Go beyond the trails, trees and hillside views to see what makes Cincinnati Parks work. The Acorn is the space where the Cincinnati Parks Foundation shares stories, project updates and seasonal programming across the park system, offering a closer look at the people, projects and decisions that shape these spaces.
From maintaining greenspaces to planning events and community programs, it highlights the work that often goes unseen. You’ll also hear from the staff, volunteers, donors and community partners who keep the parks active and accessible.
Whether you’re looking for upcoming events, behind-the-scenes insight or a better understanding of how the parks operate, this is your inside look at the green spaces that bring Cincinnati together.
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Let’s Grow Local Brings Annual Community Tree-Planting Effort to Madisonville
Let’s Grow Local, an annual community initiative focused on expanding Cincinnati’s urban tree canopy and strengthening neighborhood green spaces, is coming to Madisonville on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026. MadTree Brewing, Cincinnati Parks Foundation and Cincinnati Parks will join community partners and volunteers to plant approximately 100 trees throughout the neighborhood, continuing a partnership that has invested in Cincinnati’s urban forest neighborhood by neighborhood since 2019.
The initiative focuses on areas where additional tree canopy can make a meaningful difference. Trees provide shade, help manage stormwater, improve air quality, support wildlife habitat and create greener, more welcoming places to live, work and gather.
Four Cincinnati Parks I Love Exploring in the Fall
Fall is one of the best times to explore Cincinnati Parks! Discover four beautiful parks for autumn walks, each with its own history, hidden gems and colorful landscapes. Along the way, see how Cincinnati Parks Foundation and its partners are helping protect and care for these special places for generations to come.
Relive the Magic of the 20th Annual Hats Off Luncheon
Our Hats Off Luncheon photo album is ready to explore! Browse the gallery, find your favorite moments, share photos with friends and download your favorites to keep.
A Look Back at Last Year’s Hats Off Luncheon
Before we put on our hats for the 20th Annual Hats Off Luncheon, we’re taking a look back at some of our favorite moments from last year.
Parking & Valet Information for the Hats Off Luncheon
We can’t wait to welcome you to the John G. and Phyllis W. Smale Riverfront Park for the 20th Annual Hats Off Luncheon. To help make your arrival as easy as possible, here’s what you need to know about parking and valet service.
Join Our Team: Cincinnati Parks Foundation Is Hiring a Development Associate
If you’re organized, collaborative and motivated by work that makes a difference in Cincinnati, we’d love to hear from you.
Cincinnati Parks Foundation is seeking a Development Associate, Grants to join our team and support the fundraising work that helps make investments in Cincinnati Parks possible.
The Development Associate will be an important part of a development team that raises $2–$3 million annually, helping to keep the systems, information and processes behind that work running smoothly. The role combines grant management, database administration and day-to-day development support.
Hats Off Luncheon: Know Before You Go
The day we've all been waiting for is almost here! We can't wait to welcome you to the 20th Annual Hats Off Luncheon at the John G. and Phyllis W. Smale Riverfront Park. Before you join us on the riverfront, here are a few things to know to make your day as seamless (and as stylish) as possible.
Sawyer Point in the News
Over the past four years, Sawyer Point has undergone a remarkable evolution: from renewed activity at the Riverfront Rink and transformed pickleball courts to expanded community programming, major events and plans for a new signature playground. Together, these developments reflect a park that continues to grow as a destination for recreation, connection and play along Cincinnati’s riverfront.
French Park in the News
The restoration of French Park is drawing attention across the region, helping shine a light on the importance of protecting Cincinnati’s urban forests and the potential for this work to serve as a model for conservation throughout the park system.
A Historic Investment in the Future of French Park
A historic $1.8 million gift is launching the largest forest restoration effort in Cincinnati Parks in nearly a century. Over the next five years, more than 200 acres of French Park will be restored through invasive species removal, native planting, trail improvements and long term woodland stewardship, helping protect one of Cincinnati’s most treasured natural spaces for generations to come
What to Wear to Hats Off: Your Avant-Garde(n) Style Guide
The 20th Annual Hats Off Luncheon is almost here, and this year’s Avant-Garde(n) theme invites a little more fun with fashion. Think bold color, fabulous florals, statement accessories and, of course, a great hat. Go all in or add one unexpected detail and make the theme your own.
More Ways to Ride at Mt. Airy Forest
Mountain biking can be exhilarating, but getting started can also feel intimidating. Do you have the right bike? Do you know how to ride a trail? Where can you safely practice?
At the Mt. Airy Bike Skills Course, Cincinnati Parks Foundation and our community partners are helping remove some of those barriers.
Your Cincinnati Parks End-of-Summer Bucket List
The backpacks may be waiting, but summer isn’t over yet. Before school routines return, make the most of these last days with a few more adventures in Cincinnati Parks.
More Than a Sign of Summer: How Fireflies Led Us to Wonder and Science
During a BioBlitz, community members help observe and document wildlife. Our firefly findings could be submitted to the Firefly Atlas and iNaturalist, adding to research about where different species live, how their populations are changing and how habitat restoration supports biodiversity.
A Lasting Legacy Takes Root at French Park
Cincinnati Parks and Cincinnati Parks Foundation are advancing a major effort to restore French Park’s urban forest. Featured in CET’s Brick by Brick, the project is supported by a transformational $1.8 million anonymous gift and will remove invasive species, restore native trees and improve trails. Learn how this work could shape future conservation efforts across Cincinnati.
Throwback Thursday: Rolling Back to the 90s at Sawyer Point
Missed the event? The Sawyer Point Riverfront Rink offers free weekly skating for all skill levels, including Sunday lessons, Friday teen nights and Saturday DJ sessions. Bring your own skates or borrow a pair and get ready to roll.
A Toast to 20 Years: Celebrating The Women’s Committee of Cincinnati Parks at Carol Ann’s Carousel
Leading the 20th annual Hats Off Luncheon are co-chairs of The Women’s Committee, Katherine Jarnigo and Molly Vollmer, daughters of Debbie Oliver, one of The Women’s Committee who, along with Helen Heekin helped establish the group twenty years ago. Joining them are Alexa and Jack Oliver, Debbie’s daughter-in-law and son, and Charlie Heekin and Micaela Heekin, Helen’s son and daughter. Their leadership represents a new generation of carrying forward the vision, dedication and love for Cincinnati that inspired The Women’s Committee from the very beginning.
Preserving Mt. Storm's Hillside: A Once-in-a-Generation Opportunity for Cincinnati Parks
Preserve the Hillside. Grow the Park. Protect the Legacy.
Today, a 27-acre hillside adjacent to Mt. Storm Park is available for purchase, presenting a rare chance to permanently protect open space, expand one of Cincinnati’s most beloved parks and preserve an iconic landscape for future generations.
Wellness, Movement and the Arts Come Together at Eden Park
This spring, Cincinnati Parks Foundation, Cincinnati Parks and Cincinnati Ballet invite the community to experience an evening where wellness, creativity and the outdoors take center stage.
On Saturday, May 23 at 5:30 p.m., the Cincinnati Ballet Academy Professional Training Division will perform at the historic Seasongood Pavilion in Eden Park as part of a free community celebration presented by the Women’s Committee of Cincinnati Parks in honor of its 20th anniversary.
Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness Returns
Cincinnati Parks + Rec for Wellness returns for its second year with expanded hiking, new mountain biking, lunchtime yoga at Inwood Park, and more free wellness opportunities across Cincinnati.
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