JCPRD programs and events are featured in every other issue of The Best Times, and highlights four months of programming. This issue focuses on information through August 2025.
This is only a sampling of 50 Plus-related offerings. Visit JCPRD.com/50Plus for complete and updated program and event listings.
ENRICHMENT & SPECIAL INTERESTS
Birding: Bird Classes
Explore the world of birds! Whether you’re looking to identify backyard birds, curious about Purple Martins, or interested in attracting hummingbirds. Some programs include guided walks or hands-on demonstrations.
1 - 1.5 hr. class - FREE
47408 MBPC Beg. Birding 5/16 Fri 10:30 am 47409 MBPC Purple Martins 6/3 Tue 10:30 am 47410 MBPC Hummingbirds 7/18 Fri 9 am
Cards: Bridge
We offer opportunities to learn how to play Bridge and improve your game. Visit the Card & Games page at JCPRD.com/50plus for full program details.
NEW! Enjoy a variety of snacks while crafting unique suncatchers to brighten your space. Registration covers supplies and food.
1 - 2 hr. event - $18 / $20 nonresidents
47538 NCF 5/16 Fri 1:30 pm
NEW! Create a summer-themed centerpiece in this hands-on workshop. Registration includes all supplies, and snacks. 1
2
Games:
- $18 / $20 nonresidents
Whether you are looking to play for fun, to learn or to compete, you’ll be gaming with the best of them! Program details on the Cards & Games page at JCPRD.com/50plus. BINGO
1 - 2 hr. event- $6 / $7 nonresidents
Gardening: Gardening with a Master Gardener (VIRTUAL)
Join the K-State Extension Office to discuss a variety of topics and discuss your questions with a Master Gardener.
Gardening: Porch Planters
Design a creative porch planter with guidance from our landscape specialist. Plants, pots, and soil included. 1
1 hr. class - $47 / $52 nonresidents
47425
See programs & events for all ages at JCPRD.com/activities
Special Interest: The Mediterranean WayEating for Better Health
Discover how the Mediterranean diet boosts health and reduces disease. Learn to eat the Med Way and improve your well-being. Presented by K-State Extension.
1 - 1 hr. session - $5 / $6 nonresidents
47444 MBPC 8/26 Tue 1 pm
Special Interest: WITS Workout
Interactive activities to exercise your brain, enhance memory, and boost cognitive function. Presented by K-State Extension.
1 - 1 hr. session - $5 / $6 nonresidents
47159 NCF 6/6 Fri 2 pm
Special Interest: Your Money, Your Goals
Education to help set financial goals, solve problems, make spending decisions, fix credit reports, build credit scores, manage debt, and track income and bills.
1 - 1 hr. session - $5 / $6 nonresidents
47160 NCF 7/22 Tue 10 am
Special Interest: Planetarium
Explore alternative stories behind familiar constellations from different cultures and histories. Discover new perspectives on the Big Dipper and others.
1 - 1 hr. sessions - $16 / $18 nonresidents
47445 MBPC 8/21 Thu 1:30 pm
Special Interest: The World of Bees
Discover the fascinating world of bees. Through expert insights, gain a deeper appreciation for these incredible pollinators and how to protect them.
1 - 1 hr. session - $5 / $6 nonresidents
47446 MBPC 7/8 Tue 9 am
TECHNOLOGY:
Participants in technology classes must know the device and App store usernames and passwords associated with their smartphone accounts. Bring portable devices to class.
Technology: Workshop for Buying & Selling Online
1 - 2 hr. class - $22 / $24 nonresidents
46556 RPCC 5/20 Tue 10 am
Technology: Workshop for Managing Your Photos
1 - 2 hr. class - $22 / $24 nonresidents
46558 RPCC 6/24 Tue 10 am
Technology: Workshop for Privacy Settings & Avoiding Scams
1 - 2 hr. class - $22 / $24 nonresidents
46559 RPCC 7/15 Tue 10 am
Technology: One-on-One Computer or Cell Phone Tutoring
Get questions answered by our knowledgeable instructor. Must bring laptop, tablet, or cell phone to session. Call 913826-3160 for an appointment. Program fee nonrefundable.
1 - 2 hr. class - $64 / $70 nonresidents
44964 RPCC By Appt.
Technology: Small Group Computer or Cell Phone Tutoring
1 - 2 hr. class - $22 / $24 nonresidents
FINE & PERFORMING ARTS
Art: Art Exploration
Explore a spectrum of mediums and get to play around with graphite drawing pencils, ink, watercolors, gouache, acrylics, pastels, and more. No experience needed.
