Augusta Rec & Parks Insider is the official blog of the Augusta Recreation & Parks Department, dedicated to keeping the community informed about parks, programs, and events in Augusta, GA. Stay connected with updates, stories, and ways to get involved in making our city more active and vibrant!
All summer long, the Augusta Common has been alive with the rhythm and energy of the Candlelight Music Series. Every Sunday evening, music lovers gathered under the open sky with lawn chairs, blankets, and friends to enjoy some of the best local and regional talent. From soulful jazz and R&B to funk, blues, and old school favorites, this series brought together the sounds of Augusta’s vibrant music community in a way that only Candlelight can.
For weeks, the air has been filled with the melodies of bands like Tara & the Snacks, ATL Dream Vision, Lady & the Gents, Tre Sounds, and Serenity Soul Band, to name just a few. Each performance added its own unique flavor to the season, and the Augusta Common once again proved itself as the perfect backdrop for music, dancing, and togetherness.
Now, the series is heading into its biggest night of the year: the grand finale White Party. This Sunday, August 31, the tradition continues as guests dress in their best all-white attire and come together for a night of music and celebration. The evening will be headlined by A.G. Experience, delivering a mix of country, old school, and R&B that is sure to keep the crowd on their feet. With Cher Best hosting and the energy of the season’s last gathering, the White Party is more than just a concert—it’s the perfect sendoff to summer in Augusta.
The finale runs from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m. at the Augusta Common. Admission is just $10, and children 13 and under are free. It’s a night where the music, the people, and the atmosphere combine to create memories that last long after the final note fades.
If you’ve joined us for Candlelight before, you know what to expect: great music, good company, and a chance to be part of a beloved Augusta tradition. If you haven’t, the White Party is the perfect time to experience it for yourself. Bring your friends, wear your best white, and close out the summer with one unforgettable night under the stars.
Staying active and connected is just as important in our later years as it is at any other stage of life. That’s why the Robert Howard Community Center is proud to host Senior Fridays, a recurring program designed exclusively for our senior community members. Beginning September 5, 2025, Senior Fridays will take place on select Fridays at the Robert Howard Community Center from 10 AM to 1 PM.
Why Senior Activities Matter
Research shows that engaging in social and recreational activities provides lasting benefits for seniors. Programs like Senior Fridays not only offer opportunities for fun, but also help promote:
Social Connection: Meeting new people and spending time with friends helps reduce isolation and improves emotional well-being.
Cognitive Engagement: Games, speakers, and interactive programs keep the mind active and stimulated.
Physical Health: Light activities, walking, and even dancing can support mobility and overall fitness.
Community Spirit: Events like these create a sense of belonging and pride in the local community.
A Place to Connect and Share
Senior Fridays is about more than just scheduled activities, it’s about creating opportunities for neighbors to connect. From sharing stories over lunch to discovering new hobbies together, every Friday brings chances to build meaningful relationships. For many, these events become a highlight of the week, a space to laugh, learn, and celebrate life’s experiences.
Event Details
Location: Robert Howard Community Center, 103 Diamond Lakes Way, Hephzibah, GA 30815 Time: 10 AM – 1 PM Contact: 706-826-1370
Upcoming Dates:
September 5
September 19
October 3
November 7
November 21
December 5
December 19
Join Us
If you’re looking for a welcoming space to stay active, enjoy new experiences, and meet other community members, Senior Fridays is the perfect place to start. Bring a friend or come ready to make new ones – either way, you’ll be part of something special.
July is Park and Recreation Month, and this year we are proudly celebrating 40 years of recognizing the important role that parks and recreation play in our lives. The theme, “Build Together, Play Together,” reminds us how much stronger our community becomes when we come together to create safe, healthy, and fun places for everyone.
The photo above is a perfect example of what this looks like in real life. A young swimmer learns and laughs under the careful guidance of a dedicated instructor. It’s more than just a swimming lesson, it’s a moment of connection, growth, and support. It’s also just one of the many experiences Augusta Recreation & Parks provides every single day.
Whether it’s summer camps, swimming lessons, sports programs, playgrounds, walking trails, or family events, our department works hard to create opportunities where children and families can build skills, build friendships, and build confidence. At the same time, they get to play, explore, and enjoy all the things that make a healthy, active life.
Right now, we’re also registering for our Fall Youth Athletics season. Sports include co-ed soccer, cheerleading, tackle football, and flag football for children 12 and under. Registration is open through August 15. Visit https://www.augustaga.gov/3223/Youth-Athletics to learn more and sign up.
