There’s always something to do in your Metro Parks!

Whatever the season, there’s something exciting to do at Metro Parks. From winter hikes under twinkling lights to summer movies in the park, everyone can join in the adventure. Our inclusive events and programs let you connect with nature, learn about the local wildlife, and find an engaging activity for you and your family.

Want to host your own race, community or sporting event at Metro Parks? You will need a Special Event permit to do so. Click here to complete a 2025 Special Event Application.

Ready to start exploring? View our Events calendar below to see the most up-to-date offerings at all our parks. Click on each event to learn more, including time, description, and age range, or search by a specific topic or park. Take a refreshing hike on one of our trails, participate in an outdoor adventure program, or check out what else we have to offer!




Homeschoolers on the Farm: A Victorian Christmas


Slate Run Living Historical Farm


1375 OH-674, Canal Winchester, OH, United States

Program begins a 1:30 pm. Meet in front of the farmhouse. For homeschooling families with children of all ages. Many of our Christmas traditions come from the Victorian Era. Stop ...Read More


Homeschool: Winter Watercolor


Spring Hollow at Sharon Woods


1069 W Main St, Westerville, OH, United States

Homeschoolers can learn the basics of watercolor and paint a winter landscape. Paints will be used, so please dress accordingly. Meets at Spring Hollow Lodge (1069 W. Main St. Westerville, ...Read More


For Adults 50+: Winter at the River Bluff


Highbanks River Bluff


8400 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus, OH, United States

Search for birds and other wildlife and enjoy a view of the high bluffs along the Olentangy River on this 1-mile easy hike. Bring binoculars if you have them. The ...Read More


Gifts for Wildlife


Glacier Ridge


9801 Hyland Croy, Plain City, OH, United States

Happy Holidays for all! Help celebrate this festive season with native wildlife as we create some gifts for our furry and feathered friends! This program is geared for all ages. ...Read More


For Adults 50+: The Gardens in Winter


Inniswood Metro Gardens


940 S. Hempstead Rd., Westerville, OH, United States

Meander along the nature trails on a 1.5-mile walk. The trails are considered easy. Stay after the program to enjoy the winter lights. Meet at the Gardens Entrance


Event Series
Cocoa & Cryptids


Cocoa & Cryptids


Battelle Darby Creek


1775 Darby Creek Drive, Galloway, OH, United States

Walk under the twinkling lights and enjoy a complimentary cup of hot chocolate. Use your cellphone to get a picture or two with Bigfoot and the Grinch!


Winter Solstice-Sunrise


Sharon Woods


6911 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH, United States

Celebrate the shortest day of the year by watching the sun rise over Schrock Lake. Enjoy a camp fire, snacks and some information about the science and meaning behind this ...Read More


Hike Behind the Lake


Blendon Woods


4265 E Dublin Granville Road, Columbus, United States

Enjoy the first day of winter on this 1.5-mile hike through the waterfowl refuge.


Adventure 101: Shelter Building


Scioto Grove


5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH, United States

Our "Adventure 101" educational series includes everything from guest speakers to interactive outdoor skill lessons! Participants are encouraged to take notes and ask questions Learn the best practices to safely ...Read More


Find out what’s happening at your local Metro Park

Search our full list of programs, activities and experiences

News & Events

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The Metro Parks Holiday Crossword 2024

The Metro Parks 2024 Holiday Crossword is here, with clues related to the parks, nature and the holidays, and with a little spattering of Tolkien and fantasy thrown in for …Read More

Behind the Parks: Meet Joy and Jim at Blendon Woods

Joy and Jim Dunno Metro Parks Volunteers at Blendon Woods Why we volunteer at Metro Parks, what we do and what we love most about it JOY We’ve been retired …Read More

A Wren and a Bluegill

ANNETTE BOOSE Guest Blogger Unseasonably warm weather this past November afforded my husband and me the opportunity to take our 2-year-old granddaughter, Wren, on a fishing expedition. We chose Schrock …Read More

Getting Salty as winter approaches… de-icing habits and impacts

OLIVIA GARAS Resource Management, North End Land Management Coordinator We are all familiar with the crisp cold air, blanket of snow and icy roadways that winter months in Ohio bring …Read More

Get Outside, It’s Your Nature!