1 - 2 hr. session - $15 / $17 nonresidents
47057 MRCC 7/10 Thu 10 am
47058 MRCC 8/14 Thu 10 am
Art: Basic Drawing
Explore the basics of learning how to draw. Study the different materials and techniques used in drawing. Learn how to draw what you see with courage and enjoyment to see results. No experience needed.
6 - 2.5 hr. sessions - $69 / $76 nonresidents
47061
Art: Painter’s Palette or Watercolor
Work at your own pace and learn techniques, styles, and tips with individual instruction and peer assistance provided across two types of mediums.
5 Punch Art Card - $59 / $65 nonresidents
10 Punch Art Card - $111 / $122 nonresidents
PAINTER’S PALETTE (PASTEL, WATERCOLOR, ACRYLIC, OR OIL)
Art: Plein Air
Explore the outdoors at Shawnee Mission Park and learn to translate it’s beauty through painting on paper or canvas. Learn color mixing, light representation, and more.
6 - 2.5 hr. sessions - $69 / $76 nonresidents
47064 Antioch Park 5/21 Wed 9:30 am
Art: Pen & Ink
Join us for a fun class exploring pen and ink art with simple tools and a limited color palette. No experience needed. Call 913-826-2830 for the supply list.
3 - 2 hr. sessions - $35 / $39 nonresidents
47072 MRCC 5/22
Dance:
Tap Dance
Hard-soled or tap dance shoes required. No previous tap dance experience necessary for Beginner.
MATT ROSS COMMUNITY CENTER
6 - 50 min. sessions - $54/$59 nonresidents
Dance: Tea Dance
Dance the afternoon away with KC Swing! Enjoy live music from the big band era at our weekly tea dance. Individuals and couple’s welcome. No dance July 4.
1 - 2 hr. event - Ongoing, $5 pay at the door MBPC 5/2-8/29 Fri 1 pm
Performing Group Music: New Horizons Band
Join our group of fun-loving musicians. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t played in years! This band offers an opportunity to make music in a relaxed, learning atmosphere. Call 913-826-3160 for details.
5 - 2 hr. sessions - $37 / $41 nonresidents
46965 RPCC 5/27 Tue 6 pm
Theatre: Comedy Improv Class
An engaging comedy improv class where you will learn to think on your feet, unleash your creativity, and build confidence in a supportive environment.
9 - 1.5 hr. sessions - $65 / $67 nonresidents
47006 RPCC 6/4 Wed 5 pm
FITNESS & HEALTH
Choose a variety of wellness programs. Both in-person and virtual options available. Call 913-826-2975 to drop in and try a class for free before you purchase the entire session. Visit the Wellness Programs page at JCPRD. com/50plus for full program descriptions.
Exercise: AEA Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (AFEP)
LOW INTENSITY: This recreational chair-based exercise class includes range-of-motion exercises suitable for every fitness level and ability. First class is free!
1 - 45 min. class - $3 pay at the door each class
New Century Fieldhouse Mon 11:30 am
Merriam Community Center M,W 10 am
Spring Hill Civic Center T,Th 1 pm
New Century Fieldhouse W,F 10:15 am
Matt Ross Community Center Wed 1 pm
Matt Ross Community Center Fri 10:45 am
1 - 45 min. class - FREE Virtual Program Wed 11 am
Exercise: Ageless Lifters
Engage each muscle group in your body. This workout focuses on high repetition sets and strength training utilizing dumbbells and body weight exercises.
4 - 50 min. sessions - $34 / $37 nonresidents
Exercise: Chair Yoga
LOW INTENSITY: Take yoga off the mat and onto the chair, incorporating breathing with movement while retaining all the benefits of yoga. Option to attend in person or watch live via Zoom. Beginners are welcome.
LOW INTENSITY: Gentle Yoga is performed at a slower pace, with less intense positions, and includes extended time for meditation, yogic breath work, and relaxation.
4 - 50 min. sessions - $34 / $37 nonresidents
5 - 50 min. sessions - $43 / $47 nonresidents
Exercise: Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention 45 min. session - $3 pay at the door each class
Exercise: Walking & Talking
Talk while you walk and stay active! Time and days subject to change. No walking 5/25, 6/19, and 7/4.
