If you’ve ever thought about playing croquet at Delaware Park, but for whatever reason have not quite gotten around to it, The Olmsted Conservancy and the Buffalo Croquet Club are hosting an open house to get people out playing the game. Buffalo has a long history when it comes to the games of croquet and lawn bowling, and The Parkside Lodge is ‘living’ proof of the games’ past popularity.
Only in recent years has croquet been making a comeback, thanks to the restored lawn bowling fields and clubhouse. There’s even a great eatery on the grounds where players can meet before and after matches.
On Sunday, May 16, from 1pm-5pm (same day as Parkside Tour of Homes), adults are welcome to join in on a round of six and nine wicket croquet. The equipment will be provided, and families are encouraged to come out and watch. By hosting an open house, the conservancy is hoping to attract more players and leagues similar to the Buffalo Croquet Club, which is an organized men’s league that plays every Monday night during the summer.
In order to reserve courts for lawn bowling, croquet or bocce (played on the opposite side of the clubhouse), players must have their own equipment and must call ahead to specify hours for play ($25/hour).
Be sure to come out to the free open house to check out the scene. If interested in reserving any of the courts in the meantime, please call 716.886-0088.