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 Friday, February 01, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: NOCTURNAL WORLD


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Learn about the moon and stars, highly adapted critters and strange sounds. Discover why nighttime is so awesome and how to preserve these special hours. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/22: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 01, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: NOCTURNAL WORLD


Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10: Learn about the moon and stars, highly adapted critters, and strange sounds. Discover why nighttime is so awesome and how to preserve these special hours. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/22: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 01, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

SIGNS OF WILDLIFE


Join a naturalist to explore Oxbow Trail in search of signs of wildlife activity such as tracks, diggings, chew marks and scat. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 02, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

GHOSTS FROM THE NORTH


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to learn about the majestic bird of winter, the snowy owl. Discover how it survives its Arctic home, yet sometimes visits Ohio, and how Project Snowstorm sheds light on their behavior. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 02, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

SQUIRRELED AWAY


Join a naturalist for an indoor presentation followed by a short hike to learn about and observe squirrels. Hot cocoa provided while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 02, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

GROUNDHOG DAY FOR KIDS


Children and their adult companions, join us on Groundhog Day to celebrate all things woodchuck! Discover fun facts about these amazing rodents, learn the lore behind their weather predicting abilities and make a craft to take home. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 02, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

EXPLORING THE NIGHT SKIES


February is a great month to for stargazing! Many bright stars are visible on clear and moonless nights. Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to learn about the seven stars of the winter hexagon and the constellations associated with them. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 03, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join Naturalist Renell Roebuck for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area, and find out why it's a favorite of our winged winter residents. Coffee and tea are provided, but please bring your own mug. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 03, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

COFFEE MUG BIRD FEEDERS


Too many coffee mugs in your cabinets? Why not turn one into a bird feeder! Join a naturalist to learn how to attract birds to your yard in winter, and create a take-home bird feeder, while supplies last. Bring an old coffee mug or teacup and saucer, if possible. A limited supply will be available. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 03, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

SUPERB OWL SUNDAY


Need to kill time before the big game? Or maybe you're not into sports. Either way, stop by to learn about the amazing predatory birds that call our parks home! Whoo is interested? FASN/Visitors Center

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

ZODIAC EXPLORERS: CAPRICORN


This monthly program series explores the night sky and examines the zodiac constellation of the month with a mix of science, folklore and personal reflection through journaling. The program will take place rain or shine. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 04, 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM

WINTER BIRD WALK


Join Naturalist Becca Zak to search for and learn fun facts about resident birds tough enough to deal with Ohio winters. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Monday, February 04, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

COCOA AND A CRITTER


Children ages 3 to 5 are invited to come and learn about groundhogs through movement and sensory experiences. Hot cocoa will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/18: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 06, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KINDEREALM: WINTER NATURE WALK


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will go on a winter nature walk to learn how animals stay warm, then come inside to make a craft. Be prepared to be outside for most of the program. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/26: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 06, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

BABY BIRDS


Learn all about baby birds and where to find them, along with an up-close view of some interesting and unusual nests and eggs. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 07, 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 1/19: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 07, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

LOVE IS IN THE AIR HIKE


Hike the beautiful Glens Trail with Naturalist Sarah Graham while learning what animals are up to at this time of year. G/Main Entrance

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

HOUSEHOLD CLEANERS WORKSHOP


Making your own cleaning products is fun, frugal and a great way to "green up" your cleaning practices. Join Naturalist Becca Zak to learn about traditional kitchen cleaners, their alternatives and make your own! Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 1/25: Register here. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 08, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

MORE S'MORES CAMPFIRE


Come out and enjoy a winter campfire with a naturalist as you 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. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 09, 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. SFB

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 09, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

NATURE CRAFT OPEN HOUSE


Join a naturalist for some nature crafting fun. All ages are welcome and encouraged to dress for a mess. FASN

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 09, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

THE STARS OF HOGWARTS


Did you know J.K. Rowling took inspiration from the heavens for the Harry Potter series? Reacquaint yourself with the celestial counterparts of some of your favorite characters from Hogwarts. After an indoor presentation, walk outside to see if any wizards are visible in the sky. FASN/Visitors Center

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

WOODPECKER WALK


Crazy feet, an even crazier tongue and distinguishable plumage. Join Naturalist Becca Zak to learn fun facts about woodpeckers and how to identify them, then hit the trail to spot them in the wild. FASN/Seneca Deck

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 10, 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

NATURE CRAFTING FOR ADULTS: HEART BASKETS


Weave a heart-shaped basket. Please bring a small flathead screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, towel and two-gallon bucket, if you can. Cost: $20/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 1/24: Register here. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 10, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

WINTER FUNGI AND LICHENS


Only the heartiest of fungi and lichens can survive Ohio's winters. Join a naturalist on a hike along Downy Loop Trail to search for them. WH

Leaf Icon Monday, February 11, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

HISTORY HIKE: WINTER RECREATION


Ice skating, skiing, tobogganing and more! Learn how winter recreation helped to shape many of our Metro Parks while hiking with a naturalist. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 12, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: WINTER NATURE WALK


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will go on a winter nature walk to learn how animals stay warm in winter, then come inside to make a craft. Be prepared to be outside for most of the program. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/26: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 12, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

KIDS CRAFT AND COCOA


Children ages 5 to 7 and their adult companions can drop in to Liberty Park Nature Center for a craft and cocoa. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 12, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

WHERE DO BUTTERFLIES GO IN WINTER?


