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!
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.
This spring, the REALTORS® of Greater Augusta (RGA), in proud partnership with Augusta, Georgia Recreation & Parks, are bringing the spirit of generosity and community connection to life. In honor of National Fair Housing Month, they are hosting a Community Care Day — a special event where giving back meets genuine care for neighbors and friends.
Set for Saturday, April 26th, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at May Park, located at 622 4th Street in Augusta, Community Care Day promises to be an uplifting experience for individuals and families alike. Everyone in the community is welcome to attend, and the day is entirely free of charge.
Throughout the event, guests will have the opportunity to pick up a variety of essential household supplies. Whether you need summer clothing, hygiene products, feminine care items, non-perishable food, diapers, or other household goods, there will be resources available to help meet your needs. A warm plate of food will also be served to every attendee, adding an extra touch of hospitality and care to the day’s offerings. To ensure a welcoming environment for families, kid-friendly activities will be provided, creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
Community Care Day is about more than just giving away supplies. It’s a meaningful expression of the REALTORS® of Greater Augusta’s commitment to the principles of fair housing and community support. Fairness, dignity, and compassion are at the heart of this event. The organizers have taken thoughtful steps to make sure that the distribution process is handled with fairness in mind, giving everyone an equal opportunity to access the items they need. Supplies and food will be available while they last, and every effort has been made to make sure the experience is positive for all.
April is a time to recognize the importance of fair housing, but the REALTORS® of Greater Augusta believe that showing up for the community should be a year-round mission. Community Care Day is their way of living out that belief — not just in words, but in action. It is an invitation to come together, support one another, and celebrate the strength and kindness that make Augusta such a special place to call home.
Mark your calendar and join your neighbors at May Park for a day filled with care, connection, and community spirit. Whether you are in need of supplies, a good meal, or simply a reminder of the goodness that exists within our city, Community Care Day welcomes you with open arms.
As Easter weekend approaches, the City of Augusta is preparing for both a time of observance and community celebration. Whether you’re taking a quiet moment to reflect on the season or planning to spend time with family and friends, here’s everything you need to know about local office closures and upcoming Easter events.
On Friday, April 18, 2025, in observance of Good Friday, all administrative offices within Augusta Recreation and Parks will be closed. This includes the Augusta Aquatic Center, all community centers, athletic offices, and rental offices. However, public parks and cemeteries will remain open to visitors during their regular hours from dawn until dusk, providing a peaceful outdoor option for families and individuals alike.
While most facilities will pause operations for the holiday, the Newman Tennis Center will remain open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday. The center, along with all community centers, will resume regular hours on Saturday, April 19, ensuring that residents have full access to amenities over the weekend. All other Recreation and Parks facilities will return to normal operations on Monday, April 21, 2025.
Easter Activities
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Saturday brings a wave of festive energy to the city, with several Easter-themed events taking place across multiple community centers. Families can enjoy a day filled with egg hunts, seasonal games, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate together.
At the Warren Road Community Center, an afternoon Easter Egg Hunt will welcome children and their families from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Meanwhile, the Carrie J. Mays Family Life Center will host its own egg hunt earlier in the day, running from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Over at the Sand Hills Community Center, a full Easter Festival will be underway during the same hours, offering a variety of springtime activities for all ages.
Perhaps one of the most anticipated events is the Easter Eggstravaganza 2025, which will take place at the Henry H. Brigham Community Center from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event promises a lively mix of Easter traditions and community engagement that visitors won’t want to miss.
As Augusta comes together to celebrate this meaningful holiday, we encourage everyone to take part in the events, enjoy the outdoors, and share in the joy of the season. Whether you’re spending Friday in quiet reflection or joining a Saturday celebration, we wish you and your family a happy and memorable Easter weekend.
Spring is in the air, and that means it’s time for fun-filled events, exciting activities, and plenty of opportunities to get involved with the community! April is shaping up to be an action-packed month, and Recreation & Parks has an amazing lineup of Easter celebrations, pickleball games, and wellness fairs that you won’t want to miss.
