Submitted

Friday, July 4, 8:30 - 10 p.m.
Firefly Fireworks

Munroe Fall Metro Park/Tallmadge Meadows Area

1088 North Ave., Tallmadge

Enjoy nature's bioluminescent fireworks this holiday! Learn about this charismatic insect through engaging activities, then catch some fireflies of your own. Please bring your own flashlight and bug jar. Enjoy sparklers, while supplies last. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 5, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Several different turtles, skinks and nonvenomous snakes call Summit County home, with many living in our parks. Discover why these magnificent creatures are vital to our ecosystems and what makes them different from amphibians. If available, several species will be on hand to view up close! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Beginning Sunday, July 6

Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park/Quarry Trail

5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula

Enjoy fun and exploration while following a self-guided story trail based on the book "Some Bugs." This experience will be available along the 1.4-mile Quarry Trail through July 27. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Monday, July 7, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Kids and their adult companions join a naturalist to learn about trees through fun outdoor activities! We will start in the shelter to make leaf rubbings and learn basic identification, then walk the 0.25-mile Maple Loop to get hands-on with some forest trees. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Monday, July 7, 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Towpath Trail/Big Bend Trailhead

1337 Merriman Rd., Akron

Join Summit Metro Parks, South Street Ministries and local cycling enthusiasts for a unique opportunity to preview the Cycling FRIENDS program. Youth and an accompanying adult are invited to join us for a 2-mile ride while we learn about this exciting opportunity through interactive demonstrations. Please bring your helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required to participate. . For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Tuesday, July 8, 7 - 8 p.m.

Silver Creek Metro Park/Sherman Shelter

5000 Hametown Rd., Norton

Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble, presented by Wayside Furniture! Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. The concert will be canceled if it rains, call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Wednesday, July 9, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about our slithery friend: the snake! We'll go over some amazing adaptations that makes them such unique animals through a craft, story and activities. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 7/2. To register, call 330-865-8065. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 10, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for weekly hands-on gardening activities for children of all ages. Seed, sow, water, harvest…and enjoy! Each week we'll have a game or craft, garden activity and a snack themed around what is growing and ready to harvest in the garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 10, 5 - 7 p.m.

Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park/Lot C4

5550 Christman Rd., Green

Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. Registration is required and begins 7/2. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 10, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park/Lot C4

5550 Christman Rd., Green

Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor to view a beautiful sunset. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. Registration is required and begins 7/2. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 10, 9:30 - 11 p.m.

Silver Creek Metro Park/Pheasant Run Area

5000 Hametown Rd., Norton

Set out for a 1.2-mile hike on Pheasant Run Trail to discover the curious connections between the season and Ohio's largest herbivore. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Friday, July 11, 10:30 - 11 a.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Young children and their adult companions can enjoy an interactive summer-themed story time. Make it a fun, family-friendly morning by exploring the park or visiting the Nature Play area after the program. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Friday, July 11, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Cascade Valley Metro Park/Himelright Lodge

1212 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Summit County Probate Court and Summit Metro Parks are partnering to offer a free outdoor wedding ceremony and vow renewal for Summit County residents. The event will take place outside Himelright Lodge, featuring beautiful park views. Learn more and complete the required registration at bit.ly/promisesinthepark2025. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Friday, July 11, 1 - 3 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Come try your hand at fishing. We'll provide the rods and bait, so all you have to do is show up! Anyone over the age of 16 will need a valid Ohio fishing license. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Friday, July 11, 9:30 - 11:30 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Join a naturalist to discover the diversity and beauty of our local moths. While butterflies often steal the spotlight, you’ll be amazed by the wide range of colors, sizes and shapes of these lesser-known, underappreciated insects. You’ll also find out what a moth garden is and why it’s beneficial. Bug spray is recommended. Bring a flashlight and camera if you’d like to take photos. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 12, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Liberty Park/Pond Brook Conservation Area

3973 E. Aurora Rd., Twinsburg

A walk in the woods can reveal wonders of nature otherwise overlooked. Join a naturalist on a hike to discover the beauty, variety and interesting ecology of mushrooms. Learn why fungi are so important to the natural world. Dress for the weather. Sturdy shoes and bug spray are recommended. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 12, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Hampton Hills Metro Park/Mountain Bike Area

2092 Theiss Rd., Akron

Are you curious about mountain biking but nervous to try the trails by yourself? Then this program is for you! Join us in collaboration with South Street Ministries to review mountain biking safety and trail tips, followed by a ride on the beginner and moderate mountain biking loops. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required to participate. Advance registration is required and begins (7/3). To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 12, 12 - 1 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Fall into the fantastic world of feathers! From structure to color, let’s talk about what makes them so special. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 12, 1:30 - 4 p.m.

