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 and memberships qualify for scholarships. Scholarships provide 50% cost assistance. You must show proof of participation in the USD Free/Reduced Fees program, or qualification under Federal Income Availability Guidelines. If participants are in need of additional aid, a short application can be filled out and can provide further cost assistance. Applications can be found at all of our locations and online at www. mhkprd.com/scholarships
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.
dinosaur eggs and babies
May 24 to September 7
Manhattan Parks and Recreation's
SCHOLARSHIP program
Manhattan Parks and Recreation is committed to ensuring that all individuals interested in joining our programs have the opportunity to do so. Numerous programs and activities are eligible for scholarships. Below, you will find the application procedures for Manhattan residents or USD 383 families.
• Participant can provide visual proof of participation in assistance programs like SNAP EBT, WIC or Free and Reduce Lunch program. This will provide 50% cost assistance to any Manhattan Parks and Recreation program or membership.
• If participants are in need of additional aid, a short application can be filled out and can provide further cost assistance. The application can be filled out online or by picking up a paper copy at any of our facilities. Once the application has been completed, please return to a Parks and Recreation facility. All facilities are listed below.
• Flint Hills Discovery Center: 315 South 3rd Street
• Sunset Zoo: 2333 Oak Street
Scan for online application
For more information, contact us at 785-587-2757 or mhkprd@cityofmhk.com or visit www.mhkprd.com/scholarships
Recreation Registration Deadlines
Adult Sports Recreation
Recreation
mhkprd.com
@manhattanparksandrec
Youth Sports
Early Registration Incentive
Manhattan Parks and Recreation offers 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.
Flag Football
Youth Flag Football is for both boys and girls from 1st to 8th grade. All teams will get 3 weeks of practice followed by 6 games for 1st/2nd grade and 8 games for all other grades. Games will be played Monday –Thursday nights, depending upon the age division. Games are played using modified NFL Flag rules.
Location
Anneberg Turf
1st/2nd August 25 - Oct 21
3rd/4th August 18 - October 29
5th/6th August 18 - October 30
7th/8th TBD
$55/$66
$65/$78
$75/$90
$80/$96
Homeschool PE (Fall & Winter/Spring)
Volleyball
Youth Volleyball is for both boys and girls from 3rd to 8th grade. All teams will get 3 weeks of practice followed by 8 games. Games will be played Monday –Thursday nights, depending upon the age division.
Location Eisenhower Rec Center
Home-School PE is a 10-week program held twice a week to provide our Home-School community with structured Physical Education programming. Grade Dates
Location
Eisenhower Rec Center
5 - 8 years 12:30 - 1:14 PM $85
9 - 13 years 1:20 - 2:15 PM $95
3rd/4th August 18 - October 28
5th/6th August 18 - October 29 $60/$72
7th/8th September 2 - TBD $70/$84
My First Football
My First Football is an introductory, 4-week clinic for kindergarteners. Kids will learn basic skills like passing, catching, running with the ball, and flagpulling. Parental involvement is required.
Grade
Kindergarten Location East Campus
Dates (Tuesdays) September 2 - 23 Times 5:30 & 6:30 PM
Fee
Early Registration $30 $36
Regular Registration
mhkprd.com @manhattanparksandrec @ManhattanPRD
My First Intro to Sports
My First Intro to Sports is an introductory, 4-week clinic for kids Kindergarten and Pre-K. Kids will learn basic skills that are used in all sorts of sport activities, like throwing, catching, kicking, running, and jumping. Parental involvement is required.
Grade
Pre-K & Kindergarten Location East Campus
Dates (Tuesdays)
October 7 - 28 Times 5:30 & 6:30 PM
Fee
Boys & Girls Basketball
Youth Basketball is for boys and girls from 1st-8th grade. Teams will have 3 weeks of practice then 6 games for 1st/2nd grade and 8 games for all other grades.
Location Eisenhower Rec Center
Regular Registration
Early Registration $30 $36
Little Apple Basketball League
The Little Apple Basketball League is a more competitive option for youth Basketball in Manhattan. This is a team-registration league open to boys and girls.
