2023 Spring & Summer Portage Parks & Recreation Guide

Portage Parks & Recreation Spring & Summer Activities

Upcoming October Events

Program Accessibility

The City of Portage encourages all individuals to become involved in these community activities Reasonable accommodations will be made to allow individuals with special needs the opportunity to participate in Parks & Recreation activities Please call Portage Parks & Recreation for more information at (269) 329-4522

WE'VE MOVED!

Find Portage Parks & Recreation at 320 Library Lane

Youth Recreation Scholarships Available!

Portage youth, ages 18 and under, living in a household meeting the established income guidelines may be eligible for financial assistance with the following recreation programs Contact Portage Parks & Recreation for more information at (269) 329-4522

» Fish Camps

» Kids Try-It! Playground Games

» Kids Fix-It! Bike Workshop

» Family Camp

Arts Committee

» Explore Archery Classes

» Birders Academy: Youth

» LCI Training

The Park Board, an advisory board to the City Council has formed a new Arts Committee to assist in expanding the arts in Portage Members of this committee will have opportunities to be part of public art concept reviews and participate in art exhibitions, events, workshops, and festivals, as well as meet and collaborate with other area artists Interested individuals can get involved, visit portagemi.gov/416 for more information

Rent a bicycle for a day at the BIKE PORTAGE bike station on the Portage Creek Bicentennial Park Trail, just north of the Celery Flats Pavilion Download the Movatic app from the App Store or Google Play, create an account then follow the prompts to pay on the app and unlock a bike Explore the Portage park trail system on two wheels! Bicycles must be returned to the rental location by park close each day For more information on BIKE PORTAGE and rates, visit portagemi.gov/794

Presented by:

Portage Parks Foundation

The Portage Parks Foundation is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization providing opportunities for individuals, volunteer groups, neighborhood associations, and businesses to take active roles in the maintenance, improvement, and beautification of local parks, trails, and green spaces in Portage The goal of the Portage Parks Foundation is to promote, create awareness, and develop funding for City of Portage parks For more information about the Portage Parks Foundation and funding opportunities, visit portageparksfoundation.org or email contact@portageparksfoundation.org.

Donate to the Parks Foundation

Donations to the Portage Parks Foundation support the trail endowment, program scholarship fund, bike repair stations, and more Gifts can be made by check payable to the Portage Parks Foundation or by credit card online at portageparksfoundation.org You can also donate to the Parks Foundation by visiting portageparksfoundation.org/fundraisers

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Program Registration & Facility Rentals

CityofPor tageMI

To register for programs or reserve a park, visit mypark.portagemi.gov and click on the “REGISTER NOW!” button Reservations can also be made in person at Portage Parks & Recreation, 320 Library Lane or by calling (269) 329-4522

RAMONA PARK BEACH

RAMONA BEACH ADMISSION FEE IS WAIVED FOR CITY OF PORTAGE RESIDENTS IN 2023

8600 South Sprinkle Road, 1/2 mile south of Centre Avenue

Ramona Park Beach offers a sandy swim area with lifeguards, kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals The beach also includes concessions, picnic areas, fishing docks, beach volleyball, a playground, changing rooms, and more!

Hours of Operation: 10 AM - 8 PM

» Memorial Day Weekend, May 26 - 29

» June 2 - 4

» June 9 - August 27

» Labor Day Weekend, September 1 - 4

Beach Area Rental & Admission Rates

» City of Portage Residents FREE! (Proof of residency required)

» Non-Resident Daily Permit $10

» Non-Resident Annual Permit $45

» Group Bus Daily Permit $50

» Beach Lounge Chair Rental $5 for 2 hours

» Beach Games $5 for 2 hours

Vehicle permits for entry into Ramona Park can be obtained on-site near the park entrance during regular beach hours Proof of residency is required to receive a resident annual pass (Kan Jam, Ladder Ball, Spikeball)

Kayak, Canoe & Paddleboard Rentals

Open daily on beach operating dates 11 AM - 6 PM

All watercraft:

» $12 for first hour

» $5 each additional 30 minutes

» $36 flat rate for 4-6 hours

» Life jackets included

Beach Bonfires

Take a break from your hectic summer schedule to relax and enjoy the warm summer night air, live music, and a bonfire at Ramona Park Beach Gather with friends and family for this summer tradition under the stars S’more making supplies will be provided

» Saturdays, July 22 & August 12, 8 PM

» Ramona Park Beach (8600 South Sprinkle Road)

» FREE (No registration required)

RENTALS

NATURE PROGRAMS

Birders Academy: Youth

Break out the binoculars, it’s time to go birding! This course is for students grades 4 and 5, ages 9 to 11, and is led by members of the Audubon Society of Kalamazoo Learn bird basics including behavior, habitat, visual identification, birdsong identification, and migration Participants will spend a portion of each session using binoculars to identify birds A culminating field trip at Schrier Park will provide an opportunity to put new knowledge and skills to work during peak spring bird migration Supplies for birding will be provided for use in the course. This program will require students to go outdoors, so weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Scholarships are available for this program Please call Portage Parks & Recreation for more information at (269) 329-4522

» Thursdays, April 13 – May 18, 4 - 5:30 PM

» Sessions 1 - 5: Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

» Session 6: Schrier Park (850 West Osterhout Avenue)

» $30 per participant (Registration required) NOTE LOCATION!

