May 6, 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 month of May!
BIG BIRDING DAY!
On Mon., May 18 at 6:30 a.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT WILL offer a trip to celebrate the BIG BIRDING DAY.
Join a naturalist as we visit some of the hottest birding locations in the world! This is peak migration for songbirds, and our birding trip will start with the boardwalk of Magee Marsh and potentially include the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge driving tour, Howard Marsh, and more!
A carpool with Park District vehicles will depart at 6:30 a.m. from the McElroy Environmental Education Center (2355 Ada Rd.). Appropriate clothing/footwear/, binoculars, sun protection, lunch/snacks/beverages, and field guides are recommended. Experienced and beginning birders are welcome!
Be sure to register early for a seat in the van. Register by May 15 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232.
SUNRISE HIKE
On Sat., May 23 at 5:30 a.m., THE JOHNNY APPLESEED METROPOLITAN PARK DISTRICT will offer a SUNRISE HIKE at MCLEAN TEDDY BEAR PARK – HORNUNG SHELTER (2004 N. Dixie Hwy., Lima, OH).
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. Register by May 21 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232.
BEGINNING ARCHERY
On Wed., May 27, 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., May 26 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 May 26 online at www.jampd.com or by calling 419-221-1232.
