Information It is our policy to provide persons with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in and enjoy the benefits of our services, programs, and activities. In order for us to provide reasonable accommodations, we ask that you request the assistance needed by contacting Parks and Recreation at 1101 Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, or call 785-587-2757 (TDD Kansas Relay Center at 800-766-3777). We are here to assist you in the registration (application) process as well. Essential eligibility requirements for each program are on file. Assistive devices are available upon request. First-Come, First-Paid: Space is limited for most of the programs we offer, and registration is accepted on a firstcome, first-paid basis. In some instances, a waiting list may be available. MHKPRD Scholarship Policy: Some of our programs qualify for scholarships. Scholarships provide 50% off registration fees up to $150 per qualifying household. You must show proof of participation in the USD Free/Reduced Fees program, or qualification under Federal Income Availability Guidelines. Refund Policy for Activities Requiring Registration: Registrants will receive a full refund if we cancel the program, or we may be able to transfer you to another class. A full refund is granted if request to withdraw is received 1 week (7 days) before the class or event start date. A partial refund is issued when requested between 1 week and at least 48 hours before the start date. No refunds will be granted if the request is less than 48 hours in advance or if the participant fails to show. Participant withdrawals must be received during business hours. Please note: Some programs have age restrictions and birth dates are required for each participant. Phone numbers are required for staff to access your account and for emergency purposes. For assistance, please call 785-587-2757, or come by one of our offices listed below during regular business hours.
1101 Poyntz Ave. | 785-587-2757
2415 Browning Ave. | 785-340-3347
2850 Kirkwood Dr. | 785-340-3349
925 Yuma St. | 785-587-2773
314 Central Park Rd. | 785-587-2747
315 S. 3rd St. | 785-587-2726
2333 Oak St. | 785-587-2737
Explore the fascinating world of science with fun-loving Edison as your guide.
January 20 to May 5 FLINT HILLS DISCOVERY CENTER
FOUNDATION
Table of Contents 6
Youth Sports
11
Sponsorships
12
Dance
15
Special Communities
16
Instructional Programs
17
Scholarships
18
Adult Sports
20
Douglass Recreation Complex
24
Ice Rink
25
Flint Hills Discovery Center Programs & Events
28
Facility Rentals
29
Sunset Zoo Programs & Events
2024 Vol. 1 | 5
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
@ManhattanPRD
Youth Sports Early Registration Incentive
Home-School PE
This spring Manhattan Parks and Recreation will be offering a discount to participants who register early for our youth and adult programs. If you register for a program up to 2 weeks prior to the registration closing, you will receive 20% off your fee.
Home-School PE is a 10-week program held twice a week to provide our Home-School community with structured Physical Education programming.
Dates (Tues/Thurs)
Location
Age
Fee
February 6 - April 18
My First Soccer My First Soccer is an introductory, 4-week clinic for ages 3-6 years old. Kids will learn basic skills like kicking, dribbling, and ball control through different drills and activities.
Age
3, 4, 5 & 6 year olds
Times
10 AM (3 YO)
Location Pavilion
11 AM (4 YO)
Sessions (Saturdays) March 23-April 13
Fee
Early Registration Regular Registration
12 PM (5/6 YO)
5-9 year olds
Eisenhower Rec Center $50
Time
1 PM - 1:40 PM
Age
10-14 year olds
Fee $60
Time
1:50 PM - 2:40 PM
Boys and Girls 3x3 Basketball $30 $36
3x3 Basketball is for 3rd – 8th graders. It will offer both individual and team registrations. Teams play 2 games on each game night for 4 weeks.
Grades
3rd/4th Grade 7th/8th Grade
5th/6th Grade
Location
Dates
Eisenhower Rec Center March 18 - April 11
Fee Indiv/Team
Early Registration Regular Registration
6 | Visit mhkprd.com
$30/$120 $36/$144
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
Youth Wiffleball
N PROGRAEW M
Youth Wiffleball will consist of teams of 4 – 6 players who will play in a 6-week season on the indoor turf at Eisenhower Rec Center.