Age
8-14 years old
5th/6th December 8 - March 5
7th/8th January 15 - March 12 $80/$96
My First Basketball
My First Basketball is a 4-week clinic for youth 3-6 years old to help learn the basics of basketball. Each session is designed specifically to stress the proper fundamentals and techniques all while learning about good sportsmanship and having fun! Parental involvement is required.
December 6 - January 17
Location Eisenhower Rec Center Dates (Saturdays)
Team Fee
Early Registration $500 $600 Regular Registration
Age 3 - 6 years Location Peace Memorial
Fee
Early Registration $30 $36 Regular Registration
Session Dates
Saturday Session February 7, 14, 21 & 28
Sunday Session February 1, 8, 15 & 22
Adult Sports Recreation
Womens Flag Football
Womens Flag Football is an individual registration league for Women 16+. Games will be played using modified NFL Flag rules.
Location
Anneberg Turf
September 18 - October 27
Registration
Pickleball
(Fall & Winter Leagues)
Adult Pickleball is a 9-week Open league culminating with a single elimination tournament. Teams play as pairs. League Dates Registration Opens
Location
Rec Center
Softball
Adult Softball is an 8-week league. Teams are divided into Recreational or Competitive divisions. Recreational teams play an additional week of regular season games, while Competitive teams end their season with a tournament League
Location
Twin Oaks
(Tuesdays) September 2 - October 21 Dates (Sundays)
Registration
Fall September 3November 5 July 7
Winter January 5March 2 August 11
Co-Rec (Mon) September 8 - October 27 Mens (Thurs) September 4 - October 23
5x5x5 Womens Softball
5x5x5 Womens Softball is a new version of slow pitch where 3 teams of 5 compete to see who can score the most runs in 5 turns at bat. Each team occupies either the infield, the outfield plus the catcher, or is the batting team. This is a team registration league.
Location
Twin Oaks
mhkprd.com
Adult Sports
Co-Rec Sand Volleyball
Sand Volleyball is an 8-week league. Teams are divided into Recreational or Competitive divisions. Recreational teams play an additional week of regular season games, while Competitive teams end their season with a tournament.
Location
City Park
Early Registration
September 8 - October 20 Mondays
September 9 - October 21 Tuesdays
Indoor Volleyball
Womens League
Womens Indoor Volleyball is an 8-week league. Teams are divided into Recreational or Competitive divisions. Recreational teams play an additional week of regular season games, while Competitive teams end their season with a tournament. Dates
September 17 - November 5
Co-Rec League
CoRec Indoor Volleyball is an 8-week league. Teams are divided into Recreational or Competitive divisions. Recreational teams play an additional week of regular season games, while Competitive teams end their season with a tournament.
January 6 - February 24
January 7 - February 25
January 8 - February 26
Basketball
Adult Basketball is a team registration league for both men and women. Teams are divided into Recreational or Competitive divisions. Recreational teams play an additional week of regular season games, while Competitive teams end their season with a tournament.
Location
Anthony Rec Center
Dates (Sundays)
January 18 - March 22
League Team Fee (Early/Reg) Men’s $500/$600
Kickball
Adult Kickball is a team registration league. Kickball is open league, with each team using 10 players.
Location
City Park; Wilson Field
Dates (Sundays)
September 7 - October 12
Fee (Team)
Early Registration $200 $240
Regular Registration
Cornhole Mixer
Make new friends and see new places with this individual registration mixer league! Each week, registrants will be paired with a randomized partner and will socialize and play at a different local establishment in MHK!
Dates (Fridays)
February 6 - February 27
Fee
Early Registration $50 $60
Regular Registration
Easily find schedules for all of our youth and adult athletic programs Get the latest notifications on cancellations, schedule updates, team communications
Instructional Programs
Bowling Blast
Bowling Blast is a Special Populations program that allows participants to engage in recreational bowling.
Friday Fun Night
This is a Special Population Program that encourages participants to socialize while enjoying snacks, games, and music.
