Park Office
Pete Thorn Center: Parks Dept. Office
123 E. Fort Wayne Street, Warsaw, IN 46580 (Open Year Round)
Phone: (574) 372-9554
Fax: (574) 372-9555
Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The reception desk will close daily from 1:00 - 1:30 p.m. for lunch.
Staff & Leadership
Park Administration
Employment Opportunities
To view current open positions with the Parks Department Visit: Warsaw.in.gov/jobs
Contact: Human Resources
102 S Buffalo Street Warsaw, IN 46580
Phone: (574) 372-3373
Fax: (574) 372-3256
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Larry Plummer, Superintendent lplummer@warsaw.in.gov
Shaun Gardner, Maintenance Director sgardner@warsaw.in.gov
Stephanie Schaefer, Recreation Director sschaefer@warsaw.in.gov
Suzanne Stokes, Administrative Assistant sstokes@warsaw.in.gov
Heather Vogts, Recreation Administrative Assistant hvogts@warsaw.in.gov
Park Board Mayor of Warsaw
Steve Haines, President Noemi Ponce, Member Joseph Thallemer
Larry Ladd, Vice President Jill Beehler, Library Board
Michelle Boxell, Member Diane Quance, City Council Representative
Interested in Volunteering?
Volunteers are an important part of what makes our programs successful and possible for the community. We have almost every opportunity imaginable to suit your skills and interests. Visit warsaw.in.gov/volunteer and submit a Volunteer Interest Form today! E-mail us at parksevents@warsaw.in.gov for questions or additional information.
After Hours Fishing Pass
After Hours Fishing Passes are available free of cost for fishing in the parks after normal operating hours. You may register for a fishing pass at the Park Office, 123 E. Fort Wayne Street, during normal business hours. Passes do not require renewal unless you move or your personal information has changed. You must have your pass with you at all times when fishing on park property after hours. These passes do not replace state-issued fishing licenses.
How to Register for a Program
Option 1: Visit our office (see page 1 for location).
Option 2: Visit our website at www.warsaw.in.gov/parks for online registration!
Refunds: The Warsaw Parks & Recreation Department’s Program Refund Policy is available on our website as well as the registration form.
Photo Disclosure: Warsaw Parks & Recreation Department reserves the right to photograph programs and events for documentation and marketing purposes. If you do not wish to be included in this photography, please notify our staff.
Accessibility Assistance
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid of service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures, to participate in a program, service, or activity of the City of Warsaw should contact the office of the City Planner Justin Taylor, 102 S. Buffalo Street, Warsaw, IN 46580 / Phone number (574) 372-9550, as soon as possible, but no later than 48-hours before the scheduled event.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Event and concert sponsorships are an essential part of offering successful and meaningful recreational opportunities to individuals and families in our community. Your involvement as an organization not only contributes to this successful community outcome, but it also gives you an opportunity to market to individuals from a variety of backgrounds, families, and interest-groups.
For more information, please contact:
sschaefer@warsaw.in.gov or (574) 372-9554 x603
Event Vendor Opportunities
All applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Required documents to be provided annually at the time of vendor signup:
* Certificate of Insurance naming City of Warsaw Parks Department as additional insured
* Kosciusko County Health Department Certificate (For-Profit Food Vendors Only)
* Proof of charitable/not-for-profit status (Not-for-Profit Vendors Only)
Each vendor space will measure 10' W x 18' D (one parking lot space). No additional space will be granted. If you have a trailer, you must purchase enough space for your entire trailer, including tongue and bumper, and ensure that you will be able to maneuver your trailer as necessary with vendors set up next to you.
Vendor opportunities are available at the Classic Rock Concert, Blues & BBQ Concert, Country Music Concert, and Family Carnival.
Classic Rock Concert - June 16, 2023
Blues & BBQ - July 7, 2023
Country Music Concert - July 21, 2023
Family Carnival - July 28, 2023
The Gardens of Central Park
Northeast End of Central Park Open April through October
The Gardens of Central Park are the culmination of Robert and Roma Maish’s dream to create a perennial garden for Kosciusko County and its visitors. Made possible through an endowment fund established by the Maishes through the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, the Gardens contain over 160 perennial flowers, shrubs, and grasses. The facility is accessible and offers a variety of blossoms, colors, and a fish pond. For more information, contact the Kosciusko County Community Foundation at (574) 267-1901.