When you visit one of our parks or take part in one of our programs, you’re not just passing time. You’re taking part in something much bigger: A community that believes in the power of parks and recreation to bring people together and make life better for everyone.
As we celebrate Park and Recreation Month, we invite you to join us. Stop by one of our community centers, sign up for a program, or visit a park. Let’s continue to build and play – together.
As the nation prepares to celebrate the Fourth of July, Augusta Recreation & Parks invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy the best of summer with festive events, family outings, and the beauty of our public greenspaces. While we pause operations in observance of the holiday, we also offer exciting opportunities to gather, celebrate, and enjoy our community.
In observance of Independence Day, all Recreation & Parks offices, including the Administrative Office, Athletic Offices, and the Special Events & Rental Office, will be closed on Friday, July 4. These offices will resume regular hours of operation on Monday, July 7. Our community centers and the Augusta Aquatic Center will also be closed on July 4 and reopen on July 7. Newman Tennis Center will remain open on Independence Day from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and resume regular hours on Saturday, July 5. Fleming Pool will welcome guests on July 4 between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., remain closed on July 5, and reopen again on Sunday, July 6.
Even as some facilities close in honor of the holiday, our parks remain open from dawn to dusk. Families are encouraged to enjoy a picnic, take a walk, or relax outdoors in one of Augusta’s many beautiful public parks. Whether you’re planning a quiet day in the shade or bringing friends for a summer cookout, our parks are ready to help you make the most of the holiday weekend.
The celebration kicks off downtown on the evening of July 4 at the Augusta Common with our annual Independence Day Celebration. The event begins around 5:00 p.m. with the National Anthem, followed by live music, a kids’ zone filled with bounce houses and family activities, and a wide array of local vendors. The night concludes with a spectacular fireworks display at 9:30 p.m., launched from the levee across the Augusta Common. Admission is free, and all are welcome to join in the festivities.
We continue into the weekend with the Candlelight Music Series on Sunday, July 6. Starting at 7:30 p.m., TreSounds takes the stage at the Augusta Common, delivering a dynamic mix of R&B, Funk, and Top 40 hits. Known for their captivating performances and soulful energy, TreSounds promises an unforgettable evening of music and dancing under the stars. The performance will wrap up around 10:00 p.m.
We invite everyone to enjoy the Independence Day weekend safely and joyfully. Whether you’re joining us for fireworks, dancing downtown, or simply spending the day in one of our parks, Augusta Recreation & Parks is proud to help you make memories this Fourth of July.
Pendleton King Park reopened to the public on Tuesday, July 1, with a joyful celebration that drew an estimated 300 visitors throughout the morning. The event, hosted by Augusta Recreation & Parks and the Pendleton King Park Foundation, marked the park’s return to full operation after recent storm-related closures and cleanup efforts.
The day began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. featuring remarks from city and community leaders, including Recreation & Parks Director Tameka D. Williams, Deputy Directors Greenwood and Williams, and Pendleton King Park Foundation President Rob Dennis. Augusta District 2 Commissioner Stacy Pulliam and District 9 Commissioner Francine Scott offered reflections on the park’s importance to the community, with District 1 Commissioner Jordan Johnson also in attendance to show support.
Following the formal program, guests enjoyed a range of family-friendly activities and refreshments, including hot dogs, ice cream, bounce houses, and games. Children flocked to the playgrounds while pet owners took advantage of the park’s nature trails. Park staff and volunteers shared information about the park’s amenities and upcoming events as part of the July celebration of National Park & Recreation Month.
“Pendleton King Park is a living symbol of Augusta’s connection to nature and community,” said Director Tameka D. Williams. “We’re proud to welcome everyone back to this cherished space and thank the many volunteers and partners who helped bring it back to life.”
The event also recognized the vital contributions of partner organizations such as John Deere, the Augusta Disc Golf Association, the Master Gardeners of the CSRA, Ceres Environmental Services, Infrastructure Systems Management, and the Georgia Forestry Commission, whose collective efforts made the park’s restoration possible.
Pendleton King Park, located at 1600 Troupe Street, spans 64 acres of historic greenspace and offers an arboretum, camellia and hydrangea gardens, walking trails, disc golf, picnic areas, and rentable event spaces. Donated by the King family in the 1970s, the park continues to serve as a vibrant oasis for Augusta residents and visitors alike.
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!