John Ball Zoo: Meet & Greet Animal Station

Meet and greet ambassador animals from John Ball Zoo Learn about animals, their young, and how different animals grow up Enjoy an up-close encounter with live zoo animals Space is limited

» Tuesday, June 20, 2 – 3 PM

» Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

» FREE (Registration required)

NOTE LOCATION!

NATURE PROGRAMS

Junior Ranger Club

The Junior Ranger Club is a fun way to learn more about the Portage park system and earn an official Junior Ranger shield as a park steward The Junior Ranger Club is an activity-based program offering different badges that can be earned by completing specific activities including arts, endurance, health, history, nature, science, service, and survival And new for this year, earn two additional specialty badges for birding and fishing!

PORTAG E PARKS

JUNIOR R ANGER

Junior Rangers are typically between the ages of 5 to 13, although people of all ages can participate in our online program The program provides families with the opportunity to explore and learn about the park system, as well as how to protect the park system now and for future generations To join in on the fun, visit portagemi.gov/725 to get started and start earning your badges today!

Junior Ranger: After School Program (In-Person)

Rangers ages 5 - 13 who need help finishing badges can bring an adult and together, work on specific badge activities New for 2023, complete TWO badges per session These programs are FREE, include supplies, and are led by Park staff Attend one or all of the programs Space is limited for in-person sessions, so sign up today!

Programs meet at Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

Thursdays, September 7 to October 5 from 4 - 6 PM FREE - Registration required

» Endurance & Health Badges, September 7

» Arts & History Badges, September 14

» Science & Nature Badges, September 21

» Service & Survival Badges, September 28

» Specialty Badges: Birding & Fishing, October 5

NATURE PROGRAMS

Nature Hikes

Hike with a Biologist: Friday Frog Foray

Join the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) on a walk through Gourdneck State Game Area to learn all about our amphibian friends Listen for the song of the Western Chorus frog and find out why they sing Discover how frogs and toads wake from their wintery slumber While all ages are welcome, this program will require walking off-trail and on old footpaths Please wear close-toed shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and bug spray No bathroom amenities on-site.

» Friday, April 7, 6:45 - 8 PM

» Gourdneck State Game Area (Angling Road, Second Parking Lot)

» FREE (Registration required)

Ranger Hike: Migration Station

Celebrate Migratory Bird Day by taking a stroll through West Lake Nature Preserve with Portage Park Rangers West Lake is a pit stop for many migratory birds Learn about their migration flights throughout the year and ways you can support their long journey Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, notebooks, pencils, and wear appropriate attire for the weather, including waterproof footwear This will be a milelong hike

» Sunday, May 14, 2:30 - 3:30 PM

» West Lake Nature Preserve (9001 South Westnedge Avenue)

Bog BioBlitz Hike

Join the Portage District Library and Park staff on an adventure through Bishop's Bog Learn how to use the iNaturalist app to participate in a BioBlitz! In this program you will find and identify as many species as possible, with the goal of finding an overall count of organisms that live in Bishop's Bog

» Saturday, June 17, 10 AM - 12 PM

» Bishop's Bog Preserve (9920 South Westnedge Avenue)

All Nature Hikes are FREE - Registration required

NATURE PROGRAMS

Nature Hikes

All Nature Hikes are FREE - Registration required

Ranger Hike: Bug Safari

It’s bug hunting time! Explore the Portage parks and get into the thicket to look for creepy crawlers, winged beauties, and our many-legged friends Learn about where bugs live, what they eat, and how important they are to our ecosystem See how many bugs you can find and identify Participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather and the possibility of getting muddy Bug nets and materials will be provided for this activity This hike will be a quarter mile to a half mile, with time to pause to look at insect homes and habitats

» Sunday, July 9, 2:30 - 3:30 PM

» West Lake Nature Preserve (9001 South Westnedge Avenue)

Ranger Hike: Monarch Waystation

Learn about the life cycle of magical monarch butterflies! This hike will begin at the Hayloft Theatre, located in the Celery Flats Historical Area, and end at the Monarch Waystation at the Portage District Library Find out how to give monarchs a headstart for their long migration and the importance of milkweed and Monarch Waystations Discover how to make your own backyard a waystation for these orange beauties to protect them for years to come This hike will be a little over a mile Native Milkweed seeds will be provided to all registered participants, courtesy of the Portage Seed Library

» Sunday, September 10, 2:30 - 3:30 PM

» Hayloft Theatre (7334 Garden Lane)