Ride+Walk Warsaw
Open May 15 to September 15
Dawn to Dusk
The Bible’s story begins with a garden and ends with a vision of trees bearing fruit. The Warsaw Biblical Gardens, situated on approximately 3/4 acre, currently contains over 100 plants that are named in the Bible. A diversity of climates can be found in the Holy Land, which allows for most of its plants to be grown somewhere in the United States.
Visit one of several greenways or bike facilities in the Warsaw and Winona Lake communities. Whether you’re looking to take a relaxing walk or ride your bike, we have the perfect places to go.
Information on completed greenways, trailheads, and suggested bike routes can be found by visiting www.warsaw.in.gov/ridewalk. For maps and other information, go to www.ridewalk.com.
Building Rentals
Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion
Recently renovated, this is our largest and most state-of-the-art venue. Tables, chairs, and seating arrangement set-up included with every rental. Features a customizable audio/visual system, a warming kitchen, and a view of Center Lake. This facility is ADA accessible.
Nye Youth Cabin
Also known as the Scout Cabin, this facility seats 70. Amenities include a food prep area, chairs, and tables. This facility is ADA accessible.
Firemen’s Building
This mid-sized building seats up to 100. Amenities include kitchen, tables, and chairs. This facility is ADA accessible.
All rental facilities and equipment managed by Warsaw Parks & Recreation Department must be reserved in advance. Each facility may be reserved up to one year in advance. All rental buildings are alcohol- and smoke-free. Rental fees are subject to applicable sales tax. For information, pricing, availability, and rental rules, please visit our website at www.warsaw.in.gov/parks.
Save time, reserve online today!
Shelter Rentals
Picnic Shelters
Perfect for family reunions, picnics, birthday parties, and more! Each of our shelters holds roughly 40-50 people and has at least 1 standard electrical outlet. All shelters are ADA accessible. Each shelter costs $75.00 plus tax. Shelters are reservable from April 15-October 1.
Shelter Locations: Beyer, Bixler (2), Central (2), Kelly, Kiwanis, and Richardson-Dubois Parks.
Additional Picnic Tables
Extra picnic tables can be added to your paid shelter rental, with the exception of the Central Park shelters. Each table is $5.00 each plus tax. Call Parks Office to reserve.
Central Park Plaza
Reserve the Plaza for weddings, concerts, and more. Seats 500 people. Rental fee is $225. This facility is ADA accessible.
Lucerne Park Amphitheater
Beautiful stone seating venue facing Pike Lake in Lucerne Park. Seats approximately 288 people. Rental fee is $200.00 plus tax per day.
Lucerne Park Cabins
Four rustic enclosed cabins that can seat 4050 people inside. Each cabin has electricity. Rental fee is $75.00 Mon-Thur or $100.00 FriSun plus tax. Available April 15-October 1.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium
This facility can be reserved for athletic uses only by the hour on Saturdays and Sundays. Gym capacity is 260 people. Rental fee is $40.00 per hour. Please call the Parks Office for full information and/or to reserve.
Seasonal Sawhorse & Picnic Tables
Delivered tables available April 15-October 1 to Warsaw and Wayne Township residents. Call Parks Office for pricing and reservations.
Pike Lake Campground
April 15 - October 1
(574) 269-1439
Phone active only during season
Amenities
Trash pick-up, picnic table, 30/50 AMP electric, shower and restrooms, fish cleaning station, water, sewer as needed, fire rings, firewood sold by the wheelbarrow load, level sites with no trees, kayak and canoe rental.
2023 Camping Rates
Nightly: $40 per plus tax
Weekly: $250 per plus tax
Monthly: $600 per month
Seasonal: $2500 per season
Strictly no refunds or subletting. Open 24 hours to registered campers
Summer Concert Series | 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Kick off your weekend the right way by relaxing with the Summer Concert Series. A perfect opportunity to spend time with the family, enjoy familiar tunes, and experience new types of performances. Performances made possible by the Kosciusko County Community Foundation and the Indiana Arts Commission - a state agency. Additional sponsorship by 107.3 WRSW, Willie 103.5, and News Now! Warsaw.
May 26 Blue Holler Band Bluegrass Central Park
June 2 Tuxedo Junction Big Band Hits from the Swing Era Central Park
June 9 Moonshots 50’s - Today Lucerne Park
June 23 Out of Favor Boys Blues Central Park
June 30 The Whateverly Brothers Acoustic Lucerne Park
July 14 The Ball Brothers Gospel Central Park
August 4 The Lake Area Community Band Concert Band Central Park
August 11 Quinten Flagg Elvis Impersonator Lucerne Park
August 18 The 1985 80’s Central Park
Rockin’ for Riley Concert
Featuring Quiet Riot 8:00 p.m.
