2024 Vol.1 Activity Guide

Page 1


Information It is our policy to provide persons with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in and enjoy the benefits of our services, programs, and activities. In order for us to provide reasonable accommodations, we ask that you request the assistance needed by contacting Parks and Recreation at 1101 Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, or call 785-587-2757 (TDD Kansas Relay Center at 800-766-3777). We are here to assist you in the registration (application) process as well. Essential eligibility requirements for each program are on file. Assistive devices are available upon request. First-Come, First-Paid: Space is limited for most of the programs we offer, and registration is accepted on a firstcome, first-paid basis. In some instances, a waiting list may be available. MHKPRD Scholarship Policy: Some of our programs qualify for scholarships. Scholarships provide 50% off registration fees up to $150 per qualifying household. You must show proof of participation in the USD Free/Reduced Fees program, or qualification under Federal Income Availability Guidelines. Refund Policy for Activities Requiring Registration: Registrants will receive a full refund if we cancel the program, or we may be able to transfer you to another class. A full refund is granted if request to withdraw is received 1 week (7 days) before the class or event start date. A partial refund is issued when requested between 1 week and at least 48 hours before the start date. No refunds will be granted if the request is less than 48 hours in advance or if the participant fails to show. Participant withdrawals must be received during business hours. Please note: Some programs have age restrictions and birth dates are required for each participant. Phone numbers are required for staff to access your account and for emergency purposes. For assistance, please call 785-587-2757, or come by one of our offices listed below during regular business hours.

1101 Poyntz Ave. | 785-587-2757

2415 Browning Ave. | 785-340-3347

2850 Kirkwood Dr. | 785-340-3349

925 Yuma St. | 785-587-2773

314 Central Park Rd. | 785-587-2747

315 S. 3rd St. | 785-587-2726

2333 Oak St. | 785-587-2737


Explore the fascinating world of science with fun-loving Edison as your guide.

January 20 to May 5 FLINT HILLS DISCOVERY CENTER

FOUNDATION



Table of Contents 6

Youth Sports

11

Sponsorships

12

Dance

15

Special Communities

16

Instructional Programs

17

Scholarships

18

Adult Sports

20

Douglass Recreation Complex

24

Ice Rink

25

Flint Hills Discovery Center Programs & Events

28

Facility Rentals

29

Sunset Zoo Programs & Events

2024 Vol. 1 | 5


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

@ManhattanPRD

Youth Sports Early Registration Incentive

Home-School PE

This spring Manhattan Parks and Recreation will be offering a discount to participants who register early for our youth and adult programs. If you register for a program up to 2 weeks prior to the registration closing, you will receive 20% off your fee.

Home-School PE is a 10-week program held twice a week to provide our Home-School community with structured Physical Education programming.

Dates (Tues/Thurs)

Location

Age

Fee

February 6 - April 18

My First Soccer My First Soccer is an introductory, 4-week clinic for ages 3-6 years old. Kids will learn basic skills like kicking, dribbling, and ball control through different drills and activities.

Age

3, 4, 5 & 6 year olds

Times

10 AM (3 YO)

Location Pavilion

11 AM (4 YO)

Sessions (Saturdays) March 23-April 13

Fee

Early Registration Regular Registration

12 PM (5/6 YO)

5-9 year olds

Eisenhower Rec Center $50

Time

1 PM - 1:40 PM

Age

10-14 year olds

Fee $60

Time

1:50 PM - 2:40 PM

Boys and Girls 3x3 Basketball $30 $36

3x3 Basketball is for 3rd – 8th graders. It will offer both individual and team registrations. Teams play 2 games on each game night for 4 weeks.

Grades

3rd/4th Grade 7th/8th Grade

5th/6th Grade

Location

Dates

Eisenhower Rec Center March 18 - April 11

Fee Indiv/Team

Early Registration Regular Registration

6 | Visit mhkprd.com

$30/$120 $36/$144


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

Youth Wiffleball

N PROGRAEW M

Youth Wiffleball will consist of teams of 4 – 6 players who will play in a 6-week season on the indoor turf at Eisenhower Rec Center.

