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 Thursday, February 01, 6:00 AM

CRYSTAL PALACE HIKE


Check SMP’s social media in February to find out when the Crystal Palace returns to Gorge Metro Park! Each winter, huge, colorful icicles form along the Cuyahoga River, creating an amazing "Crystal Palace." When it does return, we'll update our social media accounts to let you know when you can join a naturalist on this rocky 2+-mile hike to see nature's icy sculptures! Call F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm at 330-865-8065 for more information. G/Main Entrance

Leaf Icon Thursday, 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 01, 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. Registration required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 1/24: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 01, 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 1/24: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, February 02, 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

Leaf Icon Friday, February 02, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

SENIOR SAUNTER


Whether you're a senior by age or just want to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace, join us as we stroll Pheasant Run Trail. This loop is perfect for experiencing multiple habitats at a relaxed pace. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 03, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join a naturalist to see which birds visit our viewing area. Bring a mug and your bird questions — we'll provide warm beverages and birding insights. Make it a total "birdi-ful" day: Hand feed the chickadees or stay to help count birds for Project Feeder Watch. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 03, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

BIRD NERDS: FEEDING


Newbies and experts alike are welcome to join us in this lively series for a fun, approachable discussion on a new bird topic each month. This month, we'll explore the wide world of a bird's feeding strategies and who's eating what, when. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 04, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

BEGINNER WINTER BIRDING


No birding experience? No problem! Dress for the weather and join us for a short hike on portions of Alder and Piney Woods trails to learn some birding basics. Binoculars will be available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 04, 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 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 Thursday, 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. SLNC

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

VIRTUAL: ECLIPSE COUNTDOWN


On April 8, 2024, Northeast Ohio will witness 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 meeting ID: 828 9254 0535 Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Friday, February 09, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

SENIOR SAUNTER


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

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

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join a naturalist to see which birds visit our viewing area. Bring a mug and your bird questions — we'll provide warm beverages and birding insights. Make it a total "birdi-ful" day: Hand feed the chickadees or stay to help count birds for Project Feeder Watch. LP/Nature Center

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

KINDEREALM: SALAMANDERS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn all about our small, slimy friends: the salamander! Stop by to enjoy a craft, activities and a self guided hike. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 10, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

WINTER'S CANVAS


Snow and ice make the ultimate canvas for your child to express their creativity. Experiment with incredibly cool ways to make art from ice and snow. SLNC

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 10, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

STAR STORIES


The constellations have inspired countless tales throughout human time. Come relax and listen to some of those stories from around the globe and learn about the stars that inspired them. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 10, 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM

STAR TALK


Come on out for a quiet evening of stargazing and storytelling on the beach. We will point out winter constellations and associated lore. Tea and hot chocolate will be provided. SC/Lake House

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 11, 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM

WINTER TREE ID


No leaves? No problem! Learn the basics of tree identification using bark, buds and branches. Come prepared for icy trails on uneven terrain. CV/Schumacher Valley

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 11, 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 1/26: 330-865-8065. SLNC

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

SUPERB OWL SUNDAY


Stop by before the big game to learn about these amazing birds and 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 11, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

ANIMAL AMBASSADOR VALENTINES


Spread the love this season to our very own animal ambassadors! Meet-and-greet several native species and help decorate their enclosures with valentines. All ages welcome. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 11, 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 1/26: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Monday, February 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, February 13, 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 2/1: 330-865-8065. LP/Nature Center

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

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 14, 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 2/1: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 15, 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 2/8: 330-865-8065. FASN

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

HOMESCHOOLERS: ALL ABOUT ANTHROPOLOGY


Homeschoolers ages 7 to 12: Join us on World Anthropology Day to learn all about how we study the history of human societies and culture. Dig deep into archaeology, myths and more! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/7: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 15, 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 15, 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 2/8: 330-865-8065. Zoom: , OH

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 15, 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

HOMESCHOOLERS: ALL ABOUT ANTHROPOLOGY


Homeschoolers ages 7 to 12: Join us on World Anthropology Day to learn all about how we study the history of human societies and culture. Dig deep into archaeology, myths and more! ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/7: 330-865-8065. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, February 16, 1:30 PM - 4:00 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. Registration required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/8: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Friday, February 16, 3:30 PM - 5:00 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. Registration required. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS ONLINE 2/8: Register here. F/Coventry Oaks

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 17, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM

COFFEE CRAWL


Beat those dark winter day blues with warm coffee and conversation as we hike Alder Trail and watch the sun rise together. GYH/Pioneer

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 17, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join a naturalist to see which birds visit our viewing area. Bring a mug and your bird questions — we'll provide warm beverages and birding insights. Make it a total "birdi-ful" day: Hand feed the chickadees or stay to help count birds for Project Feeder Watch. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 17, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

