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Columbia Parks & Recreation offers a variety of special events throughout the year. Events showcase Columbia's cultural diversity, encourage volunteerism and promote health and wellness. From preschoolers to seniors, special events also provide a lot of fun and entertainment.
January | February | March | April | May | June
July | August | September | October | November | December
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Candle Light March & Memorial Celebration
Monday, January 21, 2013 - 6:30 pm
The candle light march will begin at 6:30 pm at Douglass High School. The Memorial Celebration will be held at 7 pm at Second Baptist Church (407 E. Broadway). Open to all, free.
Black History Month 2013 Celebration
Host the History: Schedule and host a Black History presentation! Organizations, schools, agencies etc. please call for reservations. Groups can view a presentation on site or at your location for free, weekdays in February. Call Bill at 874-6379.
Panel Discussion: “Where Do We Go From Here?”
Tuesday, February 19, 2013, 7:00 p.m.
Armory Sports Center - 701 E. Ash
A dialogue on the state of our nation in light of the November election results and what the next four years will bring. A diverse panel will discuss and take comments from the audience.
African-American Film & Discussion
Thursday, February 7, 2013, 7:00 p.m.
Armory Sports Center - 701 E. Ash
"Setting the Record Straight" reintroduces this generation to the forgotten heroes and untold stories from our rich African American political history.
Black History Month Valentine's Day Talent Show
Thursday, February 14, 2013, 6:30 p.m.
Douglass High School Gym
Come out and enjoy some great local talent!
Gospel Explosion & Soul Food Dinner Musical Celebration
Sunday, February 24, 2013, 3 p.m.
St. Luke UMC – 204 E Ash
Come and enjoy lots of great gospel music from local and regional acts. Afterwards there will be a soul food feast for all that attend. Free.
Women's Month Film
Thurs, March 7, 2013 - 7:00 pm
Armory Sports Center
Precious Moments/Women’s Award Recognition
Thurs, March 21, 2013 - 7:00 pm
Armory Sports Center
Come share a precious moment with that special woman in your life with a poem, song, story or acknowledge her however you wish. Let her know how important she is to you. This is your stage.
36th Annual Train Show
Sat, March 16, 2013, 10 am-3 pm
Paquin Tower, 1201 Paquin Street - FREE
All aboard! Come to the Train Show and see a wide variety of displays involving trans and the early days of transportation as well as video and photographs on rail travel. Sponsored by Mid-Mo Railfans, Columbia Parks and Recreation & Paquin Tower Recreation Council.
Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza
Sat., March 30, 2013, 12-1:15 pm
Douglass Park
Bring your children (ages 12 and under) out for a free, fun, candy-filled Egg Hunt before Easter. There will be 2 separate hunts in different areas designated by age. Enjoy other activities such as coloring, face painting, pinning the Easter eggs and more. Note: Please call 874-6378 if you or your organization would like to volunteer by hosting a game or activity.
Tons of Trucks
Wed, April 3, 2013
Rainbow Softball Center at Cosmo Park, Free
Trucks and other vehicles of all shapes and sizes will be on display for you to admire, wander around, climb on, and sit in. Access the Rainbow Parking Lot through main entrance of Cosmo Park. This event is free and held in rain or shine. Free!
RESCHEDULED Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt
Thurs, April 4, 2013, 7:45-8:15pm
Riechmann Pavilion @ Stephens Lake Park - 2300 E. Walnut
Cost: $7 per child - Pre registration is required
Get your flashlight and basket ready for the annual Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt! Win prizes! Register early, limited number of spaces.
7:45 pm for ages 3-5
8 pm for ages 6-7
8:15 pm for ages 8-10
Kite Flying Day
Saturday, April 6, 2013 - 12-2 pm
Douglass Park Ball Field, FREE
Bring your kites and let's have a great time! This is a great chance for parents to fly kites with your children and family just like the good ole days! A number of kites will be given to children that do not have one to fly. Contest categories are Largest Flying Kite, Smallest Flying Kite & the Highest Flyer. Prizes will be awarded to winners. LET'S FILL THE SKY! Rain date is Saturday, April 13. Call 817-5077 for more information.
