header

divider




  2. Last Chance to Stroll around Mizumoto


    Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is also open for the season, following installation of new concrete sidewalks. The 7.5-acre walled was created in 1985 and includes a large koi lake, moon bridge, meditation garden, tea house and traditional Japanese garden landscaping. The Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Gardens close Nov. 1 and may be open seasonally for winter lights. 891-1515

    AGE
    All ages
    TIME
    Daily, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
    FEE
    $4/Adults, $2/Children 3-12 yrs. Kids 2 and under are free.

     

divider

Special Events



  2. NOW-Oct. 25: Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch at Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park


    Celebrate fall by picking your own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch, and get lost in the Corn Maze. Free admission, pumpkins sold by weight, give yourself an hour to navigate the Corn Maze.

    AGE
    All ages
    DATE
    Sept. 26-Oct. 25
    TIME
    Tues.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park
    FEE
    Free admission, pumpkin prices based on weight.

     


  3. Oct. 1-Nov. 19: Training for the Trot


    Be a part of Springfield’s Thanksgiving Day Tradition! Get ready for the 26th Annual Turkey Trot 5K by training with a group at Dan Kinney Park. Designed for individuals who want to run a 5K race for the first time, get back to running or who want to train with a group. Program fee includes registration for Turkey Trot and a Training for the Trot t-shirt. Training will be held outside and will observe physical distancing. Register by Oct. 1. Download registration form.


    AGE
    16 yrs. and up
    DATE
    Oct. 1-Nov. 19
    TIME
    Thurs., 5:30 p.m.
    FEE
    $45/Participant

     


  4. Sundays: Gigs in the Garden Concert Series


    Musical guests perform outdoors each Sunday in October. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Donations to Friends of the Garden benefit garden projects.


    AGE
    All Ages
    DATE
    Sept. 20: Marideth Sisco
     
    Oct. 4: Kevin Cott
     
    Oct. 11: The Fresh Faces: Ivy Nix, Aaron Mayer, Avery Mann
     
    Oct.18: The Breakfast Sides
     
    Oct.25: Kentucky 31
    TIME
    Sun., 2 p.m.
    FEE
    Free

     


  5. Oct. 29-Oct. 30: Moonlight MASKerade


    Enjoy the full moon and autumn colors at Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden. Friends of the Garden partners with Farmer’s Market of the Ozarks for a lighted garden trail experience with edible treats. Costumes encouraged, face coverings required. Discount advance tickets at FriendsOfTheGarden.org, or full price at the gate.

    AGE
    All ages
    DATE
    Thursday, Oct. 29 and Friday, Oct. 30
    TIME
    5-8 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden
    FEE
    Adult: $15/advance or $17/at the gate, includes 6 tokens to purchase food and beverage from local food artisans;
    Kids age 3-12: $5/advance or $7/at the gate, includes treat stops;
    Family Package: $40/advance or $45/at the gate, includes two adults, three kids and 12 tokens to purchase food and beverage from local food artisans

     



  6. Oct. 29-30: Halloween Pickleball


    Join us for a Senior Doubles Halloween Pickleball Tournament! Please bring your own equipment, water, snacks and chair. All players must register by Mon., Oct. 19. Sponsored by Humana and Anthem BlueCross Blue Shield. View flyer.

    AGE
    50 yrs. and up
    DATE
    Thurs., Oct. 29-Fri., Oct. 30
    TIME
    8 a.m.
    LOCATION
    Outdoor tennis courts at Meador Park
    FEE
    $15/Person/Event

     

divider

Fun for All Ages



  2. Tues. & Thurs.: Beginning and Advanced Tae Kwon Do


    Helps build self-confidence, teaches self-defense skills while making new friends. Beginners and advanced ages 5 and up are all welcome. View flyer Doling Family Center 837-5900

    AGE
    5 yrs. and up
    DATE
    Oct. 6-Oct. 29
    TIME
    Tues. & Thurs., 6 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Doling Family Center
    FEE
    $30/Members, $40/Non-members

     

  3. Sundays: Gigs in the Garden Concert Series


    Musical guests perform outdoors each Sunday in October. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Donations to Friends of the Garden benefit garden projects.


    AGE
    All Ages
    DATE
    Oct. 4: Kevin Cott
     
    Oct. 11: The Fresh Faces: Ivy Nix, Aaron Mayer, Avery Mann
     
    Oct.18: The Breakfast Sides
     
    Oct.25: Kentucky 31
    TIME
    Sun., 2 p.m.
    FEE
    Free

     


  4. Oct. 6-Dec. 5: Learn to Skate and Learn to Play Hockey


    Fun group skating and hockey instruction taught in eight-week sessions, includes eight free public skating sessions passes. Classes are 30 minutes. USFS Basic Skills membership required.