Grades
4th/5th Grade 9th-12th Grade
6th-8th Grade
@ManhattanPRD
My First T-Ball The Spring edition of My First T-Ball is a 4-week clinic for 2023-2024 kindergarteners. With parent participation and through drills and activities, they will learn fundamental skills like throwing, catching, and hitting to help prepare them for future MPRD T-Ball leagues.
Grade
Dates (Mondays or Wednesdays)
Kindergarten
Location
5:45 - 6:30 PM
January 29 - March 6
Time
Eisenhower Rec Center TBD
Fee
Early Registration Regular Registration
Session Times
Location Pavilion
6:45 - 7:30 PM
Dates (Mondays) April 15-May 6
$30 $36
Fee
Early Registration Regular Registration
$30 $36
High School Girls Flag Football Did you know that six universities in Kansas offer Women’s Flag Football as a varsity, scholarship sport? Sign up for this league and develop the skills that could get you there! Played using modified NFL Flag ® rules (5 v 5).
Grade
9th-12th Grade
Location
Griffith Field
Dates
March 20-TBD on teams
Fee
Early Registration Regular Registration
$50 $60
2024 Vol. 1 | 7
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
@ManhattanPRD
Youth Sports Youth Baseball Youth Baseball is for 1st - 8th graders in the 2023-2024 school year. There will be 4 weeks of practices before games start the week of May 20th. There will be one game a week for the first 2 weeks of games, then two games a week for the rest of the season for a total of 10 games.
Dates
Location
Early Fee
Regular Fee
1st Grade
April 22 - June 27
City Park
$45
$54
Machine Pitch
2nd Grade
April 22 - June 27
City Park
$50
$60
AA Baseball
3rd/4th Grade
April 22 - June 27
Twin Oaks/ CiCo
$55
$66
AAA Baseball
5th/6th Grade
April 22 - June 27
Twin Oaks/ CiCo
$60
$72
April 22 - June 27
Twin Oaks/ Eisenhower Rec Center
$65
$78
League
Grade Level
Coach Pitch
Major Baseball 7th/8th Grade
8 | Visit mhkprd.com
(Mondays/Wednesdays)
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
@ManhattanPRD
Youth Softball Youth Softball is for 1st - 8th graders in the 2023-2024 school year. There will be 4 weeks of practices before games start the week of May 20th. There will be one game a week for the first 2 weeks of games, then two games a week for the rest of the season for a total of 10 games.
Dates
Location
Early Fee
Regular Fee
1st Grade
April 22 - June 27
City Park
$45
$54
Machine Pitch
2nd Grade
April 22 - June 27
City Park
$50
$60
AA Softball
3rd/4th Grade
April 22 - June 27
Twin Oaks/ CiCo
$55
$66
AAA Softball
5th/6th Grade
April 22 - June 27
Twin Oaks/ CiCo
$60
$72
Major Softball
7th/8th Grade
April 22 - June 27
Twin Oaks/ CiCo
$65
$78
League
Grade Level
Coach Pitch
(Tuesdays/Thursdays)
2024 Vol. 1 | 9
Recreation mhkprd.com
@ManhattanPRD
@manhattanparksandrec
Youth Sports Youth Baseball/Softball Tournament
Parks and Recreation Tennis Program
The first ever open youth softball and baseball tournament, specifically for area Recreational teams. This is a team registration event and is open to area teams made up of Parks and Recreation players.
This summer Manhattan Parks and Rec is partnering with Body First Tennis to bring tennis back to Manhattan! They will be offering multiple summer tennis camps. Each camp will be introductory, with an emphasis on fun, and basic athletic and tennis specific skill and movement. The camp groups will be broken into age groups and will last 4 days.
Location
Twin Oaks/CiCo
Fee (Team)
Early Registration Regular Registration
Dates
July 20 – 21 $325 $390
Location City Park
Program Available to: Kids ages 3-17
WE'RE HIRING Join our team
Full-Time Positions Seasonal Recreation Positions Seasonal Park Positions Lifeguards Little Apple Day Camp
APPLY NOW
10 | Visit mhkprd.com
mhkprd.com/jobs
www.mhkprd.com/sponsorships
BE A SPONSOR
Thank you to our Youth Sports Program Sponsor
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
@ManhattanPRD
Dance Pre-Ballet
Dance Squad
This class introduces the basics of ballet. Ballet is the basis for several types of dance and helps children develop/improve their poise, flexibility, grace, selfdiscipline, and posture. Students will be introduced to basic beginning ballet techniques and vocabulary.