Garlic Mustard Contest

Help manage invasive species in the Portage park system and win a prize! First, attend the Garlic Mustard Pull Orientation and register for this program The orientation class will be led by Portage Parks & Recreation staff The City of Portage Environmental Board may be available for questions During May, collect as many bags of Garlic Mustard as you can at any of the Portage parks then bring your bags to Portage Parks & Recreation to be weighed and logged At the end of the month, the individual who pulls the most Garlic Mustard will win a grand prize Runners-up and participants who collect at least one pound of garlic mustard will also receive gifts for participating All pulled garlic mustard must be delivered to Portage Parks & Recreation by 5 PM on May 31 to be eligible

Garlic Mustard Pull Contest Prizes

» 1st Place - $150

» 2nd Place - $100

» 3rd Place - $75

*Funding for prizes allocated by the Park Board Orientation Class

» 4th Place - $50

» 5th Place - $25

Contest begins May 1 and ends May 31

» Saturday, April 29, 10 AM - 12 PM

» Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

» FREE (Registration and participation in the Invasive Species Management & Orientation Class are required)

Stewardship Day

Learn how to be a steward of the land Join the MDNR & Michigan United Conservation Clubs to help remove woody invasives and make room for native plants to grow Lunch will be provided Bring your work gloves, work gear, and enthusiasm Closed-toed, waterproof footwear is recommended Be prepared to work outside for a minimum of three hours Supplies for invasive species removal will be provided

» Saturday, September 9, 9 AM - 12 PM

» Gourdneck State Game Area (Angling Road, Second Parking Lot)

» FREE with lunch provided (Registration required)

CULTURAL PROGRAMS

City Hall Exhibitions

Rotating exhibitions that focus on local arts, nature, and history are displayed in the lobby at Portage City Hall (7900 South Westnedge Avenue) throughout the year These exhibitions are FREE to the public and are open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM

Portage City Centre: 1838 to NOW

Travel through time to see what the Portage City Centre looked like in its early years and explore how the city has evolved over time

» March 3 - May 31

Wild Wetlands: The Secret Life of Bogs

Experience the secret life of wetlands Discover how wetlands, like fens and bogs, help the City of Portage combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions Explore the relationship between wetlands and climate change and find out how you can help protect these natural resources for generations to come

» June 1 - September 5

Portage Community Art Award

In collaboration with the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts’ West Michigan Area Show, this exhibition will present an array of works from this year’s winning Portage artist whose work best represents the theme A Natural Place to Move

» September 8 - October 30

Kingpins Drumline

Students with special needs are invited to participate in a five-week drumming program tailored for performers of different abilities

Drumming provides a thrilling outlet for each participant Students learn to listen, follow suggestions, and how to work together Students will be guided through each one-hour lesson

» September 12, 19, 26 & October 3, 10, 6 PM

» Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

» FREE (Registration required)

CULTURAL PROGRAMS

Pet Portraits

Let us help you make some paw-some memories! Bring a photo of your pet to South Westnedge Dog Park for a unique pet portrait Portraits will be scheduled in fifteen-minute increments A schedule of appointments will be sent out to registered participants before the event date Portrait designs will be stylized in a caricature or cartoon format Space is limited

» Thursday, July 13, 1 - 4 PM

» South Westnedge Dog Park (9010 South Westnedge Avenue)

» $15 per portrait (Registration required)

Art in the Park: Youth

Let’s get crafty Practice the art of origami, brush up on your painting skills, and learn to bead using a variety of colors and designs This program is designed for youth ages 10 to 13 Learn the basics of these unique art forms in three separate sessions Art supplies will be provided

Session 1: Beadwork Session 2: Painting Outdoors Session 3: Origami

» Tuesday, July 18 » Wednesday, July 19 » Thursday, July 20

» 1 – 3 PM

» Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

» $25 per person/class (Registration required)

Portage Culinary Academy

The Portage Culinary Academy offers hands-on cooking classes for cooks and something for everyone! Cooking classes have limited space and fill up quickly, so don't wait to register

All classes are $30 per person - Registration required

Korean BBQ Pork Loin

Try your hand at making thick-cut pork loin, Korean BBQ style Under Chef Chauncey’s instruction, you will learn to cook this recipe using the Sous-vide method In addition, prepare a side of French Cauliflower soup to complement the main dish

» Wednesday, April 5, 6 - 7:30 PM

» Stuart Manor (7340 Garden Lane)

Gourmet Peanut Butter Pie

Learn how to make and decorate your own gourmet peanut butter pie Prepare fresh peanut butter, make the shell from scratch, and whip up the filling using Chef Chauncey’s secret recipe Next, learn the best tips and tricks for pie decorating using piping tips and goodies At the end of the class, enjoy a pie tasting, with espresso or cappuccino

» Wednesday, September 13, 6 - 7:30 PM

» Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

NOTE LOCATION! NOTE LOCATION!

