Pete Thorn Center: Parks Dept. Office 123 E. Fort Wayne Street
Warsaw, IN 46580
(Open year-round)
Phone: (574) 372-9554
Fax: (574) 372-9555
Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The reception desk will close daily from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. for lunch.
Stephanie Schaefer | Recreation Director
Lynnae Thomas | Recreation Director Assistant
How to Register for a Program
Option 1: Visit our office at 123 E. Fort Wayne Street, Warsaw.
Option 2: Visit our website at www.warsaw.in.gov/parks for online registration or by scanning the QR code on the back page.
Refunds: The Warsaw Parks & Recreation Department’s Program Refund Policy is available on our website as well as the registration form.
Photo Disclosure: Warsaw Parks & Recreation Department reserves the right to photograph programs and events for documentation and marketing purposes. If you do not wish to be included in this photography, please notify our staff.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers are an important part of what makes our programs successful. Opportunities exist for a wide variety of skillsets and interests.
Visit warsaw.in.gov/volunteer to submit a Volunteer Interest Form or email Stephanie at sschaefer@warsaw.in.gov for questions or additional information.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Event and concert sponsorships are an essential part of offering successful and meaningful recreational opportunities to individuals and families in our community. Your involvement as an organization not only contributes to this successful community outcome, but it also gives you an opportunity to market to individuals from a variety of backgrounds, families, and interest groups.
For more information, please contact our Recreation Director at sschaefer@warsaw.in.gov or (574) 372-9554, ext. 603.
2027 Food Vendor Opportunities
Calling all food vendors, come be a part of our 2027 season! Monday, October 19, 2026 marks the opening date for vendor application submissions and payments. Applications can be made by phone or in person, and payment is expected at the time of registration. To schedule a time to process your application, please contact Lynnae by phone at (574) 372-9554, ext. 608, or by email at lthomas@warsaw.in.gov. Applications will be reviewed in the order they are received. Please note that the Parks Department may limit the number of similar vendors at each event.
Vendors with trailers must purchase enough space to fit their entire trailer, tongue and bumper included, so that they are able to maneuver their trailer as needed with vendors next to them.
Required vendor documents:
Not for Profit – Certificate of Insurance naming City of Warsaw Parks Department as a certificate holder & proof of charitable/not for profit status.
For Profit – Certificate of Insurance naming City of Warsaw Parks Department as a certificate holder & Kosciusko County Health Department certificate.
Event Dates:
Rockin’ for Riley Concert | Friday, June 18, 2027
Country Concert for St. Jude | Friday, July 16, 2027
Family Carnival | Friday, July 30, 2027
Hire Park BMX
750 E. Arthur Street, Warsaw, IN 46580
Hire Park BMX is sanctioned by the USA BMX and offers racing for all ages. Opportunities range from a no pedals strider class to 55 and over, beginner to pro, boys and girls, camps to rider clinics, and more. There is something for everyone in the family to enjoy!
Additional information can be found on Facebook at Hire Park BMX or by reaching out to Tyler via email at hireparkbmx@gmail.com.
Young Tiger Football & Cheer
Each year, Young Tigers serves almost 300 Warsaw boys and girls, and provides over 14,000 hours of youth development to the community. Young Tigers youth development focuses on children ages 7-12 to promote athletics, player safety, leadership skills, and community service participation.
For more information, contact Andy Owens at (574) 377-1034 or visit www.youngtigersfootball.com
All Young Tigers coaches are required to maintain ‘Heads Up’ certification from USA Football.
Lifeguard Information
Center Lake Beach | 119 E. Canal Street
Pike Lake Beach | 1009 E. Arthur Street
Beach Safety & Lifeguard Notice – Center Lake & Pike Lake
The Parks Department strives to provide lifeguard coverage at Center Lake Beach and Pike Lake Beach from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend; however, this is subject to staff availability.
Swim at Your Own Risk:
When lifeguards are not on duty, all swimming at Center Lake Beach and Pike Lake Beach is at your own risk. Visitors are strongly encouraged to use caution and never swim alone. In the event of approaching inclement weather, a light strobe and siren will sound at both beaches. We ask that park patrons clear the beach and seek shelter should this occur.
Self-Service Equipment Rentals
Kayaks & Paddle Boards available at these locations:
Center Lake Beach | 119 E. Canal Street
7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Pike Lake Beach | 1009 E. Arthur Street
7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Cost | $25 for under 2 hours or $40 for 2 - 4 hours
You can find kayaks and paddle boards at both beaches. Every rental includes the kayak or paddle board, a paddle, and a life jacket. The kiosk is powered by the Rent.Fun app, so to save yourself time, find the app in your phone’s app store and download it before you go. Rentals require the use of a credit or debit card.
