Programs
Throughout the duration of MCMP events, programs and/or classes, there are opportunities for photographic and video coverage by MCMP which may include your participation or observance of the activity. MCMP reserves the right to use the photos and video at its discretion for media coverage and promotional materials, including broadcasts, reports, publications, social media and marketing materials of MCMP. If you do not wish to be photographed or video recorded at the event, please let the photographer or videographer know prior to being photographed or videotaped. MCMP shall otherwise assume that it has your permission to photograph or video you and/or your child's involvement and participation in this activity. If you have any questions, please contact the Community Engagement Department at 330.702.3000 ext. 120.
Forest Babies
Join Park staff for Forest Babies, a program for your youngest ones, ages 1-3 years old. Enjoy bonding time together while exploring the trails at Ford Nature Center and then creating a simple nature craft or completing an activity to take home. Please be sure you and your little one are dressed for the weather as this program will include outdoor nature time. Register/pay by 11/30, online for your Forest Baby (adults need not register) or call 330.740.7107 x 129. Only registered children may attend. Please do not bring unregistered children to this program. No walk-ins. No pets. $5 per childWednesday, December 2, 2026, 10-11:30 am
Ford Nature Center Classroom A
Ford Nature Center Classroom A
Frost & Lights: A Festive Holiday at the Gardens
Experience the magic of the season at Fellows Riverside Gardens! Join us for Frost & Lights: A Festive Holiday at the Gardens, a joyful celebration full of twinkling lights, festive trees, and holiday cheer for all ages.Festival of Trees: Marvel at a stunning indoor display of beautifully decorated live trees from December 5 - January 3, closed Mondays.
Winter Nights: Take a frosty evening stroll through the Gardens glowing with dazzling outdoor lights from 5 - 6 PM on December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 26 & 27. Keep an eye out--your favorite holiday characters will be making special appearances!
Festive Finds Weekend December 12th & 13th 10am-6pm: Craft show featuring 30 vendors! Its the perfect chance to find those last-minute, one-of-a-kind gifts.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Dec. 5, 2026 - Jan. 3, 2027, 10 am-5 pm
Fellows Riverside Gardens
Fellows Riverside Gardens
Frost & Lights: Winter Nights
Take a frosty stroll through the dazzling outdoor garden lights from 5 to 6pm on 12/5, 12/6, 12/12, 12/13, 12/19, 12/26 and 12/27. Durning these event Characters will make appearances to delight guests of all ages.Saturday, Sunday, Dec. 5 - 27, 2026, 5-6 pm
Fellows Riverside Gardens
Fellows Riverside Gardens
Festive Finds at Fellows
Looking for the perfect last-minute holiday gift? Join us for Festive Finds at Fellows, a holiday vendor show featuring 30+ unique local vendors! Located on the lower level of the Davis Center, nestled among our beautiful holiday tree displays, this festive shopping experience is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list. Browse a wonderful variety of handmade crafts, baked goods, specialty items, and so much more! Whether you're shopping for loved ones or treating yourself to something special, you're sure to discover something unique while enjoying the magic of the holiday season at Fellows Riverside Gardens.Saturday, Sunday, Dec. 12 - 13, 2026, 10 am-6 pm
Fellows Riverside Gardens: Rossi Auditorium Plus Radius Room
Fellows Riverside Gardens: Rossi Auditorium Plus Radius Room
MetroMutts: Hopewell Furnace Trail
Join us for a 2-4 mile hike on the Yellow Creek and Hopewell Furnace Trails. We will end the hike by warming up fireside in the Yellow Creek Lodge. Cost: Members are free / Non-Members $10. Call Wick Recreation Area for more information.Saturday, December 12, 2026, Noon -1 pm
Yellow Creek Park Lodge
Yellow Creek Park Lodge
The Great Holiday Escape!
The holidays can be a busy time of year! Take a break from the shopping, planning, and the hustle and bustle to slow down and enjoy a little time outdoors. Join in on a relaxing winter stroll (about one mile on gentle terrain) to catch your breath, enjoy the beauty of the season, and escape the holiday rush. We will wrap up our walk at Lanterman's Mill in time for Holiday Nights. Hot chocolate and popcorn included! Registration required. Register/pay by 12/10 online or call 330.740.7107 ext. 129. No walk-ins. No pets. $5 per personSaturday, December 12, 2026, 3:30-5 pm
Lanterman's Mill Overflow Parking Lot
Lanterman's Mill Overflow Parking Lot
Holiday Nights at Lanterman's Mill
Back again this year . . .enjoy an extra special Christmas treat with a quiet evening visit to historic Lanterman's Mill on Saturday, December 12th and Sunday, December 13th from 5-7pm. You are invited to an exclusive, night-time look inside this iconic structure, with its unique history and architecture, beautifully dressed in holiday style. The garland, the trees, and the holiday music are all a part of the magic of the evening. Gift Shop will be open for last minute shopping. Hot chocolate and popcorn for sale. Santa is expected to make a visit, too!! Limited restroom facilities available. FREESaturday, Sunday, Dec. 12 - 13, 2026, 5-7 pm
Mill Creek Park: Lanterman's Mill
Mill Creek Park: Lanterman's Mill Overflow Parking Lot
Mill Creek Park: Lanterman's Mill
Mill Creek Park: Lanterman's Mill Overflow Parking Lot
Coffee With the Birds: Feeder Frenzy
Winter is well on it's way and the birds outside your window are ready to eat! Our mini lesson this month will touch on the interesting history of bird feeding, what to feed and when to attract what birds, and why we see so many more birds at our feeders this time of year. Head over to Nancy's Nook for some guided indoor bird watching with an included hot beverage. Registration required; space is limited. Register/pay by 12/11, online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. No walk-ins. Ages 8+. $5 per personSunday, December 13, 2026, 8:30-9:30 am
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom A (upstairs)
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom A (upstairs)
Nature Center Story Time and Show and Tell
Come hear a wild tale read aloud by a Park Educator in the Ford Nature Center Exhibit Hall at 11:00AM. After story time, use your senses to explore a selection of nests, animal skulls, and other fascinating biofacts. Found something in nature you need help identifying? Curious minds of all ages are encouraged to bring something to Show and Tell! Story time recommended for ages 4-8. No registration required. Walk-in only. FREESunday, December 13, 2026, 11 am-12:30 pm
Mill Creek Park: Ford Nature Center
Mill Creek Park: Ford Nature Center
Throwback Thursday: Bears Den
The Wall Garden, the dams of the lakes, even the curbs in Mill Creek MetroPark are made out of native sandstone! Did you know that majority of that stone came from the Bears Den area? The surrounding area has a rich history of quarrying operations. Join a Park Educator in the warmth of Bears Den Cabin as we explore the history, geology, and stories about the area while enjoying a hot beverage (coffee, tea, and hot chocolate provided). Registration required. Register/pay by 12/15, online or call 330.740.7107 ext. 129. No walk-ins. No pets. Adults and children 12+. $5 per personThursday, December 17, 2026, 6:30-7:30 pm
Bears Den Cabin
Bears Den Cabin