‘Build Together, Play Together’: Huntsville celebrates Parks and Recreation Month

HUNTSVILLE – Celebrate Parks and Recreation Month in July with an array of fun and exciting events for the entire family.

With the theme of “Build Together, Play Together,” the month highlights the vital role of parks and recreational amenities in the community. It recognizes the City’s commitment to enhancing resident experiences through parks and greenways as well as engaging recreational opportunities.

“Building recreational areas and opportunities for play demonstrates our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “The City’s Parks & Recreation Department continues to build and develop facilities and programs that cater to the community’s needs, ensuring that people of all ages have access to resources that promote health, wellness, and a whole lot of fun.”

Build Together, Play Together

In the past 10 years, the city has prioritized significant capital investment into parks, recreational facilities and greenways.

Recent projects to cross the finish line include Apollo Park at MidCity District as well as renovations at Brahan Spring Park, Huntsville Aquatics Center and various neighborhood parks.

Projects in progress such as the West Huntsville Recreation Center on Martin Road, a new recreation center and pickleball courts at John Hunt Park, enhancements to the sand volleyball facility, and the Stoner Park skating rink will offer convenient, community-based spaces for recreation, wellness and connection.

Refurbishments at Goldsmith-Schiffman Field and Big Spring East are in the planning process and represent an opportunity to reimagine and enhance public spaces.

Even though Huntsville Parks & Recreation has been busy building, the focus on play remains strong. Parks and Recreation Month will feature events and programs throughout July that bring the community together and recognize the joy of recreation.

“We’re here to serve Huntsville residents by creating opportunities to connect, grow and thrive,” Huntsville Parks & Recreation Director James Gossett said. “New amenities are exciting, but it’s the programs, events and everyday interactions that truly bring our spaces to life.

“Whether it’s a citywide celebration or a class at your neighborhood rec center, our goal is to enhance quality of life across the community.”

The list of activities for Parks and Recreation Month:

• Tie-Dye in July
  Children ages 12 and under are invited to enjoy a morning of tie-dying, popsicles and fun from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday at the Brahan Spring Park pavilion. Bring a white T-shirt or similar item to dye. All other supplies will be provided. Cool off at EveryBody Can Play Splash Pad.
• Splish Splash Bash
  As the summer heats up, children ages 3-5 can cool down at the Splish Splash Bash. Join Huntsville Parks & Recreation on July 9, from 9-11 a.m. at the EveryBody Can Play Splash Pad at Brahan Spring Park for popsicles, crafts and lively music. Children must be accompanied by an adult to ensure a safe and fun experience.
• Color Jam Family Fun Run & Walk
  Mark your calendar for this free, untimed family fun run/walk at John Hunt Park on July 12, from 8-11 a.m. Get doused with colored powder and/or slime throughout the course. Also enjoy giveaways, a dance party and concessions for purchase. Participants are encouraged to wear white with neon accessories to show off their color.
• Rec & Read
  Huntsville Parks & Recreation and the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library are teaming up for fun at the annual Rec and Read. This free event for children ages 4-7 is July 16, at Dr. Robert Shurney Legacy Center. There will be interactive storytelling from 10-11 a.m. Children can enjoy popsicles, games and inflatables from 11-noon.
• Light Up the Night
  Let’s glow! Huntsville Parks & Recreation will host “Light Up the Night” at Big Spring Park East (near the spring) from 6-9 p.m. July 25. Enjoy music, lights, dancing and more glow party fun at this free, family-friendly event. Free party favors for kids while supplies last.
• Get involved
  Participate in Parks and Recreation Month by sharing your photos to social media with the hashtags #GoPlayHSV and #BuildTogetherPlayTogether. Follow Huntsville Parks & Recreation on Facebook and Instagram for the for the latest on programs, activities and events.