Community Paddle Boarding
Pike Lake Beach | 1009 E. Arthur Street
June 2 | June 16 | July 23 | July 28 | 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
June 27 | 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
No Registration Required
An annual waiver and rules sheet must be signed by each participant or a parent/guardian for anyone under the age of 18. Participants under 16 must have an adult in the water with them. All equipment provided to the community for use on a first come, first served basis.
Skate Park
Our new all-concrete skate park will be located at Richardson-DuBois Park. Designed for users of all ages and skill levels, the park will feature a variety of flowing, durable elements for active recreation.
This community-focused space, made possible by the generous support of the K21 Health Foundation, Dekko Foundation, and the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, is set to open in fall 2026. It will provide a new destination for fun, fitness, and outdoor activity in the area.
Boggs Park - Basketball Courts
Boggs Basketball Courts
200 Fred Boggs Pkwy
Boggs Park offers two full-size, regulation basketball courts with well-maintained playing surfaces and basketball goals. Both courts are equipped with lighting, extending play into the evening hours. The courts provide ample space for multiple games and are ideal for casual play, pickup games, and individual skill practice in an open, outdoor park setting.
Summer Concert Series | Fridays
7:00
- 8:30 p.m.
The Summer Concert Series is a perfect opportunity to spend time with the family, enjoy familiar tunes, and experience new types of music. Performances made possible by the Kosciusko County Community Foundation. Additional sponsorship by Rabb Water Systems, Papa Johns, Indiana American Water, State Farm Agent - Mariano Oliveri, 107.3 WRSW, Willie 103.5, and News Now Warsaw!.
May 22 Kennedy’s Kitchen Irish Central Park
May 29 Beez and the Rocker Rock & Roll Lucerne Park
June 5 Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday Patriotic Central Park
June 12 Matt Fawcett Contemporary Christian Lucerne Park
June 26 Lake Area Community Band Concert Band Central Park
July 10 The Resurrection Blues Band Blues
July 24 Heartland Sings Oldies 40s - 70s Lucerne Park
August 7 Mason Dixon Line Country Glover Pavilion
August 14 ThunderBeard ZZ Top Tribute Glover Pavilion
Rockin’ for Riley Concert - Central Park
Featuring Great White 8:30 p.m.
ROCKAMERICA 7:00 p.m.
Friday, June 19 at the Glover Pavilion
225 E. Fort Wayne Street, Warsaw
Gold Level Sponsors: 107.3 WRSW, and Zimmer Biomet
Silver Level Sponsors: DePuy Synthes
Country Concert for St. Jude - Central Park
Featuring The Frontmen 8:30 p.m.
- Richie McDonald formerly of Lonestar
- Larry Stewart of Restless Heart
- Tim Rushlow formerly of Little Texas
Tege Holt 7:00 p.m.
Friday, July 17 at the Glover Pavilion
225 E. Fort Wayne Street, Warsaw
Gold Level Sponsors: The Dr. Dane & Mary Louise Foundation, Willie 103.5, and Zimmer Biomet
Silver Level Sponsors: DePuy Synthes
Bronze Level Sponsor: Patten Monument of Indiana
The Dr. Dane & Mary Louise Miller Foundation
Mommy & Son Dance
Friday, May 1 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion
Ages 3 - 14
Calling all moms and their sons to our Mommy and Son Dance! During the evening you will have a chance for a photo opportunity and each boy will receive a goody bag and a treat. Grandmothers, aunts, and other female guardians are encouraged to participate.
$20 per person
Registration required. No tickets will be sold at the door.
Spring Porch Sign | Friday, May 15 | 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Ages 16 & older | $35 per participant | Registration is required
Participants will receive step by step instructions for completion. All materials are included in the cost of the class.
Imagination Station
Tuesday, May 19 | Bluey
Kids Fishing Derby
Tuesday, June 23 | Little Bugs, Big World 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium | Ages 3 - 7
A parent-child program full of activities, crafts, stories, and more. Each week features a different exciting theme for the kids. Don’t miss this fun opportunity!
Saturday, May 30 | 8:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Bixler Park | Ages 3 - 16
Prizes will be awarded for the biggest fish and more for various age groups. The first 50 kids will receive a gift bag. Participants must bring their own pole and bait.
