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.
"Winter Talks" - Bats: Flying Fiends or Furry Friends?
The Ford Nature Center "Winter Talks" series presents "Bats: Flying Fiends or Furry Friends?" Bats remain one of the most misunderstood creatures on Earth. Ford Nature Center is out to change that! Join Park Educator Emily Greve and use science to bust bat myths in this presentation focusing on bat behavior, physiology, and ecology. Coffee and hot chocolate provided. Ages 16+. Register/pay by 2/19, online or call 330-740-7107 x 129. $5Saturday, February 21, 2026, 1-2 pm
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom A
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom B
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom A
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom B
Walk with a Geologist: East Gorge Trail
Join Park Educator for a walk along the East Gorge trail to learn the geology and history of the Gorge and Lanterman's Falls. Meet at Lanterman's Mill Overflow Parking Lot. Be prepared for a 1 - 2-mile moderate walk; dress for the weather, study hiking boots are recommended. In the event of inclement weather, an alternative date will be provided. Register/pay by 2/19, online or all 330.740.7107 ext. 129. No walk-ins. No pets. $5 per person.Saturday, February 21, 2026, 2-3:30 pm
Lanterman's Mill Overflow
Lanterman's Mill Overflow
Throwback Thursday: Yellow Creek Park
Join a Park Educator as we travel back in time this Throwback Thursday to learn and explore the area of Yellow Creek Park. Did you know that the local iron industry's history was started here? Enjoy learning about the people, events, and geology of area while enjoying a warm beverage (coffee, tea, and hot chocolate provided). Registration required. Register/pay by 2/24, online or call 330.740.7107 ext. 129. Recommended for adults. No walk-ins. No pets. $5 per person.Thursday, February 26, 2026, 6:30-7:30 pm
Yellow Creek Lodge
Yellow Creek Lodge
"Winter Talks" - Youngstown - The Story Behind Bruce Springsteen's Tale of Our Hometown
The Ford Nature Center "Winter Talks" series invites you to join Eric Simione, Lanterman's Mill Manager, to enjoy a morning in the warmth and bright lights of our Education Building as we dive into Bruce Springsteen and the history behind the tale of his song "Youngstown" and its connections to Mill Creek Park. Coffee and hot chocolate provided. Registration required. Register/pay by 2/26, online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. Adults 16+ years and older. $5Saturday, February 28, 2026, 10-11 am
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom A
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom B
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom A
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom B
"Winter Talks" - The Winter Sky and Beyond
Join Curt Spivey, Planetarium Engineer at Youngstown State University, for the Ford Nature Center's "Winter Talks" series! Discover what's visible in the winter night sky and catch up on the latest news and discoveries from the world of space and astronomy. The program will also include a telescope Q&A session. Coffee and hot chocolate provided. Register/pay by 2/26, online or call 330-740-7107 ext. 129. Adults 16 years or older. $5Saturday, February 28, 2026, 1-2 pm
Ford Nature Center Classroom A
Ford Nature Center Classroom A
Coffee With the Birds: Woodpeckers I
This month we explore the world of woodpeckers. Savor a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate with a woodpecker themed mini lesson. Then enjoy guided birdwatching at the feeders outside Nancy's Nook at the Ford Nature Center. Registration required; space is limited. Register/pay by 2/27, online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. No walk-ins. Ages 12+. $5Sunday, March 1, 2026, 8:30-9:30 am
Mill Creek Park: Ford Nature Center
Mill Creek Park: Ford Nature Center
Full Moon Hike - Worm Moon
Join Park Educators for a moon-lit evening walk at the Mill Creek MetroPark Farm bike trailhead and enjoy nature's sounds and sights all under the full Worm Moon! In the event of inclement weather, an alternative date will be provided. Ages 12+. Difficulty: moderate terrain, 2 miles. Register/pay by 3/1, online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. No walk-ins. No pets. $5Tuesday, March 3, 2026, 6:30-8 pm
Farm MetroPark Bikeway Trail Head
Farm MetroPark Bikeway Trail Head
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 3/2, 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, March 4, 2026, 10-11 am
FNC Classroom A
FNC Classroom A
An Evening in Nature: National Day of Unplugging
In celebration of National Day of Unplugging, join a Park Educator for a stroll around the All People's Trail and then warm up around the Ford Nature Center firepit with a warm beverage (provided). Enjoy one hour away from being 'plugged in'! Bring your own lawn chair. In the event of inclement weather, an alternative date will be provided. Register/pay by 3/4, online or call 330.740.7107 ext. 129. No walk-ins. No pets. $5 per person.Friday, March 6, 2026, 6-7:30 pm
Behing Education Building at Ford Nature Center
Behing Education Building at Ford Nature Center
Science Class (For Adults!): Owl Pellet Dissection
Why let the kids have all the fun? The Science Class series invites ages 18+ to dig in to their natural curiosity and explore the living world with a Park Educator through hands on learning. Think of a seventh grade science class for adults! This season we're focusing on owls. Take a hike into known barred owl habitat to look for signs of these stealthy predators. Then warm up inside with a mini lecture on owls while you sip coffee and cocoa. We'll finish up our owl adventure by dissecting owl pellets and classifying the bones of their prey. Register/pay by 3/6, online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. No walk-ins. No pets. $5Sunday, March 8, 2026, 2-4 pm
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom A
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom B
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom A
Mill Creek Park: FNC Education Classroom B