This class introduces the basics of jazz and poms. Students will develop and improve flexibility, balance, technique, and learn dance terminology.
Dates (Mondays)
6+ year olds
Age
Time
3-5 year olds
Dates (Tuesdays)
Location
Early Registration Regular Registration
$65 $78
Fee
Pre-Ballet A Pre-Ballet B Pre-Ballet C Location
5 - 5:30 PM 5:45 - 6:15 PM 6:30 - 7 PM
Pre-Ballet D Location
6:30 - 7 PM
February 12 - April 29
Fee
Age
February 13 - April 30 Early Registration Regular Registration
5:30 - 6:15 PM Roundhouse $70 $84
Roundhouse
Douglass Activity Center
Hip Hop This class introduces the basics of hip-hop. Students will develop and improve flexibility and technique while learning several different dance combos.
Age
Time
Dates (Tuesdays)
Location
6+ year olds February 13 - April 30
Fee 12 | Visit mhkprd.com
Early Registration Regular Registration
6:30 - 7:15 PM Roundhouse $70 $84
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
@ManhattanPRD
Dance Jazz / Ballet
Tap
This class introduces the basics of jazz and ballet. Students will develop and improve flexibility, balance, technique, and learn dance terminology.
This class introduces the basics of tap. Students will develop and improve flexibility, balance, technique, musicality, and learn tap terminology.
Dates (Wednesdays)
Age
Time
Fee
Dates (Thursdays)
Location
February 14 - May 1
Early Registration Regular Registration
6+ year olds $70 $84
Jazz / Ballet Combo A Age Time 6-7 year olds
February 15 - May 2
Fee
Early Registration Regular Registration
5:30 - 6:15 PM Roundhouse $70 $84
5:30 - 6:15 PM
Location
Roundhouse
Jazz / Ballet Combo B Age Time 8-9 year olds
6:30 - 7:15 PM
Location
Roundhouse
Jazz / Ballet Combo C Age Time 10+ year olds
6:30 - 7:15 PM
Location
Douglass Activity Center
2024 Vol. 1 | 13
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
Beginner Techniques
N PROGRAEW M
This class focuses on developing jazz/ballet techniques and skills.
Age
6-9 year olds
Time
Age
6:30 - 7 PM
18+
Douglass Activity Center
Fee
$65 $78
Early Registration Regular Registration
Intermediate Techniques PROGNEW
RAM
This class focuses on developing jazz/ballet techniques and skills.
Time
7:20 - 7:50 PM
Dates (Wednesdays) February 14 - May 1
Location
Douglass Activity Center
Fee
Early Registration Regular Registration
14 | Visit mhkprd.com
6:45 - 8 PM
Location
Douglass Activity Center
9-16 year olds
Time
February 15 - May 2
Location
Age
N PROGRAEW M
Dates (Thursdays)
February 13 - April 30
Early Registration Regular Registration
Adult Ballroom
This group class is designed for adults who want to be well-rounded social dancers. Styles include Waltz, Swing, Tango, Rumba, and more.
Dates (Tuesdays)
Fee
@ManhattanPRD
$65 $78
$65 $78
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
@ManhattanPRD
Instructional Programs Yoga/Movement Class
This program will be a beginner’s yoga class where we will learn mindfulness through breathing techniques and sun salutations. We will also learn about movement and getting in touch with the body using dance techniques.
Bowling Blast Bowling Blast is a Special Populations program that allows participants to engage in recreational bowling at the K-State Student Union.
Age
Fee
Dates
Time
5 and up January 16 - April 23 (Tuesdays)
Location
N PROGRAEW M
$10
4 - 5 PM
K-State Student Union Bowling Center
Age
Fee
Dates
Time
18+
January 18 - April 25 (Thursdays)
$10
4 - 5:30 PM
Location TBD
Friday Fun Night This is a Special Population Program that encourages participants to socialize while enjoying snacks, games, and music.
