Did you know that July is NRPA’s Park and Recreation Month? Join Howard County Recreation & Parks as we celebrate with FREE movie/game nights, Zumba, food trucks, concerts and more. There is something for everyone!
Recreation & Parks Month Events:
July 1 (Lawn opens at 7:15pm): Movie Night at Blandair Regional Park - North - Encanto
Bring your picnic dinner, flashlight and blanket for an under-the-stars movie night. Enjoy the movie with friends and family while immersing in the outdoor environment surrounding you. Movie scheduled to start between 8-8:30pm. Inclement Weather: Status line will be updated by 3pm on Saturday; inclement weather line: 410-313-4451, option 3 and 3 again for Therapeutic Recreation.
July 10 & 31 (6-8pm): Glow in the Dark Pickleball at North Laurel Community Center
Enjoy a night of fun with Glow in the Dark pickleball at North Laurel Community Center.
July 14 & 20 (6-8pm): Food Trucks and Backyard Games
Join us for backyard games and tasty food, complimented by the evening sky. Friends and families can enjoy games such as pony hop, corn hole, and Jenga, as well as delicious food from great food trucks. July 14 at Troy Park and July 20 at Blandair Park. Inclement Weather Line updated by 3pm on that day: 410-313-4451, option 2.
July 25 (6-7pm): Zumba in the Park at Blandair Park North
Enjoy an evening of Zumba at Blandair Park North. Bring yourself or come with family; it is an equally fun experience solo or with a group. Inclement Weather Line updated by 3pm on that day: 410-313-4451, option 2.
July 27 (6-8pm): Art in the Park at North Laurel Community Center
Join us for fine and performing arts at North Laurel Community Center. Pinot’s Palette will facilitate a painting experience that is enjoyable for all. Take in the event with the whole family, or enjoy as an individual experience. Inclement Weather Line updated by 3pm on that day: 410-313-4451, option 2.
** Preregistration is required because space is limited. Time slots are for 6:15 and 7:15pm. Register at www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0545ABAD2DA1FB6-artinthe1
July 29 (Check in at 6:30pm, movie starts at 7pm) Dive-In Movie (Moana) Night at Roger Carter Community Center
We’re finally doing it! Our first ever Dive-in Movie! Doors open at 6:30pm; Moana starts at 7pm. Movie will be played on the pool deck utilizing an inflatable screen and sound system. If there is inclement weather we will move into the multipurpose rooms. Free popcorn for everyone with a move ticket, which you get at the door.
**Preregistration is required because space is limited. Register at www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0545ABAD2DA1FB6-dive
Additional activities in July
July 4: Howard County's July 4th Fireworks
Howard County and the Columbia Association will co-host the annual July 4th fireworks at the Lakefront at Columbia, beginning around 9:20pm on July 4. The 20-minute fireworks show will start around 9:20pm at Lake Kittamaqundi in Columbia. There will be two bands on the Lakefront stage, as well as food trucks and vendors. For more information, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/july-4th-fireworks.
July 8: Solar Fest at Alpha Ridge Park
Back by popular demand! Howard County Recreation & Parks is teaming up with the Howard Astronomical League for a fun evening of science, engineering, arts, crafts, games, astronomy and more. Enjoy vendors providing interactive and dynamic STEAM activities. Bring the whole family and enjoy fun for all ages. Preregistration is required, space is limited. Info: www.howardcountymd.gov/solarfest or Danielle Bassett, 410-313-4634 or dbassett@howardcountymd.gov.
July 9: Wild for Water Day at Robinson Nature Center
Don’t stay dry! Join us for our biggest summer event. Enjoy water games & experiments for the whole family. Participate in a river treasure hunt. Meet live creatures that depend on rivers and streams. Explore the wonders of “snow," ice and water in the “stages of water” area for little ones. Food trucks on-site. On-site parking is limited. Off-site parking with complimentary shuttle available when parking lot fills. Info: www.howardcountymd.gov/recreation-parks/wild-water-day-all-ages-0
July 12, 19 & 26: Weekly Wednesdays Summer Concerts
For more information on our summer concerts, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/summerconcerts.
July 14 & 28: Nite Bite Fishing at Centennial Park
Have you ever wanted to fish Centennial Lake at night? Now’s your chance! Join Howard County Recreation & Parks for a unique opportunity to fish the lake after hours. Bring your own fishing pole, bait, tackle, bug repellant, flashlight or lantern, chair, or boat. On-site registration only; all anglers must be checked in by 7pm. Under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult. Complete details available at www.tinyurl.com/HCRPNiteBiteFishing.
July 16: Sensory-Friendly Sunday at Robinson Nature Center
These events are designed for families with kids, teens, and adults with sensory-processing differences, autism spectrum disorder, or developmental disabilities. Robinson Nature Center exhibits, trails and outdoor play area open early. Enjoy self-paced activities including sensory bins and pathways, scavenger hunts, crafts, or games. Planetarium open between 11am-noon. Preregister to receive additional info prior to the event. Learn more HERE.