K-State Student Union Bowling Center
Fall September 1November 18 July 7 Winter December 2February 24 August 11
Peace Memorial Auditorium
Fall September 5October 17 July 7 Winter December 5February 27 August 11
Barrier Free Theater
This is a special population theatre program, and is offered to older aged teens, adults and seniors that ranges from ages 16 to 75 years of age.
mhkprd.com @manhattanparksandrec @ManhattanPRD
Fall Theater Class
Unleash your creativity in our Children’s Theater Class! Designed for ages 7 to 15, this engaging program introduces young performers to the fundamentals of acting, improvisation, and storytelling. Through fun games, scene work, and collaboration, students will build confidence, enhance their communication skills, and explore their imaginations. Whether a beginner or budding star, everyone is welcome to join us on this exciting theatrical journey!
Age
8 - 16
Dates (Tuesdays)
Sept. 9 - Nov. 25
Location
Peace Memorial Auditorium
Fall Art Class
Join our Fall Art Class for Kids and watch your child’s creativity flourish this season! As autumn’s vibrant colors inspire new artistic explorations, our classes offer a supportive and engaging environment for young artists to experiment with diverse mediums and techniques. Each session is designed to spark imagination, build confidence, and foster a love for art through hands-on projects and collaborative activities. With skilled instructors guiding their journey, kids will have a wonderful time creating, learning, and celebrating the season’s beauty while making lasting memories.
Age
7 - 12
Dates (Tues/Thus)
September 2 - November 20 Time 4:30 - 5:30 PM
Music in Musical Theater
The aim of this class is to serve as an introduction to music and how it pertains to musical theater. Participants will learn the fundamentals of music theory; reading sheet music; rhythm, scales, harmonies, and some vocal performances. Using these techniques, participants will workshop songs and samples from various musicals. The goal will be to develop the participants skills as performers for future musicals, concerts, or auditions. This class is recommended for participants with little to no music theory knowledge, but all levels are welcome.
Age
8 - 16
Dates (Mondays)
Sept. 8 - Nov. 24
Location
Peace Memorial Auditorium
Lifelong Trips
- 7:30 PM
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.
Clue NDT September 6 9 AM-6 PM $85
mhkprd.com
Douglass Recreation Complex
Fitness Pass Program
Fitness Classes
Total Body Fitness
Adult Pass (18+)
Fee Hours
$25/Month
$15/Month
Monday/Thursday
Senior Pass (55+) Friday
8 AM - 9 PM 8 AM - 7 PM
A total body workout using fitness machines to get stronger and feel better.
Fitness Classes
Session Dates
September 8 – October 30
November 10 – December 18
January 5 – February 26
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.
Time 5 - 6 PM Days
Mondays & Wednesdays
Fee (per session)
Early Registration $35 $42 Regular Registration
Fee (per session)
Early Registration $35 $42 Regular Registration
Yoga
Strengthen & stretch the body while refocusing your mind.
Time 5:30 - 6:30 PM
Days
Tuesdays & Thursdays
Fee (per session)
Early Registration $35 $42
mhkprd.com @manhattanparksandrec @ManhattanPRD
Douglass Activity Center Gym
Pickleball
8 AM - 12 PM
Pickleball Turkey Tournament
Join us for an exciting Double Elimination Pickleball Tournament featuring teams of two. Open to all skill levels, this event will match teams based on the skill level selected during registration to ensure fun and competitive play. Each match will be played best two out of three games, with rally scoring to 15 points. Prizes will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams. Register early to secure your spot and enjoy a day of spirited competition and community fun!
Location
Douglass Activity Center
Date
October 11
Fright Night Friday
It’s Fright Night at the Douglass Community Center! Come dressed in your best costume for trick or treating, fun activities and so much more!
Location
Douglass Center & Annex
Date
October 24 Time 6:30 - 9 PM
Adult Indoor Soccer
Adult indoor soccer league is for anyone over the age of 15. Games will be played 3X3 and teams will need a minimum of 3 players. Games will be played on the turf at Douglass Community Center.
6 - 8 PM
Location
Douglass Center
November 10 – December 18
2nd Annual DKF 3x3 Basketball Clinic
This clinic will be free to the first 30 registered participants with the sponsorship funds from the Daniel Keating Foundation. The clinic will work on basketball skills building, teamwork, goal setting, life skills development and much more. All participants will receive a T-shirt, water bottle and a bag. A pizza social will take place after the clinic.
