Wood County Park District to host kayaking safety and skills workshop, Saturday, May 30
The community is invited to improve their kayaking knowledge, ability, and safety. Certified instructors are ready to teach people all things kayaking to ensure people’s transition from the parking lot to the water is smooth, educated, and confident. People can prepare for an active, challenge-by-choice day with lots of paddling and potentially getting wet. All kayaks and gear are provided. Personal equipment is welcome, but checking with the leaders on its appropriateness beforehand is encouraged.
The event will take place on Saturday, May 30, from 9 a.m. – noon, at Three Meadows Pond, 700 Three Meadows Dr., Perrysburg.
To register for the workshop, click here.
Wood County Park District to host craft circle, Saturday, May 30
Whether people have decades of experience or just started yesterday, crafters of all ages can stop by for an afternoon of crafting. Attendees should bring their own materials, projects, and questions.
The event will take place on Saturday, May 30, from 1 – 4 p.m. at Carter Historic Farm in the Loomis Community Room, 18331 Carter Road, Bowling Green.
To register for the event, click here.
Pemberville to feature ‘Hometown Heroes Memorial Walk,’ May 24 – 31
A tribute to service and community pride will take shape this spring as Pemberville presents its Hometown Heroes Memorial Walk, a weeklong display honoring those who have dedicated their lives to protecting others.
From May 24 through May 31, Memorial Park, located off Memorial Drive in Pemberville, will showcase 335 commemorative signs, each featuring the photograph and service details of a military veteran, active duty service member, or first responder. Honorees include both Pemberville residents and members of the broader community.
This event is being organized by the Pemberville 150th/America 250th Anniversary Committee as part of a yearlong celebration marking Pemberville’s 150th anniversary of incorporation and the 250th anniversary of the United States. The committee has planned a number of events throughout the year, with the memorial walk serving as one of its most heartfelt tributes. For more information about events, visit https://sites.google.com/view/pemberville150th/events?authuser=0.
Each sign in the 90-feet by 120-feet space will be accompanied by a small flower arrangement, a flag, and a solar light. Once illuminated at night, the installation will resemble 335 glowing candles, offering a serene and reflective atmosphere for visitors.
The public is invited to view the display at any time during its weeklong run and organizers hope families, students, and visitors will take time to walk through the memorial and honor the individuals represented.
Beginning May 31 at noon, applicants who submitted names for inclusion may pick up their sign, flag, and solar light to keep as personal mementos.
For more information about the Hometown Heroes Memorial Walk, contact Sandy Leuck at 419-250-0130.
Wood County Museum to host meet & greet with Ohio author, Tuesday, May 26
The Wood County Museum is pleased to host a meet and greet and book-signing event with Dr. Robert Kroeger, author of “Historic Barns of Ohio,” “Round Barns of America,” and “Stone Barns of America,” on Tuesday, May 26, at 6 p.m., at the Wood County Museum. This event is free for Wood County Historical Society Members and $7 for non-members. Tickets also include a self-guided tour of the museum.
Kroeger’s book, “Historic Barns of Ohio,” features old barns in paintings and essays of each of Ohio’s 88 counties. “Round Barns of America” and “Stone Barns of America” feature both round and stone barns in 32 states – from the East Coast to the Wild West – along with their paintings and stories. There are 11 Ohio round barns in the “Round Barns” book. All three books are available for sale in the museum gift shop.
Kroeger’s barn stories are accompanied by paintings, which he paints in oil with palette knives, producing a thick texture, called impasto. The paintings are framed in old barn siding, sometimes from the barn painted, which adds a touch of nostalgia. The rustic frames, often oak, yellow poplar, beech, or walnut, are made by the artist. There will also be various paintings of historic barns from all over the country on display and for sale during the event.
To make reservations, visit woodcountyhistory.org or call 419-352-0967. Seating is limited.
Wood County Park District to host ‘Coffee with the Birds,’ Wednesday, May 27
The community is invited to enjoy a birding stroll with coffee. Participants will be visiting a different park each month and start with a warm drink before heading out on the trail.
This month’s event will take place on Wednesday, May 27, from 8:30 – 10 a.m. at Sawyer Quarry Ann B. Sawyer Interpretive Center, 26940 Lime City Road, Perrysburg.
