Every July, we celebrate something near and dear to our hearts: Park and Recreation Month. This year marks the 40th anniversary of this national celebration, and what better way to honor it than with this year’s powerful theme: “Build Together, Play Together.”
At Augusta Recreation & Parks, we believe in the power of community. This month’s theme reminds us that parks and recreation are built not just with bricks and mulch, but with people: our full-time staff, part-time workers, volunteers, and most importantly, you. Every summer picnic, every splash in the pool, every laugh on the playground – these moments bring us closer together. We’re proud to provide safe, vibrant spaces that encourage families to connect, kids to explore, and neighbors to become friends. So let’s make this July one to remember: let’s build together, and play together.
Mark Your Calendars: July Events You Won’t Want to Miss
Whether you’re into music, movies, fireworks, or food, July is packed with events for every age and interest. Grab your calendar and get ready for some summer fun!
July 4: Independence Day Celebration at the Augusta Common
Kick off the month with a bang – literally. Our Independence Day Celebration begins around 5:00 p.m. with the National Anthem and continues with live music, a kids’ zone full of bounce houses and activities, and a vibrant selection of vendors. Cap off the night with a stunning fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. Free admission.
July 6: Candlelight Music Series presents TreSounds
TreSounds brings R&B, Funk, and Top 40 energy to the Augusta Common starting at 7:30 p.m. With sultry vocals and crowd-favorite grooves, this award-winning band is sure to have you dancing through the night. Show ends around 10:00 p.m.
July 11: Food Truck Friday at the Augusta Common
Bring your appetite and your friends. From 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. Downtown Augusta becomes a food lover’s paradise with a lineup of local food trucks, live music, and a dedicated kids’ zone. It’s the perfect evening out with no admission fee.
July 13: Candlelight Music Series presents Jovonda Patrice
Jovonda Patrice takes the stage at 7:30 p.m., blending R&B, country, pop, jazz, and gospel for a soulful night under the stars. Concert ends around 10:00 p.m.
July 18: Movies on the Green: “Inside Out 2”
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs for a night of family-friendly fun at the Augusta Common. Pre-movie activities like inflatables, games, and face painting begin at 7:30 p.m. The movie begins at dusk. Free admission.
July 20: Candlelight Music Series presents Art of Expression
This bluesy, soulful band delivers rock and R&B vibes starting at 7:30 p.m. Let the music move you in the heart of the city. Event wraps around 10:00 p.m.
July 25: Movie Night in the Park at Henry H. Brigham Park: “A Minecraft Movie”
Get cozy at Brigham Park for a summer movie night. The film starts at 8:00 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks. Admission is free.
Stay Cool This Summer
When the temperatures rise, staying cool becomes essential and Augusta Recreation & Parks has you covered. All of our community centers serve as cooling shelters during regular operating hours. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or need a break from the sun, our doors are open.
For some splash-worthy fun, check out:
- Fleming Pool: Open Sunday through Thursday from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.
- Charles Evans Splash Pad: A refreshing and playful option for little ones.
- McBean Splash Pad: A great stop for families on the southside.
- Augusta Aquatic Center: Indoors and family-friendly, perfect for lap swimmers and splashers alike.
Explore the Great Outdoors in Our Parks and Trails
There’s no better time than July to reconnect with nature. Whether it’s a morning stroll, a family picnic, or an afternoon adventure, Augusta’s parks offer endless ways to enjoy the fresh air.
- Take a nature walk at Diamond Lakes or Lake Olmstead trails.
- Pack a picnic and visit Brookfield Park or Butler Creek Park.
- Let the kids loose at playgrounds in Dyess, Gracewood, or Hickman Park.
- Enjoy a bike ride on the River Levee Trail or the top levee Riverwalk trail.
- Practice mindfulness or yoga in a shaded corner of our parks.
Every visit is an opportunity to make memories, recharge, and rediscover your favorite corners of Augusta.
Let’s Build and Play together
As we celebrate Park and Recreation Month, let’s remember that Augusta’s parks belong to all of us. Every event you attend, every trail you explore, and every smile you share helps build a stronger, more connected community. This July, we invite you to join us in celebrating the people, places, and possibilities that make Augusta shine.
From fireworks to food trucks, from splash pads to movie nights, this is your summer to build together and play together. See you in the park!