Age 10+
Fee $10
Time
4 - 5:30 PM
Dates
Friday, January 19 Friday, February 2 Friday, February 16 Friday, March 1
Location
Friday, March 15 Friday, March 29 Friday, April 12 Friday, April 26
Peace Memorial Auditorium
2024 Vol. 1 | 15
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
@ManhattanPRD
Instructional Programs Parents’ Night Out
Senior Trip
Parents’ Night Out gives parents the opportunity to enjoy a night out, while our trained staff watch over their children. This program includes pizza, drinks, games, movies, and activities for kids to enjoy! Register early, limited spots are available.
These trips are a fun and engaging way for our senior population to socialize in various recreational activities, ranging from dinner theater, tours, shows, and more.
Age
5-12 year olds
Fee $15
Time
6 - 9 PM
Dates
Friday, January 26 Friday, February 23 Friday, March 29
Location
Eisenhower Rec Center
16 | Visit mhkprd.com
Catch Me If You Can Starring Jim O’Heir Date Fee Saturday, February 3
$80
Age
Showtime
55+ Friday, April 26 Friday, May 31
Location
12:15 PM
New Dinner Theater Kansas City
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
@ManhattanPRD
Adult Sports Adult Softball
“The League” Softball Tournament
Location
“The League” Softball Tournament is a slowpitch softball tournament. The tournament will follow USSSA rules with a few adjustments. Tournament is split into Men’s and CoRec (5/5). 3 games guaranteed. All games will be played at Twin Oaks Complex. The Team fee is $350 with the addon option of buying one home run band per team ($10) at checkout. The tournament is designed for league teams to have fun, relax, and enjoy a weekend of ball. Prizes for 1st and 2nd place depending on number of teams.
Twin Oaks
Fee (Team)
Early Registration Regular Registration
$500 $600
Co-Rec Doubleheader (Monday)
CoRec Adult Softball is a 10-week season culminating with a single-elimination tournament. Double headers are played on Monday nights. Teams are split into Recreational, Intermediate, and Competitive divisions based on their preference and exhibition game results.
Dates
Specific Rules: 3 Home Run Limit + 1 after that, .5 run for visitors, 50-minute games. Other rules will be emailed to the captains prior to the tournament.
Divisions
Men’s & CoRec
April 8 - June 17
Location
Men’s Doubleheader (Thursday)
Fee (Team)
Men’s Adult Softball is a 10-week season culminating with a single-elimination tournament. Double headers are played on Thursday nights. Teams are split into Recreational, Intermediate, and Competitive divisions based on their preference and exhibition game results.
Dates
April 11 - June 13
Free Agent registration is available for all adult leagues 18 | Visit mhkprd.com
Date
June 1
Twin Oaks Early Registration Regular Registration
$350 $420
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
Open Cornhole League
N PROGRAEW M
@ManhattanPRD
Adult Volleyball
Adult Cornhole is a 5-week Open league. Teams play as pairs but can roster up to 4 people per team. Played inside the Wefald Pavilion at City Park.
Location
Sunday League Dates
Fee (Team)
March 17 - April 14
Early Registration Regular Registration
Tuesday League Dates
Womens Indoor
Location Pavilion
Early Registration Regular Registration
$60 $72
March 26 - May 21
March 28 - May 23
Adult Pickleball is a 9-week Open league culminating with a single elimination tournament. Teams play as pairs. Teams are divided into Recreational, Intermediate, or Competitive divisions based on their preference and exhibition game results.
Location
Anthony Rec Center
Dates (Wednesdays)
Reverse Co-Rec (Wednesday)
Reverse CoRec Indoor Volleyball is a 9-week league culminating with a single elimination tournament. Teams are divided into Recreational, Intermediate, or Competitive divisions based on their preference and exhibition game results. Reverse CoRec is played at Women’s net height, with men only allowed to attack or block from behind the attack line.
Dates
March 20 - May 15
Early Registration Regular Registration
Tuesday League Dates Thursday League Dates
Pickleball
Fee (Team)
$280 $336
Womens Indoor Volleyball is a 9-week league culminating with a single elimination tournament. Teams are divided into Recreational, Intermediate, or Competitive divisions based on their preference and exhibition game results.
