Cleveland Metroparks Announces 2026 Kids Nature Lunch and Learn Series and Free Summer Meals Program
Posted: May 19 , 2026
Cleveland Metroparks and the Greater Cleveland Food Bank announced the return of the Kids Nature Lunch & Learn Series alongside a robust lineup of free summer programs connecting communities to nature and culture.
In its fifth year, the Kids Nature Lunch & Learn Series offers nearly 30 free outdoor educational adventures throughout the summer. Cleveland Metroparks naturalists will host weekly programs using the mobile nature center, NatureTracks, to bring engaging themes like Tremendous Trees, Beneficial Bees, Backyard Birds and Amazing Amphibians to life for local youth.
“Each summer, this series creates a space where kids can explore nature, foster curiosity, and connect with the outdoors,” said Mary Rouse, Cleveland Metroparks Director of Outdoor Experiences. “The collaboration with The Greater Cleveland Food Bank brings the community together in an impactful way with the combination of hands-on learning and access to healthy meals.”
The series kicks off June 3, running through August 7, 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 (Except July 3)
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 are available. Free books for children will also be available through the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank.
“We know that healthy meals are essential to learning. Providing nutritious meals for children participating in the Cleveland Metroparks Lunch and Learn Series helps in the mental and physical health of children during the summer months.” “We are thrilled for our continued summer partnership with Cleveland Metroparks” said Diana Davet, Director of Programs, Greater Cleveland Food Bank.
Since the program started nearly 7,900 guests have participated and 4,757 lunches have been served through the Kids Nature Lunch & Learn Series.
Popular Free Cultural 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 16 – August 25 | 6 – 8 p.m. – Garfield Park Reservation
West African Drum Circles:
Fridays, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
- August 21 – Lakefront Reservation, Lower Edgewater parking lot
- August 28 – Euclid Creek Reservation, Euclid Beach Park
- September 4 – Garfield Park Reservation, Garfield Park Center parking area
To view the Kids Nature Lunch & Learn programs and other free summer events, visit clevelandmetroparks.com/community.
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