What's Happening in May

Mother’s Day Plant Sale

Friday, May 11, 4 -7 pm

Saturday, May 12, 10 am - 5pm

Sunday, May 13, 12 - 4 pm

McMillen Ice Arena, 3901 Abbott Street

We had such a great time last year, we’re doing it again! Come down to the McMillen Ice Arena over the Mother’s Day weekend to get your garden started. The Botanical Conservatory is offering around 600 kinds of plants for purchase at a three-day plant extravaganza. You’ll find herbs, tomatoes, and other vegetable plants along with annual and perennial flowers and foliage plants, tropical plants for indoors or out, color bowls, mixed containers, and hanging baskets. New this year, we’ll have a special line-up on Saturday of speakers and displays to help answer questions for beginners and do-it-yourself gardeners. The plant sale is a fundraiser for the Botanical Conservatory to support its public programs. Come early for the best selection because it won’t last forever. Volunteers will be on hand to assist you in plant selection and loading. Plenty of free parking! Are you a Conservatory member? If so you can enjoy the preview sale on Thursday, May 5, 4 - 7 pm. Memberships will be available for purchase that evening if you want to beat the crowd and get the best selection. Please check our website www.botanicalconservatory.org for a plant list. For more information, call (260) 427-6440. Sponsored by WAJI Majic 95.1 FM.

4^th Annual Games! Dogs! Play!

Saturday, May 12, 9 am – noon

Franke Park Pavilion #2, 3411 Sherman Blvd.

Don’t let your dog miss this fun event, doggone- it! It will be the most fun you and your

canine companion have all year, paws down! It’s a dog’s day with vendors, adoptable dogs, rescue groups and the opportunity to participate in fun and goofy canine challenges. Food will be available for purchase during the event, too! Registration is required to participate in the games but the event is open to the public and free of charge. Call Renee Sinacola at 427-6005 for more information. Sponsored by My Best Friend Dog Training.

City Golf Courses

To check on course availability, call the golf course where you plan to play:

McMillen Park Golf Course: 427-6710

Shoaff Park Golf Course: 427-6745

Foster Park Golf Course: 427-6735

To download and print coupons for daily specials, visit the golf course Web sites:

http://www.mcmillengolfcourse.com/.

http://www.shoaffgolfcourse.com/

http://www.fostergolfcourse.com/

Tee times can be reserved on line at www.fortwayneparks.org.

Weekday Special

Men and women of all ages are invited to play 18 holes with a cart at Foster Golf Course for just $20 and at McMillen and Shoaff golf courses for $18 weekdays until 1 pm.

Ladies Day

Ladies, if you like to play with a friend, women play 2-for-1 before 3 pm on Mondays at Foster Golf Course and Fridays at Shoaff and McMillen golf courses.

Senior Ladies Golf League

Women 55 years of age by July 1 are invited to play 9 holes in the Senior Women’s League Thursdays at Shoaff Golf Course starting at 9 am. If your Thursdays are already full, we have many more league opportunities for you at all of our golf courses. Please call Shoaff Clubhouse at 427-6745 to sign up for the Ladies Golf League, or to find out about one of our other golf leagues.

Senior Men’s Golf League

Men 55 years of age by July 1 are invited to play 18 holes in the Senior Men’s League on Mondays at McMillen and Shoaff golf courses, or 9 holes at Foster Golf Course. Benefits of membership include reduced golf fees, gift certificates, special events and scrambles. For more information, please contact Harold Lowder at 483-5109.

Have fun!

What's Happening in March

Foellinger Theatre Tickets On Sale NOW!

Have you heard that Huey Lewis and the News is coming to the Theatre on Friday, May 18? Davy Jones will be here on June 9. And Starship, featuring Mickey Thomas will perform on July 14. That’s not all! There’s an amazing line-up of concerts on the schedule, and don’t forget free movies on Wednesday nights including Happy Feet 2, Puss in Boots, The Muppets and Hugo. Concert tickets can be purchased

on-line at www.fortwayneparks.org,

by calling 260-427-6000

or at the Parks and Recreation Department at

705 E. State Blvd.

The full schedule of summer concerts and movies is posted on our website: www.fortwayneparks.org. But check back often. We may add a few more concerts before the summer over.