    AGE
    All ages
    DATE
    Oct. 6-Dec. 5
    LOCATION
    Jordan Valley Ice Park
    FEE
    $100 (includes skate rental)

     

divider

Gardening

divider

Get Outside



  2. Fri., Oct. 23: Adventure Days - Hike & Milkshakes at Roaring River State Park 


    If you are ages 11-14 and like all kinds of outdoor adventure, Adventure Days are for you! On this trip, we’re going hiking at Roaring River State Park, followed by milkshakes. Register by Oct. 22. Drop off and pick up at Dan Kinney Family Center outdoor pavilion. Limited to nine kids. Outdoor Initiatives 833-8647

    AGE
    11-14 yrs.
    DATE
    Fri., Oct. 23
    TIME
    9 a.m.-5 p.m.,(Drop-off 8:30-9 a.m. & Pickup 5-5:30 p.m.)
    LOCATION
    Roaring River State Park
    FEE
    $35/participant

     


  3. Oct. 17 and 23: Fall Float Package


    Join us this fall as the leaves change for a guided float on the James River Water Trail and group hike! Park staff will go over safety and give a basic paddling demonstration before launching at Lake Springfield and head to the Nature Center to go hiking. Once the group has returned to the Boathouse, there will be a bonfire, dinner and community time on the lawn. If you have any dietary or physical restrictions, please notify park staff when enrolling for this event.

    AGE
    10 yrs. and up (Ages 10-17 with an adult)
    DATE
    Sat., Oct. 17 and Fri., Oct. 23
    TIME
    3-7 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Lake Springfield Park
    FEE
    $40/person (includes rental of kayak or canoe and dinner)

     


  4. Oct. 24-25: Fall Backpacking Trip


    Beautiful forests, glades and expansive views mark the scenic Bell Mountain Loop Trail, part of Missouri’s Mark Twain National Forest. Hike 11.6 miles in two days, and camp on top of Bell Mountain, overlooking the scenic St. Francois mountains. This is a moderate level trip, so physical fitness is a must. Transportation included. Camping gear available for rent. Gear lists and meal planning help available. Register by Oct. 23.

    AGE
    15 yrs. and up (15-17 yrs. with an adult)
    DATE
    Oct. 24-25
    TIME
    Sat., 8 a.m.-Sun., 7 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Mark Twain National Forest
    FEE
    $60/Person

     


  5. Fri., Oct. 30: Night at the Park


    Experience some of your favorite Springfield parks at night! Join us for a Halloween Hike with storytelling, a campfire and s’mores at Lost Hill Park. Registration required by Oct. 30.

    AGE
    4 yrs. and up (4-17 yrs. with an adult)
    DATE
    Fri., Oct. 30
    TIME
    7-9 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Lost Hill Park
    FEE
    $5/Person

     

divider

Kids’ Programs & Activities



  2. Now: SPARC Before and After School Programs


    SPARC Before and After School Program is a licensed child care program that provides a great opportunity for your child to learn and grow both before and after school through a variety of clubs, sports, enrichment activities, homework help, and mentoring. SPARC Before & After School Care is only available for days your child is receiving in-person instruction. Reduced rates available; proof of free/reduced meal status required. View flyer. SPARC 837-5737

    AGE
    Grades K-6
    TIME
    6:30 a.m.-School Begins; School dismissal-6 p.m.
    BEFORE & AFTER LOCATIONS
    Harrison, Truman, Watkins, Westport, & Wilson’s Creek
    AFTER ONLY LOCATIONS
    Carver, Cherokee, & Williams
    FEE
    $8/Week/Child for Before School; $16/Week/Child for After School

     


  3. Wednesdays: Wacky Wednesdays with SPARC


    SPARC will provide a safe environment and assistance with virtual learning every Wednesday. Each child needs to bring their school-issued supplies and headphones to participate in virtual learning activities. Masks are required. This program is only available to students currently enrolled in SPARC Before and After programs. View flyer. SPARC 837-5737

    AGE
    Grades K-6
    TIME
    Wednesdays, 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
    LOCATIONS
    Harrison, Truman, Westport, & Wilson’s Creek
    FEE
    $$20/Child/Day

     


  4. Oct. 13, 15: Family Night Kit: October


    Everything a family needs for a fun and spooky night. Each kit contains all lesson plans, materials, video and written instructions. Schedule a convenient curb-side pick-up of materials for a fun family night in! Includes art activities, family games, and a discount coupon for pumpkins from the Farm Park. View flyer.

    AGE
    All ages
    RESERVE
    Sept. 28-Oct. 9
    PICKUP
    Oct. 13, 15
    LOCATION
    Oak Grove Community Center
    FEE
    $15/Kit

     

Kids' Sports



  2. Now-Dec. 14: Generation Pound


    A youth-oriented program that fuses movement and music to improve focus, coordination, physical fitness and teamwork skills. Kids use special drumsticks and are encouraged to explore movement and embrace their creativity. Registration required by calling 837-5900 or at Doling Family Center front desk. View flyer.