SPORTS PROGRAMS

AQUATIC SPORTS

Paddlesports Sampler

The Paddlesports Sampler introduces a variety of watercraft activities to aspiring paddlesports enthusiasts Learn basic skills for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards through games and fun activities with certified instructors from the American Canoe Association All the necessary equipment will be provided Participants should dress accordingly for the weather and the possibility of getting wet The registration deadline is one week prior to each class Maximum of 8 participants per class

» Tuesdays, June 6, 13, 20, 27, 6 - 8 PM

» Ramona Park Beach (8600 South Sprinkle Road)

» Ages 8 to adult

» $45 per person/class, two-hour session (Registration required)

ARCHERY Explore Archery for Adults

Presented by Brooks Archery

This introductory archery program is for adults interested in learning basic archery skills and safety Bows and arrows will be provided for those who do not have their own Maximum 12 participants per class

» Wednesdays, May 17 – June 7, 6 - 7 PM

» Schrier Park (850 West Osterhout Avenue)

» $60 per participant (Registration required by May 12)

Explore Archery for Youth

Presented by Brooks Archery

This introductory archery program is for youth ages 9 to 12 and 13 to 17 Bows and arrows will be provided for those who do not have their own Maximum 12 participants per class

Session 1

Session 2

» Thursdays, June 22 - July 13 » Thursdays, July 20 - August 10

» Ages 9 - 12, 9:30 - 10:15 AM

» Ages 13 - 17, 10:30 - 11:15 AM

» Schrier Park (850 West Osterhout Avenue)

» $60 per participant (Registration required by June 16)

SPORTS PROGRAMS

CORNHOLE

Portage Cornhole League

Presented by Kalamazoo Cornhole

It's time to play cornhole! Come play, bring a friend, and make new friends in this fun, low-impact sport Players rotate partners to keep games fresh and exciting Adults 18 and up Maximum of 20 participants Registration required

» Thursdays, August 31 - October 19, 6:30 - 8:30 PM

» Schrier Park (850 West Osterhout Avenue)

» $35 per player (Registration required and begins July 1 and ends August 25)

CYCLING

Kids Fix It! Bike Workshop

Don’t let a broken bike stop your summer fun Kids learn the ABCs of bicycle maintenance in this hands-on program for kids 4 to 7 years old Mechanic instructors from Pedal Bicycle provide instructional support and bike-specific tools to get your wheels on the ground! Participants must provide their own bike, helmet, and chaperone

» Saturday, April 29, 9 - 11 AM

» Celery Flats (7335 Garden Lane)

» $10 per child (Registration required)

Pump Track Tricks

Learn the best tips and tricks for riding the Pump Track at Lexington Green Park from Pedal Bicycle instructors Using the pump track is a great way to build your skills for mountain biking, BMX riding, and much more Generate some momentum for your summer fun and sign up today! Participants must bring a bike and helmet for this program Knee and elbow pads are highly recommended A chaperone is required for anyone under the age of 18

» Saturday, June 3, 9 - 11 AM

» Lexington Green Park (4750 Pittsford Avenue)

» $10 per participant (Registration required)

SPORTS PROGRAMS

Smart Cycling: Traffic Skills 101 Course

Gear up for the ride of your life Learn the basics of biking from League Certified Instructors, with a curriculum certified by the League of American Bicyclists This course, taught by riders with extensive experience, will provide instruction on the following topics: basic bike fit, inspection, maintenance, safe & legal riding in traffic, skill building, bike safety, and crash prevention Program participants must be 18 years or older and provide a helmet and bicycle An online portion of this course must be completed prior to the in-person instruction This course is also a prerequisite to become a League Certified Instructor

» Saturday, June 24, 9 AM - 2 PM

» Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

» $50 per participant (Registration required)

LCI Training

Are you an avid cyclist and want to promote a more bicycle-friendly community? Then it’s time to take your cycling skills to the next level! Become a League Certified Instructor with the League of American Bicyclists The program curriculum includes handling drills, signaling, avoidance drills, road rides, night navigation, safety, commuting, and group riding skills The course will also include a final exam Scholarships are available for this course Registration is required at bikeleague.org/content/seminar-schedule (scroll to the bottom and select Portage, MI)

» Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

» Early Bird registration, $500 per participant (Registration required)

» Standard registration, $575 per participant (Registration required beginning July 8 at midnight and ending July 15 at midnight)

» Day 1: Friday, August 4, 5 - 9:30 PM

» Topics: Program Orientation, Basic Teaching Skills & Strategies

» Day 2: Saturday, August 5, 8 - 9:30 PM

» Topics: Road Ride, Handling Drills, Avoidance Drills, and Night Ride

» Day 3: Sunday, August 6, 8 AM - 3 PM

» Topics: Bicycle Safety, Commuting, Motorists, Kids, Group Riding Skills, Exam, and Marketing

DISC GOLF

The Disc Golf Experience

Don’t miss your shot! Portage Parks & Recreation brings you the Disc Golf Experience Learn how to throw a variety of discs, the art of putting, and everything you need to know to get started as a disc golfer

