Lake Metroparks has two annual events taking place this weekend — the annual Apple Butter & Cider Weekend on Oct. 2 and 3 at Lake Metroparks Farmpark and the Autumn Open House on Oct. 3 at Penitentiary Glen Reservation.
At the the Apple Butter & Cider Weekend, attendees can discover how apple butter and cider are made and witness many traditional harvest activities, according to a news release. People can take a tour of the “Johnny Appleseed Trail” while the Corny Apply Bar in the Machinery Building will have popcorn, sunflower seeds, cider slushies, hot cider and water available for sale.
The event is part of Farmpark’s Fall Harvest Weekends, which provides visitors a hands-on look at traditional harvest activities including an apple-themed cooking demonstration on Oct. 3 only. The weekend features farm animals and harvest activities.
Farmpark is located at 8800 Euclid Chardon Road in Kirtland and its hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The weekend festivities are included with regular Farmpark admission — $6 to $8 except for children under 2, Farmpark members, and active military and their families who are admitted for free.
Meanwhile, the Autumn Open House will answer questions such as why leaves change color? Or why do so many birds migrate south in the fall? Or what happens to our cold-blooded animals in winter?
Attendees also will be able to learn some of the secrets of autumn through interactive activities and demonstrations. There will also be live animal programs and keeper chats, a fall-themed scavenger hunt throughout the park, plus a guided hike.
Free train rides, operated by the Lake Shore Live Steamers, will take place 1 to 3 p.m., weather permitting.
Other activities to enjoy at Penitentiary Glen Reservation: hike more than eight miles of scenic trails, interact with nature in Nature Play, explore a children’s outdoor wild play space, discover the butterfly gardens or enjoy a leisurely picnic. There also is a Nature Store with bird feeders, nature themed gifts, t-shirts, field guides, toys, children’s books and more for sale.
The Nature Center and Wildlife Center yard are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day while the Nature Store is open until 4:30. Penitentiary Glen Reservation is located at 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Road in Kirtland.
Visit www.lakemetroparks.com and click on events or call 440-256-1404.
