The opening of new unique climbing and play features at Northeastern Park. Photo by Paul Hooper, courtesy of Lexington (Kentucky) Parks and Recreation.

Each July, we celebrate park and recreation professionals and how they improve the lives of tens of millions of people, making a lasting impact in communities across the country. Park and recreation programs are essential to community health and well-being and help cultivate lifelong friendships, memories and experiences.

Vote for the 2026 Park and Recreation Month theme by November 17, 2025, at midnight EDT:

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Stay tuned for the announcement of the winning theme, followed by the outreach toolkit, graphics and resources in early 2026 to help you celebrate all July long.

We can’t wait to celebrate another unforgettable Park and Recreation Month!

Proclaim July as Park and Recreation Month In Your Community

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Proclaiming July as Park and Recreation Month is an opportunity for your community and local leadership to officially acknowledge the importance of parks and recreation and the benefits it provides to the people you serve.

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Park and Recreation Professionals Day

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Park and Recreation Professionals Day is Friday, July 17, 2026. This is a day to celebrate the dedicated professionals who build strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation.

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Park and Recreation Month Cover Contest

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Read about our 2025 Park and Recreation Month Cover Contest winner in the July issue of Parks & Recreation magazine.

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