New Youth & Adult Programs

Summer

nature journal club

18 Yr Olds +

Do you love spending time in nature? Join this warm, curious, kind group of people who gather together each month to investigate various natural phenomena, enjoy community connection, and learn new techniques for observing, exploring, and recording our adventures in nature. Each session will begin indoors, with some having optional outdoor portions. If interested in going outside, please dress for the weather. No prior experience in art, science, or nature journaling is required—just bring your journaling supplies (something to write/draw on, write/draw with, and your preferred tools for adding color). If you don’t have supplies, we’ll have extras available. Everyone is welcome, whether you choose to stay indoors or venture outside!

  • Register Here
  • Cost Per Session: $10
  • Cost for Membership (All Sessions): $80 
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Session 3: Sat, June 20 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 4: Sat, July 25 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 5: Sat, August 29 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 6: Sat, September 19 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 7: Sat, October 17 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 8: Sat, November 21 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 9: Sat, December 12 | 10:00-11:45 AM
  • Location: Zeeland East HS - LGI Area & Occasional Zeeland Wetlands Use

drawing in nature series

14 Yr Olds-Adults

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world through our Drawing in Nature series! Perfect for amateurs, artists, and nature enthusiasts alike, this program combines field exploration with hands-on drawing. Participants will learn to capture the intricate details of the natural world using close observation, curiosity, and a few fundamental sketching techniques. Whether you want to enhance your art skills or simply enjoy a peaceful outdoor activity, this program is for you! Please bring drawing supplies (paper, clipboard, journal, pencil, pen, coloring tools, etc.) and an easy-to-carry folding chair. The path is accessible for wheelchairs and participants will have the option to sit in one place or meander. All experience levels are welcome. 

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $25r/$40nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Field Sketching: Thur, June 25 | 5:30-7:30 PM
  • Botanical Drawing: Thur, July 16 | 5:30-7:30 PM
  • Little Landscapes: Thur, July 30 | 5:30-7:30 PM
  • Location: Upper Macatawa Natural Area (1300 84th Ave, Zeeland, MI 49464  - 84th Ave Entrance - Meadow Path)

adults - back to dance!

18 Yr Olds+

Join us for our adult back-to-dance class! Former Zeeland High School Dance Teacher, Mrs. Nancy (Rhodes) Clyde, will take you back to your dancing days. Class style will alternate primarily between jazz and contemporary with some musical theatre and hip hop sprinkled in. Ballet technique will be explored as a support to the other classes. Each class will include a warm-up, conditioning, across the floor and/or a short new combination each week. Come to every class or drop in when you are able. Class is geared to the advanced beginner to intermediate dancer with some past experience (even if that experience was 20+ years ago). Modifications will be offered to make movement more or less challenging - so just come and have fun! Dance burns calories, builds flexibility, improves posture & coordination and promotes strength. More importantly, come to experience joy and community. Grab your old dance friends and sign up now. All levels are welcome. 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, June 1
  • Cost: $50r/$65nr
  • Instructor: Nancy Clyde
  • Dates: Tuesdays | June 30-Aug 18
  • Time: 7:00-8:15 PM
  • Location: Zeeland East HS - Dance Studio (Room 301)

world war II - on the homefront

10-13 Yr Olds

Step back into the 1940s and discover what life was like for kids and families during World War II. Through hands-on activities, crafts, and games, participants explore rationing, victory gardens, letter writing to soldiers, and the many ways everyday people supported the war effort. Campers will leave with a deeper understanding of local and national history—and how actions on the homefront made a real difference. Lunch will be provided as part of the camp. Participants with specific dietary needs should indicate specifics in their registration so that accommodations can be made. 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Wed, June 25 (or when full)
  • Cost: $65r/$80nr
  • Instructors: Zeeland Historical Society Staff
  • Date: Thur, July 9 
  • Time: 10:00 AM-3:00 PM