Grades

4th/5th Grade 9th-12th Grade

6th-8th Grade

@ManhattanPRD

My First T-Ball The Spring edition of My First T-Ball is a 4-week clinic for 2023-2024 kindergarteners. With parent participation and through drills and activities, they will learn fundamental skills like throwing, catching, and hitting to help prepare them for future MPRD T-Ball leagues.

Grade

Dates (Mondays or Wednesdays)

Kindergarten

Location

5:45 - 6:30 PM

January 29 - March 6

Time

Eisenhower Rec Center TBD

Fee

Early Registration Regular Registration

Session Times

Location Pavilion

6:45 - 7:30 PM

Dates (Mondays) April 15-May 6

$30 $36

Fee

Early Registration Regular Registration

$30 $36

High School Girls Flag Football Did you know that six universities in Kansas offer Women’s Flag Football as a varsity, scholarship sport? Sign up for this league and develop the skills that could get you there! Played using modified NFL Flag ® rules (5 v 5).

Grade

9th-12th Grade

Location

Griffith Field

Dates

March 20-TBD on teams

Fee

Early Registration Regular Registration

$50 $60

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Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

@ManhattanPRD

Youth Sports Youth Baseball Youth Baseball is for 1st - 8th graders in the 2023-2024 school year. There will be 4 weeks of practices before games start the week of May 20th. There will be one game a week for the first 2 weeks of games, then two games a week for the rest of the season for a total of 10 games.

Dates

Location

Early Fee

Regular Fee

1st Grade

April 22 - June 27

City Park

$45

$54

Machine Pitch

2nd Grade

April 22 - June 27

City Park

$50

$60

AA Baseball

3rd/4th Grade

April 22 - June 27

Twin Oaks/ CiCo

$55

$66

AAA Baseball

5th/6th Grade

April 22 - June 27

Twin Oaks/ CiCo

$60

$72

April 22 - June 27

Twin Oaks/ Eisenhower Rec Center

$65

$78

League

Grade Level

Coach Pitch

Major Baseball 7th/8th Grade

8 | Visit mhkprd.com

(Mondays/Wednesdays)


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

@ManhattanPRD

Youth Softball Youth Softball is for 1st - 8th graders in the 2023-2024 school year. There will be 4 weeks of practices before games start the week of May 20th. There will be one game a week for the first 2 weeks of games, then two games a week for the rest of the season for a total of 10 games.

Dates

Location

Early Fee

Regular Fee

1st Grade

April 22 - June 27

City Park

$45

$54

Machine Pitch

2nd Grade

April 22 - June 27

City Park

$50

$60

AA Softball

3rd/4th Grade

April 22 - June 27

Twin Oaks/ CiCo

$55

$66

AAA Softball

5th/6th Grade

April 22 - June 27

Twin Oaks/ CiCo

$60

$72

Major Softball

7th/8th Grade

April 22 - June 27

Twin Oaks/ CiCo

$65

$78

League

Grade Level

Coach Pitch

(Tuesdays/Thursdays)

2024 Vol. 1 | 9


Recreation mhkprd.com

@ManhattanPRD

@manhattanparksandrec

Youth Sports Youth Baseball/Softball Tournament

Parks and Recreation Tennis Program

The first ever open youth softball and baseball tournament, specifically for area Recreational teams. This is a team registration event and is open to area teams made up of Parks and Recreation players.

This summer Manhattan Parks and Rec is partnering with Body First Tennis to bring tennis back to Manhattan! They will be offering multiple summer tennis camps. Each camp will be introductory, with an emphasis on fun, and basic athletic and tennis specific skill and movement. The camp groups will be broken into age groups and will last 4 days.

Location

Twin Oaks/CiCo

Fee (Team)

Early Registration Regular Registration

Dates

July 20 – 21 $325 $390

Location City Park

Program Available to: Kids ages 3-17

WE'RE HIRING Join our team

Full-Time Positions Seasonal Recreation Positions Seasonal Park Positions Lifeguards Little Apple Day Camp

APPLY NOW

10 | Visit mhkprd.com

mhkprd.com/jobs


www.mhkprd.com/sponsorships

BE A SPONSOR

Thank you to our Youth Sports Program Sponsor


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

@ManhattanPRD

Dance Pre-Ballet

Dance Squad

This class introduces the basics of ballet. Ballet is the basis for several types of dance and helps children develop/improve their poise, flexibility, grace, selfdiscipline, and posture. Students will be introduced to basic beginning ballet techniques and vocabulary.