Date
November 15
Time
Age 5 - 21
10 AM with Pizza Social to follow
Location
Douglass Activity Center
Youth Indoor Soccer
Indoor soccer is for kids ages 6 – 12. This league is to help learn and/or improve skills and knowledge of the sport.
Location
Douglass Center Gym Ages 6 – 12
Session Dates
5 - 8PM
Session 1 January 5 – February 26
Session 2 March 9 – April 30
Introduction to Latin Dance
Join our Introduction to Latin Dance classes and learn the hottest dance steps!
No experience needed – just bring your energy and love for dancing! Whether you’re flying solo or bringing a partner, our classes are all about fun, connection, and perfecting those smooth moves.
Location
Douglass Activity Center
Days
Mondays & Wednesdays Time 6:30 PM
Session Dates
Session 1 September 8 – October 30
Session 2 November 10 – December 18
Ice Rink
mhkprd.com/IceRink @mhkprdaquatics Wefald Pavilion at City Park
Hours of Operation
November 21-28 December 22-January 5 January 19 February 6
Skating Lessons
MPRD’s beginning ice skating program is fun, challenging and rewarding. It will help you learn the fundamentals of figure skating, speed skating and/or hockey skating — it’s simply the best way to take to the ice. Registration opens August 13.
November Sessions (3 Day Sessions) Mondays or Tuesdays 5:15 PM | 6:00 PM | 6:45 PM $45/session
January Sessions (4 Day Sessions) Mondays or Tuesdays 5:15 PM | 6:00 PM | 6:45 PM $50/session
Saturdays 8:30 AM | 9:15 AM | 10 AM | 10:45 AM $60/session
Ice Rink Rentals
Rent the Ice Rink for you next event! Rentals available outside of public hours and programming for 1.5 hour time blocks. Skate rentals are included in the price of reservation. Reservations open to the public on August 13.
Take a rare and exciting look at the life of dinosaurs through their eggs, nests and young.
This remarkable hands-on exhibition includes an amazing collection of dinosaur eggs and nests from all over the globe – including those of each of the major plant and meat-eating dinosaur groups.
Uncover your inner paleontologist through a series of interactive stations including:
• Jurassic play land kids area
• Dinosaur dress up fun
• Real touchable dinosaur fossils
• Build-a-bone puzzle
• Triceratops sculpture photo-ops
Colorful artwork, interpretive panels, and more make this exhibit educational and fun for all ages.
Building Buddies
September 20 – January 4, 2026
Building Buddies is a small community where everyone is busy working on their homes. Different characters, “buddies”, invite young children to play, explore, collaborate, create and learn while improving the “neighborhood”.
Hands-on open-ended activities that are fun and engaging for kids and their parents provide a discovery environment that encourages the development of science and process skills at an early age.
The immersive exhibit features hands-on role-play learning experiences that encourage kids to plan, renovate, decorate, paint, tile, build and more!
Early Childhood
Nature Together
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. Pre-registration is required and opens on July 7 for fall sessions.
Age
18 months – 3.5 years old, with an adult
Time
9:30-10:30 AM
Location
Flint Hills Discovery Center (Outdoor Classroom)
Fall Finds September 5 - October 10
Flint Hills Discovery Center
flinthillsdiscovery.org
@flinthillsdiscovery @discoverfhdc
Early Childhood
Preschool Together
Is your child not quite ready to tackle the world without you? In this beginner-level preschooler class, parents join their child in the classroom as they adjust to a new learning environment. 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. Pre-registration is required under the child’s name and opens on July 7 for fall sessions. All youth must be accompanied by an adult.
Age
2.5–4 year olds & guardian
Time (Thursdays)
10:30 - 11:30 AM
Price (four-week session)
FHDC Members
Non-Members
Preschoolers in the Flint Hills
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. Pre-registration is required and opens on July 7 for fall sessions.