Ongoing - FREE
Exercise: Zumba 3
/ $29
/
Exercise: Zumba® Gold
/ $38 nonresidents
Great places to workout ! GET FIT
MILL CREEK ACTIVITY CENTER 6518 Vista Dr., Shawnee l 913-826-2950
ROELAND PARK COMMUNITY CENTER 4850 Rosewood Dr., Roeland Park l 913-826-3160
Both facilities offer:
NATURE & OUTDOORS
Explore the outdoors with an Adventure Walk. Outings depart from Antioch Park; we provide transportation. Register at least one week prior to departure. Visit the Nature Walks webpage at JCPRD.com/50plus for program details, activity level key, lunch options, and policies.
Adventure Walk: Blue River Pkwy & Minor Park Trail
1 - 4. hr. outing - $25/$27 nonresidents
47564
Adventure Walk: Kill Creek Park and Trail 1 - 4. hr. outing - $25 / $27 nonresidents
47566 Antioch Park M 6/24 Tue 8:30 am
Adventure Walk: Green Hills of Platte Wildlife 1- 4 hr. outing - $25 / $27 nonresidents
Continues next page
Adventure Walk: Prairie Center Park
1 - 4 hr. outing - $25 / $27 nonresidents
47568 Antioch Park E 8/13 Wed 8:30 am
SPECIAL EVENTS
Exercise: Balance & Beats Fitness Showcase
NEW! In honor of Older Americans month, we are offering a fun, free and energizing Fitness Showcase! Experience a sampling of Zumba, Tai Chi, and Yoga.
1 - 60 min. session - FREE for Older Americans Month
47018 RPCC 5/21 Wed 11 am
Games: Craftin’ with the Grandkids
(Ages 5 & Older with 50 Plus Adult)
NEW! Join us for summertime fun with creative crafts and take-home activities! Enjoy hands-on projects, laughter, and light refreshments.
1 - 1.5 hr. event - $8 / $9 nonresidents; per person
47400 TRCC 8/6 Wed 1:30 pm
Games: Tea Time Mah Jongg Party
Escape the summer heat and immerse yourself in Mah Jongg. Tables will be mixed and matched, and players will rotate to create an atmosphere of clinking tiles, laughter, and strategic play. Lunch, desserts, and drinks will be served, and prizes will be given to the top players!
1 - 5.5 hr. event - $19 / $21 nonresidents
47123 MBPC 7/2 Wed 9:30 am
Social Event: Coffee with Community Heroes
NEW! Join us for an informative and interactive community safety awareness event. Engage with local firefighters and police officers, learn valuable safety tips, and ask important questions about community safety.
1 - 1 hr. event - $5 / $6 nonresidents
47124 MBPC 7/30 Wed 9:30 am
Social Event: Fireside Stories and S’mores
Join us for an enchanting evening of warmth, laughter, and storytelling around the fire! This event is designed for folks to gather, enjoy delicious s’mores, and share stories in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
1 - 1.5 hr. event - $5 / $6 nonresidents
47125 MBPC 6/26 Thu 7 pm
Social Event: Live Well Age Well
The 50 Plus Program is excited for a day full of educational sessions, exploring vendor booths, touring the Johnson County Museum, bingo, and more.
1 - 4 hr. event - FREE JCAHC 8/28 Thu 10 am
Social Event: Pickleball & Bites
NEW! Calling all 50 Plus Pickleball players to celebrate Older American’s month! Join us after your drop-in play to mingle over some free food, music, and drinks. Registration required.
1 - 1 hr. event - FREE for Older Americans Month
47405 NCF 5/22 Thu 11 am
Special Event: Rise and Shine Seminar
Start your morning with valuable insights from Dr. Nicholas Isom, MD, an interventional cardiologist with AdventHealth. Learn about prevention, treatment, and steps to maintain a healthy heart as you age. A light breakfast will be served.
1 - 1 hr. event - FREE for Older Americans Month
47575 MBPC 5/28 Wed 9:30 am
Special Event: Hand & Foot Tournament
NEW! Compete, enjoy friendly gameplay, and indulge in a snacks and refreshments. Whether new or experienced, it’s a day of excitement and camaraderie!