March 19 - April 16
Fee (Team)
Anthony Rec Center
March 27 - May 22 $60 $78 2024 Vol. 1 | 19
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
@ManhattanPRD
Douglass Recreation Complex Fitness Pass Program
Fitness Classes
Fee
Total Body Fitness
$20/Month $10/Month
Adult Pass Senior Pass (55+)
Hours
Monday/Wednesday Tuesday/Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
8 AM - 8 PM 12 PM - 8 PM 8 AM - 6 PM 9 AM - 4 PM 12 PM - 4 PM
Fitness Classes
11 AM - 12 PM
Days
Tuesdays & Thursdays
Fee (per session)
Early Registration Regular Registration
$30 $36
Time
5:30 - 6:30 PM
Total Body Strong
Use your own body weight and free weight equipment for the upper and lower body and core. Build muscle, feel better and learn stretching exercises.
Days
Tuesdays & Thursdays
Fee (per session)
Early Registration Regular Registration
Time
5 - 6 PM
Days
Mondays & Wednesdays
20 | Visit mhkprd.com
10 - 11 AM
Strengthen & stretch the body while refocusing your mind.
January 8 - February 29 March 11 - May 2
Early Registration Regular Registration
Time
Yoga
Session Dates
Fee (per session)
A total body workout using fitness machines to get stronger and feel better.
$30 $36
$30 $36
Recreation mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
@ManhattanPRD
Douglass Activity Center Gym
Table Tennis Tuesdays
Pickleball Time
Location
Time
Dates
Fee
8 AM - 12 PM
Days
Monday - Friday
Douglass Center Gym Tuesdays
6 - 8 PM Free
Juggling Class Our Juggling class will teach a variety of juggling techniques with different equipment/items.
Location
Time
Dates
Fee
Douglass Center Gym Tuesdays
5:30 PM Free
Douglass Center Gym & Games Days
Monday/Wednesday Saturday
Time
5 PM - 8 PM 9 AM - 2 PM
Open Play
First-come, First-served
2024 Vol. 1 | 21
Recreation mhkprd.com
@ManhattanPRD
@manhattanparksandrec
Douglass Recreation Complex Kids Night Out to Paint
First Fridays
On the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month bring your kids to Douglass Annex to paint! Each session we will have a new project kids can paint on a variety of given platforms and themes for all ages. This is a FREE program.
Spend Friday nights at the Douglass Community Center! On the 1st Friday of the month we are hosting game night! Come play ping pong, pool, putt putt golf and much more! There will also be snacks and drinks available!
Location
Location
Time
Dates
Fee
Douglass Annex
Time
5:30 - 7:30 PM
Dates
1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month
Douglass Center 1 Friday of every month st
6 PM - 9 PM Free
Kids Night Out Every Thursday at the Douglass Community Center kids are welcome for a night out! We will have games and activities they can participate in. This is a FREE program.
Location
Douglass Center Gym
Time
5 - 7:30 PM
Dates
Thursdays
Movie Nights It’s Movie Night at the Douglass Activity Center! On the 3rd Friday of each month, we will be hosting a movie night at the Douglass Activity Center. Movies for anyone and everyone! We will have snacks and drinks too! This is a FREE event.
Location
Time
Dates
Fee
Douglass Activity Center 6 PM 3 Friday of the Month rd
22 | Visit mhkprd.com
Free
Flint Hills Discovery Center flinthillsdiscovery.org
@flinthillsdiscovery
@discoverfhdc
Exhibits
Youth Programs
Great Plains: America’s Lingering Wild
Nature Together
September 23, 2023 - January 7, 2024
Discover the beauty and majesty of America’s Great Plains in the work of award-winning photographer Michael Forsberg. From 2005-2009, Forsberg crisscrossed the Plains from Canada to Mexico, capturing the wildlife, habitats, and conservation challenges in the heart of the continent. Inspiring, informative, and timely – the exhibit is a love letter to this endangered ecosystem.
Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™ January 20 - May 5
Step into the Lab and be inspired by the animated series featuring the brilliant work of Thomas Edison! Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™ engages kids in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning through unique, hands-on experiences to inspire the next generation of inventors.
