Not just for fireworks: Rocket City celebrating July recreation initiative

HUNTSVILLE – Whether playgrounds, greenways, community centers or athletic fields is the destination the City of Huntsville wants all residents to know it’s “Where You Belong.”

That’s the theme for Park and Recreation Month, a national initiative each July which celebrates the positive impact of parks and recreation on residents’ quality of life. With a theme of “Where You Belong,” the month-long campaign highlights facilities as well as programs for all ages and interests. 

The theme promotes this year’s campaign honoring the critical role of parks and recreation amenities in the community. It also spotlights the city’s commitment to enhancing resident experiences through robust parks and greenways as well as engaging recreational opportunities.

“Parks and Recreation Month is a great opportunity to reflect on our continued commitment to quality of life,” Mayor Tommy Battle said during a proclamation ceremony Tuesday at Kids Space. “Having plenty of spaces to play benefits everyone’s physical and mental well-being, and that’s something worth celebrating year-round.”

In the past two years, Huntsville has completed numerous parks and recreation projects including the revamped Kids Space, Get-A-Way Skate Park, Johnson Legacy Park, Raymond W. Jones Community Center and new championship-caliber athletic fields at John Hunt Park. Work is also progressing on the new Apollo Park at MidCity as well as renovations at Brahan Spring Park, Huntsville Aquatics Center and the Sandra Moon Community Complex.

Upcoming projects include a West Huntsville Recreation Center on Zierdt Road and a  recreation center at John Hunt Park near Joe Davis Stadium. The city also plans to add more courts at the Huntsville Tennis Center and add a skating rink at Stoner Park.

Huntsville Parks & Recreation has a full slate of activities, all free to the public. Parks & Recreation Director James Gossett said the events reflect the theme of “Where You Belong.” 

“This year’s events are designed to celebrate fun and community spirit,” he said. “This month really is a perfect opportunity for our community to try out our facilities and programs and experience firsthand the positive impact they have on quality of life.”

JULY EVENTS

• Tie-Dye in July
  Children ages 12 and under are invited to enjoy a morning of tie-dying, popsicles and fun on July 9 from 9 a.m.-noon, at 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 and take home a gift while supplies last.
• 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 12 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 20 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 third annual Rec and Read. This free event for children ages 4-7 is July 22 at Dr. Robert Shurney Legacy Center. There will be interactive storytelling from 9-10 a.m. Children can enjoy popsicles, games and inflatables from 10-11 a.m.
• Light Up the Night
  Let’s glow! Help Huntsville Parks & Recreation will host “Light Up the Night” at Big Spring Park East (near the spring) July 26 from 6-9 p.m. Enjoy music, lights, dancing and more glow party fun at this free, family-friendly event. Free party favors for kids while supplies last.
• Back to School Bash
  Huntsville Parks & Recreation, Huntsville Police Department and Free 2 Teach are teaming up to throw the ultimate Back to School Bash on July 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Jaycee Community Building in John Hunt Park. Students ages 18 and under are invited to dunk a principal, cool off on an inflatable waterslide, enjoy the petting zoo, win prizes and dance to the sounds of DJ Lashay B. HEALS, Inc. will also provide free sports physicals.
• Open houses
  No matter where you live, there’s a recreation center for you. Huntsville Parks & Recreation will host open house events at each center on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays in July from 6-7 p.m. Talk to recreation center staff, learn more about facilities, equipment and programming, and enjoy free refreshments.
• Get involved
  Participate in Parks and Recreation Month by sharing your photos to social media with the hashtags #GoPlayHSV and #WhereYouBelong. Follow Huntsville Parks & Recreation on Facebook and Instagram for the for the latest on programs, activities and events.