This class introduces the basics of jazz and poms. Students will develop and improve flexibility, balance, technique, and learn dance terminology.

Dates (Mondays)

6+ year olds

Age

Time

3-5 year olds

Dates (Tuesdays)

Location

Early Registration Regular Registration

$65 $78

Fee

Pre-Ballet A Pre-Ballet B Pre-Ballet C Location

5 - 5:30 PM 5:45 - 6:15 PM 6:30 - 7 PM

Pre-Ballet D Location

6:30 - 7 PM

February 12 - April 29

Fee

Age

February 13 - April 30 Early Registration Regular Registration

5:30 - 6:15 PM Roundhouse $70 $84

Roundhouse

Douglass Activity Center

Hip Hop This class introduces the basics of hip-hop. Students will develop and improve flexibility and technique while learning several different dance combos.

Age

Time

Dates (Tuesdays)

Location

6+ year olds February 13 - April 30

Fee 12 | Visit mhkprd.com

Early Registration Regular Registration

6:30 - 7:15 PM Roundhouse $70 $84


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

@ManhattanPRD

Dance Jazz / Ballet

Tap

This class introduces the basics of jazz and ballet. Students will develop and improve flexibility, balance, technique, and learn dance terminology.

This class introduces the basics of tap. Students will develop and improve flexibility, balance, technique, musicality, and learn tap terminology.

Dates (Wednesdays)

Age

Time

Fee

Dates (Thursdays)

Location

February 14 - May 1

Early Registration Regular Registration

6+ year olds $70 $84

Jazz / Ballet Combo A Age Time 6-7 year olds

February 15 - May 2

Fee

Early Registration Regular Registration

5:30 - 6:15 PM Roundhouse $70 $84

5:30 - 6:15 PM

Location

Roundhouse

Jazz / Ballet Combo B Age Time 8-9 year olds

6:30 - 7:15 PM

Location

Roundhouse

Jazz / Ballet Combo C Age Time 10+ year olds

6:30 - 7:15 PM

Location

Douglass Activity Center

2024 Vol. 1 | 13


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

Beginner Techniques

N PROGRAEW M

This class focuses on developing jazz/ballet techniques and skills.

Age

6-9 year olds

Time

Age

6:30 - 7 PM

18+

Douglass Activity Center

Fee

$65 $78

Early Registration Regular Registration

Intermediate Techniques PROGNEW

RAM

This class focuses on developing jazz/ballet techniques and skills.

Time

7:20 - 7:50 PM

Dates (Wednesdays) February 14 - May 1

Location

Douglass Activity Center

Fee

Early Registration Regular Registration

14 | Visit mhkprd.com

6:45 - 8 PM

Location

Douglass Activity Center

9-16 year olds

Time

February 15 - May 2

Location

Age

N PROGRAEW M

Dates (Thursdays)

February 13 - April 30

Early Registration Regular Registration

Adult Ballroom

This group class is designed for adults who want to be well-rounded social dancers. Styles include Waltz, Swing, Tango, Rumba, and more.

Dates (Tuesdays)

Fee

@ManhattanPRD

$65 $78

$65 $78


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

@ManhattanPRD

Instructional Programs Yoga/Movement Class

This program will be a beginner’s yoga class where we will learn mindfulness through breathing techniques and sun salutations. We will also learn about movement and getting in touch with the body using dance techniques.

Bowling Blast Bowling Blast is a Special Populations program that allows participants to engage in recreational bowling at the K-State Student Union.

Age

Fee

Dates

Time

5 and up January 16 - April 23 (Tuesdays)

Location

N PROGRAEW M

$10

4 - 5 PM

K-State Student Union Bowling Center

Age

Fee

Dates

Time

18+

January 18 - April 25 (Thursdays)

$10

4 - 5:30 PM

Location TBD

Friday Fun Night This is a Special Population Program that encourages participants to socialize while enjoying snacks, games, and music.

