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Austin Parks Foundation’s Free ‘In the Park’ Series Returns This Spring

Learn more about the free events featuring fitness classes, movies, playdates and more happening in Austin parks this spring

Austin Parks Foundation presents “Movies in the Park” at Dick Nichols Park in Austin, Texas. (Photo by HLK Fotos)
Austin Parks Foundation presents "Movies in the Park" at Dick Nichols Park in Austin, Texas. (Photo by HLK Fotos)

The beloved “In the Park” series from Austin Parks Foundation (APF) is returning this spring with a new lineup of free outdoor programming designed to bring the community together in parks across the city. Created to engage Austinites of all ages, the seasonal series offers a variety of interactive experiences. With support from local partners and community organizations, the program aims to connect residents with their neighborhood green spaces while encouraging wellness, creativity and community.

This spring’s lineup includes Spark in the Park, Fitness in the Park, Playdates in the Park, Art in the Park, Hoops in the Park and Movies in the Park, all taking place in various local parks.

Spark in the Park

New this season, Spark in the Park is an eight-week outdoor wellness program designed especially for older adults. Created in partnership with Age-Friendly Austin and Aging is Cool, the program features light exercises aimed at helping adults stay active and socially connected.

Upcoming sessions include:

  • March 16 at 11 a.m. – Gus Garcia District Park
  • March 19 at 10 a.m. – Garrison District Park
Austin Parks Foundation presents Fitness in the Park at Zilker. (Photo courtesy of APF)
Austin Parks Foundation presents “Fitness in the Park” at Zilker Metropolitan Park. (Photo courtesy of APF)

Fitness in the Park

Fitness in the Park focusing on beginner-friendly pickleball clinics. Hosted in partnership with Austin Pickle Ranch, the sessions provide all the equipment needed for newcomers to try the fast-growing sport. The first clinic will be held March 25 at Gus Garcia District Park.

Austin Parks Foundation presents "Playdates in the Park." (Photo courtesy of Austin Parks Foundation)
Austin Parks Foundation presents “Playdates in the Park.” (Photo courtesy of Austin Parks Foundation)

Playdates in the Park

Families with younger children can attend Playdates in the Park, which feature storytime, crafts and interactive activities led by community partners. The program is organized with Creative Action and includes participation from groups like BookSpring, Texas Book Festival and Austin Public Library. The first playdate of the season will take place March 11 at Little Walnut Creek Greenbelt Playground and wraps up with a dance party for families.

Austin Parks Foundation hosts “Art in the Park” on March 14 at Chestnut Pocket Park.
Austin Parks Foundation hosts “Art in the Park” on March 14 at Chestnut Pocket Park. (Photo courtesy of Austin Parks Foundation)

Art in the Park

Creative programming continues with Art in the Park, where kids and families can participate in nature-inspired art activities guided by Painting Pandas. The first event will be held March 14 at Chestnut Pocket Park.

RELATED: The Best Neighborhood Parks in Austin

Austin Parks Foundation hosts a “Hoops in the Park” basketball clinic for middle school students on March 14 at Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park.
Austin Parks Foundation hosts a “Hoops in the Park” basketball clinic for middle school students on March 14 at Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park. (Photo courtesy of Austin Parks Foundation)

Hoops in the Park

Young athletes can also take part in Hoops in the Park, a basketball workshop for students in fifth through eighth grade hosted with Make a Difference Sports. The session focuses on skill-building and teamwork and will take place March 14 at Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park.

Austin Parks Foundation will present “Superman” during its “Movies in the Park” series on March 20 at Mueller Lake Park.
Austin Parks Foundation will present “Superman” during its “Movies in the Park” series on March 20 at Mueller Lake Park. (Photo by HLK Fotos)

Movies in the Park

The series will also continue its longtime tradition of Movies in the Park, bringing outdoor film screenings to neighborhood parks. This year’s lineup includes films like “Superman” and “K-Pop Demon Hunters,” with popcorn from Cornucopia Popcorn and popsicles from Goodpop available at select screenings. The first movie night of the season, “Superman” is scheduled for March 20 at 6 p.m. at Mueller Lake Park.

For more information on the “In the Park” series, visit austinparks.org.