» Saturday, May 6 & September 9, 10 AM - 1 PM

» West Lake Nature Preserve (9001 South Westnedge Avenue)

» $15 per player (Registration required)

SPORTS PROGRAMS

FISHING School of Fish Day Camp

Day campers will experience all the joys and benefits associated with fishing and environmental conservation During this unique adventure, youth will have the opportunity to explore the great outdoors and learn skills needed to make their own fishing memories Park staff instruction and guidance are provided as youth participate in hands-on activities, and of course, GO FISHING! Maximum of 12 participants per camp Beginning, intermediate, and advanced courses will all cover the basics of fishing, including topics such as fish identification & habitat, knot tying & rod rigging, casting skills & safety, catching & rigging live bait, and aquatic conservation Each session also offers different topics based on skill sets and participant ages See below for further details

» Ramona Park Beach on Long Lake (8600 South Sprinkle Road)

» $85 per person/session (Registration required)

Sessions » Monday - Thursday, 9 AM - 1 PM

Little Lunkers Ages 7 - 8 June 19 - 22

Beginner special topics include tackle crafting and shoreline fishing

Cool Casters Ages 9 - 11 July 17 - 20

Intermediate special topics include artificial lures and a field trip

Advanced Anglers Ages 12 - 14 August 14 - 17

Experienced special topics include fishing techniques, advanced knots, a field trip, fly fishing, boater safety, fishing from a canoe, lure making, and fishing & boating regulations

School of Fish: Fishing with Rangers

If you love to fish, cast your line with Portage Park Rangers to learn some of the best tips and tricks for fishing This activity is for everyone, from fish camp graduates to first-time anglers Enjoy boardwalk and dock fishing on Austin Lake Participants must bring their own fishing poles Live bait will be provided

» Sunday, August 27, 2:30 - 3:30 PM

» Lakeview Park (9345 Portage Road)

» $5 per participant (Registration required)

KIDS TRY IT!

Kids Try It! Playground Sports

Kids ages 4 to 7 will have a blast playing a variety of fun playground group games, learning old and new styles of tag, dodgeball, and cooperative games each week Kids will develop gross motor skills while learning the value of fair play, sportsmanship, and teamwork Maximum 20 participants

» Wednesdays, June 21 - July 26

» Ages 4 - 5, 10 - 10:55 AM

» Ages 6 - 7, 11 - 11:55 AM

» Oakland Drive Park (7650 Oakland Drive)

» $30 per child (Registration required and begins March 1 and ends June 16)

SPORTS PROGRAMS PICKLEBALL

Adult Pickleball Clinics

Presented by Kalamazoo Pickleball Outreach

Beginner Clinic

If you ever wondered what pickleball was all about, this clinic is for you New players will learn how to play the game with a few basic game strategies and drills Participants must bring their own paddle Pickleballs will be provided Adults 18 and up Maximum 30 participants

» Thursday, May 25, 5:30 - 7 PM

» Ramona Park (8600 South Sprinkle Road )

» $40 per participant (Registration required and begins March 1 and ends May 19)

Intermediate Clinic

Are you ready to take your pickleball game to the next level? Participants should have a basic understanding of pickleball and the rules or have completed the Beginner Clinic The Intermediate Clinic will focus on advanced strategies and practice exercises while offering helpful hints to advance your own personal game Participants must bring their own paddle Pickleballs will be provided Adults 18 and up Maximum 30 participants

» Monday, June 19, 5:30 – 7 PM

» Ramona Park (8600 South Sprinkle Road )

» $40 per participant (Registration required and begins May 22 and ends June 16)

Adult Pickleball Leagues

Presented by Kalamazoo Pickleball Outreach

Find out what pickleball is all about Pickleball leagues are offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 6 to 7:30 PM at Ramona Park (8600 South Sprinkle Road) Two six-week sessions are offered over the summer for each league Leagues are offered for recreational, intermediate, and competitive players Not sure which league fits your skill level? Call Portage Parks & Recreation at (269) 329-4522 or visit portagemi.gov/780/Pickleball for more information

» $25 per player/session

Session 1 » Registration opens April 24 & closes May 19 » 6-week sessions

Competitive League Tuesday Starts May 30

Intermediate League Wednesday Starts May 31

Recreational League Thursday Starts June 1

Session 2 » Registration opens June 12 & closes July 14 » 6-week sessions

Competitive League Tuesday Starts July 25

Intermediate League Wednesday Starts July 26

Recreational League Thursday Starts July 27

SPORTS PROGRAMS

PING PONG

Adult Doubles Ping Pong

Double your fun with doubles ping pong Come play, bring a friend, and make new friends in the recreational doubles ping pong league Players are mixed into different teams every week, so each week is new and exciting Games start at 6 and 7 PM Players will be assigned their game times Adults 18 and up Maximum of 32 participants