Registration for Summer Youth Programs

Begins Friday, March 23: Mail, Fax, Drop Box, On-Line

Begins Wednesday, March 28: Walk-In, Phone-In

Program brochures containing registration forms and detailed information about our summer youth programs and day camps will be distributed in early March through the Parks and Recreation Department, Allen County Public Libraries and local elementary schools. You may call 427-6000 beginning March 9 to request a brochure by mail. Brochures will also be available on-line at that time. Brochures will not be mailed out prior to March 9 and registrations will not be accepted prior to March 23. Participants must be the minimum age before the program begins. Proof of age may be required.

Down on the Fisher-Price Farm Exhibit: Through April 8

Bring the little ones down to the Conserva­tory this winter for a fun time on the farm, where children can play at gathering eggs, milking the cow, churning butter, making pies, hanging the wash, and tending the garden. Reminiscent of the old Fisher-Price farm set, the old red barn and Farmall tractor are the centerpieces of the exhibit. Mom and Dad will enjoy coming in out of the cold for the smell of fresh earth and a view of growing plants. Don’t miss our special Family Farm event on Saturday, February 4. Spon­sored by WAJI Majic 95.1 FM, WLDE Fun 101.7 FM, and Orthopedic Precision Instruments in Albion, Indiana. For more info, visit www.botanicalconservatory.org or call (260) 427-6440. Admission is $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17, free for children 2 and under.

$1 Night

March 1, 5 – 8 pm

On the first Thursday of the month we offer $1 admissions, 5-8 pm, for adults and children. Babies and up to age 2 are still admitted free. Enjoy our evening hours and a special discount once a month. For more info, call (260) 427-6440.

Spring Open House

Saturday, March 17, 10 am – 5 pm
Looking for something to brighten your home or garden? Enjoy our new retail Sales Garden offering fresh spring-flowering plants. Add some fragrance with cold-tolerant pansies, sweet alyssum, or stock, or color your dining table with a pot of forced hyacinths or daffodils. Perfect for gift giving, our flowers will put a “spring” in your step. Free warm drinks while you shop! No admission is required to shop at the Conservatory, but to visit the gardens, regular admission applies: $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17.Children 2 and under are free. The spring Showcase exhibit is “Down on the Fisher-Price Farm,” a perfect opportunity for pre-schoolers and other youngsters to interact with their adults in a nostalgic setting. For more information, call (260) 427-6440.

Drop-In Yoga in the Garden

Wednesdays, 5:30 – 6:30 pm

The practice of yoga is a wonderful way to build strength and flexibility, reduce stress, and enhance general well-being. Taught by certified yoga instructor and world traveler Lanah K. Hake, these classes provide a sampling of a variety of yoga styles and are tailored to fit the ability level of the group. A few blankets and mats are available but you should bring your own supplies if you have them. Additional class information is available by following Fort Wayne Outdoor Yoga on Facebook, or by checking the instructor’s website at http://www.lanahlink.com/. Ages 15+.  $7 per class/public; $5/Conservatory member or volunteer. For more information, call (260) 427-6440 or visit the instructor’s Facebook page at Ft Wayne Outdoor Yoga. Held in the garden at the Botanical Conservatory.

Drop-In Zumba in the Garden

Wednesdays, 6:30 – 7:30 pm

When participants see a Zumba class in action, they can’t wait to give it a try. Led by licensed instructor Hillary Halsema, our Zumba classes feature exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats. Before participants know it, they’re getting fit and their energy levels are soaring! It’s easy to do, effective and totally exhilarating, often building a deep-rooted community among returning students. Ages 15+.  Fee: $7 per class Member Fee: $5 per class. Held at Botanical Conservatory. For more information, call (260) 427-6440.

Have fun!

What's Happening in November

Gather the family and come out for these festive events:

$1 Night

November 3, 5 – 8 pm

Botanical Conservatory

On the first Thursday of the month we offer $1 admissions, 5-8 pm, for adults and children. Babies and up to age 2 are still admitted free. Enjoy our evening hours and a special discount once a month. For more info, call (260) 427-6440.

