Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience returns to Eastwood MetroPark

Five Rivers MetroParks invites the public to push their outdoor adventure spirit to the max this weekend during the return of the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience, presented by Huffy. This free event features two days of try-it stations, demonstrations, competitions and more ways that celebrates Dayton as the Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest. 

The festival is set for 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Outdoor X takes place at  Eastwood MetroPark, located at 1385 Harshman Road in Dayton. Admission and parking are free. 

“We’re incredibly happy to bring back the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience this year,” said Angela York, MetroParks’ special events coordinator. “During the pandemic, so many people found safe ways to stay active and work on their wellbeing. We want to help people keep that connection going by celebrating health, happiness and adventure in the great outdoors.” 

With dozens of outdoor activities, the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience, produced by Five Rivers MetroParks and presented by Huffy, is a great opportunity for the whole family to find a new hobby that gets them active and outdoors. Guests can enjoy amenities available in Dayton year-round, including climbing, disc golf, mountain biking, fishing, slacklining, paddling (kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards) and cycling. 

Get active: From skills clinics to disc golf, the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience features many activities that can spark a child’s interests in outdoor adventure. Head to the Bike Village, where little ones can wheel around on the tot track while older children take on fun obstacles on the mountain bike skills course. Next, test balance and foot placement by trying slacklining and climbing. Families can also visit the Family Obstacle Course, presented by downtown fitness group The Unit, and try paddling at the Eastwood Lagoon. 

Those who wish to try these activities must sign a waiver, which can be printed ahead of time. 

Watch the pros: Kids will be inspired by professional outdoor adventurers. Watch the Dialed Action BMX Stunt Team perform high-flying tricks and enjoy the Chris Clark Bike Stunt Show. 

Freestyle whitewater kayakers hit the Mad River Run and execute tricks, including cartwheels, loops, mcleans, pirouettes and more. Slackliners perform backflips, front flips, butt bounces and more — and then encourage kids to try this fun activity in the Try-It area. 

Furry family members welcome: Pups can spend time with other dogs off leash at Pooch Island, and at Pooch parking, provided by Wagtown and All Paws Inn, where pets stay somewhere fun and safe while their parents try activities. 

For those who want to watch pups make a splash, head to the Dock Dogs competition to see how far these fur friends can fly. 

Rock out, camp out: Don’t want to miss a moment of outdoor fun; camp at Eastwood MetroPark for the weekend — for free. Be sure to enjoy live music from regional acts selected by WYSO 91.3-FM. A beer garden also will be open throughout the event. Bring a non-glass pint cup or purchase one at the event to help keep the event waste-free. 

Learn something new: In addition to the myriad activities that get families active outdoors, the event includes programs that engage kids with nature. MetroParks naturalists and festival partners will teach kids about local wildlife, Leave No Trace principles and much more. Head to the Youth Outdoor School for guided activities that are fun and educational. 

Learn more about how your family can enjoy the Midwest’s premier outdoor adventure festival at www.metroparks.org/outdoorx.