RESCHEDULED Family Fun Fest: Teen Fest
Wednesday, April 24, 2013, 6-8 pm
Flat Branch Park, Free
3rd Wednesday April through September
Entertainment for the whole family, including activities, music, face painting and more. Each month features a different theme. This month:
Local teen talent will perform. Sponsored by the Youth Community Coalition and in collaboration with the Rainbow House.
The Family Fun Fest series is sponsored by Convention and Visitors Bureau, KPLA 101.5 radio, KOMU TV8, Columbia Home magazine and EntPro Entertainment.
Earth Day
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Check columbiaearthday.org for details.
Earth Day Family Trail Ride
Sunday, April 21, 2013 - 11:30 am
MKT, Forum Nature Area
Join us on an earth friendly, 3-mile ride on the MKT Trail to Earth Day in downtown Columbia. Helmets are required for all riders. The first 100 participants will receive a tail light! While enjoying the Earth Day Festivities, leave your bike at the free, secured bike corral (“coat check” for bicycles) parking area. Bike corral hours are noon – 6:00 pm.
Hershey Track and Field Meet
Sunday, April 28, 2013, Hickman H.S. Track
Introduction to track and field activities for both boys and girls. Local winners advance to state meet, with chance to further advance nationally to Hershey, Pennsylvania. Free to kids ages 9-14 (proof of birth date must be provided). Register at Parks and Recreation office, the Armory or the ARC.
RESCHEDULED Stephens Lake Park Amphitheater Concert Series
Norm Ruebling Band
Thursday, May 23, 2013 7-9 pm, Free
Join us at the beautiful Stephens Lake Park Amphitheater for an evening of music under the stars. Bring a blanket or low lawn chair. COncert Series sponsored by KPLA 101.5 and KFRU1400.
Performance sponsored by MO-X and Will West Music
POSTPONED Movies in the Park
Friday, May 3, 2013, 8:30 pm
Flat Branch Park, $2 per person, free for kids 8 and under
Bring a blanket and enjoy a movie on the large, inflatable screen under the stars! Concessions available. No rain dates. Sponsored by Parks and Recreation and KPLA 101.5.
This month: Brave (PG)
CANCELLED MLB Pitch Hit and Run
Saturday, May 4, 2013, 9:30 am registration, 10 am event starts
American Legion Park
Official skills competition of Major League Baseball, event is free and open to boys and girls. Children must be ages 7-14. Copy of birth certificate required.
Mary Goldstein Water Safety Day
Sunday, May 5, 2013, 4-6 pm, Free
Hickman Pool
Jumpstart to a safe summer in and around the water! For kids ages 4 to 10. This clinic will feature four stations to reinforce safe habits, skills and fun water games. Registration required, as space is limited.
12th Annual Bike, Walk & Wheel Week
May 11-18, 2013
Check our web page for a full schedule!
Family Fun Fest: Fitness is Fun
Wednesday, May 15, 2013, 6-8 pm
Flat Branch Park, Free
3rd Wednesday April through September
Entertainment for the whole family, including activities, music, face painting and more. Each month features a different theme. This month:
Fitness is Fun will celebrate Bike, Walk and Wheel Week and will include activities and demonstrations showing you how to get fit! Sponsored by the ARC.
The Family Fun Fest series is sponsored by Convention and Visitors Bureau, KPLA 101.5 radio, KOMU TV8, Columbia Home magazine and EntPro Entertainment.
Trails Day 5K Walk & 10K Bike
Saturday, May 18, 2013, 9-10 am, Free
MKT Trail at Stadium entrance
Join the walk/run or bike on one of Columbia's most beautiful trails. The run/walk/bike is not a timed event. Pre-registration is not required. Free! Participants will get a t-shirt while supplies last.
3rd Annual Fishing Derby
Saturday, June 1, 2013, 9:30 -10:30 am, Check in from 9-9:30 am
Philips Park
Bring the whole family and enjoy a morning of fishing! Prizes will be awarded for first fish caught, largest and smallest fish in each age category: ages 10 and under, ages 11 and above. Co-sponsored by Mo. Dept. of Conservation.