Cream Camino 6:30 p.m.
Friday, June 16, at the Central Park Glover Pavilion
Sponsored by Gold Level Sponsors 107.3 WRSW, and Zimmer Biomet. Silver Level Sponsorship by DePuy Synthes.
Blues & BBQ
Featuring Blood Brothers 8:00 p.m.
Hadden Sayers Band 6:30 p.m.
Friday, July 7, at the Central Park Glover Pavilion
Sponsored by Gold Level Sponsors 107.3 WRSW, Willie 103.5, and News Now! Warsaw.
Country Concert for St. Jude
Featuring Lonestar 8:00 p.m.
Adam Calvert 6:30 p.m.
Friday, July 21, at the Central Park Glover Pavilion
Sponsored by Gold Level Sponsors Willie 103.5, The Dr. Dane & Mary Louise Miller Foundation, and Zimmer Biomet. Silver Level Sponsorship by DePuy Synthes.
The Dr. Dane & Mary Louise Miller Foundation
Mommy & Son Dance
Friday, May 3, 2024
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Center Lake Pavilion
Ages 3 - 14
Calling all moms and their sons to our Mommy and Son Dance! During the evening you will have a photo opportunity where a digital copy will be emailed to you after the dance. Each boy will receive a goody bag and a treat! Grandmothers, aunts, and other female guardians are encouraged to participate. Registration required. Fee is $20 per participant.
Touch -A- Truck
Touch-A-Truck
Saturday, September 23 | 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Lucerne Park, All Ages
Put your imagination in gear! This free, fun community event gives the young, and young at heart an opportunity to touch, explore, and see their favorite trucks or equipment up close and personal.
Kids’ Fishing Derby
Saturday, June 3 | 8:00 - 11:00 a.m. Beyer Park, Ages 3-16
Prizes are awarded for the biggest fish and more for various age groups. The first 30 kids will receive a gift bag. Participants must bring their own pole and bait.
Library Stories in the Park
Thursdays, June 1 - 22 | 11:00 a.m. - Noon
June 1 - Kelly Park Shelter
June 8 - Beyer Park Shelter
June 15 - Richardson-Dubois Shelter
June 22 - Kelly Park Shelter
Join
The hour will be broken into two segments: 30 minutes of library stories and 30 minutes of interactive games and activities.
Slip ‘n Slide Luau
Wednesday, June 28 l 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, July 12 l 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Kelly Park, All Ages
Join us for a fun filled afternoon of Slip ‘n Slide on the sledding hill! Waiver must be completed by a parent or legal guardian to participate.
**Parents or guardian must remain at the event while child is participating**
Family Movie Night Family Movie Nights
June 10 Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile
Lucerne Park
July 15 How to Train Your Dragon-The Hidden World Central Park
August 5 Encanto Kelly Park
Feature will begin at 7:30 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and gather your friends for a familyfriendly movie outside in local parks on the monster screen.
Fall Family Fun
Silver Level Sponsorship by DePuy Synthes and Indiana American Water.
Bronze Level Sponsorship by VIA Credit Union.
Family Carnival
Friday, July 28 | 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Central Park
A carnival in the park for the entire family! Enjoy face painting, caricature artists, balloon twisters, inflatables, and games!
Writsbands $10 l Single tickets $ 0.25 l CASH ONLY.
Gold Level Sponsorship by Lake City Saver.
Silver Level Sponsorship by DePuy Synthes and Indiana American Water.
Bronze Level Sponsorship by VIA Credit Union and Walnut Creek Church.
Fall Family Fun
Friday, October 6 | 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Lucerne Park
Enjoy a fall evening by the lake, full of free activities for the whole family! We will have hayrides, bounce houses, a campfire with s’mores, a kid friendly haunted house, and end the night with a movie on the Monster Screen featuring Scoob!
Gold Level Sponsorship by Indiana American Water.
Bronze Level Sponsorship by VIA Credit Union and Walnut Creek Church.
Light Up The Night
Friday, December 1 | 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Central Park
Celebrate the first lighting of the Central Park Holiday Light Display. Outside, children will receive glow necklaces & goody bags while supplies last. You won’t want to miss it!
Silver Level Sponsorship by Steve & Jill Beehler.
Bronze Level Sponsorship by VIA Credit Union and Walnut Creek Church.
Santa’s Workshop
Friday, December 8 l 6:00-8:00 p.m. Saturday, December 9 l 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Become one of Santa’s elves for one day by building your own toys, stuffing your own animal, and spending time with Santa himself! Registration required. Fee is $20 per child.