    AGE
    6-14 yrs.
    DATE
    Aug. 31-Dec. 14
    TIME
    Mon., Wed., 6-7 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Doling Family Center
    FEE
    Free/Member, Daily Fee/Non-member

     


  3. Oct.6-Oct. 29: Beginning and Advanced Tae Kwon Do


    Helps build self-confidence, teaches self-defense skills while making new friends. Beginners and advanced ages 5 and up are all welcome. View flyer Doling Family Center 837-5900

    AGE
    5 yrs. and up
    DATE
    Session 9: Oct. 6-Oct. 29
    TIME
    Tues. & Thurs., 6 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Doling Family Center
    FEE
    $30/Members, $40/Non-members

     


  4. Sun., Oct. 11: Register for SPARC Volleyball


    A fun, safe, and affordable experience where players learn basic volleyball skills and positive life skills. Games begin Oct. 31. Practices scheduled by volunteer coaches on weekday evenings. Register by Sun., Oct. 11. View flyer.

    AGE
    3rd-8th Grade
    DATE
    Oct. 31-Dec. 12
    LOCATION
    Games at Hickory Hills School
    FEE
    $45/Child

     


  5. Oct. 12-31: Virtual Elite Feet


    Join SPARC virtually for this 3 week program, designed to help youth learn the basics of running and speed walking. Training will increase slowly to build endurance, includes fun activities, and celebrates success along the way! Each Monday, participants receive two videos covering exercise, stretching, and running techniques. Track your progress and receive a special edition T-shirt. View flyer.

    AGE
    4 yrs. and up
    DATE
    Oct. 12-31
    LOCATION
    Locations vary, see flyer for deatils
    FEE
    $20/Child

     


  6. Oct. 21-Nov. 18: VolleyTikes


    Fun introductory volleyball for ages 4-6, focusing on motor movements, hand-eye coordination, basic volleyball skills and basic game knowledge.

    AGE
    4-6 yrs.
    DATE
    Oct. 21-Nov. 18
    TIME
    Wednesdays, 3-3:45 p.m.
    LOCATION
    O'Reilly-Tefft Gym
    FEE
    $10/clinic

     


  7. Oct. 21-Nov. 18: VolleyKids


    Fun introductory volleyball for ages 7-9, focusing on motor movements, hand-eye coordination, basic volleyball skills and basic game knowledge.

    AGE
    7-9 yrs.
    DATE
    Oct. 21-Nov. 18
    TIME
    Wednesdays, 4-4:45 p.m.
    LOCATION
    O'Reilly-Tefft Gym
    FEE
    $10/clinic

     


  8. Oct. 21-Nov. 18: “Tune Up” Volleyball Clinics


    These clinics focus on preparation for the upcoming club volleyball season. Each athlete will receive instruction in all of the volleyball skills as well as game play situations. Registration required per week.

    AGE
    Grades 3-8
    DATE
    Oct. 21-Nov. 18
    TIME
    Varies
    LOCATION
    O'Reilly-Tefft Gym
    FEE
    $10/clinic

     


  9. Oct. 31-Dec. 12: Tiny Dancers


    Learn basic movements of ballet while having a lot of fun.

    AGE
    3-4 yrs.
    DATE
    Oct. 31-Dec. 12
    TIME
    Sat., 9-9:45 a.m.
    LOCATION
    Doling Family Center
    FEE
    $30/Members, $40/Non-members

     


  10. Oct. 31-Dec. 12: Kids Dance


    Basic Ballet and Jazz with beginning, intermediate, and advanced class offerings. Must be at least 5 years old.

    AGE
    5-10 yrs.
    DATE
    Oct. 31-Dec. 12
    TIME
    Sat., time varies, click link for details
    LOCATION
    Doling Family Center
    FEE
    $30/Members, $40/Non-members

     

divider

Zoo Programs



  2. Fri., Oct. 23: Reptile Rendezvous Day Camp


    They are scaly, cold-blooded and so cool! Let’s dive into the world of reptiles with zoo tours, hands-on animal encounters, games, crafts, and more.

    AGE
    Grades 4-6
    DATE
    Fri., Oct. 23
    TIME
    9 a.m.-3 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Dickerson Park Zoo
    FEE
    $$60/FOZ Member, $75/Non-member

     


  3. Oct. 28, 30, 31: Zoo Tots - Going Batty!


    Zoo Tots classes are designed to spark curiosity and encourage discovery in young children. Classes include a craft, meeting animal friends and forming a connection with the natural world.