Art in the Park
Saturday-Sunday, June 1-2, 2013, 10 am-5 pm (Sat) and 10 am-4 pm (Sun)
Stephens Lake Park
Organized by the Columbia Art League. Will feature more than 110 artists, musical and magical entertainment and children's creative area. Visit artintheparkcolumbia.org for details.
Stephens Lake Park Amphitheater Concert Series
Missouri Symphony Society
Thursday, June 6, 2013, 7-9 pm, Free
Join us at the beautiful Stephens Lake Park Amphitheater for an evening of music under the stars. Bring a blanket or low lawn chair. Concert Series sponsored by KPLA 101.5 and KFRU 1400.
Performance sponsored by City Office of Cultural Affairs and Missouri Arts Council
Shred Fest Skateboarding Event
Saturday, June 8, 2013, 4-7 pm
Columbia Skate Park at Cosmo Park
Celebrate National Skateboarding Day with Shred Fest! Enter the best trick contest, enjoy great music, helmet giveaways and food. All ages are welcome at this free event! Presented by Parks and Recreation, Parkside Skate Shop, Blue Springs Tiger Pilot Club and Youth Community Coalition.
Lunch in the Park
June 10 through August 9, 2013
Douglass Park Shelter - 11:30 am-1 pm
All children are welcome to enjoy lunch in the park on weekdays! Lunch will be served at the Douglass Park shelter. This program is funded by the United States Department of Agriculture and the food program is carried out in a partnership between the City's Health Department and Voluntary Action Center. Lunch is not served on July 4.
Movies in the Park
Friday, June 14, 2013, 9 pm
Flat Branch Park, $2 per person, free for kids 8 and under
Bring a blanket and enjoy a movie on the large, inflatable screen under the stars! Concessions available. No rain dates. Sponsored by Parks and Recreation, KPLA 101.5 and Boone Electric Community Trust.
This month: Hotel Transylvania (PG)
Annual Juneteenth Days
Saturday-Sunday, June 15-16, 2013, 3-8 pm
Douglass Park
Come and celebrate African-American heritage in the park with bands, choirs, speakers, games and food. Bring your lawn chair or blanket.
Family Fun Fest: Explore Outdoors
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 6-8 pm
Flat Branch Park, Free
3rd Wednesday April through September
Entertainment for the whole family, including activities, music, bounce house, face painting and more. Each month features a different theme. This month:
Explore Outdoors promises an evening of fun with nature! Learn about Missouri's fish, birds, parks, camping and more about what the outdoors has to offer.
The Family Fun Fest series is sponsored by Convention and Visitors Bureau, KPLA 101.5 radio, KOMU TV8, Columbia Home magazine and EntPro Entertainment.
4th of July Fire In The Sky:
The 61st Annual Celebration of an
American Tradition
Thursday, July 4, 2013- Free
Flat Branch Park and The District - Entertainment starts at 6:30 pm - Fireworks begin after 9 pm
Music, entertainment and fireworks! For more information, call 874-7460.
Stephens Lake Park Amphitheater Concert Series
Community Band
Thursday, July 11, 2013 7-9 pm, Free
Join us at the beautiful Stephens Lake Park Amphitheater for an evening of music under the stars. Bring a blanket or low lawn chair. Concert Series sponsored by KPLA 101.5 and KFRU1400.
Movies in the Park
Friday, July 12, 2013, 9 pm
Flat Branch Park, $2 per person, free for kids 8 and under
Bring a blanket and enjoy a movie on the large, inflatable screen under the stars! Concessions available. No rain dates. Sponsored by Parks and Recreation, KPLA 101.5 and Boone Electric Community Trust.
This month: Rise of the Guardians (PG)
Family Fun Fest: Summer Fun
Wednesday, July 17, 2013, 6-8 pm
Flat Branch Park, Free
3rd Wednesday April through September
Entertainment for the whole family, including activities, music, face painting and more. Each month features a different theme. This month:
A variety of summer-inspired entertainment and hands-on activities for all ages.
The Family Fun Fest series is sponsored by Convention and Visitors Bureau, KPLA 101.5 radio, KOMU TV8, Columbia Home magazine and EntPro Entertainment.