To register for the event, click here.
BG Kiwanis Club to host BG Economic Development Executive Director Kati Thompson, Thursday, May 28
The Bowling Green Kiwanis Club is pleased to welcome Kati Thompson, executive director of Bowling Green Economic Development, as the featured speaker at its meeting on Thursday, May 28.
The meeting will be held at noon in the Slater Family Ice Arena Lounge on the campus of Bowling Green State University. The public is invited to attend, with lunch available from 11:30 a.m. for $17.
In her presentation, “First-in-Kind Projects in Bowling Green,” Thompson will discuss development initiatives taking place within the community and how these projects are helping to shape Bowling Green’s future. Attendees will gain insight into economic development efforts designed to encourage growth and new opportunities for residents and businesses alike.
For more information about the Bowling Green Kiwanis Club or to learn how to become a member, visit www.kiwanisbg.org.
BG Rotary Club to welcome scholarship recipients, Thursday, May 28
On Thursday, May 28, members of the Bowling Green Rotary Club will meet four Bowling Green City Schools’ seniors who are recipients of the club’s scholarships to attend college.
Awarded annually by the club, the 2026 scholarship winners each received $1,500 and will be attending, BGSU, Washington University, Ohio University, and Ohio State University.
Rotary meets every Thursday at 11:45 a.m. at the Bowling Green Country Club. For more information, including membership, email bgrotary@icloud.com.
Free program to teach history of Victory Gardens, food preservation, Thursday, May 28
The Wood County Museum invites community members to step back in time on May 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the North Baltimore Public Library and discover how ordinary Americans supported the war effort at home during World War II through gardening, food preservation, and rationing.
As part of the museum’s “Education on the Road” series, the Wood County Museum is partnering with the North Baltimore Public Library, North Baltimore Community Garden Project, and North Baltimore Garden Club to present “Education on the Road: Food for Victory,” a free, public program exploring the history and impact of Victory Gardens.
During World War II, millions of Americans planted Victory Gardens to supplement food supplies while resources were directed toward troops overseas. Women, children, and civilians unable to serve in the military played a critical role on the home front through gardening, canning, and adapting to point rationing systems.
Attendees will learn how these efforts supported wartime needs and shaped everyday life in America during one of the nation’s most significant historical periods.
The program will be presented by Alyssa Garland, museum and event assistant at the Wood County Museum.
The “Education on the Road” series brings Wood County Museum programming beyond the museum and into communities throughout Wood County, aiming to make local history and educational opportunities more accessible to all.
For additional information, contact the Wood County Museum at 419-352-0967 or visit www.woodcountyhistory.org.
Free program to teach how to communicate effectively with elected officials, Thursday, May 28
The community is invited to “Is Anyone Listening? Communicating Effectively with Elected Officials,” a free program presented by Dr. Nicole Kalaf-Hughes. Attendees can learn practical strategies for making their voices heard and building productive relationships with the officials who represent them.
The program is sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Bowling Green and the Wood County District Public Library. The event will take place on Thursday, May 28, at 7 p.m., at the Bowling Green library, 251 N. Main St.
Wood County Part District to host art program about Cubism, Friday, May 29
Everyone is invited to become a Cubist. Cubism was led by art innovators such as Pablo Picasso, who showed that there was more than meets the eye in evaluating works of art. Attendees can try their hands at Cubism using a variety of materials. No art experience is necessary.
The event will take place on Friday, May 29, from 5 – 6 p.m., at Carter Historic Farm in the Loomis Community Room, 18331 Carter Road, Bowling Green.
To register for this event, click here.
Toledo Opera to host free ‘Opera Cabaret’ performance, Friday, May 29
The community is invited to join the Toledo Opera on Friday, May 29, at 7 p.m. for Opera Cabaret – an up-close, engaging evening where music meets a relaxed, social atmosphere. The event will take place at the Toledo Opera offices, 425 Jefferson Ave., Suite 601, Toledo. There is no cost for admission, and freewill donations are welcomed.
Opera Cabaret will feature performances by members of the Toledo Opera chorus. Attendees can experience opera favorites, musical theater, and unexpected selections in a setting that brings people closer to the music and the artists. People can enjoy complimentary refreshments, connect with friends, and experience opera in a new way.