Mark your calendars and gather your friends and family—here’s what’s happening this month!
🐰 Easter Eggstravaganza!
Get ready to hop into the Easter spirit with egg hunts and festivals happening across the city. Whether you’re on the lookout for colorful eggs or just want to enjoy some festive fun, there’s an event for everyone!
Saturday, April 12: 🥚 Easter Egg Extravaganza – Bernie Ward Community Center (1 PM – 3 PM) 🥚 Perry Broadcasting Easter Egg Hunt – May Park Community Center (11 AM)
Saturday, April 19: 🐣 Easter Egg Hunt – Warren Road Community Center (2 PM – 5 PM) 🐣 Easter Egg Hunt – Carrie J. Mays Family Life Center (12 PM – 2 PM) 🐣 Easter Festival – Sand Hills Community Center (12 PM – 2 PM) 🐣 Easter Eggstravaganza 2025 – Henry H. Brigham Community Center (11 AM – 2 PM)
🏓 April is for Pickleball!
Did you know April is National Pickleball Month? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, come join the fun with these special events:
🏓 Dink All Day – Warren Road Community Center (Thursday, April 10, 10 AM – 6 PM) 🏓 National Pickleball Month Event – May Park (Saturday, April 19, 12 PM – 4 PM) 🏓 Pickleball Open Play Day – Bernie Ward Community Center (Tuesday, April 29, 10 AM – 2 PM)
💙 Community & Wellness Events
April isn’t just about Easter and pickleball—it’s also a time to focus on health, wellness, and giving back! Check out these upcoming events:
🌿 Serenity Resource Fair – May Park (Thursday, April 24, 10 AM – 2 PM) 🎡 Spring Health & Wellness Carnival – Bernie Ward Community Center (Saturday, April 26, 10 AM – 2 PM) 🚿 Project Refresh – May Park (Wednesday, April 30, 9 AM – 2 PM)
With so many amazing events happening this April, there’s no excuse to stay indoors! Gather your family and friends, get active, and enjoy all the fun and excitement the community has to offer. We can’t wait to see you there!
For more information and updates, stay tuned—there’s always more to come! 🚀
Augusta, Georgia, is known worldwide as the home of the Masters Tournament, but beyond the fairways and greens lies a rich history of African American caddies whose contributions shaped the game in ways often overlooked. For generations, Black caddies played an integral role in Augusta’s golfing legacy, serving as expert guides for some of the sport’s greatest players while forging a strong cultural identity within the Sand Hills neighborhood.
The Unseen Champions of Augusta’s Golf Legacy
During the early days of the Masters Tournament, caddies weren’t just bag carriers—they were strategists, mentors, and essential figures in a player’s success. These men possessed unmatched knowledge of Augusta National Golf Club’s layout, using their insight to navigate the course’s tricky greens and unpredictable slopes.
Some of the most celebrated African American caddies included:
Willie “Cemetery” Perteet – Known for his calm demeanor and sharp course knowledge, he worked with multiple golfers at Augusta National.
Willie Peterson, Jr. – The trusted caddie for Jack Nicklaus, who won five Masters titles with Peterson by his side.
Carl Jackson – A record-setting caddie who worked 54 Masters Tournaments and helped Ben Crenshaw to victory in 1984 and 1995.
Edwin B. McCoy, Jr. – A legendary figure in Augusta’s caddie history, guiding several players to success.
Roosevelt Smalley, Sr. – Another icon whose contributions helped elevate the role of Black caddies in professional golf.
These men, among many others, transformed caddying into an art form, elevating their roles beyond mere assistants to indispensable figures in golf’s most prestigious tournaments.
The Sand Hills Community: A Historic Hub
Many of these legendary caddies hailed from Augusta’s Sand Hills neighborhood, an area that became a hub for Black caddies due to its proximity to Augusta National and the Augusta Country Club. The Sand Hills community nurtured generations of young men who, with mentorship from seasoned caddies, learned the skills necessary to excel in the sport. This neighborhood wasn’t just a place of residence; it was a cultural foundation for Augusta’s golfing traditions, where knowledge was passed down, and a sense of pride in caddie excellence was instilled.