Gold Level Sponsors: Shop Smart Magazine
Bronze Level Sponsors: Kuert Concrete and Patten Monument of Indiana
Additional Sponsors: Salvation Army and Texas Roadhouse
Art in the Park
Library Stories in the Park
Thursday, June 4 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Firemen’s Building
Thursday, June 11 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Bixler N. Shelter
Thursday, June 18 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Richardson-DuBois Park
Thursday, June 25 | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Kelly Park
Join us and the Warsaw Community Public Library for our traveling Library Stories in the Park! We will be traveling to different parks for story time and games.
Nerf Battles
Monday, June 8 | Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium
$4 per participant | Registration is required Family Nerf | 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. & 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Join us in a heated battle as you take on your opponents! The battlefield will be equipped with barricades to increase strategy and competition! You will be responsible to bring your own Nerf gun; however, no battery-operated Nerf guns will be allowed.
Wipe Out
Wednesday, June 10 | 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Pike Lake Beach
Bring your A-game and try to make it to the end of the Aqua Glide without wiping out! This water obstacle course will test your agility, balance, and overall coordination! All ages welcome. Waiver must be completed by a parent or legal guardian to participate.
** Parents or guardian must remain at the event while child is participating **
Paint with Me at Center Lake
Monday, June 29 | Ages 3 & up | 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Nye Youth Cabin - Nye Park
$10 per participant | Registration is required
Join us for a fun outdoor painting class where adults and children can paint the beautiful scenery at Center Lake together.
This relaxed, family-friendly event is perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike. Come enjoy nature, creativity, and time together while capturing the view on canvas.
Wipe Out
Wednesday, July 1 | 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. | Kelly Park
Join us at Kelly Park for 2 hours of Slip-N-Slide fun down the hill. Bring your friends, enjoy the sunshine, and cool off with plenty of laughs and splashes.
The perfect way to spend a summer afternoon!
Tuesday, July 7 & Saturday, July 25
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Pike Lake Beach
Bring your A-game and try to make it to the end of the Aqua Glide without wiping out! This water obstacle course will test your agility, balance, and overall coordination! All ages welcome. Waiver must be completed by a parent or legal guardian to participate.
** Parents or guardian must remain at the event while child is participating **
Picnic in the Park & Family Movie Night
Saturday, July 11 | 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. | Center Lake Beach
Come join us for a free fun-filled picnic at Center Lake Beach! We’ll have free hot dogs, popcorn, and bottled water available while supplies last.
At 7:00 p.m., we’ll be showing the movie Lilo & Stitch in The park. It’s a family-friendly event you won’t want to miss!
This event is sponsored by Lake City Real Estate, LifeWise Academy, State Farm Agent - Mariano Oliveri, and Warsaw Missionary Church.
Monday, July 13
1:30 - 3:00 p.m. | Firemen’s Building Ages 6 & up | $15 per participant
Registration is required
Calling all young explorers! Join us for Nature Navigators, a hands-on nature camp full of outdoor adventures, fun challenges, and discoveries that spark curiosity and a love for nature.
Nature Navigators
Imagination Station
Tuesday, July 21 | If You Give a Mouse a Cookie...and more! 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium | Ages 3 - 7
A parent-child program full of activities, crafts, stories, and more. Each week features a different exciting theme for the kids. Don’t miss this fun opportunity!
Paint among the beauty of the Biblical Gardens at our Paint the Garden class. Enjoy a relaxing, painting experience while the head gardener shares insights about the plants and flowers around you. Open to all skill levels. Come create, learn, and be inspired by nature.
Family Carnival
Friday, July 31 | Central Park | 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Wristbands $10 | Single tickets $0.25
Cash only event
Join us for a family-friendly carnival in the park! We’ll have food vendors, human-sized hamster balls, a photo booth, balloon artists, bounce houses, and games for all ages.
Gold Level Sponsors: Shop Smart Magazine, State Farm Agent - Mariano Oliveri, and Surf Internet
Silver Level Sponsors: Via Credit Union
Bronze Level Sponsors: LifeWise Academy
Tuesday, August 4 | 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Kelly Park
Join us at Kelly Park for 2 hours of Slip-N-Slide fun down the hill. Bring your friends, enjoy the sunshine, and cool off with plenty of laughs and splashes.
The perfect way to spend a summer afternoon!
Fuzzy Friends Workshop
Saturday, August 22 | 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.