Whether someone is a long-time opera lover or simply looking for a night out, Opera Cabaret offers powerful voices, personal storytelling, and a vibrant, welcoming energy.
Wood County Park District to host ‘Preschoolers in the Parks: Wetlands,’ Saturday, May 30
Wood County Park District will host “Preschoolers in the Parks: Wetlands,” a program designed for ages 3 – 6. Children are invited to make a connection with the parks and preschool peers at this program series. A story and a brief walk afterwards will be part of the experience.
People should register only the participating child using this link. Adults must stay with children for the duration of the program.
This month’s event will take place on Saturday, May 30, from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., at W.W. Knight Nature Preserve, in the Friends Green Room, 29530 White Road, Perrysburg.
Free summer reading program to kick-off with dinosaur bounce house, Saturday, May 30
The Wood County District Public Library’s summer reading program, “Unearth Your Story,” will kick-off on Saturday, May 30, at 1 p.m., at the Bowling Green library.
Attendees can visit museum-quality panels of dinosaur information provided in partnership with the American Museum of Natural History in New York City and register for the youth summer reading program.
Then, from 1 – 4 p.m., participants can take a turn in the dinosaur bounce house.
The library aims to make this summer “dino-mite.”
BG Porchfest to feature 21 bands for free, Saturday, May 30
Music fans are encouraged to get ready for BG Porchfest 2026. This free event will begin on Saturday, May 30, at 1:30 p.m., with the Samba Bateria marching band kicking things off, and will run through 7:30 p.m. The porch stages will be along Eberly and Gorrell Avenues, including at Arlyn’s Good Beer.
The local and regional bands playing this year’s Porchfest cover a range of musical styles – folk, bluegrass, country, Americana, funk, blues, and rock. Once Porchfest begins, there will be a new band starting every 15 minutes at a porch stage in the area.
While there is no admission for this event, tipping the bands is encouraged.
Complimentary parking will be available off Gorrell Avenue and Pearl Street, and bringing a camp chair for seating is recommended. Water will be available, and lemonade will be for sale, but attendees are also welcome to bring their own beverages.
People are invited to come and enjoy the music but are asked to be courteous to the neighbors not participating in the event by respecting their private property and heeding all signage in the parking areas.
More information about BG Porchfest is available at www.bgporchfest.com, including the band schedule and a map detailing the locations of porches and parking, as well as the many sponsors who helped make this event possible.
“BG Porchfest was created to bring our community together, providing an opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of musical styles in a relaxed and friendly setting,” Young said. “So bring your friends, and make some new ones, at this year’s BG Porchfest.”
For the latest updates, visit the BG Porchfest Facebook page here.
Wood County District Public Library to host ‘house history hunt’ throughout May
People that would like to learn more about their house or another property in the area are invited to the Wood County District Public Library. During the month of May, the library’s “house history hunt” will walk people through the process of researching properties.
The library will have worksheets available that guide participants through some of the basic steps in the process.
“A property’s history can be a bit of a mystery, but I also think that’s where the fun lies,” said Local Historian Librarian Marnie Pratt. “We hope this event will make people feel like a property detective.”
Property searches usually involve using the Wood County Auditor’s website, visiting the Recorder’s Office at the courthouse, and visiting the library’s local history collection.
Participation worksheets can be picked up at the second floor information desk from May 1 – 31. No registration is required and the worksheets are to keep as people explore properties at their own pace.
For more information, call 419-352-5050 or email woodref@wcdpl.org.
No registration is required. For more information, call (419) 352-5050 or email woodref@wcdpl.org.
Pemberville to host free ‘Farm & Field’ event to celebrate anniversaries of village and country, Sunday, June 7
Pemberville is gearing up for a milestone celebration as the community honors both its 150th anniversary and the nation’s 250th anniversary with a day of festivities on Sunday, June 7, at Pemberville Memorial Park. The event, themed as a “Farm and Field” celebration, blends history, hometown pride, and small-town fun.
The day will begin at 10 a.m. with an antique tractor show hosted by the Power of Yesteryear Club. The display will be set up north of the American Legion, giving visitors a chance to admire restored machines that once powered local farms and families.