CREATING A MONARCH WAYSTATION


Join a naturalist as we discover how to create a backyard monarch waystation. Learn which plants are needed, where to plant them in your yard and how to maintain it year-round. Learn how to register your waystation online, then sit back and watch the magic happen! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 17, 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

BARK, BUDS AND BRANCHES


If you can identify a tree in winter, you can identify it in every season! We're talking branches, bark and buds. Meet in the FASN visitor center auditorium for a short presentation followed by a hike on Cherry Lane and Fernwood trails. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 18, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT


Drop by the Wildlife Window to participate in this fun, easy and accessible worldwide event that engages bird watchers of all ages and abilities. Learn about community science and why it is so essential for our local wildlife! FASN/Visitors Center

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

BIRDING BY EAR FOR BEGINNERS


Do you want to take your birding skills to another level? Join us to learn the basics of birding by ear. Learn what to listen for, as well as techniques to improve your skills. By the end of the program, you will be able to identify at least 10 species by ear. You probably already know more than you think! LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 21, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

KINDEREALM: SALAMANDERS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn all about our small, slimy friends: the salamander! Stop by to enjoy a craft, activities and a self guided hike. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 22, 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 22, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

MINDFUL MOVEMENT YOGA


Join a certified yoga instructor and naturalist for a mindful, nature infused yoga class. This class is suitable for all levels of yoga experience and will be slow to moderate paced. Please wear comfortable clothing, bring a yoga mat and/or towel and drinking water. The class will be held indoors. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED AND BEGINS 2/15: 330-865-8065. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Friday, February 23, 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

Leaf Icon Friday, February 23, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

FULL MOON NIGHT HIKE


When the full moon's aglow, we start the show! Come join a naturalist to hike at night and see Munroe Falls Metro Park in a whole new light. MF/Tallmadge Meadows

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 24, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS


Join a naturalist to see which birds visit our viewing area. Bring a mug and your bird questions — we'll provide warm beverages and birding insights. Make it a total "birdi-ful" day: Hand feed the chickadees or stay to help count birds for Project Feeder Watch. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 24, 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM

WILD AND SCENIC FILM FESTIVAL


Summit Metro Parks Foundation is excited to bring the world-class Wild & Scenic Film Festival to Akron to celebrate the beauty of nature and importance of conservation. The 90-120 minute compilation will feature family-friendly, inspiring stories from around the US and the world. Tickets are available now for two in person showings at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., as well as a virtual showing available February 24 through March 2. All proceeds benefit the Summit Metro Parks Foundation, which creates stronger, more vibrant parks by enhancing the work of the park district. The Nightlight: 30 N. High St. Akron, OH 44308 330-252-5782

Leaf Icon Saturday, February 24, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

FULL MOON HIKE AND FIRE


Join a naturalist as we hike the 1.2-mile Coyote Run Trail, learning fun facts about the moon. Telescopes will be available to look for the man in the moon as we enjoy the warmth of a fire and hot chocolate. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 25, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

WINTER HIKE FOR BIRDS


Come join a naturalist for a hike along Redwing Trail to learn about birds and their winter adaptations. We will also be stopping to hand feed birds, so remember to dress for the weather! F/Tuscarawas Meadows

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 25, 1:00 PM - 3:00 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. CV/Valley View

Leaf Icon Sunday, February 25, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

SUNSET SOUNDS HIKE & FIRE


Snow crunching beneath our feet, the crackle of a warm, cozy fire, maybe even the howl of a coyote in the distance — what other sounds will we discover? Join a naturalist for a walk to view the sunset and search for animals waking up for the night, then enjoy the warmth of a fire, s'mores and hot cocoa. LP/Nature Center

Leaf Icon Monday, February 26, 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 28, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

KINDEREALM: SALAMANDERS


Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn all about our small, slimy friends: the salamander! Stop by to enjoy a craft, activities and a self guided hike. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. SC/Pheasant Run

Leaf Icon Wednesday, February 28, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

MEET ME IN THE GARDEN: TERRIFIC TOMATOES AND BEYOND


Gleaned from his decades of professional horticultural experience, Mario Cammarata shares his best gardening practices with a focus on one of his favorites: tomatoes. Mario is a retired horticulturalist from Cleveland Clinic and an avid gardener. FASN/Visitors Center

Leaf Icon Thursday, February 29, 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 29, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

COLORS OF WINTER HIKE


People mistakenly think of winter as gray and colorless. On Leap Day, hike with us along Seven Ponds Trail to search for the beautiful hues nature provides in winter for those who look closely. LP/Tinkers Creek SNP