April 13, 2026, Press Release from the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District:
Here are some of the programs and events being offered by the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District for the end of April!
SUNRISE HIKE
On Sat., April 25 at 6:15 a.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer a SUNRISE HIKE at HAVER RIDGE METRO PARK (8335 Bellefontaine Rd., Harrod, OH 45850).
During our quiet sunrise hike we could have the perfect opportunity to see some animals before they hide away for the day. Join us for a one-hour hike to watch the sunrise and keep an eye out for any early morning animals.
Registration is required to participate in this program. There are no restrooms located at this park. Register by April 23 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232.
NATURE 101: BAT BASICS
On Tues., April 28 at 5:00 p.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer NATURE 101: BAT BASICS at the MCELROY ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER (2355 Ada Rd., Lima, OH).
Join us for a one-hour presentation about the basis of bats and why some migrate and others hibernate. This presentation is intended for an adult audience, but children are welcome to join us as well.
Register by April 27 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232.
BEGINNING ARCHERY
On Wed., April 29 THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer 2 Sessions of BEGINNING ARCHERY at the ALLEN COUNTY FARM PARK (1582 Slabtown Rd., Lima, OH).
Session 1 will be from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. & Session 2 will be from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Enjoy the great outdoors while learning a new skill! Participants ages 9- Adult are invited to join us on the range to explore this unique recreational sport and appreciate the role of archery in wildlife management. Certified archery instructors will lead participants in proper shooting technique and important safety considerations. All materials will be provided by the Park District.
Participants must use the equipment provided. Wear closed toe-shoes and secure long hair. Please register for ONLY ONE EVENING SESSION. Register by April 28 online at www.jamp.com or by calling 419-221-1232.
FEEDING DAY
On Thurs., April 30 at 4:00 p.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will host FEEDING DAY at the MCELROY ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER (2355 Ada Rd., Lima, OH).
The Park District maintains several education animals in the McElroy Environmental Education Center, using them throughout the year for nature presentations and programs. Join the Critter Care Volunteers to watch (or help!) them clean and feed all our animals at 4 p.m. on the last Thursday of the month!
Register by April 29 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232.
HOWL@ THE MOON: FLOWER MOON
On Fri., May 1 at 8:30 p.m. The JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer HOWL @ THE MOON: WORM MOON at KENDRICK WOOD – HICKORY SHELTER (971 N. Defiance Trail, Spencerville, OH. 45887).
Across time, people all over the world have utilized the moon to track the seasons. Giving each full moon a special name was one way to honor nature’s signs and traditions. Experience the outdoors under the light of the full moon and learn about the names and folklore associated with May’s full moon. Dress for the weather and prepare for trail conditions.
Meet at the Hickory Shelter. Register by April 30 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232.