Age 10+

Fee $10

Time

4 - 5:30 PM

Dates

Friday, January 19 Friday, February 2 Friday, February 16 Friday, March 1

Location

Friday, March 15 Friday, March 29 Friday, April 12 Friday, April 26

Peace Memorial Auditorium

2024 Vol. 1 | 15


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

@ManhattanPRD

Instructional Programs Parents’ Night Out

Senior Trip

Parents’ Night Out gives parents the opportunity to enjoy a night out, while our trained staff watch over their children. This program includes pizza, drinks, games, movies, and activities for kids to enjoy! Register early, limited spots are available.

These trips are a fun and engaging way for our senior population to socialize in various recreational activities, ranging from dinner theater, tours, shows, and more.

Age

5-12 year olds

Fee $15

Time

6 - 9 PM

Dates

Friday, January 26 Friday, February 23 Friday, March 29

Location

Eisenhower Rec Center

16 | Visit mhkprd.com

Catch Me If You Can Starring Jim O’Heir Date Fee Saturday, February 3

$80

Age

Showtime

55+ Friday, April 26 Friday, May 31

Location

12:15 PM

New Dinner Theater Kansas City



Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

@ManhattanPRD

Adult Sports Adult Softball

“The League” Softball Tournament

Location

“The League” Softball Tournament is a slowpitch softball tournament. The tournament will follow USSSA rules with a few adjustments. Tournament is split into Men’s and CoRec (5/5). 3 games guaranteed. All games will be played at Twin Oaks Complex. The Team fee is $350 with the addon option of buying one home run band per team ($10) at checkout. The tournament is designed for league teams to have fun, relax, and enjoy a weekend of ball. Prizes for 1st and 2nd place depending on number of teams.

Twin Oaks

Fee (Team)

Early Registration Regular Registration

$500 $600

Co-Rec Doubleheader (Monday)

CoRec Adult Softball is a 10-week season culminating with a single-elimination tournament. Double headers are played on Monday nights. Teams are split into Recreational, Intermediate, and Competitive divisions based on their preference and exhibition game results.

Dates

Specific Rules: 3 Home Run Limit + 1 after that, .5 run for visitors, 50-minute games. Other rules will be emailed to the captains prior to the tournament.

Divisions

Men’s & CoRec

April 8 - June 17

Location

Men’s Doubleheader (Thursday)

Fee (Team)

Men’s Adult Softball is a 10-week season culminating with a single-elimination tournament. Double headers are played on Thursday nights. Teams are split into Recreational, Intermediate, and Competitive divisions based on their preference and exhibition game results.

Dates

April 11 - June 13

Free Agent registration is available for all adult leagues 18 | Visit mhkprd.com

Date

June 1

Twin Oaks Early Registration Regular Registration

$350 $420


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

Open Cornhole League

N PROGRAEW M

@ManhattanPRD

Adult Volleyball

Adult Cornhole is a 5-week Open league. Teams play as pairs but can roster up to 4 people per team. Played inside the Wefald Pavilion at City Park.

Location

Sunday League Dates

Fee (Team)

March 17 - April 14

Early Registration Regular Registration

Tuesday League Dates

Womens Indoor

Location Pavilion

Early Registration Regular Registration

$60 $72

March 26 - May 21

March 28 - May 23

Adult Pickleball is a 9-week Open league culminating with a single elimination tournament. Teams play as pairs. Teams are divided into Recreational, Intermediate, or Competitive divisions based on their preference and exhibition game results.

Location

Anthony Rec Center

Dates (Wednesdays)

Reverse Co-Rec (Wednesday)

Reverse CoRec Indoor Volleyball is a 9-week league culminating with a single elimination tournament. Teams are divided into Recreational, Intermediate, or Competitive divisions based on their preference and exhibition game results. Reverse CoRec is played at Women’s net height, with men only allowed to attack or block from behind the attack line.

Dates

March 20 - May 15

Early Registration Regular Registration

Tuesday League Dates Thursday League Dates

Pickleball

Fee (Team)

$280 $336

Womens Indoor Volleyball is a 9-week league culminating with a single elimination tournament. Teams are divided into Recreational, Intermediate, or Competitive divisions based on their preference and exhibition game results.

