Calendar

City Hall Exhibition: Annual Photo Contest

These rotating exhibitions are featured in the lobby at Portage City Hall (7900 South Westnedge Avenue) throughout the year and focus on local arts and history. The exhibitions are FREE to the public and are open Monday through Friday from 8 AM – 5 PM. Get a glimpse of Portage Parks through the lens of the community. This exhibit displays the winning photos from the Annual Photo Contest. Photos were judged by a panel of area photography professionals and have been sorted into four categories; Seasonal Changes; Outdoor Recreation; Flora, Fauna & Wildlife; and Youth.

Brooks Archery Class For Beginners

Hit your mark by learning basic archery skills with Brooks Archery. This program is for youth, ages 9-17! Bows and arrows will be provided for those who do not have their own. Space is limited, so do not wait to sign up. The registration deadline for this camp is June 30. Sponsorships are available through Discover Kalamazoo Sports. Call Portage Parks & Recreation at (269) 329-4522 for additional information. Maximum of 12 participants. Class dates include: July 6, 13, 20, 27.

Portage Farmers Market

The Portage Farmers Market opens May 1 and runs through October 16, every Sunday from 9 AM – 1 PM. Browse local vendors offering fresh produce, meat, eggs, fruits, baked goods, flowers, crafts, gifts, and more! Vendors interested in participating may contact Portage Parks & Recreation at (269) 329-4522. For more information or to check vendor offerings, go to farmersmarket.portagemi.gov or visit us on Facebook @PortageMarketMI and Instagram @PortageMarket.

YMCA Youth Tennis Camp

Participants will acquire basic knowledge of all tennis strokes with an emphasis on playing points on a scaled-down court utilizing developmental equipment. Match situations will be introduced. This camp is for beginner players ages 5-14. Friday is the make-up day in case of inclement weather. Register at Portage YMCA: (269) 324-9622 or kzooymca.org.

Session 1: Swim Lessons For Beginners

These lessons are for new, inexperienced swimmers ages 5 and up. Beginning levels introduce basic aquatic skills such as floating, gliding, bobbing and breath control, as well as kicking and stroke basics. Instructors use fun activities and games to make the water an enjoyable place and to help children learn the fundamentals and gain confidence in and around the water. Participants will also learn basic water safety. The registration deadline is one week prior to the start of each session.

Session 2: Swim Lessons For Beginners

These lessons are for new, inexperienced swimmers ages 5 and up. Beginning levels introduce basic aquatic skills such as floating, gliding, bobbing and breath control, as well as kicking and stroke basics. Instructors use fun activities and games to make the water an enjoyable place and to help children learn the fundamentals and gain confidence in and around the water. Participants will also learn basic water safety. The registration deadline is one week prior to the start of each session.

Park Board Meeting

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga By Down Dog Yoga Center

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga combines the love of nature, adventure, and yoga - whether you're a first time paddleboarder or yogi, 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 practice. At the end of class, students will be given time to lie down and soak up some sun and relaxation 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. Ages 16 to adult. Class dates to select from include: Thursdays, July 14, 21, 28 & August 11, 18, 25

Summer Concert Series - HairMania

Enjoy a music filled summer with the Summer Concert Series! Each month features a different genre of music that is fun for all ages. Bring a chair or blanket and don't forget to leave a little room for busting a move. The high energy-full production stage show of HairMania confirms that 80s hard rock still lives on in the hearts and iPods of the TRUE Rockers in the Midwest. With true talent and raw power, they deliver the hits the way they should be heard, LOUD, PROUD and very very Hairy! Admission is FREE to the Summer Concert Series thanks to our series sponsor, the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo!

Ranger Hike: Moonlight Expedition

Come test your senses with us on this full moon hike! Try your hand at sensory games, listen for our nocturnal neighbors and revel in the light of the full moon.

Portage Farmers Market

The Portage Farmers Market opens May 1 and runs through October 16, every Sunday from 9 AM – 1 PM. Browse local vendors offering fresh produce, meat, eggs, fruits, baked goods, flowers, crafts, gifts, and more! Vendors interested in participating may contact Portage Parks & Recreation at (269) 329-4522. For more information or to check vendor offerings, go to farmersmarket.portagemi.gov or visit us on Facebook @PortageMarketMI and Instagram @PortageMarket.

