Aerial image of Jones Park

El Paso County Recreation Services Announces Events for July and August. All programs require pre-registration. In light of Covid19, programs are subject to cancellation. Please call for current status.

CONTACT: Theresa Odello, Recreation Coordinator, 719-520-6977, theresaodello@elpasoco.com

ONLINE REGISTRATION: www.elpasocountynaturecenters.com

Concerts in the Park ARE BACK!

Rock, country, bluegrass, jazz and more – we have it all this summer at the El Paso County Concerts in the Park series. Bring your picnic, lawn chairs or blanket and the family to enjoy the summer nights with some great outdoor entertainment. All concerts are free and are from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Concerts in the Park is presented by El Paso County Community Services Department, Pikes Peak Jazz and Swing Society, and Anonymous Presents Concerts.

Here is this year’s lineup:

July 14 — New Horizons Kicks Band — Bear Creek Regional Park

July 21 — Triple Play — Bear Creek Regional Park

July 22 — Peak Big Band — Fox Run Regional Park

July 28 — All In Jazz — Bear Creek Regional Park

July 29 — Dotsero — Fox Run Regional Park

August 4 — AJE Big Band — Bear Creek Regional Park

August 5 — Hammerstadt Band — Fox Run Regional Park

August 11 — Swing Connection Big Band — Bear Creek Regional Park

August 12 — Ashlee Tatum & Longshot Revival — Homestead Ranch Regional Park

August 18 — Jorica — Bear Creek Regional Park

August 19 — Surprise Artist! — Fox Run Regional Park

August 25 — Springs Contemporary Big Band — Bear Creek Regional Park

August 26 — Wirewood Station — Fox Run Regional Park

September 1 — Falconaires Alumni Band — Bear Creek Regional Park

September 2 — Inman Brothers Band — Fox Run Regional Park

Intro to Remote Control Flying

Saturday, July 14, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at Pikes Peak Remote Control Club Field

Are you interested in learning more about remote control flying? Want to learn the difference between drones, planes and gliders? All are welcome to this drop-in event to learn about the different types of remote control devices and how and where to fly them legally in El Paso County. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions, talk about where to fly in the area, and review the different types of remote control flying. Drop in anytime between 9am and 1pm to learn more about this hobby and see some remote control planes, gliders and drones take flight!

50k for 50 Years Hiking Series

Take the pledge to hike 50k to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of El Paso County Parks! Register on-line to either join us or complete the hikes on your own. Those that complete the entire 50k challenge will get a commemorative neck gaiter and entered in a raffle for additional prizes. Next group hike: July 23, Jones Park Open Space.

Rainbow Falls Volunteer Day: Weed Removal

Friday, August 13, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Spend a morning giving back to your community by helping clean up the weeds at Rainbow Falls. Be sure to dress appropriately, bring a water bottle and work gloves if you have them. All are welcome: call 719-520-6977 to RSVP.

First Aid, CPR, AED, Blended Learning Course

Tuesday, August 17, 6:00 to 7:45 p.m., Bear Creek Nature Center

This American Red Cross course will prepare you to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing and cardiac emergencies involving adults, children and infants. This blended learning course includes an online portion and an instructor-led classroom skill session. Upon completion, participants will receive a Certification through the American Red Cross valid for two years from completion date. Participants must be at least 16 years old to take this class. $75 for the class; $20 fee for cancellations/rescheduling.

Family Cornhole Tournament

Saturday, August 28, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., At Fountain Creek Regional Park

Come to Fountain Creek Regional Park to try your hand at Cornhole! This tournament is a family focused event and is good for all ages. Bring the family and a picnic to enjoy the day at the park. All proceeds will go to Friends of El Paso County Nature Centers, a 501-c-3 organization. For more information call 719-520-6977.

Youth Division: 12 years old and under: $10 per team

Teen Division: age 13 to 16 years old: $15 per team

Adult Division: age 17 to 117 years old: $20 per team

($5 discount for Friends of El Paso County Nature Centers, and Military Families and Veterans with ID)

El Paso Pacers

Third Thursday of every month, 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Participating in a walking club rewards both body and soul. Walking boosts energy levels, improves blood circulation, lowers blood pressure, combats depression and reduces stress. This hike is easy/moderate, casual pace, about 2 miles and is geared towards seasoned adults. Registration required: hike location will be given upon registration. $1 per person donation.