Starting at 11 a.m., attendees can enjoy food prepared by the Freedom Unit 183 American Legion Auxiliary, served at the Legion Hall. The auxiliary is known for its hearty, homemade offerings, making this a highlight for anyone arriving hungry.
At 1 p.m., the celebration will shift to the ballfield for a vintage baseball game in Pemberville Memorial Park. Spectators can expect old-style uniforms, classic rules, and a spirited nod to America’s pastime.
The day will conclude with a tractor parade beginning at 3 p.m. at the Legion Hall. From there, the parade will roll through town and into downtown Pemberville, offering a finale that blends community heritage with local pride.
Groundbreaking ceremony announced for Northwood Inclusive Playground at Brentwood Park, Monday, June 8
Wood County Plays, Miracle League of Northwest Ohio, the city of Northwood, and community partners will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Northwood Inclusive Playground at Brentwood Park on Monday, June 8, at 3 p.m.
The ceremony will take place at the future playground site off the Tracy Road entrance to Brentwood Park, adjacent to the Northwood fire station.
The Northwood Inclusive Playground will provide an accessible and inclusive space designed for children of all abilities to play together. Planned features include a playground zip line, large-shaded swings, a dedicated play area for children ages 2 – 5, and the region’s first wheelchair-accessible playground trampolines.
A community, volunteer-build for the Northwood Inclusive Playground is planned for later this summer, with an anticipated opening in September or October.
Community members are encouraged to attend the groundbreaking ceremony and celebrate the beginning of the project with local leaders, partner organizations, and supporters.
Walbridge Library to host free visit with ‘John Adams,’ Tuesday, June 9
President and and father of the sixth president, John Adams, was one of the leading voices of American independence. Storyteller Brian Ellis will bring Adams to life in a free program as the Walbridge Library celebrates America’s 250th anniversary.
The community is invited to the Walbridge Library on Tuesday, June 9, at 2 p.m., to learn about one of the founding fathers whose family roots go back to 1632, the Massachusetts Bay Colony, and the Mayflower.
Ellis is a storyteller, historian, and museum consultant who presents more than 300 programs annually.
Wood County District Public Library’s bookmobile to stop at BGSU, Tuesday, June 9
The second Tuesday of each month at 4 p.m., the WCDPL bookmobile will roll into Parking Lot N, next to Jerome Library, bringing popular reading materials for the entire campus community.
The bookmobile will offer popular best-sellers in fiction and nonfiction, a selection of youth materials, and staff can fill requests at the next visit. This new bookmobile stop will serve students on campus, or staff and faculty who might want to visit before leaving campus for the day. Patrons who visit the bookmobile can also use the library located at 251 N. Main St. in Bowling Green.
The next visit to Parking Lot N on BGSU’s campus will be Tuesday, June 9, at 4 p.m.
Wood County to host free America 250 Block Party at Courthouse Square, Tuesday, June 16
Wood County will host an America 250 Block Party at Courthouse Square on Tuesday, June 16, from 4 – 8 p.m., offering an opportunity to join the nationwide celebration of the Declaration of Independence’s 250th anniversary.
This community-wide event will include guided tours of the historic Wood County Courthouse – reservations required, live music from local veterans, food trucks along Court Street, kids games and activities, and treats served by Wood County elected officials. The evening will conclude with a patriotic concert by the Bowling Green Area Community Bands at 7 p.m. on the courthouse lawn.
Residents are encouraged to save the date, join the celebration, and bring a chair for the concert. Additional details will be announced.
Tours of the courthouse will feature access to both public areas and lesser-known spaces that are typically not available for viewing. Tour guides Judge Matthew Reger, Sheriff Mark Wasylyshyn, and former Wood County Auditor Michael Sibbersen will share historical context and personal stories connected to this landmark.
Tours will depart every 30 minutes from 4 – 5:30 p.m., with advance reservations required and groups limited to 15 participants. To schedule a tour, email akrukowski@woodcountyohio.gov or call 419-354-9210.
The Block Party at Courthouse Square is part of Wood County’s ongoing America 250 festivities, supported by county government and the Wood County Economic Development Commission.
A list of America 250 events presented by communities and organizations across Wood County is available at www.WoodCountyOhio.gov.