The countdown is on. Backpacks are getting lighter, the days are getting longer, and kids all over Augusta are already dreaming of summer. Though school isn’t quite out yet, Augusta Recreation & Parks is already rolling out the welcome mat for a season packed with celebration, adventure, and good old-fashioned outdoor fun. So grab your calendar—and maybe your sunglasses—because this summer, we’re helping you make every moment count.
It All Starts with a Block Party…
Imagine the sound of music floating through the air, kids laughing as they bounce from one inflatable to another, and the smell of fresh burgers and popcorn in the breeze. That’s the vibe at J.R.’s Annual End of School Block Party – and you’re invited. On Saturday, May 24 at 12:00 p.m., head to Augusta Commons (836 Reynolds St.) for a free celebration that’s been bringing families together for over 30 years. With free food, live entertainment, inflatables, and giveaways including bikes, tablets, and laptops, it’s the perfect way to launch into summer. Sponsored by Augusta Recreation & Parks, Perry Broadcasting, Attorney Keith B. Johnson, and James “J.R.” Riles, this party is more than just fun, it’s a celebration of our community and our youth.
Adventures Await at Summer Day Camps
Once the block party winds down and the last school bell rings, it’s time to shift into full summer mode. If you’re wondering how to keep your kids busy, active, and smiling all summer long, look no further than our Summer Day Camps. Running from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at community centers across Augusta, these camps are designed for children ages 5 to 12. Campers can look forward to arts and crafts, team sports, swimming, field trips, and special activities that make every day feel like an adventure. And don’t worry—it’s not just fun and games. Our camp experience helps kids build friendships, confidence, and memories that will last a lifetime. Spots are limited, so visit augustaga.gov/2769/Parks-Recreation to learn more and register.
Explore Augusta’s Great Outdoors
Not every summer memory has to come with a schedule. Sometimes, the best moments happen right in your neighborhood park. This season, take some time to unplug and reconnect—with nature, with your family, and with the simple joys of outdoor play.
Need ideas?
Plan a family picnic under the trees at Diamond Lakes or Brookfield Park.
Challenge your kids to a playground obstacle course and see who can finish first.
Shoot hoops, kick a soccer ball, or just toss a frisbee at one of our many open fields and courts.
Go on a mini nature walk—you’ll be surprised what you can discover in your own community.
With parks across Augusta-Richmond County, there’s always a new trail to explore or a new bench with a sunset view.
Music, Movies & Food—Augusta’s Got It All
Just when you think summer can’t get any better, Augusta Recreation & Parks turns up the volume with our Candlelight Music Series. Every Sunday evening at the Augusta Common, enjoy live performances from the region’s top jazz, R&B, funk, and soul artists.
Concerts run from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Admission is $10, and kids 13 and under are free. Bring your chairs, blankets, and good vibes—just leave the pets at home.
Don’t miss highlights like:
May 25: AE The Cool
June 29: Lady & the Gents
July 13: Jovonda Patrice
August 31: The White Party featuring A.G. Experience
Looking for something a little more delicious? Come out to Food Truck Fridays, held on first Fridays at the Augusta Common from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. Each event features mouth-watering food, music, and a kid-friendly activity zone. Upcoming dates include:
June 6
July 11
August 1
September 5
October 3
And for the perfect family night out, spread your blanket on the lawn for Movies on the Green—our free outdoor movie series, also at the Augusta Common. Movies begin at dusk:
May 30:Mufasa
June 20:Mulan
July 18:Inside Out 2
August 8:Lilo & Stitch
There’s nothing quite like watching your favorite characters under a canopy of stars.
Water Play is on the Way
It’s not summer without a splash or two. Stay tuned for the reopening of some of Augusta’s favorite water features:
Fleming Pool will open soon for public swim sessions.
Splash Pads at Charles Evans and McBean Community Centers will return just in time to beat the heat.
These family-friendly spots are a great way to cool down and make the most of hot afternoons.
Summer in Augusta is what you make of it—and this year, the possibilities are endless.
Whether you’re dancing downtown at sunset, kicking off shoes in the grass, catching a movie under the moonlight, or watching your child come home from camp with stories and smiles, Augusta Recreation & Parks is here to make summer unforgettable.
Start planning your season of fun at augustaga.gov/2769/Parks-Recreation and follow us on social media for the latest updates, event announcements, and tips for summer in the city.
Get ready for a summer packed with fun, adventure, and lifelong memories! Augusta Recreation & Parks is thrilled to open registration for our 2025 Summer Day Camps — a vibrant, activity-filled program designed to enrich your child’s summer with creativity, exploration, friendship, and fun.
