Celebrating Nature and Community: Palm Bay's Kids to Parks Day 2023
On May 20, 2023, the city of Palm Bay, Florida, will once again celebrate the annual Kids to Parks Day, a nationwide initiative encouraging children and families to explore their local parks and engage in outdoor activities. This year, the Palm Bay Recreation Department has planned a variety of exciting events to mark the occasion, offering a day full of adventure, learning, and fun for all ages.
Youth Nature Hike at Turkey Creek Sanctuary
The day will kick off with a Youth Nature Hike at the Turkey Creek Sanctuary from 9 AM to 10:30 AM. This event, suitable for ages 4 to 17, will be led by a Park Ranger and will focus on the common plants and animals found in the sanctuary. The hike will cover approximately 1 to 1.5 miles of sandy trails and boardwalks, offering a light to moderate intensity experience. Participants are encouraged to dress appropriately and bring essentials such as water, snacks, binoculars, and a hat.
Free Open Gym at Tony Rosa Community Center
From 9 AM to 12 PM, the Tony Rosa Community Center will host a free open gym for kids under 18, offering a chance to enjoy some basketball. Proper gym shoes are required, and children under 9 must be supervised by an adult.
The Smurfs Great Escape Game at Fred Poppe Regional Park
Fred Poppe Regional Park will transform into a giant outdoor escape room for The Smurfs Great Escape Game, running from 9 AM to 4 PM. Teams of 2-6 players will solve puzzles and complete challenges to help the Smurfs escape from Gargamel and his evil invention, The Worminator.
Instructors Open House at Ted Whitlock Community Center
The Ted Whitlock Community Center will hold an Instructors Open House from 10 AM to 12 PM. This event will showcase various programs offered by the city's instructors, including Jazzercise, Tae Kwon Do, Japanese Swords, Nicole Cote School of Dance, Aikido, and more. Both children and adults are welcome to learn about these exciting opportunities.
Palm Bay Pool Bash at Palm Bay Aquatic Center
From 12 PM to 4 PM, the Palm Bay Aquatic Center will host a free pool bash, complete with food trucks, games, swimming, and a dance party. The pool has a capacity of 200, so be sure to arrive early!
Free Movie at the Pool at Palm Bay Aquatic Center
To wrap up the day, the Palm Bay Aquatic Center will host a free movie night from 7 PM to 10 PM. Families can enjoy open swimming and watch the beloved film "Finding Nemo" from the pool.
Kids to Parks Day is not just about the organized events. Families are encouraged to explore Palm Bay's 31 parks, 2 community centers, senior center, aquatic center, wildlife sanctuary, nature center, skate park, and dog park at their leisure. This day serves as a reminder of the joy and benefits of outdoor play and the importance of preserving our parks and public spaces. So, mark your calendars for May 20, 2023, and get ready for a day of fun and adventure in Palm Bay, Florida!
Sounds fun!