Programs
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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.
MetroMutts: Hitchcock Woods
Join us for a 1.3 mile hike on the Hitchcock Woods. Meet at the parking lot off of Hitchcock Road. Cost: Members are free / Non-Members $10. Call Wick Recreation Area for more information.Saturday, February 7, 2026, Noon -1 pm
Hitchcock Woods Parking Lot
Hitchcock Woods Parking Lot
"Winter Talks" - Paranormal Evidence at Lanterman's Mill
The Ford Nature Center "Winter Talks" series invites you to join us and the Collective Paranormal Research Team as we share evidence of recent paranormal investigations at Lanterman's Mill. Join us in the warmth and bright lights of our Education Building to review evidence collected and decide for yourself if the Mill is really haunted! Coffee and hot chocolate provided. Register/pay by 2/5, online or call 330-740-7107 x 129. Adults 16+ years or older. $5Saturday, February 7, 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
Coffee With the Birds: Bird Bodies
This month we'll explore a few fascinating aspects of bird anatomy and physiology. Savor a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate with a 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 2/6, online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. No walk-ins. Ages 12+. $5Sunday, February 8, 2026, 8:30-9:30 am
Mill Creek Park: Ford Nature Center
Mill Creek Park: Ford Nature Center
Wildlife Track and Sign Hike - MetroParks Farm
Animals don't cover their tracks. Head on out with a Park Educator to find and identify animal tracks and other signs of life in the winter landscape of Mill Creek MetroParks Farm. What we encounter is totally dependent upon the season and the activity of the wildlife on the land. Explore an active beaver pond, learn about the squirrel species that call the Park home, and so much more. Ages 10+. Difficulty: Moderate. Proper winter footwear required. Dress for the weather. Register by 2/6 online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. FREESunday, February 8, 2026, 11 am-1 pm
MetroParks Farm: MetroParks Bikeway Trailhead
MetroParks Farm: MetroParks Bikeway Trailhead
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 2/9, 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 child.Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 10-11 am
Ford Nature Center Classroom A
Ford Nature Center Classroom A
Valentine's Pop-In
Why should school-aged children have all the fun? Too young or too young-at-heart for a Valentine's Day party at a school? Pop into the Education Building located next to the Ford Nature Center (840 Old Furnace Rd.) to create a nature-themed Valentine's Day card for that someone special! Stop in anytime between noon and 2:00 pm. Family friendly, supplies provided. Registration requested but not required. Register online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. No pets. FREEFriday, February 13, 2026, Noon -2 pm
FNC Classroom B
FNC Classroom B
"Winter Talks" - The Cookie Table - a Steel Valley Tradition
The Ford Nature Center "Winter Talks" series invites you to join local author and cookie table enthusiast Alice Crosetto on a delectable journey through the tradition of a cookie table at every celebration. Coffee and hot chocolate provided. Register/pay by 2/12, online or call 330-740-7107 x 129. Adults 16+ years and older. $5Saturday, February 14, 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" - Youngstown and the Titanic
The Ford Nature Center "Winter Talks" series invites you to join Traci Manning, Curator of Education, Mahoning Valley Historical Society to learn about area residents who were aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic in both First and Third class - their stories, struggles, and sacrifices are set against the backdrop of the history of the ship. Explore their legacy and memories as the local area learned of the news and the survivors returned home. Coffee and hot chocolate provided. Register/pay by 2/12, online or call 330-740-7107 x 129. Adults 16+ years or older. $5Saturday, February 14, 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
Valentine's Hike
In celebration of Valentine's Day, grab your favorite people and enjoy a hike around Lake Cohasset together. Enjoy views of green hemlocks, Pioneer Pavilion, the Suspension Bridge and much more! Moderate 2 to 3-mile hike with slight grades and some steps. Meet at the Ford Nature Center Parking lot (840 Old Furnace Road). Dress for the weather; hiking boots recommended. In the event of inclement weather, an alternative date will be provided. Registration required. Register by 2/12 online or call 330.740.7107 ext. 129. No walk-ins. No pets. FREESaturday, February 14, 2026, 2-3:30 pm
Ford Nature Center Parking Lot
Ford Nature Center Parking Lot
Owling Hike
Whooo's calling out in the forest? Barred owls! These feathered predators are particularly active in the Park this time of year. We'll learn about owl behavior and ecology on a night hike near Lake Newport. We may even hear or spot some of these feathered predators on the prowl. Meet at the Newport Wetlands parking lot off West Newport Dr. Difficulty: Moderate. Please wear proper boots and dress for the weather. Bring a flashlight. Ages 12+. Register by 2/12 online or call 330.740.7107 x 129. No walk ins. No pets. FREESaturday, February 14, 2026, 4:30-6:30 pm
Mill Creek Park: Newport Wetlands Parking Lot
Mill Creek Park: Newport Wetlands Parking Lot