BTWB – KALAHARI ESCAPE
February 22, 2026 , 12:00 pm – February 24, 2026 , 3:00 pm EST
Entering its 5th year, OADSP’s Beat the Winter Blues series has featured some entertaining, informative, and show-stopping events and 2026 is no exception. The KALAHARI ESCAPADE is a 3-day, 2-night occasion that includes discounted rooms at the water park resort, exclusive gatherings, and a chance to enjoy some recreation and relaxation.
Includes:
- 2 bed suite for up to 4 guests – 3 day, 2 night stay
- Includes 4 waterpark passes
- Reception for frontline professionals only at 8pm on 2/22/26
What To Know Before You Register – FAQ
| If you have questions about this event, please contact OADSP (866-862-2322 or [email protected]), not Kalahari Resorts; their daily staff is not involved in this type of event. |
What is the deadline to register for this event?
The deadline is Thursday, January 22nd. We might have limited availability after that date; please reach out to [email protected] to check.
What is included?
The price covers one standard room (accommodating up to 4 people) and waterpark admission (wristbands for a party of up to 4). If you’re a DSP or Frontline Supervisor, that price also includes a reception exclusively for you, taking place Sunday evening at the Marrakesh Marketplace, within Kalahari.
What is NOT included?
Meals and entertainment (outside of waterpark admission) are on your own. There are restaurants and quick-service options located inside Kalahari, as well as several fast food and other restaurants nearby. Additionally, other local attractions include bowling, shopping, arcades/game rooms, the Merry-Go-Round Museum, the Maritime Museum, and a host of other things to do and explore.
How do we pay for things at Kalahari?
Kalahari is fully cashless, but all major credit cards – Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover, as well as Google and Apple Pay on mobile devices – are accepted. Kalahari does NOT accept Venmo or other cash app payments. The resort has a conversion kiosk where you can exchange cash for a pre-paid Mastercard, for a fee. Kalahari is requiring all hotel group guests to authorize a $100 hold to accommodate overnight folio charges (mobile payments not accepted). This is mandatory for all hotel overnight guests. You will be required to have this authorization placed on your account when you check in, but you will only be charged if you use those funds.
Who can come to the Sunday evening reception?
This event is exclusively for the DSPs and Frontline Supervisors registered for the Kalahari Escapade. This means that children, family members, persons supported, and others that do not work in the field of I/DD are not on the guest list.
What’s included with the Sunday evening reception?
We’ll have music, dancing, light appetizers, prizes, and all the fun and fellowship you can ask for at the end of February!
How many rooms can I book?
Unlimited!
What is a room like?
Each standard room includes 2 queen-size beds and a pull-out sofa, and comes with up to 4 wrist bands for occupants. Additional day passes may be purchased. Check www.kalahariresorts.com/ohio for specific days/pricing/availability.
What about accessible rooms?
Kalahari’s accessible rooms accommodate up to 4 guests, with 2 queen-size beds. These rooms are equipped with either a tub with bars, or a roll-in shower. If anyone in your party requires an accessible room, please email [email protected] as soon as possible, outlining the preference/need.
When can I get there on 2/22, and when do I have to leave on 2/24?
You can arrive at Kalahari as early as 12 noon on 2/22; official check-in is 4 p.m. Whenever you arrive, let Kalahari staff at the main desk know you’ve arrived, and even if your room(s) isn’t ready, you can still access the waterpark and the resort’s other amenities and attractions. On Tuesday, check-out is no later than 11 a.m., but you can access the waterpark until as late as 8 p.m.
If I can’t come on the 22nd, can I come on the 23rd?
No. The Kalahari Escapade is a package deal, beginning on 2/22 and ending on 2/24.
Is travel to and from Kalahari from my work or home included with the price?
No. Travel and associated expenses are up to you, your travel companions, and/or your employer (depending on who’s traveling).
Do we have to remain on the grounds of Kalahari?
Not at all. As mentioned above, there is shopping, restaurants, and other activities in the area. Look over a map before the event, so you know what’s available.
How much is parking at Kalahari?
It’s free.
Can I bring the individuals I support, or my family and friends?
You can bring whomever you like.
Are there any other goodies included?
Maybe! (wink-wink, nudge-nudge)