$15 per participant | Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium
Join us for our Fuzzy Friends Workshop! Kids will have a blast creating and stuffing their very own cuddly friend, giving it a special name, and taking part in other fun, hands-on activities designed to spark creativity and imagination. This workshop is the perfect way for young makers to craft a unique fuzzy buddy to take home, share smiles, and make memories that last!
Imagination Station
Tuesday, September 15 | Magic School Bus
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium | Ages 3 - 7
A parent-child program full of activities, crafts, stories, and more. Each week features a different exciting theme for the kids. Don’t miss this fun opportunity!
Art in the Park
Senior Craft Class | Wednesday, September 16 | 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. | $8
Fall Canvas Tote Bag Paint Class | Thursday, September 17 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. | $25
Family Pumpkin Painting Class | Saturday, October 10 | 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | $5 Registration is required
Each class will showcase a different creative method and project. Participants will receive step by step instructions for completion. All materials are included in the cost of the class.
Journey to Dino Land
Friday, September 25 | 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium | Ages 3 & up Registration is required | $15 per participant
Step into a world of adventure with Journey to Dino Land! This fun and interactive program invites kids and youth to use their imagination as they explore the exciting world of dinosaurs. From roaring T-Rexes to gentle giants, participants will discover fascinating facts, engage in creative activities, and embark on prehistoric adventures. Get ready to learn, play, and uncover the mysteries of Dino Land!
Fall Family Fun
Friday, October 2 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Lucerne Park
Enjoy a cozy fall evening by the lake with free, family-friendly fun for everyone. Take a hayride, gather around the campfire for s’mores, and visit the petting farm. Enjoy delicious food, and don’t miss the pig races, inflatables, and plenty of other seasonal activities!
Gold Level Sponsors: Warsaw Missionary Church
Silver Level Sponsors: State Farm Agent - Mariano Oliveri and Via Credit Union
Bronze Level Sponsors: LifeWise Academy, Patten Monument of Indiana, and Texas Roadhouse
Monday, October 12 | Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium
3:00 - 6:00 p.m. | All ages | No registration required
Challenge your family and friends in a free fun filled evening of friendly competition at our Family Game Night! Show off your skills at board games, card games, and even giant-sized versions of classic games. With a variety of games and stations to explore, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Mark’s Ark Animal Show
Thursday, October 15 | Lucerne Park Amphitheater
3:00 - 4:00 p.m. | All ages | No registration required
Enjoy a fun, interactive experience where you’ll meet fascinating animals - from friendly and furry to mysterious and creepy.
Perfect for all ages, it’s a chance to learn, laugh, and be amazed!
Bronze Level Sponsor: State Farm Agent - Mariano Oliveri
Karaoke Night
Friday, October 16 | Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion
Karaoke Night with Chris Cage is back—bigger, louder, and more fun than ever!
Grab your friends and family (ages 16+) and head to the pavilion for an evening packed with great music, plenty of laughs, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re ready to take the stage or just cheer from the crowd, it’s the perfect night out for everyone.
Family Movie - Despicable Me 4
Saturday, October 17 | 3:00 p.m.
Performing Arts Center | Warsaw Community High School
Join the Warsaw Parks Department and the Performing Arts Center at Warsaw Community High School for a free family movie night featuring Despicable Me 4!
This free event is brought to you in partnership with the Performing Arts Center, Lake City Real Estate, and LifeWise Academy.
Art in the Park
Chocolate Class | Wednesday, October 28 | 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. | $10
Chocolate Class | Wednesday, October 28 | 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. | $10
String Art Ornaments | Saturday, November 7 | 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. | $20
Nativity Door Sign Class | Thursday, November 12 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. | $30
Senior Craft Class | Wednesday, November 18 | 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. | $8
Adult Craft Class | Thursday, November 19 | 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. | $15
Registration is required
Each class will showcase a different creative method and project. Participants will receive step by step instructions for completion. All materials are included in the cost of the class.
Letters from Santa
November 2 - December 1 | $3 per letter
Make the holidays even more special for your little ones this year by signing them up to receive a letter from Santa himself! These letters will be personalized based off the information you provide. Forms will be available in person or online. Form and payment can be dropped off at our office or mailed to us.
Family Movie - Elf
Friday, November 13 | 7:00 p.m.
Performing Arts Center | Warsaw Community High School
Join the Warsaw Parks Department and the Performing Arts Center at Warsaw Community High School for a free family movie night featuring Elf!
This free event is brought to you in partnership with the Performing Arts Center, Lake City Real Estate, and LifeWise Academy.