Age
3–5 year olds
Price (four-week session)
Time (Tuesdays) 10:30 - 11:30 AM
$50
$60
No Place Like Home September 11, 18, 25, October 2
Join the Flint Hills Discovery Center for Homeschoolers in the Flint Hills – a dynamic homeschool program offering immersive learning experiences! Our program is structured in 3-week drop-off sessions and designed to engage, inspire, and empower homeschool students in their educational journey. Registration is open to kids grades K-2nd for the 2025/2026 school year. Preregistration is required and opens on July 7 for fall sessions.
Grades
K-2nd Graders
Engineering Forces
September 8, 15, 22
Time Travelers October 6, 20, 27
Living Things
January 5, 12, 26
Human Impact February 2, 9, 23
Camp Discover
Join the Flint Hills Discovery Center in exciting handson experiments and activities designed especially for young explorers eager to follow their sense of wonder and creativity. Registration is open to kids grades K-2nd for the 2025/2026 school year. Pre-registration is required and opens on July 7 for fall sessions.
Join us in celebrating Grandparent’s Day by picking up some tools and building a take-home windchime for the special grandparent in your life! We’ll provide all the tools, supplies, and materials you need.
This workshop is for youth ages 5-17 years old and a required adult age 18+ to assist. Registration fee covers the 1 youth and 1 adult participant. Please register under the youth’s name.
Pre-registration is required and opens July 7. Please select one of the two sessions.
Date (two sessions available)
Saturday, September 6
Ages
5-17 years old and a guardian
Times
9 - 11 AM
Make It!: Bat Houses
Celebrate Bat Appreciation Month by grabbing a hammer and apron to build your very own take-home Bat House! We’ll provide all the tools, supplies, and materials needed. A Bat House mimics the types of crevices found under the bark of a dead tree and other places where bats like to roost. If placed on the side of a building or pole with plenty of sun, they are sure to attract some bats!
This workshop is for youth ages 5-17 and a required adult age 18+ to assist. Registration fee covers the 1 youth and 1 adult participant. Please register under the youth’s name.
Pre-registration is required and opens July 7. Time 10 AM – 12 PM
Date
Saturday, October 25
Ages 5-17 years old and a guardian
Flint Hills Discovery Center
flinthillsdiscovery.org
Family & Adult Programs
Parents’ Night Out (Kids’ Science Night In)
Parents’ Night Out gives adults the opportunity to enjoy time out, while our trained education staff watch over their youth. This program includes pizza, drinks, a movie, and science activities for kids to enjoy! Register early, limited spots are available! Preregistration is required and opens on July 7. Age
6-12 years old
September 5
FHDC Members
5:30 - 8:30 PM
Walk & Talk
Nature has lessons to teach us if we are willing to learn. Explore the majesty of the Flint Hills as local experts lead each Walk and Talk in various locations. Transportation and age appropriateness varies for each Walk and Talk. See our website for specific information. Pre-registration is required and opens on July 7.
Falling for Fungus
Date Time
September 13 10 AM - 12 PM
Parents’ Day Out (Kids’ Craft Day In)
Join us for this special holiday edition of Parents’ Day Out! Leave your kids with us for a morning of fun crafting and wrapping gifts for their family!
Enjoy a Saturday morning out without the stress of finding and paying for an expensive babysitter. Finally get the chance to do some shopping, plan a day-date, or explore the town while your youth enjoys a snack and crafting activities with our trained education staff.
Register early, limited spots are available! Preregistration is required and opens on July 7.
Age
6-12 years old
December 20
9 AM - 12 PM
FHDC
A Walk in the Trees, with Kansas Forest Service
Date Time
October 4 9 - 11 AM
Tallgrass Tours
Explore the Flint Hills and beyond with the Tallgrass Tour! Join the Discovery Center as we embark on day trips to exciting locations in central Kansas. We will dive into the history, culture, and natural beauty of our remarkable state. Trips leave from the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Fees vary per trip. Pre-registration is required and opens on July 7.
Come on in and create a sunflower using repurposed fabric! These decorations will fit right in with your autumn décor. All supplies, instruction, and adult beverages are provided. You will enjoy time crafting with others and leave with a project you can be proud to display in your home. Pre-registration is required and opens on July 7.