    AGE
    Children 2-5 who have not started kindergarten (with one adult)
    DATE
    Oct. 28, 30, 31
    TIME
    10-11 a.m.
    LOCATION
    Dickerson Park Zoo
    FEE
    $10/FOZ Member, $15/Non-member

     

Adult Sports & Programs



  2. Daily: Water Aerobics at Chesterfield


    Available at both Doling and Chesterfield Family Centers. A great way to get in shape with minimal impact on your muscles and joints. This program is tentative based on current COVID-19 regulations. Chesterfield Family Center 891-1616

    TIME
    Mon.-Sat., 8:30 & 9:30 a.m.; Mon., Wed., Fri., 5:30 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Chesterfield Family Center
    FEE
    Free/Members, Daily fee/Non-members

     


  3. Daily: Water Aerobics at Doling


    Available at both Doling and Chesterfield Family Centers. A great way to get in shape with minimal impact on your muscles and joints. This program is tentative based on current COVID-19 regulations. Doling Family Center 837-5900

    TIME
    Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.; Sat., 9:30 a.m.; Tues., Thurs., 5:30 & 6:30 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Doling Family Center
    FEE
    Free/Members, Daily fee/Non-members

     


  4. Oct. 20-Dec. 3: Total Yoga at Doling


    One-hour mix of yoga and Pilates, ideal for improving balance, coordination, peace of mind and overall health. Yoga mat, blocks and blankets are required. Doling Family Center 837-5900

    AGE
    18 yrs. and up
    TIME
    Tues., 9 a.m. or 6:15 p.m.; Thurs., 6:15 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Doling Family Center
    FEE
    $35/Members, $45/Non-members

     


  5. Oct. 24-Nov. 21: Tai Chi at Dan Kinney


    Relaxation, focus and balance practices for all experience levels. Dan Kinney Family Center 891-1500

    AGE
    16 yrs. and up
    DATE
    Oct. 24-Nov. 21
    TIME
    Sat., 10 a.m.
    LOCATION
    Dan Kinney Family Center
    FEE
    $35/Member; $45/Non-Member

     


  6. Oct. 27-Dec. 1: Yoga at Chesterfield


    A five week session of yoga that can accommodate any level of experience. This class is lower paced with stretching and breathing exercises. A good place to learn basic poses and relaxation techniques. Bring your own mats. View flyer. Chesterfield Family Center 891-1616

    AGE
    16 yrs. and up
    DATE
    Oct. 27-Dec. 1
    TIME
    Tues., 7:15-8:45 p.m.
    LOCATION
    Chesterfield Family Center
    FEE
    $35/Member; $45/Non-Member

     


  7. Oct. 29-Dec. 3: Yoga at Dan Kinney


    Learn proper breathing techniques and gentle, yet powerful, yoga poses to help reduce stress and increase flexibility.  Dan Kinney Family Center 891-1500

    AGE
    16 yrs. and up
    DATE
    Oct. 29-Dec. 3
    TIME
    Thurs., 6 p.m
    LOCATION
    Dan Kinney Family Center
    FEE
    $35/Member; $45/Non-Member

     


  8. Oct. 29-30: Halloween Pickleball


    Join us for a Senior Doubles Halloween Pickleball Tournament! Please bring your own equipment, water, snacks and chair. All players must register by Mon., Oct. 19. Sponsored by Humana and Anthem BlueCross Blue Shield. View flyer.View flyer.

    AGE
    50 yrs. and up
    DATE
    Thurs., Oct. 29-Fri., Oct. 30
    TIME
    8 a.m.
    LOCATION
    Outdoor tennis courts at Meador Park
    FEE
    $15/Person/Event

     

Accessible Recreation



  2. Thursdays: Disc Golf


    Come out and see more beautiful parks while gaining a new skill with Accessible Recreation! Disc Golf Is a great way to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors! Classes will cover basics of the game including rules, short and long throws, and good form, all in a fun and supportive environment at Oak Grove Park. Six-foot physical distancing guidelines will be followed for the health and safety of all participants. Call 837-5808 to register. Pre-registration is required.

    AGE
    Ages 18 yrs. and up with a disability
    DATE
    Thursdays
    TIME
    9:30-11:30 a.m.
    LOCATION
    Oak Grove Park
    FEE
    $5/Week

     


  3. Now - Drive-Thru Ceramics


    Looking for something fun to do in your own home? Look no further than Accessible Recreation's Drive-thru Ceramics! It's minimal interaction but maximum fun for our friends with disabilities and their family and friends! We have ceramic projects that are ready to be your next masterpiece! Call or email to schedule a pick-up time. Call when you arrive, and we will bring it out! Pick-up at the Northview Center (301 E. Talmage).

    AGE
    All ages with a disability
    DATE
    Call or email to schedule a pickup time
    LOCATION
    Northview Center
    FEE
    Starting at $5/project

     
Want to have This Month in Parks e-mailed to you every month? Sign Up Here