Upcoming Events

All ages

As the end of wildflower season draws near, we invite your family to join us for a hike and campfire amongst the fall flowers! Along the way, learn about wildflowers and what our wildlife are doing to prepare for fall. Then, settle in for a sunset campfire with s’mores. There will be optional crafts, games, and stories available. Registration (one per family) is required. This is a Tools to Trek program.

Registration Deadline: Friday, September 18

Recommended for ages 2 – 5 with a parent/guardian

Wrap up your week with some mom talk during a toddler trek, including snacks and playground fun! We will meet near the shelter for introductions and making a “trail mix” then walk along “Owlexander’s Tyke Hike.” Register one person per family. All siblings welcome.

Registration deadline: Sunday, September 20

Ages 16 and up

Create a magical fairy house luminary inspired by woodland hideaways! Kristin Bailey from The Purple Paintbrush will provide each participant with approximately 2 lbs. of clay and plenty of techniques to use while making your project. Luminaries will be fired in the kiln and available for pick up approximately 3 weeks after program.

Registration deadline: Sunday, September 20

Recommended for ages 8 and up

Help contribute to research by joining the naturalist on butterfly surveys. Identify and count butterflies while observing other seasonal wildlife as we stroll. No experience is necessary. Trail is approximately one mile in length on uneven terrain. This is a Tools to Trek program.

Registration deadline: Thursday, September 24

Ages 18 and up

Learn techniques like how to add interest to backgrounds, combine fields of color with line work, utilize a limited palette, and work with limited brushes to improve dexterity. This class is best for beginner to intermediate level participants. All supplies will be provided, and you will leave the class with your completed artwork! Class is taught by visual artist and designer Renee Hopson.

Registration deadline: Sunday, September 20

Ages 16 and up

Growing Up WILD is an early childhood curriculum that can be incorporated into classroom settings, informal educational opportunities and with the children in your family. This 3-hour training session will show educators how to use the guide and showcase resources available to connect children to the outdoors. Please plan to be outside for portions of the program.

Registration deadline: Friday, September 25

Ages 18 and up

Local Master Recycler and Zero-Waste Expert Mike Fanelli will take you through how to go from recycling pro to zero waste. From using local resources to expand your ability to recycle and compost, to changing your mindset about how and what you buy, you’ll walk away with tips and tricks to take your household one step further into the world of zero waste! Please register each participate planning to attend separately.

Registration deadline: Wednesday, September 23

All ages
Thursday, October 1 – Wednesday, October 28

Sign up for this free program, and in October we will send you a clue each Thursday to find Grassman in one of your 51 parks! When you find him, you will also learn about a native butterfly! Scan the QR code to log your Grassman sighting. Each time you find Grassman and log the sighting, that is another entry into our raffle for a fun Grassman/butterfly combo prize bag! 4 winners will be selected. This is a Tools to Trek Program.

Ages 9 – 13

Try new art skills during this fun, nature-themed crafting program. Each session will offer different options for participants to choose from, allowing them to work independently or get creative together!

Registration deadline: Thursday, September 24

All ages

Join CWPD and local businesses for a festive, family-friendly stroll! Designed especially for preschoolers, this playful walk invites children to stop at sponsored stations along the route to collect treats. Costumes are encouraged to add to the fun! With a paved, accessible trail and thoughtfully selected giveaways, this free event offers a fun, safe and inclusive experience for all.

Registration is not required, however, registered participants will receive a cancellation email in the event of inclement weather.

Ages 12 – 17

We will hit the trails and look for seeds ready to be collected. Participants are welcome to take some seeds home to plant in their gardens. All sessions are eligible for volunteer service hours.

Registration deadline: Tuesday, September 29

Ages 8 – 12

Join us for an evening of making fairy houses! We will use pumpkins as the base and decorate with whimsical treasures and trinkets to make it feel like home!

Registration deadline: Thursday, September 24

Ages 11 – 15

Your teen will help themselves to a full s’mores buffet! From the classic chocolate and marshmallows, to strawberries and cookie dough, we will mix and match s’mores toppings and determine the BEST way to build a s’more. After our campfire time, we will take a night hike through the meadows and see if we can spot any nocturnal wildlife in the park.

Registration deadline: Monday, September 28

All ages

Join us at the accessible and exciting Activity Center Park for this afternoon of adapted events created to serve all abilities! This day will be full of archery, kickball, sidewalk chalk, adapted biking, crafts and so much more! Partners from all over the community will be there to bring this event to life!

Registration is requested but not required. Please let us know what accommodations you would like to see to make this event even better for you!

Ages 0 – 5 years with adult companion

Hit the trail with us! These exploratory hikes foster curiosity and confidence in young children. Your leader will point out seasonal changes and other natural points of interest in the parks. Hikes can be on a natural or paved path, depending on the location. This is a Tools to Trek program. Backpacks and front carriers are appropriate if your child is not walking.

Registration deadline: Sunday, October 4