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 Monday, January 09, 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, January 10, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

TRAVELING TO ICELAND


Discover what Ohio has in common with this small country nestled in the North Atlantic. As an added bonus, we'll sample tasty Icelandic cod! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 11, 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 1/4: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 11, 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 1/4: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

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

LESS STRESS HIKE


Join us to learn how beneficial green space and nature can be to our mental state. Along the trail, we will try some of the techniques used by "forest bathers." F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 12, 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 1/5: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 12, 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, January 12, 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 1/5: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Friday, January 13, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

NATURE STORIES AND MORE


Curious youngsters with an accompanying adult will enjoy learning about nature through stories and play. The program will be held indoors. SLNC

Leaf Icon Friday, January 13, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

A WINTER ECOSYSTEM


Ever wonder what happens to wildlife when winter comes? Learn about how your local ecosystems change through the winter and what adaptations allow them to face the cold head on. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 13, 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, bundle up and join us for a short walk to enjoy nature in winter. Bring a mug and enjoy a warm beverage, a warm fire and more nature conversation afterward. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 13, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

TRUDGE THE TRAIL


Winter is here! Hit the trail with the naturalist to trudge through snow or mud, seeing the unique wildlife lurking around the forest. Remember, the air may be still, but wildlife is here and alive. Let's go investigate together! SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 14, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join a naturalist to see which birds visit our wildlife viewing area. Bring your favorite mug and any bird questions you may have. We’ll provide warm beverages and some birding insights. Afterwards, try your luck at helping "train the chickadees" to eat seed right from your hand! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 14, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

CLASSY CANVAS


Like to paint but need some instruction? Adult participants are invited to appreciate the beauty of the parks as we paint together. We’ll look at some brightly-colored creatures to inspire creativity, then go through step-by-step instructions. We will provide all of the supplies needed to create a personal masterpiece. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/6: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 14, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

BIRD NERDS: BACKYARD BIRDS


Bird enthusiasts of all kinds are invited to join us in this series as we explore a new group of birds each month of the year. We’ll discuss adaptations, behavior, identification and more. After the presentation, we'll hit the trail to practice what we learn. Binoculars are recommended. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 14, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

EVERGREEN HIKE


Evergreens provide more than just a sprinkle of green in winter. Bundle up for a frosty hike and discover how the evergreens of our area are important. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 15, 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.  FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Monday, January 16, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE & EQUITY


Join us for a discussion on environmental justice and how the movement impacts our green spaces and policies in Northeast Ohio and beyond. SLNC

Leaf Icon Monday, January 16, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

SCHOOL'S OUT S'MORES


Enjoy a winter campfire complete with s'mores! We'll provide the classic ingredients, while supplies last. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 17, 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 11/12: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 18, 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 1/11: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 18, 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, January 18, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing. You'll need paper, a pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/11: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 19, 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 1/12: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 19, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

KINDEREALM: WINTER TRACKERS


Children ages 3-6 and their families: drop-in to learn about animal tracks, make a craft and play a game, then take a self-guided hike in search for footprints left behind. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 19, 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, January 19, 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

VIRTUAL: TRACKS & SCAT FOR KIDS


Join us virtually to learn about the clues animals leave behind for us to find in the wintertime. Meeting ID: 846 3505 4883 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 19, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

BUILDING THE METRO PARKS: CCC HISTORY


During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps provided job opportunities to young men around the country. Join a naturalist to celebrate the CCC's 90th anniversary by learning the history of this program, appreciating the craftsmanship inside Brushwood Lodge and recognizing the legacy the "3 Cs" left throughout our parks. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Friday, January 20, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

SUNSET HIKE AND FIRE


After the sun sets, a whole new world is just beginning. Join a naturalist on a short hike to watch as nature transitions into darkness and nocturnal life emerges. A campfire and s'mores will be waiting for us upon our return! FASN/Campfire Area

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

WINTER IS ALIVE


Learn how wildlife survives and thrives during the cold during a refreshing winter hike. Afterward, enjoy hot chocolate on Seneca Deck.  FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 21, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join a naturalist to see which birds visit our wildlife viewing area. Bring your favorite mug and any bird questions you may have. We’ll provide warm beverages and some birding insights. Afterwards, try your luck at helping "train the chickadees" to eat seed right from your hand! LP/Nature Center

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

HEALING HERBS: BUTTERY COCONUT BALM


Join us for an introduction to natural skin care as we learn the recipe for an aromatic, moisturizing body balm. Participants will make a sample of buttery coconut balm to take home. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/13: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 21, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

