SLIPPERY ROCK — Slippery Rock Parks and Recreation will be hosting a variety events starting this month.

The annual, free winter carnival will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Feb. 9 at the park. Children and families can enjoy sled riding, an ice cream eating contest, crafts and games. Registration is required.

The Tiny Tots Playgroup will start new sessions Monday. Classes are from 9:30 to 11 a.m. for children ages 18 months to 3 years old. The session runs on Mondays through Feb. 24. Registration is required.

Preschool, elementary and advanced gymnastics will start new sessions Jan. 24. Classes are on Friday evenings in the recreation center at the park. Registration is required.

For additional information about the events or to register, call the park at 724-794-8180 or stop in the park office, 320 N. Main St.

BRADY TWP — Jennings Environmental Education Center will host a winter hiking and backpacking basics program at 2 p.m. Feb. 2.Participants will learn how to dress for success in cold weather, receive gear tips and tricks for day hikes and overnights, and get a glimpse of nature's wonders in winter. Some time will be spent outdoors, so participants should dress in warm layers and wear warm, waterproof footwear.No fee or registration is required.

BRADY TWP — Families can become “nature detectives” at Jennings Environmental Education Center at 2 p.m. Feb. 9.Program participants will explore the forest for clues and discover how plants and animals survive the cold winter months with scarce water and food. Tracks, chewed nuts, twigs and bark, scat, feathers, fur and hiding places will be examined.After some quick, indoor hints about what to look for, detectives-in-training will move outdoors to discover and solve some of the real-life mysteries of winter.This free program is designed for children ages 5 and older with an adult companion, as well as for anyone who is a kid at heart. Participants should dress appropriately and prepare to participate in an outdoor learning adventure.Because space will be limited, registration is required. Register before Jan. 31 either online at www.apps.dcnr.state.pa.us/Calendar or by calling 724-794-6011.

PINE TWP, Mercer County — The Grove City Chamber of Commerce annual dinner is set Jan. 22.The dinner begins with social time at 6 p.m. and is followed by dinner and a program beginning at 6:30 p.m. The event will be held at The Legacy Banquet and Conference Center, 1946 Mercer Grove City Road.Mary Jo Palmer, co-owner of b’gifted and a member of the Olde Town Organizational Committee, will be this year’s speaker.For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the chamber at 724-458-6410 or gcchamber@shopgrovecity.com. Tickets are $50 per person or $375 for a table of eight.