Date
Sunday, September 14
Native Plant Wreath
Horticulturist and retired Blueville Nursery Retail Manager Nancy Wesley will assist us in making beautiful native holiday wreaths as we sip wine and create together! We will have some plant cuttings for you to choose from, or you can bring your own cuttings and bring them to the Discovery Center to build a wreath for your home! All basic supplies, instructions, and adult beverages are provided, however, feel free to bring any specific embellishments you may like on your wreath. Preregistration is required and opens on July 7.
Date
Sunday, November 16
Tallgrass Tales
Tallgrass Tales uses storytelling and a related activity to connect the youngest residents of our community to the nature and culture of the Flint Hills. Registration is not required.
Wrangle up the family for National Day of the Cowboy, an annual celebration of the national icon and the history and culture of the American West! Enjoy fun, cowboy themed activities for the whole family.
Date
Saturday, July 26
Price
Time 10 AM - 2 PM
Included with FHDC admission
The Flint Hills Discovery Center Presents of the
Dino Day
Explore the world of dinosaurs through Dino-mite art and games, Paleontology play, Dino-tales, and more!
Date
Saturday, August 9
Price
Time 10 AM - 3 PM
Included with FHDC admission
Senior Saturday
Join us as we celebrate National Senior Citizens Day by diving into the history of the Flint Hills, highlighting all the people who call it home. Share your memories, create something new, and meet your neighbors. Today is all about YOU!
Join us for a hands-on celebration of all things building, construction, and design – indoors and out! Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, future engineer, or just curious about how spaces come to life, this event is packed with inspiration, innovation, and interactive fun!
Date
Saturday, October 18
Price
Time 10 AM - 3 PM
Included with FHDC admission
National Bison Day
Celebrate National Bison Day at the Discovery Center! Explore our Bison box to learn about this majestic animal as you see and feel a full-size bison robe and skull. Learn how Plains Indians turned the bison into dozens of tools, objects, and articles of clothing. Read bison-focused stories and get creative with bison coloring pages.
Date
Saturday, November 1 Time 10 AM - 2 PM
Price
Included with FHDC admission
Kansas Holiday Market
Embrace the spirit of the holidays as you shop Kansas products on Small Business Saturday. Vendors will be set up outside and our gift store and the Discovery Center exhibits will remain open until 7 PM. Registration opens on Monday, October 6 for FHDC members and Monday, October 13 for nonmembers.
Date
Saturday, November 29
Price
Time 2 - 7 PM
No cost to visit the vendors or the FHDC gift store. Regular admission rates apply to enter the exhibits.
Flint Hills Discovery Center
flinthillsdiscovery.org
Events
Breakfast with Santa
@flinthillsdiscovery @discoverfhdc
Once upon a time in cozy Manhattan, Santa came to visit the Discovery Center! Families flocked inside for a hot breakfast and sweet treats. Children played games and told holiday stories, and families posed for photos with Santa. The only way to find out how this story ends is to join in the holiday fun! Registration opens on Monday, October 6 for FHDC members and Monday, October 13 for non-members.
Dates December 6 & December 13
Times
8:15 - 11:15 AM OR 9:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Price Under 2
Family New Year’s Eve: Dream Builders
It’s our annual family-friendly celebration to ring in the New Year. We’ve got food, music, fun, and dancing. The evening ends with our iconic balloon drop at Kids’ Midnight (8:00 p.m). Pre-registration is required and opens Monday, October 6 for FHDC members and Monday, October 13 for non-members.
Date
Wednesday, December 31
Price
Time 6 - 8:30 PM
Celebrate Kansas Day!
Celebrate the sunflower state as you participate in activities, stories, and education opportunities. Learn about our state symbols during a live animal program, make a craft, color Kansas symbols, and read stories featuring Kansas!
Date
Saturday, January 24
Price
Time 10 AM - 2 PM
Included with FHDC admission
Discover a world of construction fun in this hands-on exhibit SEPTEMBER 20 to JANUARY 4
Sunset Zoo
sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo @sunsetzoomhk
Early Childhood
Animal Tales A-Z
Join us on an exciting alphabet adventure, where each week explores a new letter and a fascinating animal. Enjoy a story, snack, and a take-home craft. This program is designed for early childhood learners, but animal lovers of all ages are welcome!
