Discover the remarkable story of Silver Springs, one of Florida's most treasured natural landmarks and an essential environmental and economic asset to Marion County. This engaging course explores the springs' fascinating history, unique geology, diverse habitats, and the many plant and animal species that call this ecosystem home. Participants will learn how Silver Springs contributes to conservation education, and regional water health, making it a vital resource for residents and future generations. The course also highlights why protecting the springs is critical to preserving Florida's natural heritage, emphasizing responsible stewardship and sustainable recreation. Various ways to experience and enjoy the park, from glass-bottom boat tours to hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing, will be described and illustrated, encouraging participants to connect more deeply with this iconic natural wonder.
In 1774, naturalist William Bartram called it the Great Alachua Savanna. Today, we know it as Paynes Prairie, which is a vast wetland rich in history and wildlife. In this chapter of our Bartram’s Florida series, we’ll take a leisurely three-mile stroll into the landscape that captivated the young explorer. Along the way, Lars Andersen, author of Paynes Prairie: A History and Guide, will share the prairie’s fascinating story, from its early days to the present.
Details:
Meeting Time: 10 a.m. at the park entrance
Park Fee: $5, payable at entrance on the day of the trip
Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat terrain. Out-and-back route; participants may turn back at any time
Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
Instructor:Lars AndersenMembers: $36; General Public: $41
Course #:TRI190 | Room:Field Trip
Day of Week | Date | Time: F | 10/30/2026 | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Seats Available:4
Glide along 3.5 miles of the upper Ichetucknee River, one of North Florida's most breathtaking waterways. As you paddle downstream, you’ll discover striking limestone outcroppings, seven named springs, and fascinating geological features. Along the way, hear stories from the river’s rich past—waters that for over 14,000 years have sustained Native Americans, Spanish missionaries, and even DeSoto’s conquistadors.
Details: Meet at the launch site at 10 a.m. $5 Park Fee. Duration: about 2 hours. Easy downstream paddle, perfect for beginners.
Instructor:Lars AndersenMembers: $55; General Public: $60
Course #:TRI121 | Room:Field Trip
Day of Week | Date | Time: Th | 11/5/2026 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Seats Available:4
This gentle-paced paddle is perfect for curious explorers who value learning over speed. Unlike our other paddle tours, this outing covers just a couple of miles, giving us plenty of time to drift, observe, and delve into the river’s rich tapestry of plants, animals, archaeology, history, and other fascinating wild lore.
If you prefer to cover more distance and focus less on in-depth discovery, you may want to explore one of the other paddle courses in this catalog. This is an easy paddle, moving downstream before returning against a light current—ideal for beginners.
Details:
Park Fee: $6, payable the day of the class
Duration: Approx. 2.5 hours
Meeting Time: 10 a.m. at the launch site
Kayaks Provided
After registering, please call (386) 497-4214 during the week before the trip to discuss special needs or requests and to confirm your email address for launch site directions.
Lunch not included.
Instructor:Lars AndersenMembers: $55; General Public: $60
Course #:TRI205 | Room:Field Trip
Day of Week | Date | Time: Th | 12/3/2026 | 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM Seats Available:11
Enjoy outdoors beneath the stars in the beautiful natural setting of Sholom Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and settle in for a memorable evening of entertainment.
There is a 14-business-day refund policy for this event. No refunds will be given if requested within 14 business days of the event. Rain or shine, the event will go on. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the event is cancelled or postponed.
Moonlight Reflections: A Crystal Singing Bowl Sound Bath
Close the year in peace, stillness, and reflection during this special moonlight experience at Sholom Park. As the gentle sounds of crystal singing bowls resonate beneath the evening sky, allow yourself to slow down, reconnect with nature, and prepare your heart and mind for the year ahead.
