Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in our community, Johnson County Park and Recreation District offers year-round program, activities, and special events for all ages!

For more information or to register online for the programs listed here, visit JCPRD.com/Register and complete a search for any of the activity numbers listed below. To register by phone, call 913-831-3359.

A reminder that while JCPRD’s 50 Plus programs are primarily for people who are age 50 or older, interested parties who have not yet reached that magic age may still be able to attend. Persons 18 and older who are interested in a 50 Plus class are invited to call the 50 Plus Department at 913-826-2975 for space availability.

I’ve attached photos that go with: Machine Sewing Basics and Dogs Day Out

Here’s a sampling of programs JCPRD has coming up for the week of Oct. 1-7:

Oct. 2 -  Martial Arts: Mixed Martial Arts (Ages 6-12)

Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood Dr., Roeland Park, Mondays and Wednesdays, 5 to 5:50 p.m., 6 sessions, $66 per person, $72 nonresidents

Traditional martial arts techniques taught with an emphasis on awareness-based self-defense and anti-bullying. Improve discipline, focus, and self-confidence while strengthening the body and mind. Activity number 31983.

 Oct. 2 - Museum: Sensory Friendly Monday (All Ages)

Johnson County Museum at Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, 9 a.m. to Noon, $4 per person for ages up to 18, $6 per person for ages 18 to 59, and $5 per person for ages 60 and older

Come enjoy the Johnson County Museum and KidScape in a comfortable, low-sensory environment. This limited-occupancy session is designed specifically for children with sensory processing differences and Autism Spectrum Disorders, and their families. We welcome visitors of all abilities and museum experience. We also welcome hand fidgets, comfort items, weighted blankets and vests, and mobility devices. Activity number 31651. For questions about this program, please call 913-715-2570.

 Oct. 2 - Art: Machine Sewing Basics (Ages 16 & Older)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Mondays, 6 to 8:30 p.m., 4 sessions, $114 per person, $125 nonresidents

NEW! Learn how to sew, using one of our sewing machines during this series of classes! Sew small projects as you learn how to thread the machine, change your bobbin, and more as you get to know how a sewing machine works and sewing terminology. Activity number 31010.

Oct. 3 - Gardening: Growing Native Plants (Ages 50 & Older)

Virtual Program, 2 to 3 p.m., FREE 

What is this plant? How do I grow or do this? What should I put in my garden? So many questions and no one to ask until now. Join the K-State Extension Office on a variety of gardening topics and be free to discuss your gardening questions with a Master Gardener. Native plants are being marketed as easy no-care plants. First of all, there is no such thing as a "no-care" plant. All living things have certain requirements to live well. Having the basic knowledge of how to grow the plant well will ensure success in using native plants in your landscape and design. Activity number 31916. 

Oct. 3 - Games: Virtual Scattergories® (Ages 50 & Older)

Virtual Program, 1 to 2 p.m., FREE

Think fast and write quicker in this fun and fast-paced game of alliterative words and categories!  Zoom link will be emailed the day prior to the program. Activity number 31824. 

Oct. 3 - Homeschool: Garage Band Adventures - Fall Session 2 (Ages 12-18)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Tuesdays, 2 to 3:30 p.m., 4 sessions, $72 per person, $80 nonresidents

Rock out in Garage Band Jam, where participants can learn instruments, form bands, and create original songs! Perform for each other and develop your musical skills in a supportive environment. Unleash your talent and ignite your passion for music. Let's rock! While the entire group will work together, participants will be encouraged to mentor and work together in age appropriate groups. In this collaborative setting, young artists will develop a knowledge of not only team work, but history and practice of both epic bands and masterful musicians from the past! Activity number 31157. 

Oct. 3 - Homeschool: Technical Theatre Adventures - Fall Session 2 (Ages 8-18)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Tuesdays, 2 to 3:30 p.m., 4 sessions, $72 per person, $80 nonresidents

NEW! Uncover the magic of technical theatre with our immersive behind-the-scenes course. Dive into lighting, sound, set design, and stage management. Get hands-on experience, collaborate on projects, and gain practical skills. Discover the behind-the-scenes artistry that brings productions to life. Classes will begin all together (ages 8-18) for an engaging lecture portion of each session before splitting into more specific age groups (8-13 and 14-18) to press into the practice of technical theatre. Each four-week session is led by skilled teaching artists with a love for not only technical theatre, but the rich history and theory of what skills can help guide the next generation. Activity number 31154. 

