Cleveland Metroparks Announces 2025 Kids Nature Lunch & Learn Series and Popular Free Summer Meals Programming

Cleveland Metroparks and the Greater Cleveland Food Bank today announced the return of the Kids Nature Lunch & Learn Series along with a robust lineup of free summer programming designed to connect communities to nature and culture.

Now entering its fourth year, the Kids Nature Lunch & Learn Series offers nearly 30 free outdoor educational adventures throughout the summer. Cleveland Metroparks expert naturalists will host weekly programs using the mobile nature center, NatureTracks, to bring engaging themes like bird migration, squirrels, dragonflies, invasive species, and bats to life for local youth.

“We’re thrilled to bring back this incredible program that blends education, nature, and community,” said Mary Rouse, Cleveland Metroparks Director of Outdoor Experiences. “Each week, we see kids light up with curiosity and excitement. Our goal is to spark the interest and create lasting connections between youth and the outdoors.”

The series kicks off June 4, running through August 8, at the following locations:

• Wednesdays at Euclid Creek Reservation’s Highland Picnic Area
• Thursdays at Bedford Reservation’s Hemlock Creek Picnic Area
• Fridays at Lakefront Reservation near Edgewater Beach

Programs run from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and include free lunch for youth ages 18 and under, provided by the Greater Cleveland Food Bank’s Summer Meals Program, while supplies last. Free books for children will also be available through the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank.

“We are beyond grateful to continue our partnership again this summer with Cleveland Metroparks,” said Diana Davet, Director of Programs at the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. “Getting much-needed healthy meals to kids who may otherwise have to go without is key to our mission, and we couldn’t do it without the support of partners like Cleveland Metroparks.”

In 2024, approximately 1,500 meals were provided to youth through the Lunch & Learn series. 

Popular Free Programs Return this Summer

Cleveland Metroparks popular Urban Line Dancing and West African Drum Circles return this summer with special events throughout the district:

Urban Line Dancing:
Tuesdays, June 17 – August 26 | 6 – 8 p.m. – Garfield Park Reservation

West African Drum Circles:
Fridays, 6:30 – 8 p.m.

• August 22 – Lakefront Reservation, Lower Edgewater parking lot
• August 29 – Euclid Creek Reservation, Euclid Beach Park
• September 5 – Garfield Park Reservation, Garfield Park Center parking area

To view the Kids Nature Lunch & Learn schedule and learn more about these and other free summer programs, visit clevelandmetroparks.com/community.

###