» Wednesdays, April 5 - May 10, 6 - 8 PM

» Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

» $30 per player (Registration required and begins March 1 and ends March 31)

YOGA

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga

Combine your love for nature, adventure, and yoga with Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga

Whether you are a first-time paddleboarder or an experienced yoga practitioner, this class is for you Classes will be taught by Kristin Fiore, a certified and experienced SUP Yoga instructor from Down Dog Yoga Center Each class will begin on land with an introduction to SUP equipment and safety before taking a short paddle and dropping anchor for the yoga session At the end of the class, students will be given time to relax and soak up some sun before paddling back to shore Space is limited, so register now to save your spot The registration fee includes one class, plus the use of a paddleboard, paddle, life jacket, and anchor

» June 14, 21, 28, and July 12, 19, 26, 6:30 - 8 PM

» Ramona Park Beach (8600 South Sprinkle Road)

» $30 per person/class (Registration required)

» Ages 16 and up

Yoga 4 Life

Relax, refocus, and improve your strength and flexibility with yoga to improve your life Join personal fitness trainer, Josie Moorlag, for this six-week yoga class offered during the spring This class is open to adults 18 and over with all levels of experience Students must provide their own yoga mat, and water, and are encouraged to wear comfortable exercise clothing Maximum of 20 participants per session

Session 1 Session 2

» Tuesdays, April 4 - May 9

» Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

» 7 - 8 PM

» Tuesdays, July 11 - August 15

» Overlander Bandshell (7810 Shaver Road)

» $75 per participant/session (Registration required)

»

NOTE

SPECIAL EVENTS

SELF-GUIDED EXPEDITIONS

Geo Mystery Tours

Set out on a quest this summer; every other month, a different mystery will be revealed and it’s up to you to uncover the secrets of Portage Join the story at any time, but all adventures must be completed by the end of the month An Apple or Garmin device is highly recommended for this program Beginning GPS coordinates and secret instructions will be emailed to registered participants at the start of each month or within a week of registration For additional information, please contact Portage Parks & Recreation at (269) 329-4522

» Portage Parks

» FREE (Registration required)

April (1 - 30)

June (1 - 30)

August (1 - 31)

"GEODE" TOUR: PORTAGE ROCKS SECRET LIFE OF BOGS BUG SAFARI

Discover the histories and mysteries Experience the secret side of It’s bug hunting time! of rocks found in Michigan bogs and wetlands

Bike Expeditions

Celebrate the 12th annual Kalamazoo Area Bike Week from May 13 - 20, 2023 Enjoy the many benefits of cycling during National Bike Month by participating in NEW self-guided bike tours in the beautiful City of Portage Choose one or all adventures and explore at your leisure This program launches on Saturday, May 13, and continues until October 1, 2023

» Locations vary

» FREE (Registration required)

Expeditions

Juneteenth Celebration

Celebrate the legacy and long celebrated holiday of Juneteenth by joining us for a ribbon cutting followed by a self-led meditation and education session This will take place within the gorgeous new Dr Martin Luther King Jr Park which includes five bronze series of sculptures highlighting Dr King’s message, a “Garden of Hope,” landscape corridors, meditative benches and shade trees, and an interactive interpretive kiosk highlighting Dr King’s legacy

» Friday, June 16, 11 AM

» Dr Martin Luther King Jr Park (1000 MLK Drive)

» FREE (No registration required)

1. DRY PRAIRIE LOOP 2. PIONEER TRAIL 3. THE FLIGHT TOUR 4. PLANK ROAD Cemetery Tour History Tour Garden Lane to Air Zoo Early 1800's Pioneer Route

MARKETS

Portage Farmers Market

The Portage Farmers Market brings you the best local produce, within 50 miles of Portage, every season The 2023 market opens on May 7 and will run through October 15, every Sunday from 9 AM – 1 PM Each market features 20 to 30 local vendors, including local farmers, producers, artisans, and crafters Browse local vendors offering fresh produce, cheese, meat, eggs, fruits, baked goods, flowers, crafts, gifts, and more! For more information or to submit your vendor application for the 2023 season, go to portagemi.gov/643/Markets or visit us on Facebook @PortageMarketMI and Instagram

@PortageMarket

» Sundays, May 7 - October 15, 9 AM - 1 PM

» City Hall (7900 South Westnedge Avenue)

Portage Craft Market

Portage Parks & Recreation will host two craft markets in combination with the first and last Friday at the Flats of the season Join us in the Celery Flats Historical Area to browse local artisans and crafters, while enjoying live music, food, and fun Crafts range from jewelry, bath and body products, hand-poured candles, and much more! For more information or to submit your vendor application for the 2023 season, visit portagemi.gov/643/Markets or on Facebook @PortageMarketMI and Instagram @PortageMarket

» Friday, May 26 & September 22, 4:30 - 7 PM

» Celery Flats Historical Area (7335 Garden Lane)

» FREE (No registration required)

Fall Festival

Fall in love with autumn in Michigan and celebrate the change of the seasons by attending Fall Festival Enjoy historical demonstrations, like blacksmithing, glassblowing, candle making, and cooking classes Ride a horse-drawn carriage, enjoy live animals, and make memories you can take with you at our fall craft station Celebrate fall on the historical side of Celery Flats with fun activities for the whole family

» Sunday, September 17, 10 AM - 2 PM

» Celery Flats Historical Area (7335 Garden Lane)

» FREE (No registration required)

SPECIAL EVENTS

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Make memories with your friends and family at our Summer Concert Series On the second Thursday of each month, we will feature a different genre of music that is fun for all ages Bring a chair or blanket with you for lawn seating and leave yourself a little room for getting your groove on!