March 19 - April 16

Fee (Team)

Anthony Rec Center

March 27 - May 22 $60 $78 2024 Vol. 1 | 19


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

@ManhattanPRD

Douglass Recreation Complex Fitness Pass Program

Fitness Classes

Fee

Total Body Fitness

$20/Month $10/Month

Adult Pass Senior Pass (55+)

Hours

Monday/Wednesday Tuesday/Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

8 AM - 8 PM 12 PM - 8 PM 8 AM - 6 PM 9 AM - 4 PM 12 PM - 4 PM

Fitness Classes

11 AM - 12 PM

Days

Tuesdays & Thursdays

Fee (per session)

Early Registration Regular Registration

$30 $36

Time

5:30 - 6:30 PM

Total Body Strong

Use your own body weight and free weight equipment for the upper and lower body and core. Build muscle, feel better and learn stretching exercises.

Days

Tuesdays & Thursdays

Fee (per session)

Early Registration Regular Registration

Time

5 - 6 PM

Days

Mondays & Wednesdays

20 | Visit mhkprd.com

10 - 11 AM

Strengthen & stretch the body while refocusing your mind.

January 8 - February 29 March 11 - May 2

Early Registration Regular Registration

Time

Yoga

Session Dates

Fee (per session)

A total body workout using fitness machines to get stronger and feel better.

$30 $36

$30 $36


Recreation mhkprd.com

@manhattanparksandrec

@ManhattanPRD

Douglass Activity Center Gym

Table Tennis Tuesdays

Pickleball Time

Location

Time

Dates

Fee

8 AM - 12 PM

Days

Monday - Friday

Douglass Center Gym Tuesdays

6 - 8 PM Free

Juggling Class Our Juggling class will teach a variety of juggling techniques with different equipment/items.

Location

Time

Dates

Fee

Douglass Center Gym Tuesdays

5:30 PM Free

Douglass Center Gym & Games Days

Monday/Wednesday Saturday

Time

5 PM - 8 PM 9 AM - 2 PM

Open Play

First-come, First-served

2024 Vol. 1 | 21


Recreation mhkprd.com

@ManhattanPRD

@manhattanparksandrec

Douglass Recreation Complex Kids Night Out to Paint

First Fridays

On the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month bring your kids to Douglass Annex to paint! Each session we will have a new project kids can paint on a variety of given platforms and themes for all ages. This is a FREE program.

Spend Friday nights at the Douglass Community Center! On the 1st Friday of the month we are hosting game night! Come play ping pong, pool, putt putt golf and much more! There will also be snacks and drinks available!

Location

Location

Time

Dates

Fee

Douglass Annex

Time

5:30 - 7:30 PM

Dates

1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month

Douglass Center 1 Friday of every month st

6 PM - 9 PM Free

Kids Night Out Every Thursday at the Douglass Community Center kids are welcome for a night out! We will have games and activities they can participate in. This is a FREE program.

Location

Douglass Center Gym

Time

5 - 7:30 PM

Dates

Thursdays

Movie Nights It’s Movie Night at the Douglass Activity Center! On the 3rd Friday of each month, we will be hosting a movie night at the Douglass Activity Center. Movies for anyone and everyone! We will have snacks and drinks too! This is a FREE event.

Location

Time

Dates

Fee

Douglass Activity Center 6 PM 3 Friday of the Month rd

22 | Visit mhkprd.com

Free




Flint Hills Discovery Center flinthillsdiscovery.org

@flinthillsdiscovery

@discoverfhdc

Exhibits

Youth Programs

Great Plains: America’s Lingering Wild

Nature Together

September 23, 2023 - January 7, 2024

Discover the beauty and majesty of America’s Great Plains in the work of award-winning photographer Michael Forsberg. From 2005-2009, Forsberg crisscrossed the Plains from Canada to Mexico, capturing the wildlife, habitats, and conservation challenges in the heart of the continent. Inspiring, informative, and timely – the exhibit is a love letter to this endangered ecosystem.

Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™ January 20 - May 5

Step into the Lab and be inspired by the animated series featuring the brilliant work of Thomas Edison! Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™ engages kids in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning through unique, hands-on experiences to inspire the next generation of inventors.

