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Connect, Create and Collaborate in Toledo
Every Thursday in October, from 4:30–8pm, TolHouse welcomes young professionals, entrepreneurs and creatives, ages 25–35, for the Young Professionals Mixer—a dynamic weekly event designed to foster connections and collaboration across our community.
Participants will network in the areas of entrepreneurship, visual arts, design, healthcare, real estate, education and nonprofit leadership with meaningful conversation and collaboration. Admission is free. Grow your network, spark creative ideas and connect with Toledo’s next generation of leaders. For more information contact: [email protected].
University Parks Trail Expands Westward
There are plans to extend the University Parks Trail to the west, creating new connections between Sylvania- area parks and Metroparks Toledo properties. The expansion will cross Centennial Road, bridge Tenmile Creek near Silica Road and link to Quarry Ridge Trail, connecting with Sylvania’s Sylvan Prairie, Fossil and Pacesetter Parks. Future phases will tie into the Chessie Circle Trail and eventually reach Secor and Wiregrass Lake Metroparks. The Lucas County Commissioners have applied for $700,000 in federal funding to foster this expansion, including building a bridge, with Metroparks Toledo pledging matching funds. Construction on this westward trail segment is slated for 2027. metroparkstoledo.com/trails/universityparks-trail
Celebrate St. Francis Day Blessing of the Animals
Join Nature’s Nursery, Saturday, October 4 at 3pm, to honor St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and nature, with a Blessing of the Animals. Bring well-behaved pets to the outdoor pavilion for a heartfelt blessing led by Pastor David Frye. The event also features an animal bake sale, off-leash playtime for dogs, fun animal games and more activities for both pets and their owners. Admission is free, while any donations support the care of the animals.7541 Dutch Rd. 419-877- 0060. natures-nursery.org.
So Wild a Place 2025: A Celebration of Conservation
The Black Swamp Conservancy invites the community to gather for So Wild a Place 2025, Saturday, October 25, 5:30–10pm at Glass City Metropark’s Market Hall. In its 32nd year, this annual fundraising event highlights the Conservancy’s mission of preserving natural habitats and family farms across northwest Ohio. Guests will enjoy live music by Djangophonique, great food, games, raffles and a lively auction—all in support of local conservation efforts. Tickets through Humanitix, with all fees supporting charitable causes. blackswamp.org.
Discussion on “Actually Innocent” Explores Supreme Court and Wrongful Convictions
The University of Toledo College of Law will host a free event on Tuesday, October 7 from noon–1pm in the McQuade Law Auditorium, featuring a discussion of Professor Nathan Goetting’s new book, The Supreme Court’s Actual Innocence Problem: How the Supreme Court of the United States Has Failed to Reduce Wrongful Convictions. Goetting, who teaches at both Adrian College and the University of Toledo College of Law, examines how the Supreme Court has fallen short in addressing wrongful convictions despite advances in forensic science and DNA evidence. Attendees will gain insight into the challenges facing the justice system and the continuing fight to prevent miscarriages of justice. Visit utoledo.edu/law/events/goetting-lecture.html.
Care for Kids Coat Drive 2025: Give Warmth, Give Confidence
The Care for Kids Coat Drive is back! From now through December 4, help collect new, gender-neutral coats (sizes 7/8 to Adult Large) for local children in need. New coats help with hygiene safety, durability and to ensure every child feels proud and supported. Since 2019, Care for Kids has distributed over 7,000 coats, through the Boys and Girls Clubs of Toledo, Susie’s Coats for Kids and the YMCA. More than staying warm— it’s about dignity and icareforkids.org/events/care-for-kids-coat-drive-2025/
Westmoreland Home Tour: Explore Toledo’s Historic Gems!
Take a walk through history during the Westmoreland Home Tour, a special one-day event held on Sunday, October 5 from 1-4pm where the doors open to five stunning historic homes in one of Toledo’s most cherished neighborhoods. This is located roughly by Clarendon Rd., Parkside Blvd., Bancroft and Upton Ave. Stroll the tree-lined streets of Westmoreland, soak up early 20th-century architecture and explore interiors filled with original woodwork, stained glass and time- less design. Each home tells a story of craftsmanship, heritage and the people who shaped the area. The tour is self-guided—you’ll get a map and can visit the homes in any order. Expect short waits, as only a limited number of guests are allowed inside each home at a time. Bring comfortable shoes, download or print the tour map, and plan for a leisurely afternoon. This event only happens once a year—don’t miss your chance to step inside the history of Westmoreland! Questions? Contact Robin Redmond, Westmoreland Association: 312-498-4949
