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.

JulyAugustSeptember

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 01, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: CELEBRATE WINTER BIRDS


Children ages 3-6 and their adult companions will join a naturalist to celebrate the feathered friends that thrive in Ohio's winters. Enjoy a story, activities and short wintry walk, all focused on these beautiful creatures. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/25: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 01, 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 Thursday, February 02, 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, February 02, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

FANTASTIC FOXES


Join a naturalist to learn all about foxes! We will learn about the skills that make them keen hunters and hiders. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 04, 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, February 04, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

YOGA FOR KIDS: HUNGRY CATERPILLAR


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, February 04, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

SIGNS OF LIFE HIKE


Join a naturalist to look for evidence of life that thrives in the winter. Tracks, scat and more might be waiting for us to discover. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 05, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

MAKE & TAKE NATURE VALENTINES


Drop by to make nature-themed valentines to take home! After crafting, enjoy sipping hot cocoa in front of the crackling fireplace and learn how some of our animal neighbors show their affection for one another. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 06, 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, February 07, 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 2/2: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 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 2/1: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 08, 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, February 08, 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 2/1: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 08, 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

HUMOR HIKE


Do you have cabin fever? Hike the trail with a naturalist and enjoy jokes along the way! Where does a frog keep its money? The river bank! F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 09, 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 2/2: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 09, 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, February 09, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM

THE CAPABLE CANAL


Do you know what important role the Towpath Trail once played in the growth of local towns? Come out with a naturalist to learn some of its history while enjoying the natural beauty it offers today. TT/Clinton

Leaf Icon Friday, February 10, 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, February 10, 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

UNDER THE COLD WATER


Come learn what goes on under the cold or frozen surface and how the animals that live there survive. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 11, 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 2/3: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 11, 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, February 11, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

BIRD NERDS: WOODPECKERS


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

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 11, 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, February 12, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

SUPERB OWL SUNDAY


Stop by before the big game to learn about these amazing birds and even meet a live owl ambassador! Enjoy hands-on activities in the nature center, make a craft, take a self-guided owl hike and even dissect a real owl pellet! "Whooo" is interested? LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 12, 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 2/8: 330-865-8065. FASN

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 12, 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 2/8: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, February 13, 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, February 13, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

VIRTUAL: FALL IN LOVE WITH NATIVE PLANTS


Grab your honey and join us virtually to discover the many reasons why native plants are a perfect match for your home landscape. Meeting ID: 874 8656 1708 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Tuesday, February 14, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

VALENTINE HIKE


Calling all nature lovers! Join a naturalist on a hike to look for valentine inspiration from the natural world. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 15, 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 2/9: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 15, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

KINDEREALM: CELEBRATE WINTER BIRDS


Children ages 3-6 and their adult companions will join a naturalist to celebrate the feathered friends that thrive in Ohio's winters. Enjoy a story, activities and short wintry walk all focused on these beautiful creatures. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 1/25: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 15, 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 2/9: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 16, 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 2/9: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 16, 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, February 16, 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 2/9: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 16, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

VIRTUAL: WILD PRESIDENTS


Tune in to the history of the United States' most "wild" and environmental presidents. We'll take a dive into the most impactful policies and people to better appreciate the upcoming Presidents' Day. Meeting ID: 879 9238 1214 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 16, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT EVE


Explore this special convergence of birds, citizen science and you! This time each year, the world comes together to watch, count and celebrate birds. You (yes, YOU) can participate, too! FASN/Visitors Center

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

NO-SEW RICE PACK


Learn how to create an easy, homemade rice pack with natural materials to use as a heating pad or cold pack. All materials will be provided. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/10: 330-865-8065. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 18, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

FEED THE CHICKADEES


Drop by anytime from 1-3 p.m. to get a hands-on, close encounter with some of Ohio's winter birds! Dress warm and bring a camera. Seed will be provided. FASN/Campfire Area

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 19, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

WINTER BIRD WALK


Join a naturalist to search for birds that reside in Ohio year-round, along with winter's winged visitors. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. CV/Valley View

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 19, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

READING THE FORESTED LANDSCAPE


Ever wonder if the landscape around you always looked the way it does now? Chances are it hasn’t! Join a naturalist to learn some skills that can be used to read the forested landscape. HH/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Monday, February 20, 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, February 22, 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM

TRY IT: ARCHERY


Participants ages 9 and older can sign up for a 45-minute time slot to try archery. Beginner and experienced archers are welcome. All equipment is provided. Participants must be 50 inches or taller. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/16: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 22, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

TRY IT: ARCHERY


Participants ages 9 and older can sign up for a 45-minute time slot to try archery. Beginner and experienced archers are welcome. All equipment is provided. Participants must be 50 inches or taller. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/16: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 22, 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM

TRY IT: ARCHERY


Participants ages 9 and older can sign up for a 45-minute time slot to try archery. Beginner and experienced archers are welcome. All equipment is provided. Participants must be 50 inches or taller. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/16: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 22, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN


Join David Kriska from The Cleveland Museum of Natural History to hear the story of the amazing restoration of Mentor Marsh. After being devastated by salt pollution for the last 50 years, the marsh has been restored to its original beauty. FASN

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 23, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: OUR NATIVE WILDLIFE IS CLASSY!


For homeschoolers ages 7-14: Scientists group animals into “classes” to make it easier to study them. Find out what class your favorite native critter belongs to and why, as we explore important characteristics used in classifying some of our wildlife. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/15: 330-865-8065. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 23, 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, February 23, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: OUR NATIVE WILDLIFE IS CLASSY!


For homeschoolers ages 7-14: Scientists group animals into “classes” to make it easier to study them. Find out what class your favorite native critter belongs to and why, as we explore important characteristics used in classifying some of our wildlife. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/15: 330-865-8065. FR/Brushwood

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 23, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

SPRINGFIELD STROLL


Don't let life "bog" you down. Bundle up and let's stroll the trail to explore for signs of wildlife and the history of this extensive prairie field. SFB

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 23, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

VITAL NATURE CONNECTIONS: INSPIRATION FROM NATURE


Join a naturalist and Dr. Lara Roketenetz from The University of Akron for a hands-on night of games, microscopes and more to discover one of the most ground-breaking and hopeful fields of science: biomimicry. By copy-catting the natural world, humans are learning to defy gravity, travel at high speeds and even regenerate brain cells! Discover what we’ve learned and what we’ve yet to uncover from our greatest teacher: Mother Nature. Enter the park off Ira Road and follow signs past the main parking lot to the Field Station. Bath Nature Preserve: 4240 Ira Road Bath, OH 44333

Leaf Icon Friday, February 24, 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, February 24, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

THE GORGE'S PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE


Join us for a presentation about the Gorge, where we will learn about its past, present and future from those who know it well. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/17: Register here. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 25, 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, February 25, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

FUELING AMERICA


What was happening at Silver Creek Metro Park during the late 1800s and early 1900s? Hike with a naturalist and we'll discuss subjects from coal to dairy farms and how they've helped form the land we know today! SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 26, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

BACK YARDS GONE WILD: DIY BLUEBIRD BOXES


Join a naturalist to kick off this monthly series focused on creating nature-friendly backyards. This month we will learn about cavity-nesting birds such as chickadees, bluebirds and wrens. After a short presentation, participants can make a bluebird box to take home, free of charge, courtesy of Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Participants must register to reserve a kit, limit one per household. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/17: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 27, 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