WINTER TRIVIA HIKE


Join a naturalist along Oxbow Trail for a fun and trivia-filled hike! We'll explore all sorts of winter facts, so bring your competitive spirit. But as long as we're outside, isn't everybody a winner? CV/Oxbow

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 22, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

CAMPFIRE OPEN HOUSE


Join us for "snow" much winter fun! Toast a s’more over a fire, try your hand at feeding the chickadees and hit the trail for a self-guided game of Eye Spy. Afterward, stop inside the nature center to warm up at our hot chocolate bar and create a simple winter craft. Weather permitting, snowshoes will be available for loan. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 22, 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 1/18: 330-865-8065. FASN

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 22, 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 1/18: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, January 23, 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, January 24, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED: DOG HIKE


Enjoy a beautiful hike with human's best friend! Why not start working toward a healthier, happy you while you hike with your hound? Hike Willow Trail between January 24 and January 31 to discover some challenges for you and your canine. There will also be fun facts about how your pooch makes your life healthier in many ways. All dogs must be on a leash, 8 feet long or less, and be under your control the entire time. F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Tuesday, January 24, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

VIRTUAL: WHERE DO BUTTERFLIES GO IN WINTER?


Butterflies, dragonflies, bees and more! Where do these beautiful, beneficial “bugs” go when Ohio gets cold, and how do they make their way back in spring? Join us online to find out and learn how to make your yard insect-friendly as we await the warm days of spring. Zoom meeting ID: 838 5930 3833 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 25, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

KINDEREALM: WINTER TRACKERS


Children ages 3-6 and their families: drop-in to learn about animal tracks, make a craft and play a game then take a self-guided hike in search for footprints left behind. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, January 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 Wednesday, January 25, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join us to learn from Leah, flowerscape director at Keep Akron Beautiful, who has a passion for all things green and growing. Her goal is to create beautiful spaces that serve multiple functions for the people, the environment and wildlife. FASN

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 26, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: WHOSE SCAT IS THAT?


Homeschoolers ages 7-14: let's get the scoop on poop! We're talking winter mammals, what they eat, and the stinky clues they leave behind. Bring your humor and curiosity! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/19: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, January 26, 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, January 26, 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: WHOSE SCAT IS THAT?


Homeschoolers ages 7-14: let's get the scoop on poop! We're talking winter mammals, what they eat, and the stinky clues they leave behind. Bring your humor and curiosity! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/19: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 27, 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 and nature center after the program. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Friday, January 27, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

MAMMALS FOR KIDS


Ohio's mammals are some of our most recognizable animals. But do you know just how spectacular they really are? Come join a naturalist to learn about bears, hares, rats, bats and so much more! FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 28, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join a naturalist to see which birds visit our wildlife viewing area. Bring your favorite mug and any bird questions you may have. We’ll provide warm beverages and some birding insights. Afterwards, try your luck at helping "train the chickadees" to eat seed right from your hand! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 28, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

CRYSTAL PALACE HIKE


Join a naturalist as we seek out one of the park district's most beautiful winter wonders, the Crystal Palace! These ice formations are sure to wow when the conditions are right. And if they're not, we'll still take a hike! Dress warmly and prepare for a hike of over two miles. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Saturday, January 28, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

SNOWSHOE OPEN HOUSE


Join a naturalist to learn about the history of snowshoeing, try on a pair of snowshoes and maybe even walk around Bluebird Trail! Hot chocolate and a campfire will keep us warm. Snowshoes are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 29, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

VITAL NATURE CONNECTIONS: THE SCOOP ON POOP


Join a naturalist to take a deep dive into nature each month. This month, we will become #1 at identifying #2! Scat, droppings, dung or doo...no matter what you call it, the things wildlife leave behind tell us a lot about the health of the individual and the surrounding ecosystem. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 29, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

WINTER BIRD WALK


Come join a naturalist for a walk on the Towpath Trail around Summit Lake. Make sure to dress warmly and bring some binoculars as we learn about how birds adapt to winter. SLNC

Leaf Icon Sunday, January 29, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

CONSTELLATION EXPLORATION


Fantastic heroes and beasts can be found in the night sky if you know where to look! Cozy up indoors to hear some constellation tales and make a star wheel. Afterward, gaze through a telescope to search for these figures in the night sky, weather permitting. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, January 30, 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, January 31, 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

PAINT 'N TAKE WITH HOT CIDER


Create a simple nature-inspired painting step-by-step while enjoying hot cider and an indoor fire. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/25: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center