We Rise Up for Parks and Recreation this July

This July, We Rise Up for Parks and Recreation! We’re celebrating Park and Recreation Month by highlighting all the ways the Durham community is stronger, more vibrant and more resilient because of parks and recreation. The services that park and recreation professionals provide are vital for our communities — from protecting open space and natural resources to helping fight obesity and providing activities and resources for all people. This has been especially true throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope you join us in celebrating this month and reflecting on the exponential value parks and recreation brings to Durham residents!

Since 1985, America has celebrated July as Park and Recreation Month. A program of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), the goal is to raise awareness of the essential services that park and recreation professionals provide to communities across the U.S. NRPA encourages all people that support parks and recreation to share how parks and recreation has improved their lives on social media using #RiseUpJuly. For more information visit www.nrpa.org/july.

Here's five ways you can join the celebration and connect with Durham Parks and Recreation:

• Explore a new park in Durham! We have over 65 parks ready to be discovered! Consider packing a picnic, grabbing a soccer ball and heading out to a park you've never explored before!
• Step up your fitness game by exercising at one of our Fitness Centers or signing up to attend a Fitness class. Our Recreation Centers are fully equipped with exercise machines and weights for a self-led workout or join a group of participants in a teacher-led class such as Zumba, Yoga and more! 
• Beat the heat and cool off at our City Lakes and Outdoor Pools! Grab a friend and spend the day bank fishing or soaking up the sun at one of our spraygrounds.
• Enjoy family time under the stars during the Rock the Park: Concert and Movie Series! Free and open to all ages! Visit our website for more information.
• Get involved as a volunteer with Durham Parks and Recreation! We're always looking for residents and community members to volunteer at our programs and in our parks! Check out our website for current volunteer opportunities!

Well, what are you waiting for!? It's time to start celebrating Park and Recreation month! Check out our upcoming programs and events on our website. For more information about Durham Parks and Recreation, visit dprplaymore.org and connect with us on social media by following @dprplaymore!