  • Location:  1881 New Groningen Schoolhouse (10537 Paw Paw Dr, Zeeland)

pedal pals - learn to bike - velo kids

2-6 Yr Olds

New to two wheels — or so close you can taste the freedom of riding solo? Come hang out with us at Pedal Pals – Learn to Bike! Velo Kids and Zeeland Rec are teaming up to give young riders a fun, supportive place to practice and learn to bike. We’ll meet on Tuesdays this summer to play games, be silly, hear stories, and — of course — have FUN on BIKES! We’ll work on balance, safe starts and stops, and building confidence on pedal bikes. This class is for riders who are ready to learn biking on 2 wheels. No need to bring your own — bikes and helmets will be provided through the Velo Kids Bike Library for your little ripper to borrow each session. Participants should bring their own helmet (or can be borrowed on site) and closed toe shoes. Although this isn’t a parent-child program, a guardian should stay on-site and in the area during the program. 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Wed, July 1 (or when full)
  • Cost: $40r/$55nr 
  • Instructors: Velo Kids Staff
  • Session 1: Tue | July 7, 14, 21 | 11:00-11:45 AM
  • Session 3: Tue | July 7, 14, 21 | 12:00-12:45 PM (RECENTLY ADDED)
  • Session 2: Tue | July 28, Aug 4, 11 | 11:00-11:45 AM
  • Location: New Groningen Elementary School

urban adventure summer camp - velo kids

1st-6th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Velo Kids and Zeeland Rec are teaming up to bring you the Urban Riding Adventure Camp! Join us as we explore our community on two wheels and learn how to ride safely and confidently in a downtown environment. Using a proven curriculum, campers will grow their bike handling skills, learn group riding techniques, and develop the ability to ride on city streets. This half-day, adventure-based camp combines exciting exploration of the community with a focus on bike safety, skills, and stewardship. Campers will be grouped based on ability, and assessments will help determine readiness to advance to more challenging groups in the future. With engaging activities and expert guidance, this camp ensures every rider is equipped to handle urban biking while discovering new and exciting parts of their community. Participants must know how to independently ride a 2-wheel bike 3-4 miles (1st-2nd Gr), 5-6 miles (3rd-4th Gr) or 7-8 miles (5th-6th Gr). Please bring a bike, helmet, closed toe shoes, snack, water bottle, and backpack. If you don’t have a bike, you can borrow one from the Velo Kids on-site library (must be requested one week ahead of time).

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, July 6 (or when full)
  • Cost: $140r/$155nr 
  • Instructors: Velo Kids Staff
  • Dates: July 13-16
  • Time: 9:00-11:30 AM
  • Location: Zeeland Stadium - Parking lot

little ninjas

2-5 Yr Olds

Little Ninjas is the perfect outlet for active little ones, and a great way for parents to connect and build community! This program blends fun gymnastics-inspired movement with exciting obstacle-course challenges that help kids burn energy, build coordination, and explore their growing independence. Each class invites children to jump, climb, balance, and tumble their way through playful stations while parents cheer them on and join in the fun. The shared activities create natural moments for parents to meet, socialize, and support one another, turning the class into a welcoming community space as much as a movement program. With its upbeat atmosphere, creative challenges, and family-friendly focus, Little Ninjas offers both a joyful workout for kids and a chance for parents to connect, unwind, and build lasting relationships!

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $33r/$48nr (per family - parents can bring more than one child, if desired)
  • Instructor: Kelly Nadeau 
  • Session 2: Mon | July 13 & 27 | 9:30-10:30 AM
  • Session 3: Mon | August 10 & 24 | 9:30-10:30 AM

  • Location: ZPS Early Childhood Center (Indoors & Outdoors)

girls LACROSSe SUMMER SKILLS CLINIC

5th-6th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

The summer session continues the skills and focus of the "Try-it" clinic, and includes more opportunities to build skills, increase confidence, and participate in small-sided games and advanced drills throughout the remainder of the summer.