Stephens Lake Park Amphitheater Concert Series
Table for Five
Thursday, August 1, 2013 7-9 pm, Free
Join us at the beautiful Stephens Lake Park Amphitheater for an evening of music under the stars. Bring a blanket or low lawn chair. Concert Series sponsored by KPLA 101.5 and KFRU1400.
Movies in the Park
Friday, August 9, 2013, 8:30 pm
Flat Branch Park, $2 per person, free for kids 8 and under
Bring a blanket and enjoy a movie on the large, inflatable screen under the stars! Concessions available. No rain dates. Sponsored by Parks and Recreation, KPLA 101.5 and Boone Electric Community Trust.
This month: Escape from Planet Earth (PG)
NFL Punt, Pass and Kick
Saturday, August 10, 2013, 9:30 am check in, free
Cosmo Park Football Field #4
Fall Leisure Times published
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Teen Garage Band Bash
Friday, August 16, 2013, 7-9 pm
Top of Parking Garage, 6th & Cherry, $2 admission
Columbia Parks & Recreation, Public Works and the Youth Community Coalition are throwing a "back to school" band bash. Bands will be announced later.
Family Fun Fest: Around the World
Wednesday, August 21, 2013, 6-8 pm
Flat Branch Park, Free
3rd Wednesday April through September
Entertainment for the whole family, including activities, music, face painting and more. Each month features a different theme. This month:
Travel the globe with dancing, music, games and more.
The Family Fun Fest series is sponsored by Convention and Visitors Bureau, KPLA 101.5 radio, KOMU TV8, Columbia Home magazine and EntPro Entertainment.
Pooch Plunge
2013 information TBA
Finish off the 'dog days' of summer at Albert-Oakland Family Aquatic Center. The pool (sorry no slides) is open for dogs and must be accompanied by an adult. DOGS SWIM ONLY! Owners are responsible for cleaning up any accidents! Dog and owner must be pre-registered to participate. Limited space! Friendly dogs only! Call 874-7460 to register with a Visa or MasterCard.
Stephens Lake Park Amphitheater Concert Series
Norm Ruebling Band
Thursday, September 5, 2013- 7-9 pm, Free
Join us at the beautiful Stephens Lake Park Amphitheater for an evening of music under the stars. Bring a blanket or low lawn chair. COncert Series sponsored by KPLA 101.5 and KFRU1400.
Performance sponsored by MO-X and Will West Music
Movies in the Park
Friday, September 13, 2013, 8:30 pm
Flat Branch Park, $2 per person, free for kids 8 and under
Bring a blanket and enjoy a movie on the large, inflatable screen under the stars! Concessions available. No rain dates. Sponsored by Parks and Recreation, KPLA 101.5 and Boone Electric Community Trust.
This month: Brave (PG)
Family Fun Fest: Creative Kids
Wednesday, September 18, 2013, 6-8 pm
Flat Branch Park, Free
3rd Wednesday April through September
Entertainment for the whole family, including activities, music, face painting and more. Each month features a different theme. This month:
Participatory art activities and kid-friendly performances of music, theater and dance. Sponsored by the City's Office of Cultural Affairs and the Missouri Arts Council.
The Family Fun Fest series is sponsored by Convention and Visitors Bureau, KPLA 101.5 radio, KOMU TV8, Columbia Home magazine and EntPro Entertainment.
Annual Heritage Festival & Craft Show
September 21 & 22, 2013 - 10 am-5 pm
Nifong Park, Hwy 63 S at AC exit, FREE
Visitors will be taken back to the traditions of the past. Listen, learn, and see history as it comes alive. See artisans and tradesmen dressed in 19th century attire demonstrating their trades and selling their wares. A large contemporary handmade craft area will also be featured. Enjoy entertainment on two stages including music, dancing and storytelling. Saturday Ghost Stories (8-9:30 pm) are sponsored by the Mid-Missouri Organization Storytellers. Tour the Historic Maplewood Home and the Walter’s Boone County Historical Museum. Great food and a beautiful park setting will make the Heritage Festival a family tradition!
