August 11, 2025, 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 month of August!
SUMMER AMPHITHEATER PROGRAMS
Join THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT as we host our Summer OTTAWA METRO PARK AMPHITHEATER SERIES. Programs will meet at OTTAWA METRO PARK – AMPHITHEATER (2632 Ada Rd., Lima, OH).
The Park District is excited to offer summer amphitheater programs once again! Programs will be held on Saturdays throughout the summer with children’s programs being offered from 11:00 – 12:00pm. All amphitheater programs are FREE! No registration is needed. Seating provided.
August Dates:
Aug. 23 - Antique Mayhem
7- 9 pm (Cover Band for 60’s to early 80’s. Soft/yacht rock style music)
Aug. 30 – Dr. Insecta
11am – 12 pm (Bug genius)
PARKSIDE PACERS
On Mon., Aug. 25 at 5:00 p.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer PARKSIDE PACERS at HERMON WOODLANDS METRO PARK (485 N. Wapak Rd., Elida, OH).
Turn up the heat on your fitness routine and walk for wellness! Join a Naturalist as we walk a few laps or set your pace to achieve your fitness goals. All ages and abilities are welcome. Dress for the weather and come out rain or shine!
Register by Aug. 21 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232. Once registered, meet at the West Shelter on Aug. 25 to sign in.
IMAGINATURE PLAYGROUP
On Tues., Aug. 26 at 10:00 a.m. OR 1:00 p.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer IMAGINATURE PLAYGROUP at HERMON WOODLANDS METRO PARK (485 N. Wapak Rd., Elida, OH).
Come play with us at the Hermon Woodlands Imaginature Playscape! Join a Naturalist at the West Shelter for a mini program, then spend the rest of the time playing and exploring in the playscape and creek. Feel free to pack a picnic lunch and extra shoes and/or clothes for the ride home!
Register by Aug. 22 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232. Once registered, meet at the West Shelter on Aug. 26 to sign in.
BEGINNING ARCHERY
On Wed., Aug. 27 at 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. OR 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer BEGINNING ARCHERY at the ALLEN CO. FARM PARK (1582 Slabtown Rd., Lima, OH).
Enjoy the great outdoors while learning a new skill! Participants ages 9 to 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 highlight 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.
Register by Aug. 24 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232. Please register for only one evening session.
FEEDING DAY
On Thurs., Aug. 28 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 Aug. 27 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232.
SKY FISHING
On Fri., Aug. 29 at 9:00 p.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer SKY FISHING at KENDRICK WOODS (971 N. Defiance Trail, Spencerville, OH).
Every last Friday from May to September, a Naturalist will set up equipment to go “sky fishing” – a way that scientists sample the insects flying through our night sky. From Luna moths to fireflies, each month should bring a suite of curious new insects as different species emerge at different times of year. Help us identify and record the insects we find or simply enjoy the show!
Register by Aug. 26 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232. Once registered, event starts at sunset each month and will meet at the Maple Shelter.
