City of Santa Ana celebrates grand opening of first-ever splash pad at Portola Park

The Santa Ana City Council led a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by a crowd of community members and excited children on Saturday, July 18.

SANTA ANA, Calif. - The City of Santa Ana proudly celebrated the grand opening of its first dedicated splash pad on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Portola Park, marking a major milestone in the City's continued investment in parks, recreation and quality of life for residents.

The Portola Park Splash Pad features 10 exciting water elements, including funnel twists, rooster sprays, stream jets and a large tipping bucket that is expected to become a favorite attraction for young visitors. The project also included new shade structures, outdoor showers and renovated ADA-accessible restrooms, ensuring the park is welcoming, comfortable and accessible for everyone.

"This is an exciting milestone for our community and for the families who will enjoy this space for years to come," said Mayor Valerie Amezcua, who led City Council members in a ribbon cutting ceremony. "We know how important it is to have safe, welcoming places where children can play, especially during hot summer months, and this splash pad delivers exactly that. The City Council has made investing in welcoming public spaces and amenities that enrich the lives our children, youth and families a top priority."

The $2.5 million project was funded entirely through the City's Cannabis Public Benefit Fund, demonstrating Santa Ana's commitment to reinvesting in community spaces that benefit residents. The City has made significant improvements to Portola Park in recent years, including resurfaced tennis courts, a refurbished decorative basketball court with new LED lighting, new fitness zone workout equipment, monument signage, and a hydration station featuring a bottle-filling dispenser and drinking fountain for dogs.

The Portola Park Splash Pad is part of the City's ongoing effort to expand recreational and educational opportunities for families, children and youth through historic investments in parks, libraries and public facilities throughout Santa Ana. On Saturday, July 25, the City will officially open new sports fields, a community center and a renovated pool at Santa Anita Park. In October, the City is planning to open a state-of-the-art aquatics center at Memorial Park and reopen the historic Main Library after a two-year modernization project.

See more event photos here.