Classic Car Collectors Show
Sunday, October 7, 11 am-4 pm
Whether you're a car buff or history buff, you'll love the buffed and polished look of these classic cars in the Mid-Missouri Classic Car Collectors Show in Historic Nifong Park. The Boone County Museum and Galleries, Maplewood House and Boone Junction buildings will be open to visitors. Food from the mobile Hwy 63 Diner will be available for sale in the park. Bring the family and join the fun! Come see if your winners match the judges choices and cast your vote for people's choice awards! Sponsored by the Boone County Historical Society.
One Sky, One World Day
Sunday, Oct 14, 10 am-4 pm
Cosmo-Bethel Park
Join kite flying enthusiasts from all over Missouri for this special one day event. Similar events will be held all over the United States and around the World.
Holiday Toys for Columbia's Youth
Oct 22-Dec 12, 2012
Get in the giving spirit this holiday season! When you are out shopping this holiday season, pick up an extra gift for a needy child. Monetary donations are accepted at 1 South 7th Street . We accept cash, check or debit/credit card. A letter of receipt for tax purposes will be provided for your generosity. Please call 874-7460 for more information.
2012 BYOBW “Track or Treat”
Saturday, Oct 27, 9-10:30 am
Ages 2-6, Price $5
Riders can bring their fanciest Big Wheel, tricycle, or other pedal powered vehicle and cruise the ARC Track! Halloween props will be set up for an exciting haunted ride and great photo ops for parents! Tons of prizes and awards will be given to all riders and mileage will be recorded. All equipment must be clean and approved by event staff before entering the track surface. Absolutely no bicycles! Track is closed to walkers/joggers during event. Don't forget the costume!
Tiger Night of Fun
Wednesday, October 31, 2012, 6-8 pm
Hearnes Center
Don't miss the annual free alternative to going door-to-door for candy! Tiger Night of Fun will feature games, activities and plenty of treats. If your group or organization is interested in sponsoring a booth, contact Janel at 874-7700. Booth registration form is here.
Winter Leisure Times published
Wednesday, November 12, 2013
December (2013 information to come)
Holiday Toys for Columbia's Youth
Ends Dec 12, 2012
Get in the giving spirit this holiday season! When you are out shopping this holiday season, pick up an extra gift for a needy child. Monetary donations are accepted at 1 South 7th Street . We accept cash, check or debit/credit card. A letter of receipt for tax purposes will be provided for your generosity. Please call 874-7460 for more information.
Santa Hotline
Sat, Dec 1, 2012
Children between the ages of 3-10 can call the North Pole from 9 am to 3 pm and will have the opportunity to speak with Santa or Mrs. Claus or one of the many elves. CALL 874-7473 or 874-6335 only on this day.
City Kwanzaa Celebration
Sat, Dec 8, 2012, 2-5 pm
Douglass High School Gym
Come celebrate this African-American holiday which is based around developing positive families and communities. There will be community awards given, entertainment and a holiday feast. Please call 874-6379 for more information. Free.
Holiday Lights and Sights Tour
Wed, Dec 19, 2012, 6:15-7:30 pm or 7:45-9 pm
Meet at the ARC
Enjoy the holiday lights from the comfort of one of our mini-buses! Price is $8 per person, you must pre-register by calling 874-7460 or 874-7700. Space is limited.
First Night® Columbia in The District
The Night is Young!
Dec 31, 7 pm to midnight
(Columbia Parks and Recreation is one of the sponsors for First Night Columbia.)
Ring in the New Year at mid-Missouri’s premier celebration! Revelers will enjoy a spectacular variety of entertainment at 12 venues in downtown Columbia.
Young visitors can visit the "Create and Celebrate" area and participate in their own procession at 9:15 p.m. that will end with a fireworks display. At 11:30 p.m., the People’s Procession will lead revelers to the finale at Courthouse Square with a countdown and fireworks at midnight. Admission buttons will be available December 1 for $8. Those 7 and under will be admitted free, and those purchasing a button ahead of time will be entered into a drawing for prizes. Admission will be $10 at the door. For more information, visit http://www.firstnightcolumbia.org
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