Admission is FREE to the Summer Concert Series, thanks to our series sponsor, Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo

NOTE LOCATION!

Motortown

Direct from Detroit, world-class vocalists and musicians from the ranks of The Miracles, The Temptations, and more have joined forces The show is jam-packed with impeccable harmonies, dazzling choreography, and those timeless Motown grooves that everyone knows and loves You can choose to dance, sing along, or just sit back (if you can) and watch the show as they perform all of the greatest hits from the likes of the Four Tops, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder

» Thursday, June 8, 7 PM

» Overlander Bandshell (7810 Shaver Road)

Jeffrey Cavataio

Back by popular demand, Jeffrey Cavataio is a classy modern-day crooner with an upbeat pop twist Captivating his audiences with heartfelt original songs and soulful renditions, such as Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York ” With his style, Cavataio has invited vocal comparisons to Dean Martin, Josh Groban, Michael Bublé, Neil Diamond, and Barry Manilow, known for their emotionally expressive tenor to baritone voices

» Thursday, June 29, 7 PM

» Celery Flats Historical Area (7335 Garden Lane)

Departure: A Journey Tribute Band

Are you ready to rock & roll? Check out Departure, a Journey cover band that will bring you right back to the 70s Bad weather and last-minute venue changes could not ruin their amazing performance in 2021 and they return in 2023 to rock out at the Overlander Bandshell “Don’t Stop Believing” in the power of music and welcome this band with “Open Arms” while enjoying other cover songs from Departure that totally rock

» Thursday, July 13, 7 PM

» Overlander Bandshell (7810 Shaver Road)

Rhythm Society Orchestra

The Rhythm Society Orchestra is a 15-piece dance band specializing in true vintage swing music Their sound is heavily influenced by Count Basie and Harry James Based in Detroit, this band plays top venues throughout the Midwest and has been featured on numerous television and radio programs

» Thursday, August 10, 7 PM

» Overlander Bandshell (7810 Shaver Road)

The Family Tradition Band

The Family Tradition is exactly that, “Family Founded” and “Tradition Based” from the ground up They were molded by the greats that inspired them in Country Music such as Brooks & Dunn, George Strait, and Alan Jackson

That foundation mixed with their Motor City Roots, some Southern Spirit, and the ability to connect with any crowd they are put in front of, makes The Family Tradition Band truly unique The Family Tradition Band is a modern take on an old timeless classic sound that includes many traditional country elements such as fiddle, banjo, and pedal steel guitar This combined with spot-on vocal harmonies, dual electric guitars, and a rock-solid rhythm section is what creates the authenticity of the band

» Thursday, September 14, 7 PM

» Overlander Bandshell (7810 Shaver Road)

SPECIAL EVENTS

Friday at the Flats

Friday at the Flats returns to the Celery Flats Pavilion in 2023 Join us on the fourth Friday of every month, May through September, for dinner and experience a range of food trucks and live, local musicians Seating is limited, but lawn space is plentiful, so bring a blanket or chair Connect with your family and friends at Celery Flats through food, live music, and fun

» Fridays, May 26, June 23, July 28, August 25, & September 22, 4:30 - 8:30 PM

» Celery Flats Pavilion (7335 Garden Lane)

» FREE (No registration required)

July & August

Presented by: June Presented by:

Friday At The Flats

Movies in the Park

Wind down with your family in the park, under the stars, for this FREE family entertainment event at the Celery Flats Historical Area The movies begin around 9 PM or shortly after, depending on the sunset that evening Bring a blanket or chair for lawn seating Don’t forget to stop by Friday at the Flats event before the movie (4:30 - 8:30 PM) for a bite to eat from local food trucks or bring your own snacks for the movie

» Fridays, 9 PM (Varies on Sunset)

» Celery Flats Historical Area (7335 Garden Lane)

» FREE (No registration required)

Friday, June 23

Friday, July 28

Friday, August 25

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY

SPECIAL EVENTS

Lanterns on the Lake

Light up the lake with a lantern that honors loved ones by decorating each lamp with words of remembrance, hope, and encouragement Feel the power of your community by taking time to remember those we have loved and lost together Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy while you decorate your lantern Live music will play until launch time at 9:30 PM Participation is limited