Led by Misty Frye, this immersive experience combines guided meditation with the soothing vibrations of crystal singing bowls to encourage deep relaxation, mindfulness, and inner calm. Participants will also have an opportunity to reflect on the past year with gratitude, release what no longer serves them, and set meaningful intentions for the future.
The evening concludes with a symbolic Luminaries on the Pond ceremony. After writing a word, intention, or personal reflection, participants will gently release a floating luminary onto the water, creating a beautiful display of light representing hope, healing, renewal, and new beginnings.
Gates open at 5:00 pm. The sound bath begins at 6:00 pm, followed by the luminary ceremony. No entry after 6:15 pm. No food truck will be available for this event.
Registration: Each attendee must register under their own profile; two people cannot register under a single profile. Please note that MTP does not issue physical or electronic tickets for this event. Instead, all registered attendees will be verified against the event roster at the gate during check-in.
Event #: PAD105 Location: Sholom ParkCost: $25 Per Person
Day Of Week | Event Date | Time: Tu | 12/8/2026 | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Spots Available:79
About This Tour Duration: 7 days | Meals: 11 | Travel Style: Classic
Discover Iceland on an immersive educational journey through a land shaped by powerful natural forces and rich history. Explore volcanic landscapes at the Lava Exhibition Center, stand between continents at Thingvellir, experience Icelandic heritage at the Skógar Museum, and witness geothermal energy at Geysir. By day, take in dramatic scenery; by night, search for the aurora borealis in this unforgettable land of fire and ice.
Collette provides a complimentary hometown pickup service to the airport for those who elect to include air transportation with their package
for groups of 10 or more.
Click “Learn More” to explore the full details including the overview, itinerary, price, what to expect, and registration information for this unforgettable adventure.
Trip registration, payments, and scheduling are managed directly through Collette. However, Master the Possibilities is always here to support you with any questions or assistance you may need along the way.
This class is full. Click the "Add to Wait List " button below to be placed on a wait list.
Movie Night - Little Shop of Horrors
Celebrate the fall season with an outdoor screening of the beloved musical comedy Little Shop of Horrors beneath the stars at Sholom Park.
The film follows Seymour, a shy flower shop employee whose unusual plant brings him unexpected fame, fortune, and more than a little trouble. Filled with catchy songs, unforgettable characters, and delightfully spooky humor, Little Shop of Horrors has become a Halloween favorite.
Gates open at 6pm with the movie starting at 7pm. No entry after 7:15pm.
Concessions will be available for purchase during the evening by Fresh Plates Catering.
IMPORTANT: Registration is per vehicle. The $5 fee covers one vehicle, and only one person in the vehicle needs to register.
Sholom Park Presents
Enjoy outdoors beneath the stars in the beautiful natural setting of Sholom Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and settle in for a memorable evening of entertainment.
There is a 14-business-day refund policy for this event. No refunds will be given if requested within 14 business days of the event. Rain or shine, the event will go on. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the event is cancelled or postponed.
Instructor:Sholom Park Course #: PAD105 | Room:Sholom Park Day of Week | Date | Time:Tu | 10/27/2026 - 10/27/2026 | 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM Note: Students are not charged when placed on a waiting list, and will be notified by MTP staff if a seat becomes available.
This class is full. Click the "Add to Wait List " button below to be placed on a wait list.
Explore the Withlacoochee and Rainbow Rivers near Dunnellon for a unique glimpse of "Old Florida" and its more modern landscapes. This two-part course begins with a classroom session focused on identifying the birds commonly found in this region of Florida. By the end, you'll be confident in recognizing many of them, from wading birds to raptors and many songbirds.
The second session features a guided three-hour boat ride with an experienced riverboat captain. We'll travel about one mile along the Rainbow River and explore as much of the Withlacoochee as time allows. Expect up-close views of magnificent birds and excellent photo opportunities. Make sure to bring your camera or binoculars!
After the trip, those interested can join for an optional lunch at a nearby riverside café to share observations and compile a bird list from the morning's adventure.