Hampton Hills Metro Park/Mountain Bike Area

2092 Theiss Rd., Akron

Are you curious about mountain biking but nervous to try the trails by yourself? Then this program is for you! Join us in collaboration with South Street Ministries to go over mountain biking safety and trail tips, followed by a ride on the beginner and moderate mountain biking loops. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets are required to participate. Advance registration is required and begins (7/3). To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 12, 2 - 4 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Feeling ready to slow down and reconnect to the present moment? Do you feel most grounded and nurtured when spending time with nature? During this immersive experience, participants will be guided through a series of invitations that allow us to deepen our connection to our senses, awareness and interconnectedness with the forest. Registration is required and begins July 3. . To register, call 330-865-8065. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 12, 8:30 - 10 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Unwind at a campfire and learn all about the amazing firefly, then join us on a walk to look for a glimpse of these luminous insects. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Sunday, July 13, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Liberty Park/Tinkers Creek Area

10303 Aurora Hudson Rd., Streetsboro

Stop by to learn basic kayak techniques and take a short self-guided paddle on the lake under the guidance of certified instructors. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Space is limited, kayaks are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Location subject to change based on water conditions. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Sunday, July 13, 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Join us for the monthly “Let’s Go Green” program as we explore wind and geothermal energy. We'll cover how wind power works, regulations for wind turbines and the feasibility of installing them at home. Additionally, we'll dive into geothermal heating and cooling, with a firsthand look at the system at Liberty Park Nature Center. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Tuesday, July 15, 7 - 8 p.m.

Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park/Quarry Trail

5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula

Enjoy a performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble! Please bring your own chairs and blankets, and a picnic if you prefer. The concert will be canceled if it rains, call 330-865-8060 if wet weather is in the forecast. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Wednesday, July 16, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about our slithery friend: the snake! We'll go over some amazing adaptations that makes them such a unique animals through a craft, story and activities. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 7/2. To register, call 330-865-8065. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 17, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Registration is required and begins on 6/26. To register, call 330-865-8065. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 17, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for weekly hands-on gardening activities for children of all ages. Seed, sow, water, harvest…and enjoy! Each week we'll have a game or craft, garden activity and a snack themed around what is growing and ready to harvest in the garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 17, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Calling all people with yards or green spaces big and small: Join us for this monthly series and learn how to re-wild your home landscape. This month we'll explore the world of grasses, highlighting species that are fit for a wide range of growing conditions. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Friday, July 18, 12 - 1:30 p.m.

Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park/Quarry Trail

5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula

Appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace with a stroll to enjoy the rich natural heritage along parts of Quarry Trail. Enjoy a beverage and more nature conversation afterward. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Friday, July 18, 6 - 9 p.m.

Towpath Trail/Mustill Store Trailhead

57 W. North St., Akron

Join us in collaboration with South Street Ministries for a ride on the Towpath Trail to Canal Place to meet up and participate with the Akron Bike Party. Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles at a casual (10-12 mph) pace with hills and occasionally cycling on public roads. All riders are responsible for obeying traffic laws and watching for traffic. Please bring your own helmet and bicycle. Helmets and bike lights are required to participate. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Friday, July 18, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Bring a date and join us for a night of great views and memorable fun. It's board game night — see which couple comes out on top! No babysitter? No problem! Drop them off downstairs for a simultaneous kids' game night for ages 5 to13. Registration is required for grown-ups and kiddos and begins 7/10. To register, call 330-865-8065. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 19, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park/Lot SM2

5531 S. Main St., Green

Learn about two raptors and a special songbird that call Nimisila Reservoir home during a 3.1-mile hike along an easy trail. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 19, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 1 - 3 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

Learn how to kayak and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. Registration is required and begins 7/10. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Sunday, July 20, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Little Turtle Pond

2400 Harrington Rd., Akron

Anglers ages 15 and younger can learn the basics of fishing, then drop a line and see what they catch! Some rods and reels will be available to use. Bait is provided. Please note: Little Turtle Pond is a youth fishing-only site where parents must supervise their children. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Sunday, July 20, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Munroe Fall Metro Park/Lake Area

521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls

Families are invited to join naturalists for a for a fun-filled tent camping experience! Try your hand at canoeing, s’more-making, tent-pitching and other camping activities. All necessary equipment is provided. Optional: Pack a lunch or snacks and some folding chairs to relax in between activities! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Sunday, July 20, 1 - 2 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Seneca Deck

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Time to look for butterflies! Join a naturalist for a short talk and fun facts about the butterflies of Summit County. Afterwards, we will walk on the grounds and learn which plants attract them. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Sunday, July 20, 2 - 4 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Join us in collaboration with South Street Ministries for a bike ride to Skoops Ice Cream to celebrate National Ice Cream Day! Expect to ride at least 10 to 12 miles, at a casual (10-12 mph) pace. Please bring your own helmet, bicycle and money. Helmets are required to participate. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Sunday, July 20, 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Water, wind, sun and soil — how do we manage these elements in our outdoor spaces? Explore nature-based landscaping techniques from rain gardens and windbreaks to shade trees and natural mulch. After a presentation, we’ll take a short stroll highlighting the green infrastructure surrounding the nature center. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Tuesday, July 22, 4 - 7 p.m.