Parents, bring your littles to the outdoor classroom and build your skills to raise a nature lover. Play games, hear stories, and explore natural items using your five senses. Come prepared to get a little dirty, learn about nature, and be a role model in the outdoors for your child. Registration opens January 2.

Age

18 months – 3.5 years old, with an adult

Dates

Time

March 20, 27 April 3, 10, 17, 24

Price (six-week session) FHDC Members Non-Members

9:30-10:30 AM $50 $60

Earn your lab coat as you: •

Experiment with electricity, magnetism, optics, sound waves and air pressure, and the fun physics laws that shape the world around us.

Manipulate the classic six simple machines designed to make our work easier – the lever, inclined plane, pulley, screw, wedge, and wheel and axle.

Learn basic coding with a fun introduction to notech, low-tech and high-tech ways to use technology as a tool.

Investigate materials science, how we use natural and human-made substances and learn more about their properties.

Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™ Traveling Exhibit was created by the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in collaboration with Genius Brands International TM & © 2023 Genius Brands International, Inc. All rights reserved.

2024 Vol. 1 | 25


Flint Hills Discovery Center flinthillsdiscovery.org

@flinthillsdiscovery

@discoverfhdc

Youth Programs Preschoolers in the Flint Hills

Discovery Camp

The wonder of the Flint Hills comes to life as children begin discovering the culture, history, and ecology of the region. Each class includes hands-on activities, crafts, story time, and a snack. Registration opens January 2.

Discovery Camp is a unique program offered throughout the school year. Sessions focus on STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics – as they apply to the Flint Hills. Registration opens January 2.

Age

Grade

3-5 years old

Price (per session) FHDC Members Non-Members

Winter Hideaways Secret Lab: Magnets Secret Lab: Chemistry Secret Lab: Scientists Wonders of Water Signs of Spring Tall, Tall Trees Art Party

Time

10:30 - 11:30 AM

K - 2 Grade nd

Price (per session)

$10 $15

FHDC Members Non-Members 1/16/2024 2/6/2024 2/20/2024 3/5/2024 3/19/2024 4/2/2024 4/16/2024 5/7/2024

Time (Full-Day)

7:30 AM - 5:30 PM $30 $34

Catapults and Code Amazing Animals: Mammals Amazing Animals: Reptiles Great Grasses Design Town Secret Lab: Ecosystems Secret Lab: Chemistry Secret Lab: Forces Secret Lab: Nature Secret Lab: Engineering Let’s Laugh Wonder Bugs

2/9/2024 2/15/2024 2/16/2024 2/19/2024 3/8/2024 3/11/2024 3/12/2024 3/13/2024 3/14/2024 3/15/2024 4/1/2024 4/26/2024


Flint Hills Discovery Center flinthillsdiscovery.org

@flinthillsdiscovery

@discoverfhdc

Events Family New Year’s Eve

Kansas Day Celebration

It’s our annual family-friendly celebration to ring in the New Year with food, music, fun, and our iconic balloon drop at Kids’ Midnight (8 p.m.) with a glow party! All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Celebrate the sunflower state as you participate in activities, stories, and education opportunities.

This popular community event typically sells out so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance online, over the phone at 785-587-2726, or in-person at the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Event ticket includes: • • • • •

Pizza from Pizza Ranch, snacks, and drinks Photo booth Themed crafts and activities Access to all FHDC exhibits including Great Plains: America’s Lingering Wild Our iconic balloon drop at Kids’ Midnight (8 p.m.)

Date

Sunday, December 31

Price

FHDC Members Non-Members 2 and younger

Time

Learn about our state symbols during a live animal program featuring Sheldon the Ornate Box Turtle, our official state reptile, and Baxter the Barred Tiger Salamander, our official state amphibian. Programs will be ongoing throughout the day. Make a bison craft and listen to stories featuring Kansas in the classroom on the second floor. Color Kansas symbols on the second-floor balcony.

Date

Saturday, January 27

Price

Time

10 AM - 5 PM

Regular admission rates apply.

6 - 8:30 PM

Meet the Makers

$18 $24 FREE

This year marks the 9th annual Meet the Makers event! Each day, a local creator, crafter, or maker will present live demonstrations of their work from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in the first-floor atrium of the Flint Hills Discovery Center. Interact with the artists, ask questions, and see their work come to life! This event is free and open to the public. Those wishing to explore the exhibits beyond the atrium at the Flint Hills Discovery Center must pay the general admission fee.

