October brings a full slate of seasonal programs to Lowe-Volk Park, with activities ranging from close-up encounters with salamanders to night-sky viewing under autumn stars.
Operated by the Crawford Park District, Lowe-Volk Park and Nature Center is located about four miles north of Galion on State Route 598.
Salamanders Take Center Stage
The month begins with Face to Face: Salamanders at 5:30 PM on Wednesday, October 7. Visitors will have the chance to meet salamanders that live at the Nature Center and learn about their life cycles and adaptations. The program will feature species ranging from one of North America’s largest amphibians to the instantly recognizable axolotl.
Halloween Fun After Dark
One of the park district’s biggest family events of the month arrives Saturday, October 17, when Halloween Family Fun Night runs from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Families are invited to come in costume or simply enjoy an evening of fall activities that will include a bonfire, face painting, crafts, wagon rides, and treat bags for children. Visitors can also bring a flashlight and venture along a guided night hike through the “haunted” woods or try a self-guided clue hike.
Members of the Crawford Park Astronomy Club are also expected to have telescopes available for night-sky viewing if weather conditions cooperate.
Little Explorers Discover Seeds
Young children will get their own nature-focused program on Tuesday, October 20. Little Explorers: Seeds begins at 5:30 PM and is designed for children ages 0 through 5. Infants can explore sensory activities, while toddlers and preschoolers will work on fine motor skills through hands-on nature experiences.
This month’s program will focus on the variety of shapes, sizes, and textures found in seeds and seed pods. Participants will also head outside to search for seeds and learn how plants spread them.
A Walk Through Fall Color
Autumn foliage takes the spotlight at 2:00 PM on Saturday, October 24. During the Fall Foliage Hike, Naturalist Donald will lead participants on a short walk through Lowe-Volk Park to examine the reds, yellows, oranges, and other colors appearing before the leaves fall for winter. The outing offers a chance to slow down and take a closer look at one of North Central Ohio’s most visible seasonal changes.
Looking Deep Into the October Sky
The Crawford Park Astronomy Club will offer two opportunities during the month to explore the fall sky. Viewing the Night Sky programs are scheduled for 7:15 PM on Saturday, October 24, and again at 7:15 PM on Saturday, October 31.
Possible targets include the Andromeda Galaxy, globular clusters, galaxies near the Big Dipper, Saturn, and other objects visible during the season. If clouds or unfavorable conditions prevent outdoor viewing, the programs will move inside the Nature Center.
Lowe-Volk Park is located on State Route 598 north of Galion. For additional information about programs, contact the Crawford Park District at 419-683-9000.