Summit Metro Parks We're Your Back Yard
​ Gift Shop Park & Trail Alerts
Parks & Trails Things To Do Get Involved Discover Nature
Celebrating 100 Years

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.

JulyAugustSeptember

Leaf Icon Friday, December 01, 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. This program will be held indoors. SLNC

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Friday, December 01, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

SENIOR SAUNTER


Whether you're a senior by age or just want to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace, join us for nature conversation with a warm beverage by the fire. Weather permitting, we will take a short walk to enjoy the transition from autumn to winter. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Saturday, December 02, 10:00 AM - 12:00 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 other native plant materials such as winterberry, dried grasses and vines to add accents to your wreath. Each person can take home one wreath for the holiday season. Cost is $20/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 11/16: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Saturday, December 02, 2:00 PM - 4:00 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 other native plant materials such as winterberry, dried grasses and vines to add accents to your wreath. Each person can take home one wreath for the holiday season. Cost is $20/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 11/16: Register here. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Sunday, December 03, 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM

SELF-GUIDED STORYBOOK TRAIL: THE SNOWY DAY


Bundle up for some exercise and fun exploration with a self-guided story trail based on the book "The Snowy Day." Available on the .6-mile Bluebird Trail through December 31. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Sunday, December 03, 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

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Sunday, December 03, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

CRAFTING WINTER ARRANGEMENTS


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, decor and a small vase if you wish. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Monday, December 04, 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

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 06, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

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 11/29: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 06, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE JOURNALING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist online 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 11/29: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 06, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 11/29: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 06, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

VIRTUAL: ARE YOU READY FOR THE ECLIPSE?


On April 8, 2024, Northeast Ohio will get a front-row seat to the event of a century: a full solar eclipse! Join us online to discover the science of the eclipse, myths and legends, how to safely view the phenomenon and more. Zoom: , OH

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 06, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 11/29: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, December 07, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

NATURE COLLAGE


Let's make a beautiful, nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist for this easy, fun lesson. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/30: 330-865-8065. FASN

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, 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

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, December 07, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE COLLAGE


Let's make a beautiful, nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist online for this easy, fun lesson. A list of materials and a Zoom invite will be emailed after registering. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/30: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, December 07, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

KIDS IN THE GARDEN


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this weekly gardening program for children of all ages. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what's growing and ready to harvest in the garden. SLNC

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, December 07, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

GOOD GARDEN TALKS: GARDENING INDOORS


Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron and OSU Extension to learn about growing sprouts, shoots and microgreens inside through the winter season. SLNC

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Friday, December 08, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: FOXES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will have fun learning about clever, charismatic foxes through games, a story, activities, and more. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Locations and times: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 8, 2023 FASN auditorium 10:30 -11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023 LPNC 10:30-11;30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023 SLNC ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Friday, December 08, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

NATURE TALES


Young children and their adult companions will enjoy this interactive, autumn-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the nature play area after the program. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Saturday, December 09, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

YULE LOG FOR YOU


Decorate a festive Yule Log centerpiece to brighten your holiday. One log, fresh greens, ribbon, and some accents provided. Bring additional festive touches you may have at home to complete your piece. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Sunday, December 10, 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

WINTER BIRD WALK


Join a naturalist to learn which birds spend winter in Ohio and what northern species from Canada consider us a tropical winter paradise! We’ll search the pines for red-breasted nuthatches, golden-crowned kinglets and more. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. Parking is limited, so please carpool if possible. LP/Tinkers Creek SNP

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Sunday, December 10, 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 to 12. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/30: 330-865-8065. FASN

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Sunday, December 10, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR KIDS


Join our interpretive artist online for this entertaining virtual lesson in nature drawing for kids ages 6 to12. All you need is a pencil and paper. A Zoom invitation will be emailed to participants after registration. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 11/30: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Monday, December 11, 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

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Monday, December 11, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

VIRTUAL: WINTER BIRD ID


Learn about winter birds from the comfort of your own home. We'll talk about identification, appreciation and how to support our avian neighbors during the winter months. Meeting ID: 485 730 2450 Zoom: , OH

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Tuesday, December 12, 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 12/7: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 13, 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 12/7: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 13, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: FOXES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will have fun learning about clever, charismatic foxes through games, a story, activities, and more. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/1: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 13, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

VIRTUAL: NATURE DRAWING FOR ADULTS


Join our interpretive artist online 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 12/7: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 13, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

BIRDS & COMMUNITY SCIENCE


Join a naturalist and the Greater Akron Audubon Society to celebrate our resident and migratory birds this winter! We'll learn fun facts about common winter birds and the importance of community science during the Christmas Bird Count weekend. FASN/Visitors Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, 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 12/7: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, December 14, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

