At the Mentor Parks & Recreation Department, we’re always working on a new program, special event or fun family activity. Check this section often to find out what’s new, what’s coming up and when to mark your calendar for our next exciting activity.
Registration for summer courses, events & summer camps
is going on now! Register online 24/7 or click here to get a mail-in/drop-off registration form.
September
9th Annual Mentor Cruise-In
Saturday, September 11, 2 – 8 p.m.
New Location: Great Lakes Mall Sears Parking Lot
Join the Great Lakes Mall, City of Mentor and our sponsors for the 9th Annual Mentor Cruise In at it’s new location at the Great Lakes Mall. The Cruise In is for cars and trucks from 1985 and older. The event includes food, music, trophies, door prizes, a 50/50 raffle and more! Registration for cars begins at 11 a.m. The first 300 cars will get goody bags while the first 600 cars get dash plaques. no cars are permitted on site before 8 a.m. and cars must arrive together to park together. Additionally, no pets, bicycles, rollerblades or alcoholic beverages will be permitted. This event is absolutely free for spectators, so come out and see a great assortment of class cars. For more information, click here or call (440) 255-8932.
It’s Better in Mentor Festival
September 17, 18 & 19
Civic Center Park
Detailed Schedule of Events & Activities
Punt, Pass & Kick Competition
Saturday, September 18, 12 – 1:30 p.m.
Civic Center Ballfields
This is a free competition open to boys and girls, ages 6-15. Registration takes place the day of the event. Call (440) 974-5720 for information.
IBIM 5 MILE RUN / 2 MILE WALK
Sunday, September 19
Join the Mentor Rotary Club for this annual challenging race along Civic Center Park’s scenic bike paths and the trails at Veterans Park.
7:30 a.m. — 8:30 a.m. Day of race registration at Mentor Senior Center, 8484 Munson Road (parking is available off Hopkins Rd.)
8:30 a.m. — 5 Mile Run starts
8:45 a.m. —2 Mile Walk starts
Early mail in registration must be received by September 12. Entry form.
Skyhoundz Canine Frisbee Disc Competition
Sunday, September 19, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Civic Center Ballfields
For you and your frisbee-catching dog! Judging is based on distance and how many paws are off the ground at the time of the catch. Register begins at 11 a.m. Competition discs will be provided. Dogs under 15 pounds may use smaller discs provided by their owner. Sponsored by Mentor Recreation Department. Call (440) 974-5720 for more information.
Saturday Morning Wake-Up Walks
Every Saturday morning, August 8 – October 16, at 9 a.m., you are invited to join the Mentor Recreation Department staff as we walk go for a 2-mile wake-up walk along the Civic Center bike paths. We’ve set a goal of walking a combined 293 miles this summer and by our estimation, we’d reach Mentor, Kentucky in just that amount! We’ll meet you front of the Mentor Municipal Center then head out for some exercise. Walk with us whenever you can – once or all 10 weeks! No registration is necessary and best of all, it’s FREE – just show up, walk and help us get to Mentor, Kentucky! Questions? Call us at 974-5720. We hope to see you out there!
See Mentor on a Segway
Tours available
Every Monday & Thursday, 4:30 p.m. & 6 p.m. through September 2
Every Monday & Thursday, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. September 9 – October 28
Want to do something fun, easy, and very different? Come take a tour of Mentor on a Segway! The Segway is the world’s first two wheeled, self-balancing human personal transporter. To move forward on the Segway, the rider just leans slightly forward. To turn left or right, the rider simply moves the LeanSteer frame left or right. It all feels natural, safe, and instinctive. This exciting Segway tour starts with a 15-20 minute practice and training session with our experienced guides, and then your guided tour begins. We will glide through Mentor as we pass the Municipal Center, Civic Center Pool, and continue along the curves and hills of the bike path to Veteran’s Park. At Veteran’s Park, we will travel next to beautiful ponds, over bridges, on wooden boardwalks, through the woods on gravel paths, and view spectacular wildlife and beautiful scenery. This tour is approximately 90 minutes, including training. All riders must be at least 14 years old and no one older then 120! Call 974-5720 to register!
Mentor-in-Motion Club
Join more than 500 people who have already joined the Mentor In Motion Club (formerly 100-Mile Club) in this personal challenge program that encourages all members of our community, from kids to seniors, to get active. And best of all, it’s simple. As a participant, you can walk, run, bike, hike, swim, skate, even golf your way toward completing 100 miles of motion. It’s easier than you think to accomplish. Walk one mile (about 2200 steps) five days a week and you’ll reach 100 miles before you know it. Take the challenge and involve your family members, too. This is a great event for all. Sign up and we’ll send you everything you need to get started including a pedometer to help count your miles. You’ll also get an exercise conversion sheet to help you track your motion across a variety of movements and a personalized record log to set your goals and record your miles, and lots more! 100-Mile Club flier
Dorothy McNamara Maloney Memorial Art Contest
Artwork Drop off – Tuesday, September 14, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Opening Reception – Friday, September 17, 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Mentor Senior Center
This county-wide, juried art show introduces some of the best local artists to the community. Artwork submitted for the contest is on display at the Mentor Senior Center, Friday, September 17 – Wednesday, October 6. One (1) piece of artwork may be submitted to be juried for an entry fee of $5. An opening reception and awards ceremony will be held from 7 – 8:30 p.m. on Friday, September 17. Accepted works include: watercolor, oils, pastels, acrylics, photographs, drawings and pottery. Watercolors must be matted, framed and under glass. Artwork must be produced within the last year.
