and tea are provided, but please bring a mug. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 21, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: BEARS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about black bears and what they do during winter. Each program includes a craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/16: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 21, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

SOLSTICE CELEBRATION AND HIKE


Celebrate the sun and the gradual lengthening of the days! Learn the significance of the solstice while stretching and hiking, then make a solstice-themed craft while sitting by a warm fire. Hot chocolate will be served, while supplies last. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 22, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

CAMPFIRE OPEN HOUSE


Stop in anytime between 1 and 3 p.m. to enjoy the warm glow of a campfire, roast marshmallows and pick up seeds to try your hand at feeding the chickadees. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Monday, December 23, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

DAYTIME HIKE AND FIRE


Join a naturalist on a short hike to discover what critters are out and about in winter and attempt to feed the chickadees. Afterward, warm up with marshmallows around a campfire. FASN/Campfire Area

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

WINTER DAY CAMP: ADVENTURE ART


Kids ages 11 to 13 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 12/5: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, December 27, 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 27, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HUMOR HIKE


Come enjoy nature jokes and riddles as we move at a steady pace along the difficult Dogwood Trail. SR/Wadsworth

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 28, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join a naturalist to see who is visiting our window this month. Coffee is provided. Bring your favorite mug and any bird questions you may have. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 28, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

HISTORY OF AMERICA THROUGH THE EYES OF A TREE


Join a naturalist to discover some of the history of America through trees. Learn what the "King's Brand" was used for, how Wall Street began, the significance of the "Liberty Elm," why we have an 8-hour workday and much more! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 29, 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

WOODPECKER FEEDER WORKSHOP


Join a naturalist to learn how to attract woodpeckers and other birds to your yard, and create a simple take-home bird feeder, while supplies last. Peanut butter and other "treats" will be used to fill our feeders, or choose to take your creation home empty. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 29, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKE THE PINES


'Tis the season! Hike Piney Woods Trail to learn how its amazing pine trees benefit people and wildlife. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Monday, December 30, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

WINTER DAY CAMP: WINTER TRACKERS


Kids ages 7 to 10 can enjoy this winter adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. We will explore the park and look 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 12/5: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, December 31, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

PINECONE BIRD FEEDERS


Drop in to create beautiful pinecone bird feeders on the last day of the year! All ages are welcome. FASN/Visitors Center