From trails to tunes: Colorado Springs celebrates Park and Recreation Month all July long

The City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Department invites residents to celebrate Park and Recreation Month throughout July with free events, contests and activities that highlight the important role parks and recreation play in creating healthy, vibrant and connected communities.

This year's theme, "The Power Of", celebrates the vital role that parks and recreation play in strengthening communities and enriching lives. From neighborhood parks and community centers to trails and cultural programs, these spaces foster connection, play, belonging, well-being and a deeper appreciation for nature.

"Parks and recreation are at the heart of what makes Colorado Springs such a special place to live," said Skyler Rorabaugh, director of the City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department. "They bring people together advancing connected communities, create lasting memories and strengthens our health and well-being. During Park and Recreation Month, we invite residents of all ages to explore a new recreation or cultural program, get outside and celebrate the parks, trails and programs that help make our community vibrant, resilient and healthy."

Throughout July, residents are encouraged to participate in a variety of free activities and events, including:

Coloring Contest!

July 1-31

Residents of all ages are invited to participate in a coloring contest. Color a special 2026 Park and Recreation Month coloring sheet and tell us what you love most about parks and recreation for a chance to be featured on our social media channels. Winners will be announced in August.

Outdoor Movie & Silent Disco

Friday, July 17

Join the Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department for an Outdoor Movie & Silent Disco event! Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and the whole family to celebrate at this FREE event.

Location: Hillside Community Center - 925 S. Institute St., 80903

• 5:30 p.m. - Food trucks
• 6 p.m. - Silent Disco & Movie Begin (movie will take place outdoors, weather permitting)
• 8 p.m. - Conclusion of event

Music in the Park

Friday, July 24

Enjoy a free concert featuring the SofaKillers at Piñon Valley Park. Residents are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and and the whole family for an evening of live music in the park. This event will feature food trucks, youth kickball game, giveaways and more!

Location: Piñon Valley Park - 5585 Mule Deer Dr., 80919

• 6:00 p.m. - Food trucks and kickball game registration opens
• 6:30 p.m. - Music and kickball game begins
• 7:15 p.m. - Giveaways (must be present to win)
• 8:30 p.m. - Conclusion of event

Park and Recreation Month is celebrated nationwide each July to recognize the vital role park and recreation professionals, public lands and community spaces play in enhancing quality of life, supporting physical and mental health, conserving natural resources and strengthening communities.

For event details, contest information and participation opportunities, visit ColoradoSprings.gov/ParkandRecMonth. Sponsors of Parks and Recreation Month include BluSky Restoration Contractors, Peak2Plains Weather, and Pikes Peak State College.