Cool Casters School of Fish Day Camp - Ages 9-11

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 outdoors and learn skills necessary to start their own fishing memories. Professional instruction and guidance is provided as youth participate in many hands on activities, and of course... GO FISHING! The registration deadline is two weeks prior to each start date. Maximum of 12 participants per camp.

Junior Ranger Earn-A-Badge: Service

Be a Junior Ranger and get some help earning your badges. During these programs, a Junior Ranger may bring an adult to work on specific badge activities. These FREE programs include supplies and are led by Portage Parks & Recreation staff. The registration deadline is two days before each workshop. For more information about the Junior Ranger Club visit portagemi.gov/725.

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga By Down Dog Yoga Center

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga combines the love of nature, adventure, and yoga - whether you're a first time paddleboarder or yogi, 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 practice. At the end of class, students will be given time to lie down and soak up some sun and relaxation 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. Ages 16 to adult. Class dates to select from include: Thursdays, July 14, 21, 28 & August 11, 18, 25

Friday at the Flats

We are bringing the taste of Portage to you! Friday at the Flats returns to the Celery Flats Pavilion in 2022. Join us on the fourth Friday of the month for dinner and experience a wide range of food trucks and live music. Seating is limited, but lawn space is plentiful, so bring a blanket or chair. Connect with your loved ones at Celery Flats through food and fun.

Movies in the Park - Raya & the Last Dragon

Join us for FREE family-friendly entertainment at the Celery Flats Historical Area. The movie starts at 9 PM (or shortly after depending on sunset). Bring a blanket or chair for lawn seating. Stop by Friday at the Flats before the movie (4:30 - 8:30 PM) for a bite to eat from local food trucks or bring your own snacks. Thank you to Lake Michigan Credit Union for sponsoring this movie!

How to Ride the Pump Track

Learn the best tips and tricks for riding the Pump Track at Lexington Green Park from Pedal City. This basic pump track training will have you ready to try out your biking skills safely. Participants must bring their own bike and helmet. Knee and elbow pads are recommended and a chaperone is required for anyone under the age of 18. Registration closes 1 week prior to each session.

Ramona Beach Bonfire

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. Materials for making s’mores will be provided.

Portage Farmers Market

The Portage Farmers Market opens May 1 and runs through October 16, every Sunday from 9 AM – 1 PM. Browse local vendors offering fresh produce, meat, eggs, fruits, baked goods, flowers, crafts, gifts, and more! Vendors interested in participating may contact Portage Parks & Recreation at (269) 329-4522. For more information or to check vendor offerings, go to farmersmarket.portagemi.gov or visit us on Facebook @PortageMarketMI and Instagram @PortageMarket.

Session 2: Adult Pickleball Leagues - Competitive League

Join the pickleball craze! Pickleball leagues are offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6 - 7:30 PM at Ramona Park (8600 South Sprinkle Road) and Lakeview Park (9345 Portage Road). Two six-week sessions are offered over the summer for each league. There is a league for every skill level. Registration opens June 20 & closes July 18

Session 2: Adult Pickleball Leagues - Intermediate League

Join the pickleball craze! Pickleball leagues are offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6 - 7:30 PM at Ramona Park (8600 South Sprinkle Road) and Lakeview Park (9345 Portage Road). Two six-week sessions are offered over the summer for each league. There is a league for every skill level. Registration opens June 20 & closes July 18

Session 2: Adult Pickleball Leagues - Recreational League

Join the pickleball craze! Pickleball leagues are offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6 - 7:30 PM at Ramona Park (8600 South Sprinkle Road) and Lakeview Park (9345 Portage Road). Two six-week sessions are offered over the summer for each league. There is a league for every skill level. Registration opens June 20 & closes July 18

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga By Down Dog Yoga Center

Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga combines the love of nature, adventure, and yoga - whether you're a first time paddleboarder or yogi, 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 practice. At the end of class, students will be given time to lie down and soak up some sun and relaxation 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. Ages 16 to adult. Class dates to select from include: Thursdays, July 14, 21, 28 & August 11, 18, 25

Portage Farmers Market

The Portage Farmers Market opens May 1 and runs through October 16, every Sunday from 9 AM – 1 PM. Browse local vendors offering fresh produce, meat, eggs, fruits, baked goods, flowers, crafts, gifts, and more! Vendors interested in participating may contact Portage Parks & Recreation at (269) 329-4522. For more information or to check vendor offerings, go to farmersmarket.portagemi.gov or visit us on Facebook @PortageMarketMI and Instagram @PortageMarket.