Submitted article

For virtual programs, visit www.zoom.com and enter the Zoom ID to participate.

 

Beginning Sunday, March 1

Wood Hollow Metro Park/Downy Loop Trail

2121 Barlow Rd., Hudson

Enjoy hiking the 1.2-mile Downy Loop Trail as the season changes while reading a special spring story along the way. This experience is available through March 29. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, March 1, 1 - 2:30 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

The wait is almost over! Join us in excited anticipation for the return of the migratory and magnificent turkey vulture. We'll take a deep dive into feathered forensics to discover the ecological importance of this misunderstood member of the scavenger squad. After a sit-down presentation indoors, we'll hit the trail and look for vultures and other birds, so please bring binoculars. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Beginning Wednesday, March 4

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Hike along the 0.6-mile Cherry Lane Trail for an amusing challenge in the woods. Remember, this is not your nana's eye spy! Available through March 16. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, March 4, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, March 4, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Zoom

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. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, March 5, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, March 5, 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, March 5, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Join us in collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron and OSU Extension to learn best practices for starting seeds for the vegetable garden. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, March 6, 10:30 - 11 a.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

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

 

 

Saturday, March 7, 9 - 10:30 a.m.

Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park/Lot C4

5550 Christman Rd., Green

Drop in at the campground boat launch to start your morning right with a campfire, pie iron pancakes and birdwatching. We'll have binoculars, a spotting scope and field guides set out to enjoy. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 7, 12 - 1 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Join a naturalist for a presentation to celebrate and discuss the amazing history of women ornithologists. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, March 8, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Come have a good time making some salamander slime! We'll be talking about some of the slimiest creatures around the world. Afterward, we will make our very own slime to take home (while supplies last). For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, March 8, 8 - 10 p.m.

Silver Creek Metro Park/Big Oak Area

5199 Medina Line Rd., Norton

"Whooo" goes there? Hike the 2-mile Chippewa Trail at night to get a glimpse into the nocturnal world of owls. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Tuesday, March 10, 1 - 3 p.m.

Furnace Run Metro Park/Brushwood Area

4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Join our interpretive artist for an entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. Beginners are welcome. Registration is required and begins 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, March 11, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions will learn about the extraordinary turkey vulture, their revolting habits and important roles as nature’s clean-up crew. Program includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, March 12, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

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. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, March 12, 1 - 2 p.m.

Zoom

Let's make a beautiful nature-inspired collage using recycled paper! Join our interpretive artist for this easy, fun lesson. A list of materials and a Zoom invite will be emailed after registering. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, March 12, 6:30 - 8 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Calling all people with yards or green spaces big and small: Join us and learn how to rewild your home landscape. This month, we'll dive into the moonlit world and discover what plants and practices attract wildlife active at night. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, March 13, 7:30 - 9 p.m.

Sand Run Metro Park/Old Portage Area

1300 Sand Run Pkwy. Akron

Venture out on a night hike in search of frogs and discover the important roles amphibians play in our world. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Drop in to the nature center's Lakeview Room to learn about native wildlife and the basics of origami by folding an assortment of paper animals. Bring a mug; warm drinks will be available. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 14, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Explore ways to make your home more sustainable and see how local Akron organizations are helping lead the effort! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 14, 12 - 1:30 p.m.

Furnace Run Metro Park/Brushwood Area

4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Appreciate the outdoors at a leisurely pace with a refreshing stroll along the 1.2-mile Rock Creek Trail to look and listen for signs that winter is transitioning to spring! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 14, 3 - 5 p.m.

Summit Lake Nature Center

411 Ira Ave., Akron

Beyond the Summit is a speaker series featuring environmental professionals discussing topics related to water in Northeast Ohio. From watershed health to fishing best practices, each talk offers community members the chance to learn from experts shaping the future of our water resources. This month's guest joins us from Fisherman's Central to talk about some fishing facts and pro tips. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, March 15, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Join us as we reap the fruits of our labor by enjoying a traditional pancake breakfast with our own Liberty Park maple syrup. As we wrap up breakfast, there will be a presentation and discussion of the notable history of maple syrup production in and around Summit County. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. Space is limited. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, March 15, 1 - 2:30 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Come take a deep dive into vernal pool ecology as we explore what makes these temporary habitats perfect breeding grounds for amphibians, insects and more. We will also discuss the important role they play in forest ecosystems and how they may be facing an uncertain future. After the presentation, we will take a short walk to see them in action. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, March 18, 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 the extraordinary turkey vulture, their revolting habits and important roles as nature’s clean up crew. Program includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, March 18, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Goodyear Heights Metro Park/Goodyear Heights Lodge

2077 Newton St., Akron

Join the Greater Akron Audubon Society to welcome Watershed Specialist Elaine Marsh, a lifelong lover of the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie. From pristine to polluted and finally restored, we'll learn the roles science, public policy and funding play in this stunning account of man's checkered history with water quality. Meet in the East Room. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, March 19, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Homeschoolers ages 7 to 12: Join us to learn what’s singing this spring and why there are so many things to see. We’ll explore topics like bird migration, insect emergence, spring ephemerals and more through a presentation, activities and a short hike. Dress for the weather. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, March 19, 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Goodyear Heights Metro Park/Goodyear Heights Lodge

2077 Newton St., Akron

Join us in collaboration with Let's Grow Akron for this wild workshop! Learn about Ohio's eastern bluebird, then build your own bluebird box to take home. Materials will be provided on a first-come, first-serve basis. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, March 20, 7 - 8 p.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Tuscarawas Meadows Area

