Asheville Reporter

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) has unveiled a comprehensive schedule of water-based activities for the summer, promising an array of fun-filled events for community members of all ages. The program includes water games, foam parties, and various pop-up programs. Outdoor pools at Recreation Park and Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center will open for the season on Memorial Day weekend, while Pack Square Park’s popular free splash pad, Splasheville, is already open.

Participants are advised to bring sunscreen, towels, sunglasses, and water bottles. Suitable clothing and footwear that can withstand getting wet are recommended for events at parks and community centers; bathing suits are required for pool programs. Some programs have limited space availability, hence advance registration at AVLREC.com is encouraged.

The lineup includes Foam Frenzy Parties in Parks which transform local parks into lands of fun with foam-filled afternoons. Summer Splash Water Days offer a variety of water-themed activities to help beat the heat. River Snorkeling allows participants to explore mountain streams from a new perspective just under the surface.

For adults seeking fitness options, B.A.L.L (Be Active Live Longer) gentle water aerobics are available on Saturdays from June 15-August 10 at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center’s Outdoor Pool.

Other highlights include Water Field Day Frenzy competitions, Beach Towel Tye Dye sessions encouraging children's creativity, Teen DJ Spin & Swim Pool Parties featuring food and music for local teens, Summertime Water Play designed for adults aged 50 or better and Splashing Sprouts offering enriching water adventures for toddlers.

Two outdoor pools located at Recreation Park and Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center will be operational this summer season with daily swim costs set at $3 per day or seasonal passes available for purchase.

In addition to these aquatic activities, all APR community centers offer air conditioning and WiFi access. Free community offerings include exercise classes, hobby clubs, card and board games, dances, cooking and healthy living classes, affinity groups, arts and crafts, music jams and drum circles, trivia, salsa and line dancing, indoor basketball, programs for teens and young adults, special events among others.

APR reminds community members to practice smart sun safety measures during extreme temperatures. These include drinking plenty of hydrating fluids (avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and sugary beverages), wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing, staying out of the sun as much as possible.

Asheville Parks & Recreation has a rich history dating back to the 1890s. The department manages over 65 public parks, playgrounds, open spaces throughout the city along with recreation centers, swimming pools, Riverside Cemetery sports fields and courts. Its portfolio includes 10 miles of paved greenways and numerous natural surface trails providing a vibrant hub for Ashevillians to connect with their neighbors while exploring the natural beauty of their city.