2022 marks the 12th anniversary of Kids to Parks Day, an annual day of outdoor exploration at local, state, and national parks and public lands across the country.  Organized by National Park Trust, the mission of Kids to Parks Day is to foster future outdoor enthusiasts and help with developing the next generation of park stewards by engaging kids in memorable outdoor experiences.

Hosted on the third Saturday of each May, Kids to Parks Day encourages kids and families to get outside and create their own adventure at thousands of local park events and programs.  The Palm Bay Recreation Department has several activities scheduled for Kids to Park Day this year.

On Saturday morning, May 21, kids are invited to participate in a free nature hike through the Turkey Creek Sanctuary.  Participants should meet at the sanctuary Nature Center no later than 9 a.m.  The tour will take place on the boardwalk and various trails located throughout the sanctuary and will be led by the park ranger.  The tour is approximately 1 to 1.5 miles long and will focus on common plants and animals found in the sanctuary.  Space is limited, and preregistration is required at PlayOnline.PalmBayFlorida.org.

At noon, the Palm Bay Aquatic Center will host a free Pool Bash with swimming, food trucks, games, and a dance party.  The aquatic center has a capacity of 200 people.  Patrons will be admitted on a first come, first serve basis as space allows.

The Kids to Parks Day celebration will conclude with a free Move in the Park at Fred Poppe Regional Park beginning at 8:15 p.m.  The event will feature Luca (PG) shown on a large outdoor movie screen.  Seating begins at 7:15 p.m.  Patrons are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, snacks, and bug spray to enjoy the movie under the stars.  The movie is sponsored by Avtec Homes.

For more information on any of the Kids to Parks Day events, call Palm Bay Recreation at (321) 726-2760.  In the event of bad weather, call the Palm Bay Recreation Special Events Rain-Out Hotline at (321) 726-5682.