1 - 3 hr. event - $10 / $12 nonresidents
47433 NCF 8/21 Thu 1 pm
Special Event: Lunch & Learn - KC Mobsters & Mayhem - Exploring the Early Years of Crime in Kansas City
Laura Miller shares stories of KC’s past, featuring tales of gambling, bootlegging, embezzlement, election fraud, bribes, and more, alongside historic images of the people and places.
1 - 1.5 hr. event - $35 / $39 nonresidents
47404 LongHouse 7/15 Tue Noon
Special Event: Rock & Roll Social
NEW! Listen to live acoustic music spanning the 1950s to the 2000s. Enjoy great tunes, light refreshments, and the company of fellow music lovers.
Lessons, workshops, drop-in play, leagues, and tournaments for all levels of play are available at multiple locations. Visit JCPRD.com/pickleball to view all JCPRD pickleball play opportunities!
DROP-IN PLAY $3 per person per day
(Punch cards available for MRCC)
l Matt Ross Community Center *M-F 9 am - 1 pm
*MRCC will be closed Wednesdays starting June 4 l Tomahawk Ridge Comm. Center
$4 per person per day (punch cards available) l New Century Fieldhouse (NCF) T,W,Th 9 am - 1 pm
l Meadowbrook Summer League registration opens April 25 l New Century Classic Pickleball Tournament - Aug. 15
TRAVEL
DAY TRAVEL
Enjoy a full day of entertainment, education, and fun. Prices include tickets, admission, guided tours, tips, transportation, and a tour escort.
Visit JCPRD.com/50plustravel for full trip details.
Day Travel: WWI Museum
Explore the National WWI Museum, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, and visit Velvet Crème Popcorn for a sweet and savory end to a history-filled day.
Experience Sedalia’s rich past and vibrant present! Tour the historic Katy Depot, then enjoy lunch and shopping in the heart of downtown, where history and charm meet.
Discover wildlife at the Topeka Zoo, then explore aviation history at the Combat Air Museum, featuring military aircraft, artifacts, and engaging exhibits for an adventure-packed day!
Explore Wonders of Wildlife in Springfield, Mo., with stunning exhibits and aquariums, then stop at Osceola Cheese for a tasty selection of over 275 cheese varieties and local treats.
Enjoy the benefits of traveling worldwide with JCPRD 50 Plus! Call 913-826-2985 or visit us at JCPRD. com/50plustravel for more information on travel opportunities.
REGIONAL TRIP
l Fall in Arkansas
October 20-23, 2025 - 4 days, 6 Meals
Registration deadline: Sept. 1, 2025
$1,349 per person, Double
$1,599 per person, Single
EXTENDED TRIPS
l Kingdoms of Southeast Asia
Jan. 8-26, 2026 - 19 days, 31 Meals
Registration deadline: June 9, 2025
$7,149 per person, Double (includes air)
$8,149 per person, Single (includes air)
l Essential South America
Feb. 12-21, 2026 - 10 days, 14 Meals
Registration deadline: July 11, 2025
JUNE 26 AT 1 PM
Meadowbrook Park Clubhouse
RSVP AT 913-826-2985
PROGRAM LOCATIONS
l Antioch Park
6501 Antioch Road, Merriam
l Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center (EMNC) 909 N. K-7 Highway, Olathe
l Heritage Park 16000 Pflumm Rd., Olathe
l (JCAHC) Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center and Johnson County Museum 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park
l Kill Creek Park 11670 Homestead Lane, Olathe
l Lexington Lake Park 8850 Sunflower Rd., De Soto
l LongHouse Visitor Center - OP Arboretum 9209 W 179th St., Overland Park
l Meadowbrook Park & Clubhouse 9101 Nall Ave., Prairie Village
l Merriam Community Center
6040 Slater, Merriam
$6,149 per person, Double (includes air)
$7,149 per person, Single (includes air)
l British Landscapes
March 8-17, 2026 - 10 days, 12 Meals
Registration deadline: July 9, 2025
$4,449 per person, Double (includes air)
$5,449 per person, Single (includes air)
l Rome & the Amalfi Coast
April 10-19, 2026 - 10 days, 13 Meals
Registration deadline: Aug. 11, 2025
$5,149 per person, Double (includes air)
$6,149 per person, Single (includes air)
l (MCAC) Mill Creek Activity Center 6518 Vista Dr., Shawnee
l (MRCC) Matt Ross Community Center
8101 Marty St., Overland Park
l (MBPC) Meadowbrook Park & Clubhouse 9101 Nall Ave., Prairie Village
l (NCF) New Century Fieldhouse
551 New Century Prkwy., New Century
l Okun Fieldhouse 20200 Johnson Dr., Shawnee
l (RPCC) Roeland Park
Community Center 4850 Rosewood Dr., Roeland Park
l Shawnee Mission Park 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee
l Spring Hill Civic Center
401 N. Madison St., Spring Hill
l Theatre in the Park 7710 Renner Road, Shawnee
l Thomas S. Stoll Park
12500 W. 119th St., Overland Park
l (TRCC) Tomahawk Ridge
Community Center 11902 Lowell, Overland Park
Pre-registration required! Call 913-831-3359 to register today.
