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COLUMBUS—In celebration of Parks and Recreation Month in July, Polk County Parks and Recreation is gearing up for a series of fun-filled events catering to both kids and adults. The highlight of the upcoming activities is the much-anticipated Gibson Park & Pool Party. 

Scheduled for July 13 from noon to 5 p.m., the Park & Pool Party will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the unveiling of a brand-new playground at Gibson Park. After the removal of the old playground equipment three years ago, the park has now been equipped with all-new amenities. Attendees can look forward to a range of exciting activities, including the Mermaid/Merman Pool Party and a friendly kickball game for the adults. The event will also feature games and a hot dog lunch, and the Island Ice truck will also be on-site. Additionally, the concession stand will be open for refreshments, and entry to the pool will be free. 

The month will commence with Messy Mondays, scheduled to take place every Monday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Mill Spring Rec Center located at 235 Wolverine Trail Rd. Participants, both children and adults, are invited to engage in a variety of games and messy activities involving items such as shaving cream, play dough, and water games. Past Messy Mondays have entailed the creation of slime and tie-dye shirts. 

Laura Baird, Executive Director of Polk County Parks & Rec, expressed, “It’s an opportunity for kids and adults to have a fun, relaxing day playing outside and getting messy.” 

Volunteers are encouraged to participate in the trail clean-up day on July 25 at the Mill Spring Rec Center. The day will encompass several projects, including the development of an outdoor classroom for the Middle School, as well as the construction of a horseshoe pit and picnic area. 

Further activities slated for July include the Summer Art Camp from July 1 to 3rd and the Community Campfire on July 26. 

For more information about these events and volunteer opportunities, visit Polk County Parks and Recreation on Facebook or call (828) 894-8199