Holiday Light Display
December 1-31: This display will be lit each evening and is a special way to celebrate the holiday season in Warsaw’s Central Park. The display is on daily from dusk until midnight.
Gold Level Sponsorship by Lake City Saver.
Silver Level Sponsorship by Maple Leaf Farms.
Bronze Level Sponsorship by Walnut Creek Church.
Clay Earring Trio: May 5 | 6:30 p.m.
Canvas Painting: Sept. 15 | 6:30 p.m.
Christmas Macrame Ornaments: Nov. 3 | 6:30 p.m.
We’re bringing art back into the parks! Classes will showcase a different creative method and project. Registration is required and a fee of $35 per participant is required. Each class will be instructed with step by step instructions and materials are included in the class cost.
Nature Explorers
Monday, June 12, 19, & 26 2:00-3:30 p.m. | Lucerne Park
Ages 6-10, $7 per child, per week Registration is required.
Join us and the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams for a hands on experience! Discover nature in local parks! This fun, fast paced, interactive 3-week program is designed to connect youth to nature by encouraging exploration!
Imagination Station
Tuesdays, June 13 - July 25* | 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium, Ages 3-7
A parent-child program full of activities, crafts, stories, and more. Each week features exciting themes for the kids!
Don’t miss this fun opportunity! *No class July 4 or 11
June 13 Farm Tour
June 20
June 27
July 18
July 25
Go Wild
Dinos & Dragons
Shark Attack
Hungry Caterpillar
Gone Fishin’
Thursday, June 29 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium
$15 per child, All Ages Registration required.
Join our safari trip by learning about animals, engaging in hands on activities and taking home your very own stuffed animal. Be prepared to explore the jungle with us!
Dino Dig
Monday, July 17 | 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium
Ages 3-7, $8 per child
Registration required.
Are you ready to get a little dirty? Then Dino Dig is perfect for you. Everything dinosaurs! We’ll learn about dinosaurs, create amazing dino themed crafts, and take a trip back in time with dinosaur activities. Great for any child!
Daddy’s Little Sweetheart Dance
Friday, February 2, 2024 l 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Eggstravaganza - 2023 DddddDaddy’s Little Sweetheart
Saturday, February 3, 2024 l 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Center Lake Pavilion
Ages 3 - 14
$20 per person. Tickets available beginning January 3rd or until sold out. Max 150 per night. Registration required.
Create lasting, enchanting memories with your little sweetheart as you dance under the lights. During the evening you will have a photo opportunity, where a digital copy will be emailed to you after the dance. Each girl will receive a special gift. Grandfathers and other male guardians are encouraged to participate! Don’t miss this event that you and your sweetheart will remember forever.
Mom VS. Son - Nerf War
Monday, July 10 | $7 per participant
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium
Registration required.
Join us in a heated battle between moms and sons, as they meet on the Nerf battlefield! The battlefield will be equipped with barricades to hide behind while you take on your opponents!
400 Little League Drive (Boggs Campus)
Mantis Skate Park is a fully supervised, family-friendly skate facility everyone can enjoy, from elementary students to adults. The park offers a Rhino ramp system thanks to support from the K21 Health Foundation. Skateboards, scooters, and inline skates are welcome. Helmets are required at all times.
WAIVER AND EMERGENCY CONTACT FORMS MUST BE ON FILE TO SKATE ** MUST COMPLETE ANNUALLY**
SCHOOL HOURS
May 20 - 27 & Aug. 14 - Sep. 1
Mon - Fri 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. | Sat 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
SUMMER HOURS
May 30 - Aug 12
Mon - Fri 12:00 - 8:00 p.m. | Sat 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Park will be closed: May 29 & July 1 - 4
Special Event Dates:
June 24 Go Skate/Scoot Day, 4 - 6 p.m.
Aug. 11 Late Skate/Glow Night, 8 - 10 p.m.
Gold Level Sponsorship by State Farm Agent Linda Chastain. Bronze Level Sponsonsorship by Papa John’s.
750 Arthur Street
Hire Park BMX is sanctioned by the USA BMX and offers racing for all ages. Opportunities range from a training wheel class to 55 and over, beginner to pro, boys and girls, camps to rider clinics, etc. There is something for everyone in the family to enjoy!
For more information on Hire Park BMX or planned events, call Dan Rumple at (574) 268-RIDE (7433) or find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/HireParkBMX.
