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.

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Leaf Icon Thursday, December 01, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED: GEOLOGY OF THE LEDGES


Hike Ledges Trail anytime during the month of December to discover how the stunning ledges were created, what they are made of and why they are so important to the plants and animals living nearby. Interpretive signs will be posted along the way to guide your learning experience. LP/Twinsburg Ledges

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 01, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an 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 Friday, December 02, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

ALL ABOUT WINTER TREES


Curious youngsters and an accompanying adult are invited to join a naturalist to learn what happens to trees in the winter as we explore nature activities through stories, movement and more! SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 03, 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

WOODPECKERS OF WOOD HOLLOW


Ever wonder how a woodpecker can hold on to a tree trunk without falling off, or why they peck on trees? Join a naturalist to learn about woodpeckers’ unique lives and explore along Downy Loop Trail with us to look for some of these beautiful birds that call our area home. WH

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 03, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

NATURE'S GIFTS


Celebrate National Gift-Giving day with a naturalist. Participants will make a nature-friendly gift for the holiday season. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 03, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

YOGA FOR KIDS: WINTER ADVENTURE


Ages 3 and up can join a certified yoga instructor and naturalist for this program. We will learn about nature, the seasons and animals through stories, songs, games and yoga poses. Bring a yoga mat, towel or blanket. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 03, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOLIDAY WREATH MAKING WITH NATIVE PLANTS


Join a naturalist to make holiday wreaths! Learn which evergreens make the best wreaths and which of those are native to Ohio. You'll also learn how to use mugwort to add something for the senses, how to make a bow and how to use winterberry and other native plants for decor. At the end of the day, each person and/or family can take home one wreath for the holiday season. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/18: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 04, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WINTER TREE ID


No leaves? No problem! Learn the basics of tree identification using bark and twig arrangement. Hike near the river, then the upland forests to discover different species. CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 04, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6-12. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/23: 330-865-8065. FASN

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 04, 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. Please note: a small number of guests will be admitted to the auditorium at a time. Others will be asked to wait outdoors. Please dress for the weather! GYH/Lodge

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

HISTORY OF AMERICA THROUGH THE EYES OF A TREE


Join a naturalist to discover some of America's history beginning in 1700's New England and spreading to the west coast today. Learn what the "King's Brand" was used for, how Wall Street began, the significance of the "Liberty Elm," the real story of Smokey Bear, why we have an 8-hour workday and more! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 04, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6-12. All you need is a pencil and paper. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registration. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/23: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 04, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

PAJAMA HIKE & FIRE


Calling all families! Dress in your PJs for a short nighttime stroll along a paved trail to look for animals getting ready for bed. Afterward, enjoy some nighttime tales, hot cocoa and marshmallows by the glow of a campfire. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, December 05, 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, December 05, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Individuals of all abilities are encouraged to join us as we stroll Overlook Trail. Along this half-mile paved loop, we can take in the views of the Cuyahoga River from above. CV/Overlook

Leaf Icon Tuesday, December 06, 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 11/30: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 07, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE JOURNALING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an inspiring lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/1: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 07, 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, December 07, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE JOURNALING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an inspiring virtual lesson in nature journaling as a technique for practicing mindfulness. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/1: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 08, 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 11/30: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 08, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

VIRTUAL: WINTER TREES FOR KIDS


Join us online: calling all kids! Learn about what trees do in winter through fun activities, movement and our senses. Zoom meeting ID: 825 3202 5702 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 08, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an 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 Thursday, December 08, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

KINDEREALM CAMPFIRE: WINTER TREES


Children ages 3-6 and their families: drop-in and take a self-guided winter walk to discover all things trees. After the short hike, warm up next to a toasty fire to learn about how trees help wildlife survive in winter. Hot cocoa will be available, while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 08, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR ALL AGES


Ages 9 and up can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. This 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 11/30: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 08, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

FULL MOON DISCOVERY


Enjoy the warmth of a fire in the nature center while learning all about the moon, its cycles and more! After a short presentation, all are welcome to venture outside to get a closer look at the moon through a telescope. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 08, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY FOR ALL AGES


Ages 9 and up can learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. This 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 11/30: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, December 09, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

WINTER NATURE TALES


Young children and their adult companions can bundle up near a warm fire to enjoy an interactive, winter-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park after the program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, December 09, 12:00 PM - 1:00 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 short walk to enjoy the transition from autumn to winter. Bring a mug and enjoy a warm beverage, a warm fire and more nature conversation afterward. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, December 09, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

CHICKADEE FEEDING


Hungry chickadees are out looking for food in the park. Join a naturalist to hand-feed these feathered friends while learning how cool they are! F/Tuscarawas Meadows

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

PRESENTS FOR THE CRITTERS


Join a naturalist to help spread holiday cheer to the critters that call Summit Lake Nature Center home. We will make decorations for their tanks, feed them and offer them gifts! SLNC

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

CHICKADEE DROP-IN


Drop in any time between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to enjoy a warm fire, learn about chickadees and other inquisitive birds and then try your luck at enticing one of these amazing creatures to take a seed from your hand. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 10, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

CAMPFIRE COOKIES


Come on down to the Nature Realm anytime between 1 and 3 p.m. as we bake cookies over the campfire and enjoy the season! Gluten-free options will be available, so come hungry and ready to play some games. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 11, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

DISTANCE HIKE


Enjoy a 7-mile hike on the Towpath Trail in the crisp December air. Learn about canal history and more as we walk along the trail. SLNC

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 11, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

DROP-IN DISCOVERY: HIBERNATION


Kids of all ages can drop in to learn about hibernation! Warm up by the fire with some hot cocoa, make a simple craft and search for hibernating critters hidden around the nature center. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 11, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HANDMADE FELT ORNAMENT


Create your own handmade, embroidered felt ornament to help celebrate the season. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/2: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 11, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

BIRD FEEDING: ARE YOU SMARTER THAN SQUIRRELS?


