
Shrink to insect size in Life on a Leaf! Climb, crawl, and explore a native plant world from a bug’s-eye view. Kids become insects, playing among giant leaves while discovering how native plants power biodiversity. It’s an immersive plant adventure that’s buzzing with fun and full of discovery!
Life On A Leaf Exhibit
McKay Lodge at Shale Hollow Park
MAY 25 – AUGUST 31: Wednesday – Monday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Free all summer!

A Partnership with Sarah Strong
Sarah Strong works in handmade paper and natural materials to remind us of the importance of the natural world. She hopes to inspire others to plant native gardens, preserve the land and healthy waterways! Sarah says to “get outside and connect with nature!” She continues to share her art and practice through exhibitions, education, and community building. Her paper artwork will be featured as the “Prairie Ceiling” in the Life on a Leaf exhibit.
Opening Weekend
EXHIBIT SNEAK PEEK
Friday, May 23, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Shale Hollow Park, Ages 18+
Register by May 16, $10 per person
Reserve your spot to get a sneak peak! Meet the paper-making artist whose work is on display, join a geologist for a hike, and enjoy refreshments as you explore the summer exhibit, Life On A Leaf!
EXHIBIT GRAND OPENING
Saturday, May 24, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Shale Hollow Park, All Ages
Join us for the grand opening of the summer exhibit Life On A Leaf! Stop by Franklin Park Conservatory’s table to explore the partnership between plants and pollinators and grab some wildflower seeds to start your own pollinator garden!
MOVIE UNDER THE STARS – LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS
Sunday, May 25, 8:30 – 11 p.m.
Gallant Farm, Ages 13+
Movie is rated PG-13
Enjoy an outdoor showing of Little Shop of Horrors! Experience this quirky musical comedy under the stars with singing, laughter, and a man-eating plant. Bring lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy free popcorn and snow cones before the movie starts at 9 p.m.
Closing Weekend
NATURAL TIE-DYE
Saturday, August 30 & Sunday, August 31, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Shale Hollow Park, All Ages
Stop by Shale Hollow Park to tie-dye a bandana or bring your letterbox prize to dye!
ANIMALS & LEAVES DISPLAY
Saturday, August 30, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Shale Hollow Park, All Ages
Join our partners from Ohio Nature Education for a display of various live animals and how leaves fit into their everyday lives.
PAPER MAKING WITH THE ARTIST
Sunday, August 31, 12 p.m.
Shale Hollow Park, All Ages
Create handmade paper using natural materials with paper artist, Sarah Strong. Learn techniques to transform organic materials into beautiful, eco-friendly paper.