Calendar
Great Parks' programming and events elevate outdoor experiences by providing opportunities for adventure to challenge, excite and build confidence; enrichment to inspire learning and creativity; wellness to promote physical and mental well-being and celebrate communities across Hamilton County. Discover a rich calendar of outdoor experiences at Great Parks of Hamilton County. Whether you’re looking for paddleboard yoga, native-plant gardening, children’s garden clubs, family storytime on the farm, or guided sunset hikes, there’s an adventure for every age. Filter events by location, activity type, or visitor group to easily plan a visit across scenic parks, lakes, gardens, and nature preserves. Many programs are free or low-cost, offering accessible ways to build confidence, wellness, creativity, and connection. Perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and community explorers seeking enriching, active time outdoors.
January 2026
Special Event
Wonders of Winter for Wee Ones
calendar_today Thursday, January 22
watch 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
What to know
Dive into nature’s fascinating mysteries with new hands-on activities each week, designed especially for preschool-age explorers. Find out what's happening in the winter woods, make a take-home craft and check out the Winter Woodland exhibit.
Cost: $7 Age(s): 3 - 5
Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve | Ellenwood Nature Barn
Recurring:
Dec. 11 | Migration
Dec. 18 | Bears
Jan. 8 | Snow
Jan. 15 | Winter Activity
Jan. 22 | Owls
Jan. 29 | Maple Sugaring
Tales of a Winter Woodland
calendar_today Friday, January 23
watch 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM
group Child
What to know
Take shelter from the cold inside the barn's cozy woodland scene. Dig into the wonders of winter through stories, songs and hands-on activities. For added fun, check out the Winter Woodland exhibit for self-guided games, puzzles and a scavenger hunt.
Cost: Free Age(s): 3 - 5
Location: Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve | Ellenwood Nature Barn
Recurring: Dec. 12, Dec. 19. Jan. 2, Jan. 9, Jan. 16, Jan. 23, Jan. 30 | 10:30 a.m.
Storytime on the Farm
calendar_today Friday, January 23
watch 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM
group Adult, Child, Family
What to know
Join us every Friday at the Farm for storytime! Each week we will read a different themed book together, followed by activities based on the book of the week. Activities could include a craft, sensory play, or a game.
Cost: Free Age(s): 2-5
Location: Winton Woods | Farm & Equestrian Center
Recurring:
Fridays
Herpetology Lecture Series: A Shell of a Good Time
calendar_today Friday, January 23
watch 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
group Adult, Family
What to know
Each week, join us for thrilling and informative explorations of amphibians and reptiles. Discover the unique behaviors of these remarkable creatures and gain a deeper understanding of their importance in our ecosystem. This week, explore Ohio’s native turtle species and meet some up close..
Cost: Free Age(s): 11+
Location: Sharon Woods | Sharon Center
Winter Hike Series
calendar_today Saturday, January 24
watch 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
group Adult, Child, Family
What to know
This annual series of challenging and educational hikes, ranging from four to 5.5 miles, explores the natural history and unique features of five iconic Great Parks destinations. Each week, join the hiking group that suits you best: the standard hike, a leisurely stroll, a fast-paced challenge, a family experience with nature games (perfect for kids ages 5-10) and more! All hikes conclude with soup, cookies and camaraderie. Registration is required for each hike. When registered, your selected hiking group will appear in the confirmation email, which hikers should have ready at check-in. Hikers will receive a button with space to commemorate each registered hike with a sticker throughout the series. Children must be accompanied by a paid adult. Registration closes on Friday at 3 p.m. before each hike.
Cost: $10 (ages 5+) Age(s): Adults & children 5+
Location: Woodland Mound | Seasongood Nature Center
Hiking Groups:
Mushroom Hike – Go on an adventure searching for mushrooms.
Wildlife in Winter - Walk and learn about how animals survive the winter.
Bird Hike – Explore birds overwintering in Ohio. Binoculars recommended.
Fast Hikes – Challenge yourself with a faster-paced nature hike.
Leisurely Hikes – Relax and enjoy a slower-paced educational hike.
Family Hike – Play games and explore nature as a family. Recommended for ages 5-10.
Standard Hikes – Enjoy a moderately paced nature-based education hike.