Next Howard’s Club H free store to take place on Thursday, June 25
The BG Free Store take place at Howard’s Club H, 210 N. Main St., Bowling Green, and offers clothing, food, toiletries, books, kitchen items, and more for free. The store sets up on the third Thursday of every month from 6 – 9:30 p.m.
To donate, contact 440-296-6405.
Upcoming dates:
- June 25
- July 16
- Aug. 20
- Sept. 17
- Oct. 15
- Nov. 19
- Dec. 17
Indigenous Caldecott Medal winning author Rebecca Kunz to visit BG as In the Round guest, Friday, Sept. 18
This fall, In The Round welcomes illustrator Rebecca Kunz, 2025 Caldecott Medal winner for “Chooch Helped” for a presentation Sept. 18 at 5:30 p.m. at a location to be determined.
Kunz is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and of European descent, she earned a BFA in painting from the College of Santa Fe in 1998 and now lives in the foothills of Santa Fe County with her husband and three daughters. She grew up in Oklahoma and is a multi-media artist and the owner of Tree of Life Studi.
Kunz works at the intersection of climate justice and cultural awareness. Within her layered surfaces, she draws upon tribal mythology and archetypal symbolism. She infuses Cherokee mythology into her work where she is in conversation with each folk tale as a living and ever-changing story.
As these myths are woven into each of her pieces, they serve as hard-working and flourishing historical narratives. A visual storyteller, animist, and folklorist, she hopes to illuminate awareness about our shifting cultural climate and to inspire solutions to the social and environmental issues of today.
Kunz likes to push back against sentimental chronicles, and her goal is to spark a contemporary conversation about active myth.
Started in 2022, In the Round is a celebration of the creativity and persistence of indigenous people. It brings in noted indigenous speakers for talks both on campus and in the community.
Eastwood all-class reunion set for Saturday, Sept. 19
Eastwood’s Alumni Association (EAA) reunion committee has announced a save-the-date for the next Eastwood all-class reunion celebration on the evening of Saturday, September 19. All EHS 1959-2026 and pre-Eastwood alumni are invited. For more information, see the EAA link on the Eastwood website or the alumni Facebook page.
Weekly ‘Queer Coffee’ event to be hosted at Grounds For Thought on Sundays
“Queer Coffee” is held at Grounds For Thought, 174 S. Main St., every Sunday at 2 p.m. This event aims to be inclusive for anyone who is in the LGBTQ+ community, allies, friends, and family. Attendees can play board games, chat about life, and sip on coffee, tea, or lemonade.
Make new ‘Fiber Friends’ with weekly creative program at WCDPL on Tuesdays
The Wood County District Public Library, 251 N. Main St., invites all knitters and crocheters to join “Fiber Friends,” every Tuesday at 10 a.m., in the second floor programming room.
Fiber Friends is a social program that meets every week to chat and create. People of all skill levels are welcome. Even if someone has never picked up knitting needles or a crochet hook, they can learn the basics to get started on their newest hobby.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their current project or start a new one. Coffee will be provided.
No registration is required. For more information, call 419-352-5050 or email woodref@wcdpl.org.
Just Baby ‘N Me storytimes at library on Tuesdays
Just Baby ‘N Me is a lap-sit storytime ideal for babies. This unique storytime will be on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.in The Children’s Place at the Bowling Green Library.
This lap-sit storytime is great for babies from birth through early walkers (12 months). The focus during storytime is on rhymes, songs, finger plays, and exploring short books together, and is meant to facilitate interaction between you and your baby to develop their language and early literacy skills.
St. Mark’s hosts weekly community meals on Wednesdays
St. Mark’s hosts weekly community meals on Wednesdays. Doors open from 4:30 – 5 p.m., and the dinner is served from 5 – 6 p.m. There are trivia, devotion, and service presentations at 6 p.m. All are welcome.
Wood County District Public Library hosts family storytime on Thursdays
Families are invited to enjoy storytime indoors at the Wood County District Public Library on Thursdays from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Attendees can visit the Bowling Green library Children’s Place for picture book readings, songs, games, and activities.
For any questions, contact the Children’s Place at 419-352-8253 or email woodkids@wcdpl.org.