Running from June 2 through July 25 (with a break from June 30–July 4), our camps offer a safe and nurturing space where children can thrive. Kids will enjoy arts and crafts, field trips, weekly swimming, team activities, and much more — all guided by our dedicated team of counselors who are committed to making this summer unforgettable.
We offer flexible options to fit your family’s schedule:
Early Risers (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) for parents needing extra morning time
Summer Day Camp (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM) packed with daily activities
Afternoon Adventures (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM) for families needing late pick-up
Camp is open at multiple convenient locations across Augusta, including Robert Howard Community Center, McBean Community Center, Henry H. Brigham Community Center, and more.
We prioritize safety, teamwork, and respect. With our “Zero Tolerance” approach, clear camp rules, and a focus on positive social interactions, every child can expect a welcoming, supportive environment. Please remember: campers bring their own lunches, wear play clothes and closed-toe shoes, and apply sunscreen before arriving.
The soulful sounds of summer are making their way back to Downtown Augusta as the beloved Candlelight Music Series returns to the Augusta Common beginning Sunday, May 4th. A tradition that blends music, community, and warm evening skies, the series will light up Sundays through the end of September—offering a perfect close to your weekend with live music beginning at 7:30 p.m. each week.
This year, we’re bringing more than just great performances—we’re bringing an improved experience. After listening to the feedback from last season, we’ve made some meaningful changes to how tickets are sold. While last year’s online system left much to be desired, this season you can purchase your tickets right at the gate using cash, debit, or credit cards. Please note that mobile payment platforms like CashApp, Google Pay, or Apple Pay will not be accepted, and a physical card is required for card transactions. Tickets will be available on-site only, with no advance sales.
To set the tone for the season, the first evening on May 4th will feature a performance by Tara & The Snacks, blending smooth jazz with soulful R&B to kick off the series in style. This opening night is being offered as a special gift to our patrons—an invitation to come enjoy the music and the atmosphere at no cost to you.
As you prepare for an evening of entertainment, we kindly ask that you leave pets at home for everyone’s safety and comfort. In addition, we ask that all guests be mindful of those around them when it comes to smoking. A designated smoking area will be available, and we strongly encourage its use so that all guests can enjoy the music in a welcoming and respectful atmosphere.
Here is our lineup for May:
May 4th: Tara & The Snacks (Jazz, R&B)
May 11th: Major Sounds (Funk, Jazz, Pop, R&B)
May 18th: ATL Dream Vision (Blues, R&B, Rock, Soul)
May 25th: AE The Cool (R&B, Soul)
Mark your calendar and bring your lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and your love for live music. The Candlelight Music Series is back, and we can’t wait to see you there.
Each May, families across America come together to honor one of life’s most profound relationships — the bond between mother and child. Mother’s Day, as we know it today, has its roots in the early 1900s, when Anna Jarvis, inspired by her own mother’s tireless devotion, campaigned for a day to recognize the sacrifices of mothers everywhere. Her efforts led to a national observance when President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day in 1914. What began as a simple tradition of writing heartfelt letters has since blossomed into a day filled with shared meals, gifts, and the celebration of unconditional love.
This year, Augusta Recreation & Parks invites you to create beautiful new memories at a venue as timeless as the occasion itself — the Julian Smith Casino. Despite its name, the Julian Smith Casino is not a place of card tables and roulette wheels; rather, it is a grand and elegant event space, named after one of Augusta’s most influential civic leaders. Built in the early 20th century, the casino has witnessed countless celebrations, from wedding receptions to community gatherings, all within its historic walls. With its stately charm, soaring ceilings, and graceful architecture, the Julian Smith Casino offers an atmosphere of quiet grandeur perfect for honoring the special women in our lives.
Set against the stunning natural backdrop of Lake Olmstead, the venue provides more than just a place to gather — it offers a view that soothes the soul. Gentle breezes drift across the water, and sunlight shimmers on the lake’s surface, making every moment feel a little more magical. The beautifully maintained grounds invite guests to stroll and soak in the serene surroundings, while inside, the lively brunch will feature a delicious buffet, live music, and a cozy photo area to capture the memories being made.
The Mother’s Day Brunch will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, beginning at 11:00 A.M. Tickets are just $10.00 per person and can be purchased through the Augusta Recreation & Parks Administrative Office. For ticket information, please call (706) 796-5025.
This Mother’s Day, step into a space where history, beauty, and celebration meet. Let us gather by the lake, share a meal, and give thanks for the women whose love has shaped our lives in countless, extraordinary ways.