Parents, bring your littles to the outdoor classroom and build your skills to raise a nature lover. Play games, hear stories, and explore natural items using your five senses. Come prepared to get a little dirty, learn about nature, and be a role model in the outdoors for your child. Registration opens January 2.
Age
18 months – 3.5 years old, with an adult
Dates
Time
March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 17, 24
Price (six-week session) FHDC Members Non-Members
9:30-10:30 AM $50 $60
Earn your lab coat as you: •
Experiment with electricity, magnetism, optics, sound waves and air pressure, and the fun physics laws that shape the world around us.
•
Manipulate the classic six simple machines designed to make our work easier – the lever, inclined plane, pulley, screw, wedge, and wheel and axle.
•
Learn basic coding with a fun introduction to notech, low-tech and high-tech ways to use technology as a tool.
•
Investigate materials science, how we use natural and human-made substances and learn more about their properties.
Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™ Traveling Exhibit was created by the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in collaboration with Genius Brands International TM & © 2023 Genius Brands International, Inc. All rights reserved.
2024 Vol. 1 | 25
Flint Hills Discovery Center flinthillsdiscovery.org
@flinthillsdiscovery
@discoverfhdc
Youth Programs Preschoolers in the Flint Hills
Discovery Camp
The wonder of the Flint Hills comes to life as children begin discovering the culture, history, and ecology of the region. Each class includes hands-on activities, crafts, story time, and a snack. Registration opens January 2.
Discovery Camp is a unique program offered throughout the school year. Sessions focus on STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics – as they apply to the Flint Hills. Registration opens January 2.
Age
Grade
3-5 years old
Price (per session) FHDC Members Non-Members
Winter Hideaways Secret Lab: Magnets Secret Lab: Chemistry Secret Lab: Scientists Wonders of Water Signs of Spring Tall, Tall Trees Art Party
Time
10:30 - 11:30 AM
K - 2 Grade nd
Price (per session)
$10 $15
FHDC Members Non-Members 1/16/2024 2/6/2024 2/20/2024 3/5/2024 3/19/2024 4/2/2024 4/16/2024 5/7/2024
Time (Full-Day)
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM $30 $34
Catapults and Code Amazing Animals: Mammals Amazing Animals: Reptiles Great Grasses Design Town Secret Lab: Ecosystems Secret Lab: Chemistry Secret Lab: Forces Secret Lab: Nature Secret Lab: Engineering Let’s Laugh Wonder Bugs
2/9/2024 2/15/2024 2/16/2024 2/19/2024 3/8/2024 3/11/2024 3/12/2024 3/13/2024 3/14/2024 3/15/2024 4/1/2024 4/26/2024
Flint Hills Discovery Center flinthillsdiscovery.org
@flinthillsdiscovery
@discoverfhdc
Events Family New Year’s Eve
Kansas Day Celebration
It’s our annual family-friendly celebration to ring in the New Year with food, music, fun, and our iconic balloon drop at Kids’ Midnight (8 p.m.) with a glow party! All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Celebrate the sunflower state as you participate in activities, stories, and education opportunities.
This popular community event typically sells out so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance online, over the phone at 785-587-2726, or in-person at the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Event ticket includes: • • • • •
Pizza from Pizza Ranch, snacks, and drinks Photo booth Themed crafts and activities Access to all FHDC exhibits including Great Plains: America’s Lingering Wild Our iconic balloon drop at Kids’ Midnight (8 p.m.)
Date
Sunday, December 31
Price
FHDC Members Non-Members 2 and younger
Time
Learn about our state symbols during a live animal program featuring Sheldon the Ornate Box Turtle, our official state reptile, and Baxter the Barred Tiger Salamander, our official state amphibian. Programs will be ongoing throughout the day. Make a bison craft and listen to stories featuring Kansas in the classroom on the second floor. Color Kansas symbols on the second-floor balcony.
Date
Saturday, January 27
Price
Time
10 AM - 5 PM
Regular admission rates apply.