Commemorating Their Legacy: The Black Caddies Sculpture Unveiling
To honor the contributions of these remarkable men, the Black Caddies Sculpture will be unveiled at the Sand Hills Community Center on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 3 PM. This commemorative piece, created by Ed Durant and Baruti Tucker, stands as a tribute to the caddies who shaped Augusta’s golf history. Inspired by images of legendary caddies such as William Stokes, Willie Peterson, Jr., Edwin B. McCoy, Jr., Jariah Beard, Sr., Carl Jackson, and Roosevelt Smalley, Sr., the sculpture immortalizes their legacy in a way that ensures their stories live on.
The unveiling ceremony will feature reflections from golf historians, former caddies, and community leaders, along with a keynote speech by Garreth Carpenter, the grandnephew of Masters Champion Caddy E.B. McCoy, Jr. The event will be followed by a reception, where attendees can further engage with the history and impact of Augusta’s African American caddies.
A Call to the Community
The unveiling of the Black Caddies Sculpture is more than just an event—it is a moment of recognition, appreciation, and historical preservation. We invite all members of the Augusta community to join us in celebrating these unsung heroes. Their stories, sacrifices, and contributions deserve to be remembered and honored. This sculpture not only cements their place in golf history but also serves as an inspiration for future generations.
Mark your calendars for April 3, 2025, at 3 PM at the Sand Hills Community Center, and be part of this historic moment as Augusta pays tribute to the Black caddies who helped shape the game of golf.
After months of careful assessment and restoration following Hurricane Helene, Augusta’s historic cemeteries—Magnolia, Cedar Grove, and West View—are finally reopening to the public. These cemeteries are not just resting places but living testaments to the city’s rich and diverse history. While damage from fallen trees, flooding, and structural instability required extensive work, Augusta officials have put together a phased reopening plan that prioritizes both safety and accessibility.
If you have been waiting to visit a loved one’s grave, the city welcomes you back with open arms. However, those interested in exploring these historic grounds for educational or sightseeing purposes are encouraged to wait until the full reopening in April, allowing families to have priority access during the initial phase.
Phased Reopening Schedule
Since safety remains a top priority, the reopening will happen in stages, allowing officials to manage visitor flow while keeping restricted areas off-limits:
March 26-28, 2025 (Initial Reopening): Cemeteries will be open for limited hours on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday—8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
March 31, 2025 (Expanded Hours): Cemeteries will open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Weekend visits will be available by appointment only on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon.
April 7, 2025 (Full Reopening): Normal access will resume, though visitors must sign in at the front office, and staff will continue monitoring any unsafe areas.
To enter, all visitors must sign a waiver upon arrival, acknowledging that some areas are still undergoing restoration. Cemetery staff will be on-site to guide visitors and ensure no one enters restricted zones.
The Stories Behind the Headstones
Augusta’s cemeteries are more than just burial sites; they are pages of history set in stone. Each one tells a different chapter of Augusta’s past, from Civil War generals and community leaders to the untold stories of enslaved individuals and immigrant workers.
Magnolia Cemetery: A Walk Through Time
Founded in 1818, Magnolia Cemetery is one of Augusta’s most historic burial grounds, covering over 60 acres of land. It is home to some of the city’s most famous figures, including seven Confederate generals, veterans of the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and both World Wars, and even Augusta’s early mayors. The cemetery’s grand mausoleums, ornate headstones, and weathered statues tell stories of a bygone era. Walking through Magnolia feels like stepping into the past, where each grave holds a piece of the city’s history.
Cedar Grove Cemetery: Augusta’s African American Legacy
Few cemeteries in Georgia hold as much African American history as Cedar Grove Cemetery. Established in 1818, it was initially designated as a burial ground for enslaved individuals. Today, it serves as a powerful reminder of Augusta’s past, with gravestones and markers that date back over 180 years. The cemetery is the final resting place of generations of Black community leaders, educators, and military veterans, reflecting both the struggles and triumphs of Augusta’s African American population. Many graves remain unmarked, telling silent stories of those who were not given recognition in life but whose legacies endure.