2620 Harrington Rd., Akron

Kids ages 8 and up are invited to learn about the elusive timberdoodle, better known as the American woodcock, through a short presentation and woodcock walk. An adult companion is required to remain for the entirety of the program. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 21, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Join park naturalists on a bus trip to the wetlands of Killbuck Marsh and Funk Bottoms Wildlife Areas for a morning of migrating waterfowl, shorebirds and more. Pack binoculars, spotting scopes, snacks and a lunch. Dress for all-day comfort out in the elements. Registration is required and begins 2/1. Cost: $60/person. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 21, 12 - 4 p.m. & Sunday, March 22, 12 - 4 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Everyone loves real maple syrup! Stop in to discover the ins and outs of maple sugaring. See how the trees are tapped, how sap is collected and how it's boiled down to that sweet amber syrup. Did you know Hudson, Ohio, was the birthplace of modern maple syrup production? Enjoy the festivities and — the best part — you can satisfy your sweet tooth by sampling our fresh, local Liberty Park syrup! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 21, 2 - 5 p.m., 2:30 - 5:30 p.m., 6 - 8 p.m. & 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

The Nightlight

30 N. High St., Akron

Summit Metro Parks Foundation is excited to bring the world-class Wild & Scenic Film Festival to Akron to celebrate the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation. All proceeds will benefit the Summit Metro Parks Foundation’s work in supporting the park district’s mission to conserve, sustainably manage, and value natural resources for the health and enjoyment of our community, and inspire people to connect with nature through clean and safe parks. All showings will have the same collection of films. The compilation will feature inspiring stories from around the U.S. and the world. Tickets can only be purchased through the website and are not available at the Nightlight box office. Note: Virtual tickets are available; virtual ticketholders will receive a link to view the films at home. The films will be shown at The Nightlight, an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit movie theater in Akron, Ohio, dedicated to connecting our community through the shared cinema experience. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, March 25, 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 the extraordinary turkey vulture, their revolting habits, and important lives as nature’s clean up crew. Program includes a hike and craft. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Wednesday, March 25, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Discover how to make your spring roses thrive with expert tips on care, pruning and feeding for gardeners of all levels. Summit County Master Gardener Rick Hoddinott will help you plan for spring! For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Thursday, March 26, 4:30 - 6 p.m. & 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Coventry Oaks Lodge

40 Axline Ave., Akron

Practiced participants will review international-style target archery principles and test their marksmanship through a variety of fun and challenging shooting games. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Must be 9 years old and 50 inches or taller. Previous archery experience preferred. Cost: $10/person. Registration is required and begins on 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, March 27, 10:30 - 11 a.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

It’s finally spring! Young children and their adult companions can celebrate during an interactive, spring-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, March 27, 6 - 8 p.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Tuscarawas Meadows Area

2620 Harrington Rd., Akron

Queer or ally, doesn't matter! All are welcome for this inclusive springtime stroll. Stick around afterward for hot beverages and tasty treats in Tuscarawas Shelter. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Friday, March 27, 7:30 - 9 p.m.

BHT/Young Road Lot

5090 Young Rd., Stow

Venture out on a night hike in search of frogs and discover the important roles amphibians play in our world. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Bird enthusiasts of all kinds are welcome to join us for a deep dive into one of Ohio's most recognizable species each month. You see them. You love them. But how well do you really know them? After our indoor presentation, those interested can join for a guided birding walk. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 28, 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Furnace Run Metro Park/Brushwood Area

4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield

Hike the 1.3-mile Rock Creek Trail with naturalists to look for queen bees working and early blooms flowering as we discuss the dynamic of spring and its effects on pollinators. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Saturday, March 28, 7:30 - 9 p.m.

Cascade Valley Metro Park/Valley View Area

1134 Cuyahoga St., Akron

Stay up late to discover some of spring's most legendary (and elusive) creatures! We will explore where wood frogs and woodcocks may be hiding and why this season is an important time for both. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, March 29, 1 - 2 p.m. & 3 - 4 p.m.

Liberty Park/Nature Center

9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg

Join a naturalist to 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. Limit: one kit per household. Program will take place in the outdoor shelter, so dress for the weather! Registration is required and begins on 2/1. To register, visit summitmetroparks.org. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, March 29, 1 - 2:30 p.m.

Munroe Falls Metro Park/Lake Area

521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls

Take a hike on the 2.2-mile Indian Spring Trail as winter comes to an end. We'll find out what's already beginning to appear and what else the season might have in store. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Sunday, March 29, 1 - 3 p.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Visitors Center

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

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. Please note: March 31 is the last day to collect 2025 Fall Hiking Spree rewards! . For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Monday, March 30, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Tuscarawas Meadows Area

2620 Harrington Rd., Akron

Storytime is better on the trail! Bring your little ones for a 1.1-mile hike on Redwing Trail with stops along the way for a story and games to celebrate the season. Consider a jogging stroller or carrier for younger children unable to hike. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Monday, March 30, 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Firestone Metro Park/Tuscarawas Meadows Area

2620 Harrington Rd., Akron

Storytime is better on the trail! Bring your little ones for a 1.1-mile hike on Redwing Trail with stops along the way for a story and games to celebrate the season. Consider a jogging stroller or carrier for younger children unable to hike. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

 

 

Tuesday, March 31, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm/Nature Realm

1828 Smith Rd., Akron

Come learn about all the smelly things that make spring stink! We’ll take a 1.4-mile hike on Seneca Trail and use our sense of smell and other observation tools to learn about the funky, fetid plants and animals that call our parks home. For more information, call 330-865-8065.