Celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month with MPRD

Celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month with MPRD

Jul 1st, 2026

Posted in: Press ReleaseMayorParks and Recreation

Mobile, Ala. - The City of Mobile and the Mobile Parks and Recreation Department (MPRD) are inviting residents to discover the power of parks during National Parks and Recreation Month, celebrating the vital role parks, green spaces, and recreation programs play in creating a healthier, stronger, and more connected community.

Throughout July, MPRD will join the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) in recognizing this year's "Power of Parks" campaign with a series of free community events designed to encourage adults and families to stay active, connect with neighbors, and enjoy Mobile's great public spaces.

"Mobile has beautiful green spaces that deserve to be celebrated every month of the year," Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis said. "The work MPRD does-not only maintaining our parks and community centers, but also filling them with engaging, educational, and family-friendly programming - is invaluable. I encourage everyone to spend time in our parks this month and experience firsthand the incredible places that help make Mobile such a special community."

Each Wednesday from July 1 to July 22, MPRD will spotlight a different aspect of the Power of Parks through a themed community event:

Wind Down Wednesday - Power of Connection
Wednesday, July 1 | 6-10 p.m. | Cathedral Square
Enjoy an evening of live music, community fellowship, and complimentary food while supplies last.

Adult Splash Party - Power of Play
Wednesday, July 8 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Tricentennial Park Splash Pad
Adults are invited to cool off and enjoy an evening of fun, games, music, and recreation.

Outdoor Fitness Expo - Power of Community
Wednesday, July 15 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Michael Dow Amphitheater
Bring a water bottle and exercise mat to check out free fitness demonstrations, including strength training, dance, resistance training, and more.

Family Kayaking and Nature Hike - Power of Nature
Wednesday, July 22 | 6-8 p.m. | Dog River Park
In partnership with Mobile Baykeeper, families can enjoy kayaking, Science, Technology, Recreation, Arts and Math (STREAM) activities, nature-inspired crafts, games, and opportunities to explore Mobile's natural beauty.

"We're encouraging every Mobilian to spend time enjoying one of our outstanding public spaces this month," Executive Director of Public Works Shonda Smith said. "These events serve as opportunities to bring neighbors together, celebrate our community, and showcase
everything our parks have to offer. Whether you join us for one event or several, there's something for everyone."

At the Tuesday, July 7, Mobile City Council meeting, Mayor Cheriogotis will recognize the amazing job MPRD does by presenting members of the team with a proclamation celebrating National Parks and Recreation Month.

Each July, the National Recreation and Park Association celebrates National Parks and Recreation Month to highlight the essential role local parks and recreation departments play in enhancing quality of life. Across the country, communities are recognizing how parks foster health, wellness, environmental stewardship, and meaningful connections among residents.