DOWNY WOODPECKER HIKE


 WH

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, 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

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Friday, December 15, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

WEEKDAY WALKERS


Individuals of all ages are invited to join us for a 1.6-mile walk on Celebration Trail as we begin the transition to winter. You'll observe the renovated Himelright Lodge, see a restored section of the Cuyahoga River and enjoy the breathtaking vistas and wildlife the Valley View Area has to offer. CV/Valley View

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Friday, December 15, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

UGLY SWEATER NIGHT HIKE


Bust out your ugliest holiday sweater and come de-stress on a fun hike in the woods! After a short hike, we’ll head back to the campfire for s'mores, hot chocolate and games. Ugly sweaters not mandatory, but strongly encouraged! FASN/Campfire Area

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Saturday, December 16, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WINTER SENSES WALK


Have a relaxing walk down the 1.1-mile Ledges Trail. Take some time to listen to the absence or abundance of sound that is found in winter. Make sure to dress warm and, above all, enjoy the serenity of the outdoors. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Saturday, December 16, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

BIRD NERDS: WINTER SPECIALS


Bird enthusiasts of all kinds are invited to join us as we explore a new group of birds each month of 2023. We’re talking adaptations, behavior, identification and more. After the presentation, we'll take a hike outside to try to find some of Ohio's special winter birds. FASN/Visitors Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Sunday, December 17, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 12/8: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Sunday, December 17, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

CAMPFIRE OPEN HOUSE


Join us for "snow" much winter fun! Toast marshmallows over a fire for s’mores, 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 may be available for loan. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Sunday, December 17, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 12/8: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Monday, December 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

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Monday, December 18, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

WINTER IN YOUR WILD BACK YARD


Native plantings provide year-round habitat for critters large and small. Join a naturalist online to discover the wonders to behold in your winter Wild Back Yard. ZOOM: , OH

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 20, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: FOXES


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will have fun learning about clever, charismatic foxes through games, a story, activities, and more. Please make arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/1: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, December 21, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: WINTER S.T.E.A.M. DROP-IN


Homeschoolers and their families: drop-in to get your science, technology, engineering, arts and math on! Try your hand at various table-top activities including crafts, simple machines and building projects. Who knows what you'll create! FASN/Visitors Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, 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 the .25-mile Maple Loop Trail. We will learn the true meaning of the winter solstice, why all of Santa's reindeer are female, why Rudolph isn't the only reindeer with a red nose and the folktale of "Mother Deer." Following the hike, we'll enjoy hot chocolate and a fire inside the nature center. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Friday, December 22, 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM

POP UP STORYTIME IN THE PARK: THE MITTEN


Young children and their parents are invited to stay warm as we read the classic folktale "The Mitten" and create a winter craft. SLNC

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Friday, December 22, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

WINTER WILDLIFE HIKE


Where are the animals? Hike with a naturalist along the Towpath Trail to explore how different types of wildlife survive Ohio’s cold winter months. Dress for the weather and prepare to have some fun! SR/Big Bend

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Friday, December 22, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

WINTER SOLSTICE YOGA


Come celebrate the return of the light with this winter solstice yoga class. This class is suitable for all levels of yoga experience and will be slow to moderate paced. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat and/or towel. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 12/14: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Wednesday, December 27, 6:30 PM - 7:00 PM

FULL COLD MOON


Join a naturalist in the auditorium as we talk about the last full moon of 2023: the Cold Moon. We will learn some moon facts and, if weather permits, take a walk on the trails outside of the Visitors Center to see if we can catch a glimpse of the full moon. FASN/Visitors Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, December 28, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 12/20: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, December 28, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

FUZZY WUZZY WINTER


Little ones can learn all about how animals stay warm in winter through a naturalist-led lesson, story and craft. Children must be accompanied by an adult. FASN/Visitors Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Thursday, December 28, 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

INTRO TO ARCHERY


Participants will learn international-style target archery and test their marksmanship at our temporary indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Cost: $10/person. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 12/20: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Friday, December 29, 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

WINTER NATURE TALES


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

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Saturday, December 30, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

MOTHER NATURE'S FAMILY GAMES


Stop in and enjoy a variety of fun, family-friendly nature games and activities for all ages! Some games will be outdoors, so dress for the weather. LP/Nature Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar
Leaf Icon Saturday, December 30, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

WINTER BIRD ADAPTATIONS


Some birds migrate when the weather gets cold, but a few stay with us all year! Join a naturalist to learn how birds stay warm in the freezing temperatures and try your hand at feeding them. FASN/Visitors Center

Add to Outlook Calendar Add to Google Calendar