Second class date field trip directions (8:00am):
Meeting at 20750 River Dr, Dunnellon, FL 34431
- Drive east down 484 to Dunnellon
- Drive 12 miles, then turn left at the light on 41
- Park in the Municipal lot in front of City Hall
- The boat sails from the Public Boat Ramp
Instructor:Max Weakley Course #: EPW115 | Room:Room 4 Day of Week | Date | Time:Th F | 11/12/2026 - 11/13/2026 | 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Note: Students are not charged when placed on a waiting list, and will be notified by MTP staff if a seat becomes available.
This class is full. Click the "Add to Wait List " button below to be placed on a wait list.
Holiday Wine Tasting & Charcuterie Event at Sholom Park
The holidays are made for celebrating and there's no better way to kick off the season than with exceptional wine, delicious food, and great company. Join us for our Holiday Wine Tasting & Charcuterie Event, featuring six curated wines focused on Holiday cheer, with an assortment of charcuterie goodies. Discover holiday focused wines while enjoying an artisan charcuterie spread designed to complement every sip.
Experience the magic of the season with elegant wines, holiday-inspired pairings, and a cozy outdoor atmosphere in Sholom Park, that's perfect for gathering with friends, family, or someone special.
Master The Possibilities Wine Educator, Richard Kozicki will guide the pairing of wine with charcuterie.
Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique holiday experience, our Holiday Wine Tasting & Charcuterie Event is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Reserve your seats early as space is limited and these events are expected to sell out.
Gather your friends, raise a glass, and make this holiday season one to remember.
Note: Please bring your own wine glass. Gates open at 5pm event will starting at 6pm. No entry after 6:15pm.
Registration: Each attendee must register under their own profile; two people cannot register under a single profile. Please note that MTP does not issue physical or electronic tickets for this event. Instead, all registered attendees will be verified against the event roster at the gate during check-in.
Sholom Park Presents
Enjoy outdoors beneath the stars in the beautiful natural setting of Sholom Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and settle in for a memorable evening of entertainment.
There is a 14-business-day refund policy for this event. No refunds will be given if requested within 14 business days of the event. Rain or shine, the event will go on. There will be NO REFUNDS unless the event is cancelled or postponed.
Instructor:Sholom Park, Richard Kozicki Course #: PAD105 | Room:Sholom Park Day of Week | Date | Time:Tu | 11/17/2026 - 11/17/2026 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Note: Students are not charged when placed on a waiting list, and will be notified by MTP staff if a seat becomes available.
Discover the remarkable story of Silver Springs, one of Florida's most treasured natural landmarks and an essential environmental and economic asset to Marion County. This engaging course explores the springs' fascinating history, unique geology, diverse habitats, and the many plant and animal species that call this ecosystem home. Participants will learn how Silver Springs contributes to conservation education, and regional water health, making it a vital resource for residents and future generations. The course also highlights why protecting the springs is critical to preserving Florida's natural heritage, emphasizing responsible stewardship and sustainable recreation. Various ways to experience and enjoy the park, from glass-bottom boat tours to hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing, will be described and illustrated, encouraging participants to connect more deeply with this iconic natural wonder.
In 1774, naturalist William Bartram called it the Great Alachua Savanna. Today, we know it as Paynes Prairie, which is a vast wetland rich in history and wildlife. In this chapter of our Bartram’s Florida series, we’ll take a leisurely three-mile stroll into the landscape that captivated the young explorer. Along the way, Lars Andersen, author of Paynes Prairie: A History and Guide, will share the prairie’s fascinating story, from its early days to the present.
Explore the Withlacoochee and Rainbow Rivers near Dunnellon for a unique glimpse of "Old Florida" and its more modern landscapes. This two-part course begins with a classroom session focused on identifying the birds commonly found in this region of Florida. By the end, you'll be confident in recognizing many of them, from wading birds to raptors and many songbirds.
