By 1808Delaware
As the weather begins to turn, Boardman Arts Park is preparing for another year that blends creativity, community, and a strong sense of place.
The park’s newly announced 2026 season stretches from early spring through the holidays, offering a mix of intimate gatherings, large-scale festivals, and returning favorites that have become part of Delaware’s cultural rhythm.
A Thoughtful Start in April
The season opens on April 11 with one of the most personal events on the calendar: Rainbow Bridge Tag Making, scheduled from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Led by local artist Kris Kolb, the free session invites participants to create remembrance tags honoring beloved pets. Each tag, personalized with names, messages, or symbols, becomes part of the park’s Rainbow Bridge installation.
It’s a quiet beginning to the season, focused less on crowds and more on reflection. In a lineup filled with music and festivals, this event stands out for its emotional resonance.
May Brings Energy and Tradition
By May, the calendar shifts into a more celebratory mode. Boardman Celebration Day on May 1 revives the maypole dance tradition while recognizing Boardman Elementary alumni, grounding the park in its educational and neighborhood roots.
A week later, Brews & Blooms for Mom (May 9) combines coffee, mimosas, and plant shopping into a relaxed, social outing. Then on May 23, the park moves fully into concert season with Full Moon Fever, a Tom Petty tribute band performance that signals the start of summer programming.
Summer Anchored by Music and Community
The Delaware Pride Festival on June 6 brings live entertainment and a broad community presence to the park, followed by the Delaware Music Series on June 7 and June 14, featuring local bands.
From June through October, the GoYoga @ the Park series offers a quieter counterbalance, with sessions held on the first Sunday of each month.
Family programming also returns, including a Kids Interactive Show on July 10. August then delivers one of the park’s signature experiences: Symphony @ Whimsy on August 8, featuring the Central Ohio Symphony, followed by Arena Fair Theatre on August 22, showcasing open-air performance on the park’s Whimsy Stage.
Fall Leans Into Atmosphere
As the season turns, the tone shifts. The Beer, Bourbon & Wine Festival on September 12 blends drinks, music, and vendors into one of the park’s largest gatherings. October then moves into more atmospheric territory with the Ghost Walk on October 10, drawing on Delaware’s local history, followed by WizFest on October 17, which introduces a new masquerade ball alongside its mix of themed vendors and entertainment.
Closing the Year with Tradition
The season concludes on December 13 with the Holiday Home Tour, offering a curated look inside decorated historic homes. It’s a fitting end point for a year that consistently blends arts programming with a sense of local identity.