Where do butterflies, dragonflies and bees go when Ohio gets cold, and how do they make their way back in spring? Find out at this indoor presentation! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 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 2/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 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 2/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 13, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS HIKE


Join a naturalist to discover which wildlife brave the winter as year-round residents of the Metro Parks. As the sun sets, we will attempt to call for some of these critters as well. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 14, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: WINTER NATURE WALK


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will go on a winter nature walk to learn how animals stay warm in winter, then come inside to make a craft. Be prepared to be outside for most of the program. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/26: 330-865-8065. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 14, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

SUMMIT LAKE: BEFORE THE CANAL


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to learn about the glacial origins of Summit Lake and the lake's history as it relates to the Ohio & Erie Canal. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 15, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR KIDS


Children ages 9 to 15 can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. Program is 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 2/5: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, February 15, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT COOKOUT


Bring your own hotdogs and buns to cook over an open fire, and we'll provide the drinks and condiments. Then, hike with a naturalist to investigate what animals are doing at this time of year. Dress for the weather. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Friday, February 15, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: NOCTURNAL WORLD


Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14: Learn about the moon and stars, highly adapted critters and strange sounds. Discover why nighttime is so awesome and how to preserve these special hours. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/22: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 15, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR FAMILIES


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Families with children 9 and older: Learn international-style target archery together at our indoor range. Program good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Cost: $15/family. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/5: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 16, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

ARCHERY GAMES FOR FAMILIES


Families with children 9 and older will play different games to build archery skills together 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. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/5: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 16, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM

NATURE ART FOR TEENS


Do you have a creative spirit? Teens ages 13 to 17 can 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 2/8: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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

ARCHERY GAMES FOR COUPLES


Couples 18 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. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/5: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 17, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Kids ages 6 to 12 can join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/9: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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

NATURE FOR FAMILIES: WINTER FOREST


Join this monthly hands-on nature exploration series for the whole family. This month we'll explore the winter forest. Be prepared to be outside for most the program. LP/Nature Center

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

WHY NATIVE PLANTS?


Join Naturalist Joe Malmisur to discover how to identify and incorporate native plants into your landscape, their benefits to birds and insects, and what to look for when buying native plants and shrubs. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 17, 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 2/9: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 18, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

SENSATIONAL SENSORY PLAY


Children ages 3 to 5 can engage all their senses through play and nature. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 18, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR KIDS


Children ages 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 2/5: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Monday, February 18, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

NATURALISTS OF THE WHITE HOUSE


Stop by this Presidents' Day to learn about the presidents who were as passionate about nature as they were about the U.S.A. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 18, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR SENIORS


Archery is one of the oldest arts still practiced today, and it's more accessible than ever. Participants 55 years 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 2/5: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 19, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

FULL MOON SNOWSHOE HIKE


 ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/1: 330-865-8065. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

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

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

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 20, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail with frequent stops to discover nature along the way. WH

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 21, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: WINTER NATURE WALK


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will go on a winter nature walk to learn how animals stay warm in winter, then come inside to make a craft. Be prepared to be outside for most of the program. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/26: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 21, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

KINDEREALM: WINTER NATURE WALK


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will go on a winter nature walk to learn how animals stay warm in winter, then come inside to make a craft. Be prepared to be outside for most of the program. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/26: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 21, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

WINTER STARS AND CONSTELLATIONS


Explore the stars and constellations visible during the season with the longest nights! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 23, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

NATIONAL SKIP THE STRAW DAY


Join a naturalist to celebrate National Skip the Straw Day. Discover tips to reduce our plastic consumption and explore environmentally friendly alternatives for single-use plastics. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 23, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WINTER AT THE LEDGES


See firsthand how forces in nature created and continue to shape the ledges in Liberty Park. Join Naturalist Dave Brumfield to discover the beauty, intricacy and mystery of nature in winter. Part of the 1.1-mile trail may be rocky, uneven and slippery, so bring a hiking staff and wear rugged boots. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 23, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WHISPERS FROM MOTHER NATURE


Join a naturalist to see what plants and animals will be growing, flying over or waking up in March at Summit Lake and in the Metro Parks.  TT/SLNC

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 24, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

WINTER TREE I.D.


No leaves? No problem! Learn the basics of tree identification with Naturalist Becca Zak using bark and twig arrangement. Hike near the stream, then the upland forests to discover different species. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 24, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

UNDERWATER HIBERNATION


Where do turtles, dragonflies, frogs and other aquatic creatures go during winter? Stroll the Towpath Trail to learn the amazing ways these animals survive the cold. TT/Wilbeth

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 24, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

YOGA IN THE PARK: VINYASA


Enjoy an active vinyasa yoga practice with a certified instructor. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat or towel and drinking water. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/12: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 25, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

CREATIVE CANVAS


Everything is a canvas! Join our interpretive artist to create some amazing works of art using nature as our inspiration and re-purposed materials as our medium. The only requirements are a sense of humor and a great attitude. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/15: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 25, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

UNDER THE ICE


Ever wonder what fish, muskrats and frogs do when their home freezes over? Take a hike around the pond at the Tinkers Creek Area with a naturalist to learn about what happens under the ice in winter. LP/Tinkers Creek

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 27, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

WINTER STROLL


Take a leisurely stroll to enjoy winter scenery and search for wildlife. If we are lucky, we will see the "Crystal Palace" where massive icicles drip from the sandstone walls along Glens Trail. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 27, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn about some uncommon annuals. Presented by Betsy Kollman Bresky of Kollman's Greenhouse. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 28, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

AFTERNOON STROLL


Stroll along the 1.3-mile Downy Loop Trail, with frequent stops to discover nature and history along the way. WH

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 28, 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 for their calls. LP/Twinsburg Ledges