Santa’s Workshop at the Community Center

Wednesday, November 23, 4 – 7 pm, Free Admission

Community Center

233 W. Main Street

Start off your downtown celebration at the Community Center with free holiday activities for the kids. There will be crafts, refreshments and movies. Kids can shop for inexpensive holiday gifts for $1 or less at the North Pole Stop-n-Shop. Mom and Dad can shop that night, too. Community Center patrons have been crafting holiday items to sell on Candy Cane Lane. The money raised from the crafts will be donated to the Community Center’s wellness classes.

Holiday Kick-Off Party

November 23, 5 – 9 pm

Botanical Conservatory

Enjoy free hot chocolate and a cookie, meet Mrs. Claus, and get a photo with Santa. You can also meet two live reindeer that know all about the North Pole. While you are waiting, you can explore the holiday garden exhibits, including Night Before Christmas, Piñata Paradise, and the animated light show. Don’t forget to partici­pate in the Fort Wayne Downtown Lighting Cer­emony either before or after your visit to our beautiful holiday garden and displays. No reser­vations required. Sponsored by PBS 39, WAJI Majic 95.1 FM, and Media 401. For more info, visit http://www.botanicalconservatory.org/ or call (260) 427-6440. Admission is $5/adult, $3/child age 3-17, free for children 2 and under.

Christmas on the Farm

Saturday, December 3, 6 – 9 pm

Salomon Farm Park,

817 W. Dupont Road

Free Admission, free-will donations welcomed

Mark your calendar now and join us for a traditional Christmas celebration on the farm with a live nativity scene, horse and tractor drawn wagon rides, stories from St. Nicho­las and refreshments.

Have fun!

What's Happening in October

October is a month filled with frightful fun!

Fall Festival

Historic Old Fort

1201 Spy Run Ave.

October 22, 12:00-8:00 p.m.

Free Admission

Take a guided tour of the fort and watch as re-enactors bring to life the daily activities of the fort’s citizens during the 1800s. Live demon­strations will include period cooking, food pres­ervation, military procedures and more! Food and period crafts will be available for purchase. Visit www.oldfortwayne.org or call (260) 437-2836 for a complete list of activities.

Halloween Haunt

Community Center,

233 W. Main St

.

Saturday, October 22, 2:00-5:00 p.m.

Downtown Fort Wayne becomes a haven for monsters, ghosts, vampires and zombies on October 22. Bring your little spooks and goblins to the Community Center for an afternoon of frightful fun. There will be games for kids and fun for the whole family. Enjoy Halloween cornhole, pumpkin relays, pumpkin bowling and Pick the Pumpkin. We will also have face painting, a scarecrow con­test, a skeleton scavenger hunt and Scooby Doo movies. There will be seasonal crafts and refreshments. Best of all . . . it’s FREE

Pumpkin Zone

Botanical Conservatory

Saturday, October 22, 12:00-5:00 pm

Adults $5/ Children age 3 – 17 $3/ Ages 2 and under FREE

Pumpkins are one of the best things about the fall season and we’re going show you why! This squash family member was cultivated in Mexico as long ago as 7000 B.C. and is used today for decoration and food. See creative things to make and do with pumpkins, get fun pumpkin facts, and watch pumpkin carving demonstrations. The Conservatory is proud to be a part of the Downtown Improvement District’s Fright Night festivities.

Have fun!

What's Happening in August

After experiencing those sizzling July temperatures, we deserve some good weather along with some exceptional entertainment! Here's what we have going on the month of August.

Botanical Roots Concert Series

Doors Open 7:30 pm / Opening Act 8:30 pm

The Botanical Roots Concert series is back for a 6th year! Concerts are held on the Terrace Garden, rain or shine. Seating is limited so please feel free to bring your own chair. Food and beverage will be available for purchase from Mad Anthony Brewing; no outside food or beverage is allowed.