Date

Tuesday-Friday, March 12-15

Time

10 AM - 5 PM

2024 Vol. 1 | 27



Sunset Zoo sunsetzoo.com

@sunsetzoo

@sunsetzoomhk

Early Childhood Programs Sensory Safari | Preschool Ages

Creature Feature | Preschool Ages

Foster your child’s curiosity with sensory focused exploration of the natural world. Through guided and interactive activities, children will explore the many aspects of nature and wildlife. Each class will go outside, so please dress accordingly. Parent/guardian must accompany child, and non-participating infants/toddlers are welcome to tag along. The registration fee only applies to participating children. Each class will last 30 minutes, and start promptly at 9 AM, and families are encouraged to extend their learning by visiting the Zoo after the class. Preregistration required.

Help your child explore the natural world with these animal-themed classes at Sunset Zoo. This hands-on program will highlight a unique animal each November, December, January, and February. Staff will help children and their parent/guardian explore the animal’s individual characteristics through a variety of activities. Each Creature Feature class may go outside, so please dress accordingly. Parent/guardian must accompany child, and non-participating infants/toddlers are welcome to tag along. The registration fee only applies to participating children. Each class will last 30 minutes, and start promptly at 11:30 AM, and families are encouraged to extend their learning by visiting the Zoo after the class. Pre-registration required.

Time 9 AM

Price (per session) FOSZ Members Non-Members

Welcome to the Jungle Fun on the Farm TBD TBD

$8 $10

3/4/2024 3/8/2024 9/9/2024 10/7/2024

Time

11:30 AM

Ball Python Ball Python Screech Owl Screech Owl

Price (per session) FOSZ Members Non-Members

$8 $10

1/20/2024 1/22/2024 2/24/2024 2/26/2024

2024 Vol. 1 | 29


Sunset Zoo sunsetzoo.com

@sunsetzoo

@sunsetzoomhk

Early Childhood

Family Programs

Zoofari Tails Storytimes

Painting with Animals | All Ages

Slither into reading with Sunset Zoo and the Manhattan Public Library on the fourth Friday of every month. Each month features a different animal story; all storytimes include unique animal artifacts and some storytimes will present a live animal! This is a free program and registration is not required. (785) 587-2737

During this unique experience, families will visit a featured animal and use their powers of observation to create a masterpiece. To kick off your experience, Sunset Zoo staff will introduce the featured animal highlighting fun facts about the individuals in our care at the Zoo. After the brief introduction and interaction with related animal artifacts, families will be guided through a painting experience using tempera paint and 8x10 canvases. Depending on the featured animal, experiences may take place in the zoo at the animal’s habitat or in a space more conducive to viewing the featured animal.

Time

10 AM

Price FREE

Location

Manhattan Public Library

Dates

January 26 March 22 May 24 (at Sunset Zoo)

February 23 April 26

At the conclusion of the painting experience, a painting or print from the featured animal will be given away to one lucky participant. While paintings dry, families are welcome to enjoy the rest of Sunset Zoo. Space is limited, thus pre-registration is required. Registration is first come, first serve. Sunset Zoo staff will greet families participating in front of the Zoo’s ticket booth and guide participants to the location of the painting experience. Experiences will last approximately 45 minutes.

Time

9 & 11:15 AM

Ferret Poison Dart Frog Red Panda Cheetah Lemur 30 | Visit mhkprd.com

Price (per session) FOSZ Members Non-Members

$17 $20

1/27 | 11:15 AM 3/30 | 11:15 AM 5/4 | 9 AM 7/13 | 9 AM 9/14 | 9 AM


Sunset Zoo sunsetzoo.com

@sunsetzoo

@sunsetzoomhk

School Age Programs School Safari Camp | Grades K-5 All Kindergarten through 5th graders can now join Sunset Zoo for unique animal experiences all school year when USD 383 is not in session. Campers will embark on journeys that will keep them engaged, both physically and mentally, while their teachers at school take time to plan for future lessons and grow professionally. Journeys will include explorations into animal groups, individual species, ecosystems, and how they can help the natural world around them. Two age-specific classrooms are available during School Safari Camps, one for grades K-2, the Hyena Clan, and another for grades 3-5, the Chimp Troop.