Yoga: Rise and Shine Yoga Wednesdays
(Ages 16 & Older)
Start your day with an invigorating yoga practice at Ernie Miller Nature Center. This is yoga for anyone, regardless of experience. Class meets outside at Shelter 2 when the weather allows. Advance registration required.
The Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center is hosting its 4th Annual Juneteenth commemoration and celebration. This FREE family-friendly event, built with community partners, provides an opportunity to honor the history and celebrate Juneteenth with art, music, food, and more! Visit JCPRD.com/Juneteenth for additional details. June 7 is also a Johnson County Museum Free Day, so enjoy free admission to the museum.
1 - 3 hr. event - FREE
JCAHC
6/7 Sat 10 am
Special Event: Heritage Park 5K, 10K & 15K (All Ages)
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran looking to add some more miles to your trusty running shoes or a first timer interested in gaining a little experience while having fun among a stunning landscape, the Heritage Park race has something for everyone! Athletes of all ages and ability can join the family-friendly event by participating in either the 5K, 10K or 15K. Complete details at JCPRD.com/HP3.
1 - 3.5 hr. event - fees vary by age and race participation
Heritage Park 5/10 Sat 7 am
Special Event: Shawnee Mission Park
Adventure Race (All Ages)
Looking for a little adventure? Check out the 2-hour race that is all on foot and open to solos and teams. Have a bike and ready to crush the mountain bike trails? Check out the 6-hour race that will have racers trekking, biking, and paddling their way through the park. The team that completes all the checkpoints (or more than other teams) with the fastest time will win the race. Complete details at JCPRD.com/SMPadventurerace.
1 - 2 or 6 hr. event - fees vary by age and race participation
Shawnee Mission Park 5/18 Sun 9 am
-
SPECIAL EVENTS FOR ALL AGES
l May 3 - May the Forest be with You (Ages 5 & older with Adult) Ernie Miller Nature Center
l May 10 - Heritage Park - 5K, 10K, and 15K (All Ages) Heritage Park
l May 17 - Turkey Creek Festival featuring Creek Chic Arts & Crafts Market (All Ages) Antioch Park
l May 18 - Shawnee Mission Park Adventure Race (All Ages) Shawnee Mission Park
l May 30 - June 7 - “James and the Giant Peach”
Rated PG (All Ages) Theatre in the Park
l June 6 - Meadowbrook Park Festival (All Ages) Meadowbrook Park
l June 7 - Juneteenth at the Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center (All Ages)
l June 7 - A Day in the Park (All Ages) Shawnee Mission Park
l June 7 & 8 - Free Fishing, Boating & Archery Weekend (All Ages) JCPRD's Antioch, Kill Creek, Shawnee Mission, Lexington Lake, Meadowbrook, Thomas S. Stoll Memorial, and Streamway parks
l June 13-21 - Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” Rated PG (All Ages) Theatre in the Park
l June 13 - Family Fun Ice Cream Bingo (All Ages) Roeland Park Community Center
l June 27 - S’mores Family Geocaching (All Ages) Shawnee Mission Park
l June 27 - July 5 - Lerner and Lowes “My Fair Lady” Rated PG (All Ages) Theatre in the Park
l July 11 - Summer Fun Geocaching (All Ages) Meadowbrook Park
l July 13 - Shawnee Mission Triathlon & Duathlon (All Ages) Shawnee Mission Park
l July 11-19 - “Catch Me If You Can: The Musical”
Rated PG-13 (All Ages) Theatre in the Park
l July 25 - Aug. 2 - A Disney Double Feature “The Aristocats Kids and My Son Pinocchio Jr.” Rated G (All Ages) Theatre in the Park
l Aug. 10 - Kill Creek Park Triathlon (Ages 11 & Older) Kill Creek Park