West View Cemetery: A Community’s Resting Place
The youngest of the three cemeteries, West View Cemetery, was established in 1900 to accommodate the growing population of Augusta’s mill workers and their families. Unlike Magnolia, which was reserved for Augusta’s wealthier citizens, West View became the burial ground for everyday people—laborers, soldiers, immigrants, and children. West View is unique in its diversity. There is a section dedicated to Chinese immigrants, reflecting Augusta’s once-thriving Chinese community. Another area is set aside for paupers, ensuring that even those without wealth were given a dignified resting place. Additionally, a large portion of the cemetery is reserved for military veterans, honoring their service with rows of uniform headstones.
Visiting These Sacred Grounds
While Augusta’s cemeteries are places of mourning and remembrance, they are also places of learning and reflection. The city understands that many history enthusiasts and tourists are eager to visit, but during the initial reopening phase, the priority is to provide families with a peaceful space to grieve and reconnect with their loved ones. If your visit is not for personal remembrance, waiting until the full reopening on April 7 will ensure a more complete and enriching experience.
To ensure a smooth visit:
Check the schedule before heading out, especially during the phased reopening.
Sign in and sign the waiver upon arrival.
Follow staff guidance and respect any restricted areas.
Schedule an appointment for weekend visits during the expanded hours period.
For further information or to make an appointment, contact:
Cedar Grove Cemetery: (706) 821-1748
Magnolia Cemetery: (706) 821-1746
West View Cemetery: (706) 733-6741
As Augusta continues its recovery from Hurricane Helene, the reopening of these cemeteries marks an important step in preserving the city’s history and honoring those who came before us. Whether you have personal ties to those buried here or plan to visit for historical exploration, these cemeteries hold stories waiting to be discovered—and the best time for sightseeing will be once the full reopening is complete.
Thank you to everyone who attended the Augusta Recreation & Parks Career Fair on March 19, 2025, at the Henry H. Brigham Community Center! We were thrilled to connect with so many talented individuals interested in joining our team.
The event was a great success, bringing together job seekers eager to explore careers in Recreation, Athletics, Aquatics, Special Events, and Parks & Maintenance. Our team had the opportunity to engage with enthusiastic candidates, answer questions, and provide insights into the meaningful work we do to serve the Augusta community.
If you missed the event, there’s still good news—you can still apply for open positions! We are actively hiring for full-time, part-time, permanent, and seasonal roles. Visit the Augusta, Georgia website to view and apply for available positions: https://bit.ly/3RiWMrq.
We appreciate the support of everyone who made this event a success, from our dedicated staff to all the job seekers who took the time to learn more about working with us. We look forward to welcoming new team members who share our passion for serving the community.
Every March 17, people around the world come together to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, a holiday that honors the patron saint of Ireland and embraces Irish culture, heritage, and, of course, a bit of festive fun. Here in Augusta, our Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration bring the community together for a lively day filled with music, dancing, and plenty of green!
A Look at the History of St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day dates back over 1,000 years, commemorating St. Patrick, the missionary credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. Legend has it that he used the shamrock to explain the concept of the Holy Trinity, which is why the clover remains one of the most recognizable symbols of the holiday today. While St. Patrick’s Day originally began as a religious feast day, it has since evolved into a global celebration of Irish identity, folklore, and traditions.
In the United States, Irish immigrants helped popularize the holiday in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in cities like Boston, New York, and Chicago, where large Irish communities gathered to celebrate their heritage. Today, cities across the country—including Augusta—host parades, festivals, and cultural events to honor the Irish spirit and bring people together.
Augusta’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
One of the highlights of St. Patrick’s Day in Augusta is our Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a tradition that fills the streets with festive floats, marching bands, and Irish pride. From 2 PM to 4 PM, families and friends can gather downtown to watch as the community comes alive with music, dance, and a sea of green attire.