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $59r/$75nr 
  • Coach: Meghan Chang (ZPS Varsity Girls Coach)
  • Dates: Mondays | July 13-Aug 17
  • Time: 5:00-6:30 PM
  • Location: Janssen Sports Complex - Turf Fields on North Side of ZEHS & ZWHS

girls LACROSSe SUMMER Camp

3rd-8th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Join us to improve your stick skills, offensive skills, defensive skills and gameplay! Limited girls' sticks will be provided for those who don’t have one. However, it’s recommended that participants bring a girl's stick, eye mask and mouthguard. All skill levels are welcome, from first-timers to experienced players.

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $50r/$65nr 
  • Coach: Meghan Chang (ZPS Varsity Girls Coach)
  • 3rd-6th Gr: July 14-16 | 5:00-6:30 PM
  • 7th-8th Gr: July 14-16 | 7:00-8:30 PM
  • Location: Janssen Sports Complex - Turf Fields on North Side of ZEHS & ZWHS 

civic citizenship & leadership camp

9th-12th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Discover how everyday citizens shape their communities and learn what leadership looks like in action. In this hands-on camp, participants will explore local government, civic engagement, and leadership through team activities, simulations, and guest visits from local leaders. Students will develop skills in communication, collaboration, and problem-solving while gaining insight into how they can make a difference right here in Zeeland. A pizza lunch will be provided as part of the camp. Participants with specific dietary needs are welcome to bring their own lunch instead.

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Fri, July 3 (or when full)
  • Cost: $60r/$75nr
  • Instructors: Zeeland Historical Society Staff
  • Date: Thur, July 16
  • Time: 9:00 AM-3:30 PM

  • Location: Dekker Huis Museum (37 E Main Ave, Zeeland, MI 49464)

watercolor in nature - beginners

14 Yr Olds-Adults

Join us to explore nature’s beauty while learning the techniques of watercolor painting! Participants will learn a few field sketching and watercolor techniques to help get what you notice onto your paper as we look closely, ask questions, and develop our skill of observing the world around us. All supplies will be provided and participants will go home with a watercolor journal, watercolor field kit, and water brush. The path is accessible for wheelchairs and participants will have the option to sit in one place or meander. 

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Cost: $75r/$90nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Date: Fri, July 17
  • Time: 5:30-7:30 PM

  • Location: Upper Macatawa Natural Area (1300 84th Ave, Zeeland - Meadow Path)

watercolor in nature - intermediate

14 Yr Olds-Adults

Build on your watercolor experience and enjoy the community of other watercolor enthusiasts as we look closely, ask questions, share ideas and techniques, and develop our skill of observing the world around us through painting what we see. Bring your own preferred watercolor supplies and a comfortable, easy-to-carry folding chair. The path is accessible for wheelchairs and participants will have the option to sit in one place or meander. 

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $25r/$40nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Date: Sat, July 18
  • Time: 10:00 AM-12:00 PM

  • Location: Upper Macatawa Natural Area (1300 84th Ave, Zeeland - Meadow Path)

dance camp for kids

3 Yr Olds-3rd Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Join us to receive excellent dance training, improve coordination, develop artistic creativity, make lasting friendships and have fun! Participants will develop techniques that will help them in all dance genres as they get older (Ballet, Jazz, Jazz Funk, Tap, etc). All participants must be potty-trained. 3-5 Yr Olds: Register based on age at the start of the program. K-3rd Gr: Register based on 2026-27 grade level

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, July 13
  • Cost: $88r/$103nr
  • Instructor: Rachel Plaggemars
  • Dates: July 20-23 & July 27-30 (Two Weeks)
  • 3 Yr Olds-KG: July 20-23 & July 27-30 (Two Weeks) | 9:00-9:45 AM
  • 1st-3rd Gr: July 20-23 & July 27-30 (Two Weeks) | 10:00-11:00 AM
  • Location: Cityside MS - Performing Arts Room

line dance night

16 Yr Olds-Adults

Grab your boots and hat and join us for Adult Line Dancing Night — a fun, social evening where you’ll learn some of country’s most popular line dances, from the Tush Push to the Electric Slide. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned stepper, our instructor will guide you step‑by‑step with easy‑to-follow instruction, upbeat music, and a lively, welcoming crowd. No partner needed — just bring comfortable shoes and a readiness to step, stomp, shuffle, and have a great time on the dance floor.