Oct. 4 - Homeschool: Dance Adventures - Fall Session 2 (Ages 8-18)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Wednesdays, 2 to 3:30 p.m., 4 sessions, $72 per person, $80 nonresidents

NEW! Explore various dance styles, techniques, and choreography to enhance creativity, expression, and physical fitness. From ballet to hip-hop, students will learn fundamental skills, improve coordination, and experience the joy of dance. Gain confidence, explore different cultures, and unleash you passion for movement! Classes will begin all together (ages 8-18) for an engaging lecture portion of each session before splitting into more specific age groups (8-13 and 14-18) to press into the practice of dance. Each four-week session is led by skilled teaching artists with a love for not only dance performance, but the rich history and theory of what movement can teach the next generation. Activity number 31148. 

Oct. 4 - Alzheimer's: Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia (Ages 50 & Older)

Meadowbrook Park Clubhouse, 9101 Nall Ave., Prairie Village, 2 to 3 p.m., FREE

Learn how to recognize common signs of Alzheimer's and dementia; how to approach someone about memory concerns; importance of early detection and benefits of diagnosis. Presentations by the Alzheimer's Association. Activity number 31923. 

Oct. 4 - Games: Bingo - Gone Batty (Ages 50 & Older)

New Century Fieldhouse, 551 New Century Parkway, near Gardner, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., $6 per person, $7 nonresidents

BINGO! Delight in food, prizes, fun and 12 games of bingo. Variety of prizes awarded including gift certificates. Please pre-register at least one week in advance. Payment is required at time of registration. For the enjoyment of all participants, children are not permitted to attend 50 Plus Bingos. Cost of admission covers snacks and staff time to administer the bingo program. No additional charge for bingo. Activity number 31947. 

Oct. 4 - Rise & Shine Yoga  (Ages 16 & Older)

Ernie Miller Nature Center, 909 N. Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe, Wednesdays, 6 to 7 a.m., 4 sessions, $34 per person, $37 nonresidents

Start your day with an invigorating yoga practice at Ernie Miller Nature Center. This is yoga for anybody. All are welcome, no experience necessary! This class will focus on gentle stretching, serenity, and rejuvenation and will be tailored to individual abilities. Please bring your mat to class. Instructor is Robin Olson-ERYT (Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher). For more information call 913-826-2800. Advanced registration required. Meet at the parking lot flagpole to walk into the building together at 6am. Activity number 31773. 

Oct. 4 & 18 - Preschool Storytime: Animal Tales (Ages 2-6 with an Adult)

Ernie Miller Nature Center, 909 N. Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe, select Wednesdays, 10:30 to 11 a.m., $3 per person

Join a park naturalist for animal stories and surprises geared for preschool age children. Come listen, learn, and meet a special animal friend every time. All children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Program held indoors. Oct. 4 session, Autumn Colors, activity number 31534; Oct. 18, session, Creepy Critters, activity number 31535. See all upcoming sessions this season. 

Oct. 6 registration deadline, play begins Oct. 28 - Volleyball: Okun Fieldhouse – Winter Session 1

(Leagues for Grades 3-12)

Okun Fieldhouse at Mid-America West Sports Complex, 20200 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, times vary, Saturdays, $600 per team, $95 for individuals

This ten-match doubleheader season for recreational through competitive teams will run Oct. 28 through Dec. 16. Games will be played on Saturdays (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.) Volunteer coaches are needed, and head coach’s child receives 50% off league fees. For more information visit JCPRD.com/youthsports or call 913-826-2900. 

Oct. 6 - Multi-Sport: Amazing Athletes (Ages 3-5)

Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood Dr., Fridays, 9 to 9:45 a.m., 5 sessions, $102 per person, $112 nonresidents

Amazing Athletes uses a multi-sport program to introduce the fundamentals of ten different sports in a non-competitive environment. Children in Amazing Athletes routinely gain greater confidence, learn to combine fitness with fun, and develop six key motor skills. Equipment provided. Please wear closed-toe shoes. Activity number 31990.