Get the Rules & Entry Form here or contact Wildwood Cultural Center at (440) 974-5735 for more details.
A Copland Celebration presented by the Hillcrest Concert Band
Tuesday, September 21, 7:30 p.m.
Mentor Senior Center
Enjoy an evening of great music, performed by the 60 piece Hillcrest Concert Band. The music of the favorite American composer Aaron Copland will be featured at this performance. Other composers represented include George Gershwin, Akron composer Stephen Griebling and Leroy Anderson. Light refreshments will follow. Reservations are available until September 14.
Fall Flavors – A Touched By Love Presentation
Wednesday, September 22, 7-9 p.m.
Mentor Senior Center
This entertaining variety show will include a Vegas Tribute to the Rat Pack, performances by Tony Fortunato & the Emperors, hypnotist Michael Oddo, The Chardon Polka Band, The Mentor Follies Dancers, and the Perry High School Buccaneers Choir.
Light refreshments available for purchase. The cost is $6 through September 15 and $8 after September 15. Call (440) 974-5725 to register by phone or visit the Senior Center reception desk.
October
Great Pumpkin Hunt
Friday, October 1, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Wildwood Cultural Center
We’re searching for The Great Pumpkin at Wildwood Cultural Center and we hope you will help us find it! We will be making a fall craft, listening to a story, and snacking on punch & cookies. Then, we’ll go outside in search of The Great Pumpkin and all the treats it leaves behind! Each child will need to bring a working flashlight for the pumpkin search. The program is for kids age 3 – 10 and a parent. This program fills quickly and pre-registration is required – no one will be accepted at the door. Registration begins August 23 for residents and August 26 for nonresidents.
Imposter
Friday, October 1, 7 p.m. OR Saturday, October 2, 7 p.m.
Mentor Senior Center
Here’s the story: Everyone’s favorite celebrity impersonator is missing. Prime suspects include Hollywood celebrities, a media billionaire, and talk show legends. You’ll be swept up in a relentless race against time as you try to solve this enthralling, comic who-done-it. Benefit performance for Lake County Senior Levy Funding and United Way of Lake County. Cosponsored with Anna Maria Homecare Services. Call (440) 974-5725 to register by phone or visit the Senior Center reception desk to register in person. Early Bird Price through September 24 is $5. The cost after September 24 is $7.
Fall Bridal Gala
Sunday, October 10, 12 – 4 p.m.
Cappelli’s @ Comfort Inn / Comfort Inn Hotel – 7701 Reynolds Rd.
Let experts help you plan your wedding! Over 25 wedding professionals specializing in Bridal Wear * Catering * Formal Wear * Invitations * Photography * Music * Floral Designs and more! Enjoy hair and makeup demonstrations before the fashion show courtesy of sponsor Ladies & Gentlemen Salon & Day Spa. An elegant fashion show will begin at 2:30 p.m. courtesy of sponsors Expressions Bridal & Formal Wear and Jesse Webb Entertainment. Enjoy a variety of hors d’oeuvres, courtesy of Cappelli’s, near Billy’s Martini Bar as you register for door prizes and meet each vendor. Interested vendors should call Wildwood Cultural Center at (440) 974-5735. This event is also sponsored by the City of Mentor’s Wildwood Cultural Center, Community Arts Commission, Cappelli’s @ Comfort Inn and the Comfort Inn Hotel. Admission $2
24th Annual Porcelain Treasures Show
Sunday, October 10, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wildwood Cultural Center, 7645 Little Mountain Road
Hand-Painted Porcelain Fine Art— Painted boxes, trays, jewelry, ornaments and other unique, one-of-a-kind porcelain gifts for sale; Painting demonstrations – Raffle prizes – Refreshments and more! Sponsored by Erie Shores Porcelain Artists and The City of Mentor’s Wildwood Cultural Center and Community Arts Commission. For information, call (440) 974-5735. Donation: $1
50’s/60’s Music & Dance Revival
Sunday, October 10, 2:30-5:30 p.m.