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $19r/$34nr
  • Instructor: Cydney Sheneman 
  • Date: Wed, July 22
  • Time: 7:30-9:00 PM
  • Location: Zeeland Rec - Shoreline Studio

intro to nature journaling

18 Yr Olds +

Many of us seek ways to better connect with nature. We want to learn its languages, patterns, and secrets, help protect its inhabitants, and find our place within the natural community. Nature journaling offers a unique way to engage with all that’s around us through intentional observation, investigation, and playful curiosity. In this program, you’ll learn how to start a nature journal, the art of observation, some of the common hindrances and pitfalls, and helpful prompts, drawing, and writing techniques to support you wherever you are, whether in the field, on the move, or at home. All supplies will be provided.

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $20r/$35nr
  • Instructor: Ria VanderKlok
  • Session 2: Sat, July 25 | 1:00-2:45 PM
  • Session 3: Sat, October 17 | 1:00-2:45 PM
  • Location: Zeeland East HS - LGI Area & Occasional Zeeland Wetlands Use

girls wrestling skills camp

5 Yr Olds-6th Gr (2026-27 Grade Level)

Step onto the mat and discover the exciting sport of wrestling in a fun, supportive, girls-only environment! This special one-day clinic is designed for girls of all experience levels who want to learn fundamental wrestling skills, improve technique, build confidence, and have fun alongside other female athletes. Whether you're brand new to wrestling or looking to sharpen your skills after participating in our coed camp the week before, this clinic provides a great opportunity to learn, grow, and compete in a positive setting.

  • Register Here
  • Cost: $39r/$54nr 
  • Coach: Tahji Varovong (ZW Wrestling Coach)
  • Date: Mon, July 27
  • Time: 8:00-10:00 AM
  • Location: Zeeland West HS - Wrestling Room

jurassic island

6-11 Yr Olds

Calling all budding paleontologists! Set up camp on Jurassic Island, uncover a land forgotten by time, and unearth the incredible secrets of the dinosaurs and their ancient ecosystem. Walk in the footprints of the gentle giant brachiosaurus, race against the velociraptors, soar through the skies with the pterodactyl, and battle the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex. This STEAM-fueled camp is sure to be the learning adventure of all time! 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Fri, July 27 (or when full)
  • Cost: $240r/$255nr
  • Instructors: Rachel Franklin & Challenge Island Staff
  • Dates: Aug 3-6
  • Time: 8:30 AM-12:00 PM

  • Location: Cityside MS - Cafeteria

floral design workshop - seasonal vase arrangement

16 Yr Olds-Adults

This floral design workshop teaches participants how to create beautiful vase arrangements using fresh, locally grown flowers. Through hands-on instruction with a local flower farmer, participants will learn foundational design techniques, how to work with seasonal materials, and how to use floral mechanics to build arrangements that last. The workshop also covers key design principles like balance, proportion, color harmony, and focal emphasis, giving participants the confidence to create arrangements that are visually appealing and thoughtfully structured. 

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Thur, July 16
  • Cost: $75r/$90nr
  • Instructor: Jenna Leigh Flora
  • Date: Thur, Aug 6
  • Time: 6:00-8:00 PM
  • Location: Zeeland West HS - Room D107

slimetopia - shake, rattle & sushi roll

7-13 Yr Olds

Get ready to roll into a deliciously creative STEAM adventure! Campers will mix up a batch of bento box slime, test their engineering skills as they design and shake-test their very own “Ring of Fire” sushi restaurant, and top it all off by creating Rockin’ Ramen Noodle Slime. It’s a night of stretchy, squishy, sushi-inspired fun where science and imagination stick together in the most delightfully slimy way!

  • Register Here
  • Registration Deadline: Mon, Aug 3 (or when full)
  • Cost: $54r/$69nr
  • Instructors: Rachel Franklin & Challenge Island Staff
  • Date: Mon, Aug 10
  • Time: 5:30-8:30 PM

  • Location: Cityside MS - ELA Room