Join a naturalist to learn the basics of bird feeding! We'll discuss the best seed and feeders and provide tips for identifying common winter birds. Learn about Project Feederwatch and how to outsmart the squirrels! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, December 12, 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, December 13, 6:00 AM

SELF-GUIDED: WINTER RAPTORS


Visit the Celebration Trail between December 13th and 20th for a self-guided trail featuring the raptors of Ohio's winter. CV/Valley View

Leaf Icon Tuesday, December 13, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

WINTER CRAFTING


Cozy up with a crackling fire and hot cocoa as you create a beautiful, seasonal work of art. We will make winter arrangements using pine boughs and other natural elements. Materials are provided, but feel free to bring additional clippings, décor and a small vase if you wish. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 14, 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 12/8: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 14, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

KINDEREALM CAMPFIRE: WINTER TREES


Children ages 3-6 and their families can drop-in and take a self-guided winter walk to discover all things trees. After the short hike, warm up next to a toasty fire to learn about how trees help wildlife survive in winter. Hot cocoa will be available, while supplies last. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 14, 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, December 14, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist 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 12/8: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 15, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE COLLAGE


Let's make something beautiful! Join our interpretive artist for this lesson in nature collage. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/9: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

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

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an 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 Thursday, December 15, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE COLLAGE


Let's make something beautiful! Join our interpretive artist for this virtual lesson in nature collage. A list of materials and a Zoom invite will be emailed after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/1: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Friday, December 16, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

ANIMAL AMBASSADOR MEET AND GREET


Join a naturalist to learn the history and backgrounds of our critters as well as what it means to be an animal ambassador. Our ambassadors love the attention and are looking forward to seeing new and old faces. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 17, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

NATURAL BATH SALTS


Learn how to make homemade bath salts with all natural ingredients. We will discuss the benefits of natural skin care and share several recipes. Participants will make a sample to take home. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/9: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 17, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

HIKE FOR THE HEALTH OF IT


Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking Quarry Trail at a moderate pace. Grab your water bottle and hiking shoes; beginners are welcome! We recommend talking to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. DLQ

Leaf Icon Sunday, December 18, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

CHRISTMAS COUNT BIRD HIKE


Join a naturalist and a representative from the Greater Akron Audubon Society to search for birds and contribute to this longstanding and important citizen science project.  FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, December 19, 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, December 21, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

SUMMIT LAKE SOLSTICE CELEBRATION


Join us at Summit Lake to watch the sunset on the shortest day of the year! Learn about different solstice traditions and celebrate the longer days to come. This family-friendly event will feature crafts, snacks and a short hike. SLNC

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 21, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

WINTER SOLSTICE HIKE AND FIRE


Celebrate the shortest day of the year and enjoy the crisp air as we stroll past luminaries on Maple Loop Trail. We will continue the hike on Black Bear Trail to look for tracks and listen for owls while learning the true story of Santa and his reindeer. Following the hike, we'll enjoy some hot chocolate and a fire. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 22, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

BEDTIME - SEE YOU NEXT SPRING!


Children and their adult companions will join a naturalist to learn about hibernation and some of the cool critters sleeping the winter away. Folks are encouraged to wear pajamas! SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 22, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an 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 Friday, December 23, 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

VIRTUAL: WINTER BIRD HIKE


Calling all birders! Still looking for one last species to close out your 2022 bird list? Bring binoculars and a field guide and join a naturalist as we search for our year-round residents and our fresh winter visitors. Maybe we'll get that one last species you've been looking for, or maybe just sharpen your skills for 2023! Zoom meeting ID: 893 8332 4088 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 28, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

FEEDING TIME


Lettuce, worms, tomatoes and roaches...yum! Stop by the animal room and get up-close to our animal ambassadors as they eat a healthy lunch. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, December 29, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

VIRTUAL: BALLOFLEX


Get fit while you sit! Enjoy an 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 Friday, December 30, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WINTER SENSES WALK


Take some time to listen to the absence or abundance of sound found in the winter during a relaxing walk on Downy Loop Trail. Make sure to dress warmly and above all, come ready to enjoy the serenity of the outdoors. WH

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 31, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

NEW YEAR'S EVE BIRD WALK


End 2022 on an avian note! We’ll search the banks of the Cuyahoga River for resident and migratory birds like red-breasted nuthatches, golden-crowned kinglets and some floating waterfowl. Binoculars and a guide are recommended. Meet at Brust Park. BHT/SR 91

Leaf Icon Saturday, December 31, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

CHICKADEE DROP-IN


Drop in any time between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. to enjoy a warm fire, learn about chickadees and other inquisitive birds and then try your luck at enticing one of these amazing creatures to take a seed from your hand. LP/Nature Center