» Saturday, May 20, 8 - 9:30 PM

» Ramona Park (8600 South Sprinkle Road)

» $10 per lantern (Registration required)

WALK/RUNS

Inaugural Portage Central Mustang Gallop 5K

The Inaugural Portage Central Mustang Gallop 5k Walk/Run is where runners and walkers of all ages kick off National Fitness Day The event is hosted at Portage Central High School's McCamley-Knight Field then traverses through Portage trails Participants enjoy an onsite DJ along with local fitness experts For more information or to register for this event, please visit www.pcmustangac.com and click on the 5k Race link

» Saturday, May 6, 8 AM start time

» Portage Central High School McCamley-Knight Field (8135 South Westnedge Avenue)

» Registration required by April 26

Peacock Strut Walk/Run - 10K & 5K

The 10k & 5k courses of the Peacock Strut wind through the beautiful Portage Creek Bicentennial Park Trail Proceeds from this event help support the Portage Community Center, a private non-profit community center providing human services to area residents Awards will be presented three deep in each fiveyear age category from ages 15 through 80 Separate categories presented for “14 & under” and “80 & over " For registration and pricing information, email: director@experientiallearningcenter.org.

» Saturday, September 9

» 7 AM Registration at the Grain Elevator (7328 Garden Lane)

» Registration required

SPECIAL EVENTS

Scalin' Up For Summer

Portage Parks & Recreation is kicking off the summer with the hit program – Scalin’ Up for Summer Get an up-close encounter with an array of scaly creatures from reptiles to fish This event has something for everyone! Explore the world of fishing and boating and learn about aquatic conservation Learn fun facts about your favorite reptiles and their ideal habitats and participate in fun activities and crafts Scalin’ Up for Summer is one of the biggest events of the season, so get ready to be amazed by your new, scaly friends

» Saturday, June 10, 10 AM - 1 PM

» Celery Flats (7335 Garden Lane)

» FREE (No registration required)

First 100 kids will receive a FREE FISHING ROD courtesy of Honor Credit Union & Future Angler Foundation

UPCOMING EVENTS

Monster Mash: Hotel Transylvania

For all those monsters out there, lurking in the shadows… we’ve got the place for you to let out your inner monster! Come to Ramona Park for the annual Monster Mash This year’s theme is Hotel Transylvania Find family-friendly inflatables, a spooky forest hayride, merry-not-scary magic shows, on-site pumpkin carving demos, and more After the event, stay for a drive-in movie viewing of Hotel Transylvania, beginning around dusk Parking for the movie will begin at 5:30 PM and will be first come, first served

» Saturday, October 21, 3 - 7 PM

» Ramona Park (8600 South Sprinkle Road)

» FREE (No registration required)

Traditional Holiday

Experience the spirit of the holiday season Festivities begin in the City Centre at the Mayor’s Tree a tree lighting ceremony Sing carols as you stroll down Bicentennial Trail behind a horse-drawn wagon with Santa and Mrs Claus to Celery Flats Children can share their Christmas wishes with Santa at Stuart Manor or mail their letters to the North Pole inside the Schoolhouse Watch ice sculpture demonstrations and enjoy local musical talent performing traditional holiday favorites Complimentary desserts will be available in the Grain Elevator and the Portage Community Center will offer seasonal beverages

» Saturday, December 2, 6 PM

» The City Centre and Celery Flats Historical Area (7335 Garden Lane)

» FREE (No registration required)

IdeaWorx - Business Incubator

Transform your idea into reality by participating in business development programs and services at Portage IdeaWorx IdeaWorx classes focus on food, arts, and science ideas and help turn your dream into a new business venture Classrooms and a rentable commercial kitchen (coming soon) will offer a variety of programs in collaboration with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Western Michigan University and MSU Extension IdeaWorx offers a variety of topics to help launch your new business or grow an existing small business Topics offered this fall and winter are listed below Register today to start a new path as class sizes are limited

Classes meet at Portage Parks & Recreation (320 Library Lane)

All classes are $40 per person - Registration required

Cottage Food Law 101

Are you looking to learn more about selling foods made in your own home kitchen? Discover what it takes to become a Cottage Food Law vendor by taking this workshop hosted by the Small Business Development Center Learn about Michigan Cottage Food Law licensing requirements and guidelines for preparing and selling cottage foods

» Wednesday June 7, 6 - 8:30 PM

Launch Your Business

Ready to start your own business, but not sure where to start? The SBDC is here to help Learn how to write and develop a successful business plan, evaluate market potential, finance your business, and research strategies This workshop is designed for entrepreneurs who are looking to write a business plan for the first time, or already have a plan they would like to improve

» Wednesday, June 21, 6 - 8:30 PM

Celery Flats Historical Area on Garden Lane features paved walking and bike trails in a historical village setting connected to 25 miles of biking paths throughout the city Just across Garden Lane, rent a bike from the site from spring through fall Celery Flats is the perfect place to meet up with friends and to explore trails, historical buildings, and other adventures