Mentor Senior Center
Do you remember sock hops and crooners, Elvis and the Everly Brothers, and everything else that goes with the early days of rock & roll? This celebration of that early music and dance will feature the music of Eddie & The Edsels. You may even want to come in typical dress of the fifties for this event, but it is not necessary. Prepare to “Rock Around the Clock” or listen to the music and enjoy the atmosphere and light refreshments. Singles and couples welcome. Special singles tables available. Reservations can be made by calling the Mentor Senior Center at (440) 974-5725 or stop by the front desk. The cost is $6 per person before October 4 and $8 per person after. Flier
Howl-o-ween Party for Dogs
Tuesday, October 26, 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Mentor Dog Park, 6645 Hopkins Rd.
FREE!
Bring your dog and join us for a Halloween party just for dogs at the Mentor Dog Park. We’ll have some contests, prizes and doggone good fun. The Friends of the Mentor Dog Park will be on hand to answer your questions and we’ll also have pet-friendly vendors, and treats available for purchase for people and pets! Dogs must have up-to-date vaccinations, be licensed, and not be in heat, to visit the dog park. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call us at (440) 974-5720 for more information.
November
Kalahari Getaway
Friday, November 5
Join the City of Mentor Recreation Department for a quick family getaway where you can have a blast at America’s largest indoor waterpark and save money too! Take advantage of special group rates for Mentor families and friends. For only $144 (a $229 value) – you’ll get standard room overnight accommodations and 4 admission passes to the waterpark. Up to 2 additional guests may be added to your room for $20 per person, which also includes waterpark fees. To book your getaway, call Kalahari Resorts directly at (877) 525-2427. You must ask for the City of Mentor Group Rate to get the discounted price. Want to stay two nights and make it a weekend? Ask the reservationist for the special 2nd night rate. Detailed Flier
Wildwood Quilt Guild 21st Annual Small Quilt Show & Sale
Sunday, November 7, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Mentor Senior Center
Come see the display of award winning quilts made by the talented members of the Wildwood Quilt Guild. Shop our “Gifts Sew Special” for small quilted items made by our members. Several area Quilt Shops will also be available for your shopping pleasure. Be sure to purchase a raffle ticket for a beautiful quilt. For more information call Wildwood Cultural Center at (440) 974-5735. Sponsored by the Wildwood Quilt Guild, the City of Mentor’s Wildwood Cultural Center and the Community Arts Commission. $2 donation at the door
Veteran’s Day Observance
Friday, November 11, 7 p.m.
Veterans Memorial, Corner of Civic Center Blvd. & Center Street
Please join the City of Mentor on November 11 for a special program to honor our Veterans at the new Veteran’s Memorial on the corner of Civic Center Blvd. and Center Street. The program will begin at 7 p.m. Anyone wishing to honor those who served in the Armed Services is encouraged to attend. If your group would like to be a part of the official program, please call the Mentor Recreation Department at (440) 974-5720 for details.
Mentor Senior Center Arts & Crafts Sale
Saturday, November 20, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Mentor Senior Center
Homemade arts and crafts of all kinds will be available for sale at the annual Arts and Crafts Sale. Yummy baked goods will also be available. There is no admission fee, and the sale is open to the public. Vendors interested in participating should contact the senior center at (440) 974-5725 for information. Show Flier
December
Hallelujah: The Hillcrest Concert Band
Friday, December 3, 7:30 p.m.
Mentor Senior Center
The Hillcrest Concert Band will present this special holiday show featuring instrumental numbers, Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus and, of course, Sleigh Ride. Light refreshments will follow. Reservations are available until November 26. Contact the Mentor Senior Center at (440) 974-5725. Admission is $5.
Santa’s Holiday Happening
Saturday, December 4, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Community Room at Mentor Ice Arena
HO! HO! HO! This is the place to come and have some good holiday fun! Enjoy a morning full of games, crafts, stories, and a little bit of time with Santa. This program is for children age 3 – 5 and a parent. Each child will go home with several craft projects and a free pass to go ice skating at the 1:30 p.m. open skate on that day. Don’t forget your camera. Parent participation is required. Number of participants is limited and pre-registration is required – registration begins August 23 for residents and August 26 for nonresidents.
31st Holiday Display & Craft Show
Sunday, December 5, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wildwood Cultural Center
Entertainment * Refreshments* Fine Arts & Crafts
Many wonderful holiday items for sale from over 25 vendors including wreaths and swags, gingerbreads, live greenery, baked goods, ornaments, stockings and much, much more. Purchase live greenery from the Wildwood Garden Club and enjoy holiday music with the Wildwood Singers. Sponsored by the City of Mentor’s Wildwood Cultural Center and the Community Arts Commission. For more information, contact the Wildwood Cultural Center at (440) 974-5735. Donation $1 – Children Free
Wildwood Singers FREE Annual Holiday Concert
Friday, December 10, 7:30 p.m.
Mentor Senior Center
To help get you into the holiday spirit, the Wildwood Singers present a collection of traditional holiday songs for you to enjoy! Listen, and sing along, to the holiday favorites at this annual free concert. The concert is sponsored by the City of Mentor’s Wildwood Cultural Center and the Community Arts Commission. For more information, please call the Wildwood Cultural Center at (440) 974-5735. No tickets required!