Oct. 6 - Art: Homeschool Clay Creations (Ages 16 & Older)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Saturdays, 10 to 11:30 a.m., 4 sessions, $97 per person, $106 nonresidents

Come get creative and explore clay. Students will get the opportunity to throw on the wheel and hand-build with clay to hone their ceramics skills over a series of four classes. Students will end class with finished pieces ready to fire and glaze in our Art Studio. Activity number 30998. 

Oct. 7 - Make: 3D Printing 101 (Ages 6-9)

Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Fridays, 1 to 3:30 p.m., 3 sessions, $95 per person, $104 nonresidents

NEW! Learn the basics of 3D Printing, including printer anatomy, function, 3D design, and troubleshooting. Students will need to bring their own laptop computer to this class, contact [email protected] with questions. Activity number 31033. 

Oct. 7 - Family Fun: Dog's Day Out (All Ages)

Meadowbrook Park, 9101 Nall Ave., Prairie Village, 1 to 4 p.m., FREE

Calling all dog owners! Bring your dog to Meadowbrook Park for a day of fun, games, a costume contest, treat scavenger hunt, photobooth, vendors, and more! All dogs must be leashed, current on vaccines, and under the control of their owner. Activity number 32191. 

Oct. 7 - Biking: Buddy Pegs Weekend Mountain Bike School (Ages 5-10)

Shawnee Mission Park Shelter #3, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee & Lenexa, 2 to 4 p.m., 4 sessions, $149 per person, $164 nonresidents

Weekend Trail School is a chance for beginner, intermediate, and advanced mountain bike kids to further develop their mountain bike skills, safety, social emotional learning, and fitness. Kids will enjoy the camaraderie of a team sport without the pressure to compete, develop their love for mountain biking, and develop critical life skills like resilience, self-confidence, empathy, connection to their community, and respect for the environment. Bike coaching includes: brake modulation using front and back brakes, steering in control, looking ahead, bike body separation, ready position, riding in a group, front wheel lifts, climbing and descending safely, and yielding to other trail users. Off-the-bike activities include bike cleaning and maintenance, bike safety checks, and bike themed games and crafts. Operated by certified Buddy Pegs bike coaches who are known for their patient, compassionate, and fun teaching style. Children grouped by ability level. Note: multi speed bikes with hand brakes and knobby tires required - bike rentals available upon request. Activity number 31864. 

Oct. 7 - Boating: Intermediate Evening Kayak Excursion (Ages 18 & Older)

Shawnee Mission Park Lake, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., $27 per person, $30 nonresidents

Enjoy the evening on the water as we kayak around Shawnee Mission Park Lake. Hear the croaks and splash of frogs, the hooting of owls, and view the park from a different perspective. Space is limited. Registration required. Kayaks and life jackets provided. Intermediate Excursion requires kayaking skills. Basic swimming skills required. Meet at Shawnee Mission Park Marina boat ramp. Dress for the weather. Activity number 31465. For more information, call 913-826-2800. 

Oct. 7, 14, 21, & 28 - Fall Public Hayrides (All Ages)

Oak Ridge Parklands in Shawnee Mission Park, 7460 Ogg Road, Shawnee, offered select Saturdays from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., $11 per person, $12 nonresidents

First 4 of 7 public hayrides for 2023! Enjoy the outdoors with a hayride through Oak Ridge Parklands at Shawnee Mission Park. Your hayride concludes with a warm campfire where marshmallows and apple cider await. Advance registration required. Children 2 and under are free. Oct. 7 session, activity number 31854; Oct. 14 session, activity number 31855; Oct. 21 session, activity number 31856; and Oct. 28 session, activity number 31857. 

Oct. 6, 7 ,8, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21 & 22 “Little Shop of Horrors” (Rated PG-13)

Presented by Theatre in the Park indoors at The Black Box Theatre, located inside the Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, times and ticket costs vary

A deviously delicious Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi smash musical, “Little Shop of Horrors” has devoured the hearts of theatre-goers for over 30 years. Howard Ashman and Alan Menken (Disney's “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty And The Beast,” and “Aladdin”) are the creative geniuses behind what has become one of the most popular shows in the world. In the musical, meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn stumbles across a new breed of plant he names "Audrey II" - after his coworker crush. This foul-mouthed, R&B-singing carnivore promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it BLOOD. Over time, though, Seymour discovers Audrey II's out of this world origins and intent towards global domination! Buy tickets on site or online.