Imagination Station
Tuesday, October 27 | Minions
Tuesday, November 17 | Charlie Brown 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium | Ages 3 - 7
A parent-child program full of activities, crafts, stories, and more. Each week features a different exciting theme for the kids. Don’t miss this fun opportunity! Imagination Station
Central Park Holiday Light Display
Friday, December 4 - Thursday, December 31
Central Park’s holiday light display is a beloved tradition in the community. Come celebrate the holiday season by strolling through over 200,000 sparkling lights, 4 pixel trees, and 134 rope light figurines. The display is illuminated nightly throughout December from dusk until midnight.
Gold Level Sponsors: Shop Smart Magazine
Bronze Level Sponsors: Patten Monument of Indiana
Light up the Night Santa’s Workshop
Friday, December 4 | Central Park Glover Pavilion
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Help us ring in the holiday season with this special night. Children will receive a glow item and goody bags while supplies last. Don’t miss out on a chance to see Santa and his reindeer!
Gold Level Sponsor: Shop Smart Magazine
Silver Level Sponsor: Steve & Jill Beehler
Bronze Level Sponsor: Patten Monument of Indiana and Texas Roadhouse
Friday, December 11 | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 12 | 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium | $20 per participant Registration is required
Become one of Santa’s elves for the day by making toys, decorating cookies, and visiting with Santa himself!
Imagination Station
Tuesday, December 15 | Candy Land
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium | Ages 3 - 7
A parent-child program full of activities, crafts, stories, and more. Each week features a different exciting theme for the kids. Don’t miss this fun opportunity!
Family Movie - Wicked
Saturday, January 9, 2027 | 3:00 p.m.
Performing Arts Center | Warsaw Community High School
Join the Warsaw Parks Department and the Performing Arts Center at Warsaw Community High School for a free family movie night featuring Wicked!
This free event is brought to you in partnership with the Performing Arts Center, Lake City Real Estate, and LifeWise Academy.
Kids Coloring Contest
Monday, January 11 - Monday, January 25, 2027
Little artists, now is your time to shine! Each age group will have their own pages to color for a chance at 1st or 2nd place. The Kosciusko County Council on Aging and Aged participants will vote on their favorite coloring pages on Thursday, January 28. Votes will be tallied and our winners will be announced on Friday, January 29.
Winners will receive an appropriate prize based on their age group.
Karaoke Night
Saturday, January 23, 2027 | 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion
Ages 16 & older | No registration required
Karaoke Night with Chris Cage is back—bigger, louder, and more fun than ever!
Grab your friends and family (ages 16+) and head to the pavilion for an evening packed with great music, plenty of laughs, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re ready to take the stage or just cheer from the crowd, it’s the perfect night out for everyone.
Daddy’s Little Sweetheart Dance
Saturday, February 6, 2027 l 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Zimmer Biomet Center Lake Pavilion
Ages 3 - 16 | Registration is required
$20 per person. Tickets go on sale November 30, 2026. No tickets will be sold at the door.
Join us for a magical evening at our Daddy’s Little Sweetheart Masquerade Dance for girls and their father or father figure. Dress up and enjoy a night of dancing with a live DJ, photos, and refreshments. Create unforgettable memories together at this enchanting event!
Gold Level Sponsor: Shop Smart Magazine
Art in the Park
Chocolate Class | Wednesday, February 10, 2027 | 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. | $15
Chocolate Class | Wednesday, February 10, 2027 | 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. | $15
Senior Paint Class | Wednesday, March 17, 2027 | 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. | $8
Senior Craft Class | Thursday, March 18, 2027 | 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. | $8
Each class will showcase a different creative method and project. Participants will receive step by step instructions for completion. All materials are included in the cost of the class.
Imagination Station
Tuesday, February 16, 2027 | Sesame Street
Tuesday, March 16, 2027 | Peter Rabbit
Tuesday, April 6, 2027 | Music & Movement
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium | Ages 3 - 7
A parent-child program full of activities, crafts, stories, and more. Each week features a different exciting theme for the kids. Don’t miss this fun opportunity!
Wednesday, April 28, 2027 l 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Pete Thorn Center Gymnasium | $15 per participant Ages 3 & older | Registration is required
In honor of National Superhero Day, we’re excited to welcome you to our action-packed Superhero Academy Training Grounds! Young heroes will test their skills on obstacle courses, design their very own superhero gear, and take part in other super-powered activities.
