As summer turns into fall, the Park District is reflecting on a successful year of connecting with the community and fostering a deeper appreciation for nature. In 2023, we’re proud to have offered over 30 free park programs, serving nearly 415 visitors so far. But fear not, there’s still time to join us for the remaining six programs of the year, each promising unique experiences that celebrate the wonders of the great outdoors.
1. Ohio’s Largest Salamander Encounter at Metzger Preserve
- When: Tomorrow, Saturday September 16th at 11:00 am
- Location: Metzger Preserve
- Are you ready to meet Ohio’s largest salamander up close and personal? Join us at Metzger Preserve for an unforgettable program that sheds light on this remarkable creature’s life and habitat.
2. Exclusive Bird Hike at the Former Cooks Creek Golf Course Preserve
- When: Saturday, September 23rd at 9:00 am
- Location: Former Cooks Creek Golf Course Preserve
- Calling all bird enthusiasts! Explore the breathtaking birdlife at our newly acquired property, the former Cooks Creek Golf Course turned preserve. This exclusive bird hike promises to be a feathered adventure like no other.
3. Group Walk Alongs – First Wednesday of the Month
- When: First Wednesday of October 4th 5:00 pm
- Location: October Canal Park (main parking lot)
- Love hiking but prefer company on the trails? Join one of our group hikes happening on the first Wednesday of every month. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore more trails and make new friends along the way.
4. Parks After Dark: Ghost Stories, Night Hike, and S’mores
- When: Friday, October 6that 7:00 pm
- Location: Canal Park
- As the nights grow longer and Halloween approaches, join us for a spine-tingling evening of “Parks After Dark.” This family-friendly event promises a night of ghost stories, moonlit hikes, and the delicious warmth of s’mores by the campfire.
5. Native Seed Exchange at Canal Park
- When: Saturday, October 28th at 10:30 am
- Location: Canal Park
- Join us for our final Saturday program of the year as we dive into the world of native seeds. Learn how to collect seeds from our native plants and then participate in a seed exchange, where you can share your newfound knowledge and seeds with others.
6. Group Walk Alongs – First Wednesday of the Month
- When: Wednesday, November 1st at 9:30 am
- Location: Mary Virginia Crites Hannan (Starkey Pavilion)
- Love hiking but prefer company on the trails? Join one of our group hikes happening on the first Wednesday of every month. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore more trails and make new friends along the way.
For more information about these programs, click here. We look forward to welcoming you to our remaining 2023 park programs and sharing the beauty of nature with you. Don’t miss out on these fantastic opportunities to connect with the great outdoors and your community.