6 - 8:30 PM
Meet the Makers
$18 $24 FREE
This year marks the 9th annual Meet the Makers event! Each day, a local creator, crafter, or maker will present live demonstrations of their work from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in the first-floor atrium of the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Interact with the artists, ask questions, and see their work come to life! This event is free and open to the public. Those wishing to explore the exhibits beyond the atrium at the Flint Hills Discovery Center must pay the general admission fee.
Date
Tuesday-Friday, March 12-15
Time
10 AM - 5 PM
2024 Vol. 1 | 27
Sunset Zoo sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo
@sunsetzoomhk
Early Childhood Programs Sensory Safari | Preschool Ages
Creature Feature | Preschool Ages
Foster your child’s curiosity with sensory focused exploration of the natural world. Through guided and interactive activities, children will explore the many aspects of nature and wildlife. Each class will go outside, so please dress accordingly. Parent/guardian must accompany child, and non-participating infants/toddlers are welcome to tag along. The registration fee only applies to participating children. Each class will last 30 minutes, and start promptly at 9 AM, and families are encouraged to extend their learning by visiting the Zoo after the class. Preregistration required.
Help your child explore the natural world with these animal-themed classes at Sunset Zoo. This hands-on program will highlight a unique animal each November, December, January, and February. Staff will help children and their parent/guardian explore the animal’s individual characteristics through a variety of activities. Each Creature Feature class may go outside, so please dress accordingly. Parent/guardian must accompany child, and non-participating infants/toddlers are welcome to tag along. The registration fee only applies to participating children. Each class will last 30 minutes, and start promptly at 11:30 AM, and families are encouraged to extend their learning by visiting the Zoo after the class. Pre-registration required.
Time 9 AM
Price (per session) FOSZ Members Non-Members
Welcome to the Jungle Fun on the Farm TBD TBD
$8 $10
3/4/2024 3/8/2024 9/9/2024 10/7/2024
Time
11:30 AM
Ball Python Ball Python Screech Owl Screech Owl
Price (per session) FOSZ Members Non-Members
$8 $10
1/20/2024 1/22/2024 2/24/2024 2/26/2024
2024 Vol. 1 | 29
Sunset Zoo sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo
@sunsetzoomhk
Early Childhood
Family Programs
Zoofari Tails Storytimes
Painting with Animals | All Ages
Slither into reading with Sunset Zoo and the Manhattan Public Library on the fourth Friday of every month. Each month features a different animal story; all storytimes include unique animal artifacts and some storytimes will present a live animal! This is a free program and registration is not required. (785) 587-2737
During this unique experience, families will visit a featured animal and use their powers of observation to create a masterpiece. To kick off your experience, Sunset Zoo staff will introduce the featured animal highlighting fun facts about the individuals in our care at the Zoo. After the brief introduction and interaction with related animal artifacts, families will be guided through a painting experience using tempera paint and 8x10 canvases. Depending on the featured animal, experiences may take place in the zoo at the animal’s habitat or in a space more conducive to viewing the featured animal.
Time
10 AM
Price FREE
Location
Manhattan Public Library
Dates
January 26 March 22 May 24 (at Sunset Zoo)
February 23 April 26
At the conclusion of the painting experience, a painting or print from the featured animal will be given away to one lucky participant. While paintings dry, families are welcome to enjoy the rest of Sunset Zoo. Space is limited, thus pre-registration is required. Registration is first come, first serve. Sunset Zoo staff will greet families participating in front of the Zoo’s ticket booth and guide participants to the location of the painting experience. Experiences will last approximately 45 minutes.
Time
9 & 11:15 AM
Ferret Poison Dart Frog Red Panda Cheetah Lemur 30 | Visit mhkprd.com
Price (per session) FOSZ Members Non-Members
$17 $20
1/27 | 11:15 AM 3/30 | 11:15 AM 5/4 | 9 AM 7/13 | 9 AM 9/14 | 9 AM
Sunset Zoo sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo
@sunsetzoomhk
School Age Programs School Safari Camp | Grades K-5 All Kindergarten through 5th graders can now join Sunset Zoo for unique animal experiences all school year when USD 383 is not in session. Campers will embark on journeys that will keep them engaged, both physically and mentally, while their teachers at school take time to plan for future lessons and grow professionally. Journeys will include explorations into animal groups, individual species, ecosystems, and how they can help the natural world around them. Two age-specific classrooms are available during School Safari Camps, one for grades K-2, the Hyena Clan, and another for grades 3-5, the Chimp Troop.