After the parade, the fun continues at Augusta Common, where we hosts an exciting post-parade celebration featuring: 🎶 Four live bands playing a mix of Irish tunes and lively music 🍀 Food vendors serving delicious festival favorites 🍻 Refreshing drinks to keep the celebration going
More Than Just a Party—A Celebration of Community
St. Patrick’s Day is more than just an excuse to wear green—it’s a celebration of resilience, tradition, and togetherness. Whether you have Irish ancestry or simply love the energy of the holiday, St. Patrick’s Day in Augusta is a chance to connect with others, enjoy live music, and experience the joy of a shared celebration.
So, grab your shamrocks, gather your friends, and join us downtown for an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Augusta Common. No matter where you’re from, today everyone is a little bit Irish!
Aging gracefully is all about staying active, connected, and engaged in a vibrant community. The Augusta Recreation & Parks Department, in partnership with the Area Agency on Aging, is dedicated to enriching the lives of senior adults aged 60 and older in Augusta, Georgia. Through a variety of programs and services, seniors can enjoy social opportunities, wellness activities, and nutritious meals—all designed to support their well-being and independence.
A Place to Thrive
Our senior program is more than just a service—it’s a community. Every weekday, seniors can visit one of our participating recreation centers to enjoy a warm, welcoming environment where friendships are formed, laughter is shared, and new experiences await. Whether you’re interested in a lively game of bingo, an invigorating fitness class, or simply enjoying a nutritious meal in great company, there’s something for everyone.
Nutrition and Wellness Support
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining health and vitality as we age. That’s why we offer free congregate meals at our senior centers, ensuring that participants receive a balanced, delicious meal in a friendly group setting. For those who qualify, homebound meal delivery is also available, allowing seniors who are unable to visit a center to still receive nutritious meals delivered to their homes.
Additionally, our centers provide nutrition education, helping seniors make informed choices about their diet and overall wellness. Wellness programs focus on physical health, including exercise classes and health screenings, to keep seniors feeling their best.
Socialization and Engaging Activities
Staying socially active is just as important as staying physically active. Our senior centers host a variety of activities that foster community and engagement, including:
Arts and crafts – Unleash your creativity and express yourself through hands-on projects.
Bingo and games – Enjoy friendly competition and entertainment while meeting new people.
Fitness classes – Stay active with gentle, senior-friendly exercises designed for all mobility levels.
Special events and celebrations – Join in on themed parties, holiday gatherings, and community outings.
These activities not only bring joy and fun but also provide mental stimulation and emotional support, helping seniors maintain a positive and fulfilling lifestyle.
Affordable and Accessible Services
We understand that accessibility is essential. That’s why we offer limited transportation services for eligible seniors based on income, helping them travel to and from our centers with ease. In addition, we provide discounts on select recreation programs and fitness classes, ensuring that seniors can participate in enriching activities at little to no cost.
How to Get Involved
Participating in the Senior Program is simple. If you or a loved one are interested in joining, just visit or contact your nearest senior center. Our friendly staff will guide you through the enrollment process and help determine eligibility for meal services.
For those unable to visit in person, home-delivered meals may be available for qualified individuals. Simply reach out to your closest senior center to learn more.
Find a Senior Center Near You
Our senior programs are offered at multiple locations throughout Augusta:
Blythe Area Recreation Center
3129 HWY 88, Blythe, GA (706) 592-6668 Monday – Friday | 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Henry Brigham Senior Center
2463 Golden Camp Road (706) 771-2654 Monday – Friday | 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Carrie J. Mays Family Life Center
1014 11th Ave, Augusta, GA 30901 (706) 821-2821 Monday – Friday | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Augusta Recreation & Parks Department is committed to making sure every senior in our community has access to enriching experiences that support their health, happiness, and independence. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay active, enjoy a nutritious meal, or simply make new friends, our senior program is here for you.
Don’t wait—discover all that our centers have to offer and become part of a welcoming and supportive community today!
