Free Community Play Days in Durham

By: LeeAnn Kennedy, Recreation Supervisor

Silence can be deafening, it can also provide a moment for us to reflect and figure things out or perhaps find a new direction. It was a little over a year ago when the world went silent, our daily routines shut down and the normal noise of every day hustle and bustle was quiet, even in our parks. Slowly, yet cautiously, we were able to move forward and as families and individuals moved outside for recreation our parks, trails and athletic courts became busier, livelier and silent no more.

As numbers grew in our parks so did the amount of free play on both tennis and basketball courts and as a result we presented the idea of community play days to assist in providing space for those who wanted access to these amenities, especially during evening hours. We designated courts for our tennis facilities and specific days for our basketball facilities in which lights were available to use until 10 p.m. at no cost. The ability to access lights at these sites became vitally important as the long summer days became shorter and lights were needed to extend play for the community during the fall and winter months. Community play has been well received and success has been marked with not only an abundance of play during the day but also consistent use of these facilities during evening hours. So don’t sweat these hot summer days because if you are looking for some outdoor fun, grab a racquet or ball and head out to enjoy some time on the courts, even at night.

Community Free Play Basketball

• We're offering free court access to all individuals and families on our outdoor basketball courts. Courts are available first come first serve. The City will turn the lights on at the park from sunset till 10 p.m.
• Located at the following parks: Bethesda Park, Southern Boundaries Park, Sherwood Park, Morreene Road Park

Community Free Play Tennis

• We're offering free tennis court access to all individuals and families on designated outdoor tennis courts. Courts are available first come first serve. The City will turn the lights on at the park from sunset till 10 p.m.
• Located at the following parks: Southern Boundaries Park, Elmira Park, Garrett Road Park, Rock Quarry Park, WD Hill Park, Whippoorwill Park

Don't forget to share your experience at Community Free Plays with us on social media! Tag @dprplaymore on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! For more information about Community Free Play Days as well as other programs and events being offered by Durham Parks and Recreation, visit our website at dprplaymore.org.