Time
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Price (per session) FOSZ Members Non-Members
$30 $34
Hyena Clan (Kindergarten - 2nd Grade Camp) What’s on the Menu? The Garbage Crew Trash to Treasure Disappearing Animals Animal Invaders What’s the Buzz? Fly, Fly Away! Monarchs and More Stop and Smell the Roses Food from Nature All about enrichments Leaping Lily Pads
2/9/2024 2/15/2024 2/16/2024 2/19/2024 3/8/2024 3/11/2024 3/12/2024 3/13/2024 3/14/2024 3/15/2024 4/1/2024 4/26/2024
Chimp Troop (3rd - 5th Grade Camp) Zoo Nutrition Animal Decomposers Recycling Round-up Animal Extinction Invasive Species Pollinator Palooza: Bees/Flies Pollinator Palooza: Birds/Bats Pollinator Palooza: Butterflies Pollinator Palooza: Plants/Gardens Pollinator Palooza: Pollinator Productions Enriching Rewards Frogs vs. Toads
2/9/2024 2/15/2024 2/16/2024 2/19/2024 3/8/2024 3/11/2024 3/12/2024 3/13/2024 3/14/2024 3/15/2024 4/1/2024 4/26/2024
Sunset Zoo sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo
@sunsetzoomhk
Junior Zookeeper
Events
Junior Zookeeper Orientation
Sunset Zoo Winter Hours
Taking care of animals has never been so much fun! Sunset Zoo Junior ZooKeepers (JZKs) are youth, 10 through 13 years of age, who attend special training classes each spring to learn more about animals and conservation. Upon successful completion of the training class, JZKs have the opportunity to perform regular zookeeper chores in a majority of the Zoo and help care for the education animal collection throughout the summer months. Parent/guardians and prospective Junior Zookeepers must attend the JZK Orientation that takes place on the first Saturday in February each year. At the orientation you’ll receive an overview of the policies and procedures, and have an opportunity to register. Parent/guardian and interested youth must both attend.
Ages
February 3
32 | Visit mhkprd.com
12 – 5 PM
Time
10 AM
Winter Season
November 1 - March 31
Love Bites Join Sunset Zoo for this unique Valentine’s Day activity! You have a chance to name a cockroach after someone and have it fed to our sloth bears Molly and Tess. Each experience will happen each day from February 12-14 and has limited availability each day. To get your bug treat, sign up will begin in late January and be streamed live on social media.
Dates
February 12-14
10-13 years old
Date
Hours (Daily)
Sunset Zoo sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo
@sunsetzoomhk
Events Science on Tap – Monthly talk at Manhattan Brewing Company Enjoy science in a fun and engaging way with this free, interactive program presented by Sunset Zoo at MBC. Program starts at 7pm, be sure to arrive early to get a seat and any food or beverage! This event is part of Sunset Zoo’s Behind the Science initiative. For topics and details please visit Manhattan Brewing Company and Sunset Zoo social media accounts.
Location
Time
Dates
Price
Manhattan Brewing Company 3 Wednesday of the month rd
7 PM
FREE
Earth Day – Party for the Planet Celebrate the natural world and its amazing animals with a Zoo full of family-friendly activities.
Date
Saturday, April 20
Price
Time
9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Regular zoo admission rates
Kansas Science Festival Sunset Zoo is a partner with the Kansas Science Festival and encourages the public to participate in day long activities in Downtown Manhattan from a fun run, to activity booths. For more detailed information please visit the Kansas Science Festival at scienceks.org
Date
Saturday, April 27
Location
Downtown Manhattan - Poyntz Ave.
Mother’s Day at Sunset Zoo All moms are admitted free to the Zoo on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12. Bring mom and the entire family for an adventure and visit with some of our amazing animals. Regular admission rates apply to other guests.
Date
Sunday, May 12
Time
9:30 AM - 5 PM
Price
All moms admitted free with another paid admission
2024 Vol. 1 | 33