August 5--The New Familiars (Americana)

August 12--Country Joe McDonald (Folk)

August 19--The Tossers (Celtic Rock)

August 26--John Primer and the Real Deal Blues Band (Blues)

Botanical Roots is sponsored by The Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department, Rock 104 The Home of Rock and Roll, Whatzup, Champions Restaurant and Sports Bar, Fort Wayne Metals Research, Media 401, the Downtown Improvement District, and Mad Anthony Brewing Company, and supported by Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne. For more information visit www.botanicalconservatory.org or call

Air Supply

Saturday, August 6, 8 pm, $25

Foellinger Outdoor Theatre, Franke Park

This early 80’s soft rock group from Australia is known for their beautifully orchestrated, sweet ballads. In 1980, their first hit single “Lost in Love” became the fastest selling single in the world, leaping to the top of all the charts. Other hits by Air Supply include “All Out of Love,” “Even the Nights are Better,” “Making Love Out of Nothing At All,” and “Here I Am.” Sponsored by Fun 101.7 WLDE, Sweetwater Sound and MedPartners. Reserve tickets on-line at www.fortwayneparks.org, or call 427-6000.

Children’s Gently Used Book Swap and Sale

August 9 – 10,

Community Center,

233 W. Main Street

Used books for toddlers through teenagers will be available for swapping or purchase at our 2^nd annual swap and sale. The first sale was a HUGE success! You may swap up to 5 books per day while purchasing is unlimited. We are now accepting donations of gently used or new books for this event. Books may be dropped off at the Community Center any time 8 am – 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday. If you have a large quantity of books we will gladly pick them up. Call 427-6467 for more information or to arrange a pick up.

Fall Fun Times
The Fall Fun Times will be released on August 11. If you receive Fort Wayne Newspapers, the Fun Times will be inserted in the News Sentinel on August 11 and in the Journal Gazette on August 12. Or you can download the Fun Times at www.fortwayneparks.org. Take a look. We’ve got loads of fun classes, activities and events scheduled!

Cherish the Ladies

Friday, August 12, 8 pm, $10

Foellinger Outdoor Theatre, Franke Park

Described as absolutely unique in their spectacular blend of instrumental talents, beautiful female vocals, captivating arrangements and stunning step dancing, this all female Irish music ensemble has become one of the most successful and sought after Irish-American groups in Celtic music. One of their honors includes being invited to the All-Ireland Championships event "Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2011." Sponsored by PBS39 and NIPR. Reserve tickets on-line at www.fortwayneparks.org, or call 427-6000.

Rick Springfield

Sunday, August 28, 7 pm, $25 - $50

Foellinger Outdoor Theatre, Franke Park

Eighties superstar, pop music icon and Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Rick Springfield will grace the Foellinger Outdoor Theatre stage.

Have fun!

What's Happening in July

There's so much going on in July, let's get right to it:

Wednesday Night Movies at Foellinger Theatre—Free Admission

• July 6, 8:30 p.m., Megamind
• July 13, 8:30 p.m., Despicable Me
• July 20, 8:30 p.m.,How to Train Your Dragon
• July 27, 8:30 p.m., Nanny McPhee Returns
• August 3, 8:30 p.m., Toy Story 3
• August 10, 8:30 p.m., Tangled

Tuesday, July 12, 10 am – 3 pm

Family Fun Day

Botanical Conservatory

Don’t miss the Three River’s Festival fun at the Conservatory! Make crafts, get a balloon animal, have your face painted and win prizes at games of skill and chance. Enjoy lunch or a snack. Hot dogs and other items will be available for 50¢. Your fun will include a bubble dance party, giant slide, moonwalk, and inflatable paddle pond (some height and/or age restrictions may apply). Explore our gardens indoors and out while exploring the color and mood of Flower Power: Summer of Love. No reservations required; regular admission applies. A responsible adult must accompany children. Wear your TRF button to receive an admission discount. Regular admission: $5/adult, $3/child ages 3-17.

Friday, July 15, 8:00 p.m., $25

Three Dog Night

Foellinger Outdoor Theatre, Franke Park

Three Dog Night rocked the 60’s and 70’s with 13 gold albums and 21 top 40 hits including “One,” “Mama Told Me Not To Come,” “Joy to the World,” and “Black and White.”  The Foellinger Theatre is proud to bring this group back to rock the house! Sponsored by Fun 101.7 WLDE, Whatzup and MedPartners. Reserve tickets on-line at www.fortwayneparks.org, or call 427-6000.