Time 10 AM
Dates (See Zoo Calendar)
Every other Thursday & Saturday
Price
Free program with admission
Zoofari Tails Storytimes
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 that includes unique animal artifacts and sometimes live animals! This is a free program and registration is not required
Time 10 AM
Location
Manhattan Public Library
Dates
September 26 October 24
November 21
January 23
December 19
School Age
School Safari Camp | Grades K-5
Join us for wild adventures filled with animal encounters, science fun, games, and behind-thescenes exploration! Camps are led by Zoo staff trained in child development, with two age groups: K–2 and 3–5. Drop-off begins at 7:30am; pick-up by 5:30pm. Snacks provided—bring a sack lunch!
Time 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Price (per session)
FOSZ Members $35
Non-Members $40
Registration Opens July 7 at 8 AM
Day Camp Themes & Dates
Wildcat Wonders
Grow as We Go
September 26
October 13
Leaf it Be October 17
Sticky and Slimy
Creepy and Crawly
October 23
October 24
Wild Tracks: Asia November 21
Wild Tracks: Africa November 24
Wild Tracks: Australia November 25
Wild Tracks: Americas November 26
Vet the Halls December 22
Santa Paws December 23
Primate Pals: Apes December 29
Primate Pals: Monkeys December 30
Primate Pals: Lemurs December 31
Happy Zoo Year! January 2
Tallgrass Tales January 5
Sunset Zoo
sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo @sunsetzoomhk
Family Programs
Science on Tap
Enjoy science in a fun, relaxed setting at Manhattan Brewing Company! This free, monthly interactive programpresented by Sunset Zoo starts at 7pm— arrive early for a good seat and your favorite drink. Check social media for upcoming topics and dates!
Paint & Sip Classes
Join us for our Paint and Sip classes! Grab a friend, date, or come as you are for an evening of art, painting, wine, and fun! This class is lead by a certified art teacher and your class fee covers supplies and wine. Register online at www.mhkprd.com/register
Date
June 27
Price
Time 6 PM
Non-Alcohol Ticket $55
General Ticket $65
FOSZ Members receive $10 off/ticket
Painting with Animals | All Ages
Join us for a creative family experience at Sunset Zoo! Learn fun facts about a featured animal, explore hands-on artifacts, and paint your own masterpiece inspired by wildlife. One lucky participant will even take home artwork made by the animal! Preregistration required.
Time 11 AM
(per session)
Asian Small-clawed Otter September 13 Chimpanzee November 8
Sunset Zoo
sunsetzoo.com
Events
Brew at the Zoo
@sunsetzoo @sunsetzoomhk
Enjoy a cold beer and awesome food while exploring Sunset Zoo. A fundraiser, hosted by the Friends of Sunset Zoo, benefiting conservation. It’s a fun way to save wildlife! Tickets go on sale August 15 at 9:00 AM.
Boo at the Zoo
Costumes, candy, activities… OH MY! Join us for family-friendly Halloween-themed activities, candy, a decorated zoo, entertainment, food, and so much more! Date October 24*
25 & 26 9:30 AM - 5 PM
(3-12)
(2 & under)
*Reserved for high-risk & special population
Sunset Zoo
sunsetzoo.com
@sunsetzoo @sunsetzoomhk
Hours Change for Winter
Sunset Zoo is open 360 days a year! Our hours will change starting November 1st to 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Santa’s Luminary Trail
Enjoy a holiday-themed evening as you stroll along a lighted trail on the upper African Trail, take pictures with Santa, enjoy warm drinks, sweet treats and more!
Date November 29 & 30 Time 5:30 - 8 PM
Adults (13+)
Child (3-12)
Infant (2 & under) FREE Price
$15
$10
Love Bites!
This Valentine’s Day, show your sense of humor (or just let out some feelings) by naming a cockroach after someone special… or not so special! Our resident sloth bears will happily munch on your named critter during Love Bites!
