11 Jul Don’t forget July is National Park and Recreation Month!

Most of us experience a feeling of peace and contentment when we can get away from the hustle and bustle to enjoy the beauties of a natural setting. The month of July is National Park and Recreation Month. Parks and recreation departments across the nation are celebrating National Parks and Recreation Month with 31 days of family fun!

The National Recreation and Park Association http://www.nrpa.org/default.aspx created the “Take the Five in July Park Pledge.” There are five weekends in July—five Fridays, five Saturdays, and five Sundays!  So they are encouraging everyone to create a healthy weekend habit by getting out to a park, trail, playground, swimming pool, natural area, or other public space every weekend.  Make your personal commitment to get outdoors by signing their Five in July Park Pledge.  

So it means it's time to get out into your favorite park and recreation center! Most recreation centers offer a variety of things from basketball goals, volleyball courts, dance studios, kitchen spaces, arts and crafts room, meeting rooms, weight rooms, shower facilities, and a whole lot more!  When you are ready to take the family outdoors to the park, there are barbecue grills, picnic tables, reservable pavilions, jungle gyms, football, baseball or soccer fields, basketball courts, swings, a walk/jog path around the perimeter.

Plan ahead and prepare your family for hikes, bird watching, picnics, camping, and bicycle riding. Don’t forget about your pets!  Your dogs will appreciate being outdoors with the family too!  Does your park include a lake? There is so much to look forward to such as fishing, swimming, canoeing or kayaking. 

Want to enjoy some entertainment at the park too?  Many local parks are “rocking out” by providing music by local bands.  Also, Zilker Theatre Productions is presenting Footloose-the musical.   Located in Zilker Park across from Barton Springs Pool from July 8 – August 13, Thursdays – Sundays (beginning at dusk; around 8:30 p.m.). Admission is FREE!

Enjoy the wide open green spaces provided to our community! Take a look at what your local parks and recreation centers has to offer for you and your family!