April is full of fun events, so get your calendar ready. From Mohican Wildlife Weekend to Ghost Walks at the Historic Ohio State Reformatory to a visit from the Easter Bunny, Spring is truly here!
Attractions, concerts, annual events abound
Don’t miss the Making Scents: the Art and Passion of Fragrance exhibit at Kingwood Center! This exhibit will conclude at the end of April.
Take an unforgettable walk of faith through the Bible at BibleWalk and explore the Museum of Woodcarving, the newest tour at the museum. This world-renowned life-size wax museum features 100 scenes and over 325 wax figures.
Try an interactive-sensory-friendly concert that introduces children to theater with the beloved classic tale of Teddy Bear Concert: Goldilocks and the Three Bears (April 10) at Theatre 166.
Don’t miss the 2022-2023 Season Premiere at the Renaissance Theatre (April 12) where they will announce the year’s line-up featuring an array of events from Broadway musicals, live concerts, symphony performances, educational programs, and so much more! This is free to attend, but you will need tickets. Life-streaming is also offered.
A breathtaking musical, Once (April 22, 23, 24, 29, 30) is the story of a street musician about to give up on his dreams when a beautiful woman takes an interest in his music. Always a Bridesmaid (April 22,23, 29, 30 & May 1) is a comedy about four friends who make a pact during their Senior Prom to be in each other’s weddings no matter what but didn’t expect to honor that vow thirty years later at Mansfield Playhouse.
The Historic Ohio State Reformatory will offer Public Ghost Hunts (April 9, 23 & 30) to paranormal seekers aged 18+. Participants will be grouped according to experience level and advanced reservations are required. If you’re not ready for a Ghost Hunt, perhaps you’d be interested in a Ghost Walk (April 1, 22, 29). Geared towards ages 13+, this 2-hour long tour is not for the faint of heart as you traverse a darkened prison to hear stories of hauntings and apparitions.
The annual Mohican Wildlife Weekend (April 22-24) is a much-anticipated event that is fun for the entire family. Get outdoors, explore 11 event sites and 30 programs and learn from those passionate about the natural world. This year’s theme, Mohican Under the Stars, includes the Warren Rupp Observatory and favorites like Malabar Farm State Park and the Ohio Bird Sanctuary. Some events will require advance reservations so make plans to attend now.
Spring Plowing Days (April 23-24) will be back at Malabar Farm. See the draft horses at work and participate in fun giveaways.
Military buffs won’t want to miss the Ohio Civil War and WWI & II Show (April 30-May1) at the Richland County Fairgrounds. There will be a Civil War encampment, artillery demonstrations, and more.
The Easter Bunny Hops to Town
Hop on over to the Richland Carrousel Park for photos with the Easter Bunny (April 1,2 & 9,10). If you miss those dates, you’ll find the bunny hanging out at the Richland Mall every day until April 16th. Make sure you check out the details and make your reservation for these fun VIP Holiday Photos!
Other holiday events include Easter Egg Hunts at the following:
- Marshall Park (April 9)
- St. Peter’s (April 10)
- Richland Carrousel Park (April 16)
- Liberty Park (April 16)
- Pleasant Hill Lake Park (April 16)
- Paradise Church (April 16)
Alpaca Meadows is offering a bunny felting class (April 16) so adults don’t miss all the fun Easter festivities.
Get Outside and Get Moving
Enjoy the warming temperatures as you leave hibernation and get back in the swing of things with Parkrun Mansfield weekly 5k. This weekly event is held every Saturday. Meet at North Lake Park at 9 a.m. to join the run.
The Strides for Diabetes 5k and 1 Mile Walk will be held April 30th at Malabar School with proceeds going to the Mansfield United Lions Club Service Project Fund.
Explore Our Local Treasures
Visit the Ohio Bird Sanctuary as a family each Saturday between 1-2 p.m. to meet one of their birds up close during Avian Encounters (April 2, 9, 16, 24, 30). Make a day (or weekend) of it by visiting Mansfield’s favorite family-friendly destinations, the Little Buckeye Children’s Museum, Kingwood Center Gardens, Richland Carrousel Park and the Ohio Bird Sanctuary.
Gorman Nature Center provides plenty of programming for the outdoor lover including the Birds & Breakfast Bird Walk on April 16.
Adults Only
Did you know that The Phoenix Brewing Company and Operation Fandom team up each month for a game night? Plan to attend the Game Night at the Phoenix (April 5), make new friends and find a new favorite game. Taproom Trivia (April 19) is another fun event and excuse to hang out with friends.
Try something new and check out Pound and Pour with McManes Personal Training (April 9). The POUND® class is a 45-minute cardio jam session inspired by playing the drums.
Don’t forget the live music showcasing amazing local talent.
Live Music:
Triad Unplugged at 1285 Winery (April 22)
McIans Duo at Phoenix Brewing (April 30)
For a full list of area events, visit www.DestinationMansfield.com.