Towpath Trail/Summit Lake Trailhead

380 W. Crosier Street Akron

Join us in collaboration with South Street Ministries for a unique workshop during the Summit Lake Farmer's Market, where we will upcycle bicycle parts into holiday-themed ornament keepsakes. Cookies and cocoa will fill your belly while the sounds of festive music fill the air. . For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Wednesday, July 23, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about our slithery friend: the snake! We'll go over some amazing adaptations that makes them such unique animals through a craft, story and activities. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 7/2. To register, call 330-865-8065. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Wednesday, July 23, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Join Monika Bowman Bell from Ohio Division of Wildlife as she discusses the benefits of attracting wildlife into your outdoor space, along with tactics to deter nuisance species. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 24, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Springfield Bog Metro Park/Prairie Trail

1400 Portage Line Rd., Springfield Twp.

Go on a safari for beautiful and bizarre insects along the 1.6-mile Prairie Trail. Sweep nets and observation jars will be provided. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 24, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for weekly hands-on gardening activities for children of all ages. Seed, sow, water, harvest…and enjoy! Each week we'll have a game or craft, garden activity and a snack themed around what is growing and ready to harvest in the garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Friday, July 25, 1 - 3 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Come try your hand at fishing. We'll provide the rods and bait, so all you have to do is show up! Anyone over the age of 16 will need a valid Ohio fishing license. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Friday, July 25, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Cascade Valley Metro Park/Valley View Area

1134 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Soak up the summer sunset and watch the swallows above the Cuyahoga River as we walk the 1.1-mile Missing Link Trail. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 26, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Hampton Hills Metro Park/Main Entrance

2925 Akron Peninsula Rd., Akron

Lace up those hiking boots and hit the Hampton Hills with a naturalist. Along the 3.2-mile Adam Run Trail, we'll discuss the natural history of the area and explore signs of local wildlife. Be prepared for steep inclines and uneven terrain. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Saturday, July 26, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. & 2:30 - 4:30 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Adult visitors will enjoy lemonade while completing a lovely seasonal, nature-inspired acrylic painting following basic step-by-step instructions. All supplies are provided. Registration is required and begins 7/17. To register, call 330-865-8065. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Sunday, July 27, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 1 - 3 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Learn how to paddleboard and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. Registration is required and begins 7/18. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Sunday, July 27, 6:30 - 9 p.m.

Munroe Fall Metro Park/Lake Area

521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls

Families with young children are invited to try out the fun of camping with small children! Enjoy a camp-out story time, pitch a tent, make a s'more, play campsite games, take a hike and much more! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Sunday, July 27, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Bring your chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of instrumental music by the Western Reserve Community Band, made up of musicians from around Summit County. Tap your toes along with the drums, trumpets, flutes and more! Popcorn and lemonade will be provided. Rain date is August 3. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Wednesday, July 30, 9 - 11 a.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Bring your drawing pad and pencils for an outdoor lesson in drawing. Beginners are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the program. Portable chairs and drinking water are recommended. Program will be canceled in the event of inclement weather. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 31, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

This biweekly program is designed to engage young children and accompanying adults in the wonderful world of gardening. Each class builds upon the last and will be centered on what’s growing and ready to harvest! Adults are asked to actively participate with children during the program. Registration is required and begins on 6/26. To register, call 330-865-8065. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 31, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron for weekly hands-on gardening activities for children of all ages. Seed, sow, water, harvest…and enjoy! Each week we'll have a game or craft, garden activity and a snack themed around what is growing and ready to harvest in the garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 31, 4 - 6 p.m.

Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park/Lot C6

6194 Christman Rd., Green

Learn how to kayak and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. Registration is required and begins 7/24. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

Thursday, July 31, 7 - 9 p.m.

Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park/Lot C6

6194 Christman Rd., Green

Learn how to kayak and take a guided tour around the lake with a certified instructor to view a beautiful sunset. Minimum age is 13; ages 13 to 17 must be with an adult participant. Participants must wear closed-toe shoes and be able to swim. Wear clothes that can get wet and bring a water bottle. All equipment, including life jackets, will be provided. Location subject to change based on water conditions. Cost: $15/person. Registration is required and begins 7/24. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.