Danville Parks and Recreation is challenging the community to get out and play this July as a part of National Parks and Recreation Association’s Parks and Recreation Month.
“Play is a vital part of every community,” said Recreation Department Director Bill Sgrinia. “When you go to a park, throw a Frisbee, walk your dog, fish or just sit by the river, you are nurturing a positive lifestyle and as a result are positively affecting your mental health. We want everyone to play and play often, and we especially encourage play during Parks and Recreation Month.”
Parks and Recreation has plenty of activities during the month of July to celebrate Parks and Recreation Month.
July will kick off on July 4 with the Danville Regional Medical Center Patriot Challenge Trail Run, which includes a 5K, 10K and Children’s Fun Run. The cost is $25 in advance and $35 day of for the 5K and 10K; the children’s run is $5.
The July Fourth Celebration at the Crossing will begin at 6 p.m. The event is free and will feature the Danville Symphony Orchestra, Captain Jim’s Magical Illusion Show as well as children’s arts and crafts. Food concessions and amusement rides will be available (ATM on site).
Music on Main Concert Series will have two offerings during the month of July with Mel Melton and the Wicked Mojos on July 13 and Cruize Control on July 27. Both concerts are free and will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Main Street Plaza. In case of rain, the shows will move to the Carrington Pavilion.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the river this summer, either by renting a canoe, kayak or standup paddleboard or by participating in one of many Parks and Recreation sponsored programs. Birding on the Dan will be held on July 13, Wildlife Kayak Tour will take place on July 21, Danville History By Kayak is scheduled for July 22 and Kayaking for Beginners is set for July 27. All classes are $12 each. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 434-799-5150 to register.
The Abreu-Grogan Boat House is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Canoes cost $40/boat while kayaks and paddleboards cost $20. All rentals include necessary life jackets and equipment. Boats can also be reserved Monday – Friday by visiting the City Auditorium or calling (434) 799-5150.
The Danville Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and on Wednesdays in July from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Coates Recreation, Stonewall Therapeutic Recreation and Outdoor Recreation Summer Camps are ongoing throughout the summer. Call (434) 799-5200 for more information or to register your children.
Teen Basketball Tournaments will be hosted at the City Auditorium on July 7 and 21. Gym opens at 4 p.m. and the tournament starts at 5 p.m. There is no cost to participate.
Rec Mobile and the Fun Wagon will be visiting neighborhoods throughout the community twice daily, Monday – Friday throughout the month of July. The Fun Wagon features a giant sprinkler while Rec Mobile is a traveling recreation center full of games and activities. A full schedule can be downloaded at www.PlayDanvilleVA.com.
Ballou Recreation Center and Danville Public Library have full schedules of classes and programs going on throughout the month of July and all summer. Visit www.PlayDanvilleVA.com and download the summer edition of “Play Danville” magazine to view activities.
Danville is also home to the 11.7-mile Riverwalk Trail, the Anglers Ridge Mountain Bike Trail and numerous parks and playgrounds including Dan Daniel Memorial Park, Ballou Park and Anglers Park.
Visit www.PlayDanvilleVA.com for more information or to download a brochure.