Saturday, July 16, 7 – 10 pm

Jazz Under the Stars

Botanical Conservatory

Bring a lawn chair for an evening in the outdoor gardens enjoying Vintage jazz band and vocalist Francie Zucco. Settle into a spot on the Terrace or in the Exploration Garden, wander through the display gardens, enjoy the summer evening, and dance to the music. Food and beverage will be available for purchase from Mad Anthony Brewing Company. Please do not carry in food or beverage. The Festival finale fireworks are beautifully visible from the Terrace right after the concert. Doors open at 6 pm. No reservations needed. Wear your TRF button for a discount. Conservatory admission applies: $5/adult, $3/child ages 3 - 17. For more information, call 427-6440. 

Saturday, July 23, 8:00 p.m., $10

Hotel California

Foellinger Outdoor Theatre, Franke Park

Hotel California “A Salute to the Eagles,” was founded with the intent of filling the void left by the demise of The Eagles in 1982. By blending extraordinary vocal and musical talents, Hotel California faithfully and accurately reproduces the sound of the Eagles studio recordings, while recreating a classic sound which undeniably transcends the boundaries of Rock, R&B, and Country. All this while delivering a modern, action packed performance that brings this timeless music into the new millennium. Sponsored by Fun 101.7 WLDE, MedPartners and Champions Sports Bar. Reserve tickets on-line at www.fortwayneparks.org, or call 427-6000.

Friday, July 29, Doors Open 7:30 pm / Opening Act 8:30 pm

Botanical Roots Concert Series: The Ark Band (Reggae)

Botanical Conservatory

The Botanical Roots Concert series is back for a 6th year! Concerts are held on the Terrace Garden, rain or shine. Seating is limited so please feel free to bring your own chair. Food and beverage will be available for purchase from Mad Anthony Brewing; no outside food or beverage is allowed. The Ark Band is a St. Lucian reggae band, based in Columbus, Ohio. Founded in 1987 by Terry and Eustace Bobb, (The St. Lucian Riddim Twins) The Ark Band has continually toured across the United States, Canada and Jamaica sharing its roots reggae, calypso and soca music. 

Saturday, July 30, 8:00 p.m., $10

Revolution

Foellinger Outdoor Theatre, Franke Park

Here’s your chance to relive the music of one of the greatest rock ‘n roll groups of all time. Revolution captures the Beatles with authentic instruments, costumes, visual impact, sound and excitement that can only be described as “incredible!”  This four-man group of Beatles’ impersonators delivers a concert that takes the audience time-traveling through the 60’s. Sponsored by Fun 101.7 WLDE, MedPartners and Champions Sports Bar. Reserve tickets on-line at www.fortwayneparks.org, or call 427-6000.

Have fun!

What's Happening in June

The weather is FINALLY cooperating, between rain storms, just in time for all of our summer activities.

Have you entered the Senior Games yet? If you're an adult 50 years or older, you can join the fun anytime June 6 - 23. The entry fee is only $1.50 for each event and we've got 20 to choose from--miniature golf, bowling, cornhole, pickleball, table tennis, bocce, horseshoes, billiards, euchre, softball throw, basketball and more! Call 427-6461 to register or stop by the Community Center, 233 W. Main Street.

The Lifetime Sports Academy kicks off its fun for kids Tuesday, June 14th at McMillen Park. No pre-registration is required. Just drop in. Kids 8 - 18 can learn the lifetime sports of tennis, golf or swimming--all for free! And at the end of the program, they can win cool prizes like golf clubs and tennis rackets. The program runs until July 29th.

The Foellinger Outdoor Theatre season is underway with some amazing acts this summer. On Saturday, June 25 at 8 pm, come out to the Theatre located in Franke Park for Herman's Hermits, starring Peter Noone. Tickets are only $20 to hear such classic hits as "I'm Into Something Good," "Mrs. Brown, You've Got a Lovely Daughter," and "I'm Henry the Eighth, I Am." Tickets are available on-line at http://www.fortwayneparks.org/ or call 427-6000. And don't forget, starting June 15, free Wednesday night movies are back at the Theatre. We've got great selections like The Last Airbender, Tangled, Toy Story 3 and the Sorcerer's Apprentice. Check out the schedule at http://www.fortwayneparks.org/.

Have fun!