Time

7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Price (per session) FOSZ Members Non-Members

$30 $34

Hyena Clan (Kindergarten - 2nd Grade Camp) What’s on the Menu? The Garbage Crew Trash to Treasure Disappearing Animals Animal Invaders What’s the Buzz? Fly, Fly Away! Monarchs and More Stop and Smell the Roses Food from Nature All about enrichments Leaping Lily Pads

2/9/2024 2/15/2024 2/16/2024 2/19/2024 3/8/2024 3/11/2024 3/12/2024 3/13/2024 3/14/2024 3/15/2024 4/1/2024 4/26/2024

Chimp Troop (3rd - 5th Grade Camp) Zoo Nutrition Animal Decomposers Recycling Round-up Animal Extinction Invasive Species Pollinator Palooza: Bees/Flies Pollinator Palooza: Birds/Bats Pollinator Palooza: Butterflies Pollinator Palooza: Plants/Gardens Pollinator Palooza: Pollinator Productions Enriching Rewards Frogs vs. Toads

2/9/2024 2/15/2024 2/16/2024 2/19/2024 3/8/2024 3/11/2024 3/12/2024 3/13/2024 3/14/2024 3/15/2024 4/1/2024 4/26/2024


Sunset Zoo sunsetzoo.com

@sunsetzoo

@sunsetzoomhk

Junior Zookeeper

Events

Junior Zookeeper Orientation

Sunset Zoo Winter Hours

Taking care of animals has never been so much fun! Sunset Zoo Junior ZooKeepers (JZKs) are youth, 10 through 13 years of age, who attend special training classes each spring to learn more about animals and conservation. Upon successful completion of the training class, JZKs have the opportunity to perform regular zookeeper chores in a majority of the Zoo and help care for the education animal collection throughout the summer months. Parent/guardians and prospective Junior Zookeepers must attend the JZK Orientation that takes place on the first Saturday in February each year. At the orientation you’ll receive an overview of the policies and procedures, and have an opportunity to register. Parent/guardian and interested youth must both attend.

Ages

February 3

32 | Visit mhkprd.com

12 – 5 PM

Time

10 AM

Winter Season

November 1 - March 31

Love Bites Join Sunset Zoo for this unique Valentine’s Day activity! You have a chance to name a cockroach after someone and have it fed to our sloth bears Molly and Tess. Each experience will happen each day from February 12-14 and has limited availability each day. To get your bug treat, sign up will begin in late January and be streamed live on social media.

Dates

February 12-14

10-13 years old

Date

Hours (Daily)


Sunset Zoo sunsetzoo.com

@sunsetzoo

@sunsetzoomhk

Events Science on Tap – Monthly talk at Manhattan Brewing Company Enjoy science in a fun and engaging way with this free, interactive program presented by Sunset Zoo at MBC. Program starts at 7pm, be sure to arrive early to get a seat and any food or beverage! This event is part of Sunset Zoo’s Behind the Science initiative. For topics and details please visit Manhattan Brewing Company and Sunset Zoo social media accounts.

Location

Time

Dates

Price

Manhattan Brewing Company 3 Wednesday of the month rd

7 PM

FREE

Earth Day – Party for the Planet Celebrate the natural world and its amazing animals with a Zoo full of family-friendly activities.

Date

Saturday, April 20

Price

Time

9:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Regular zoo admission rates

Kansas Science Festival Sunset Zoo is a partner with the Kansas Science Festival and encourages the public to participate in day long activities in Downtown Manhattan from a fun run, to activity booths. For more detailed information please visit the Kansas Science Festival at scienceks.org

Date

Saturday, April 27

Location

Downtown Manhattan - Poyntz Ave.

Mother’s Day at Sunset Zoo All moms are admitted free to the Zoo on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12. Bring mom and the entire family for an adventure and visit with some of our amazing animals. Regular admission rates apply to other guests.

Date

Sunday, May 12

Time

9:30 AM - 5 PM

Price

All moms admitted free with another paid admission

2024 Vol. 1 | 33



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