Parks and Rec Month

Build, Explore, Play: Join the Fun!

July is Parks and Recreation Month! Help us celebrate during Build, Explore, Play. This day is about bringing the community together to enjoy hands-on activities, outdoor exploration, and family fun. 

• Saturday, July 12
• 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Friendship Park
• Admission: FREE

Nature Photo Contest: Unleash Your Inner Artist!

Now through Tuesday, July 15

Capture the beauty of Gahanna by entering our Nature Photo Contest. Snap a photo of your favorite outdoor spot in the city and show off the natural charm that makes Gahanna special. Go to ExploreGahannaParks.com for more details and send your photo submissions to gahannaparksandrecreation@gmail.com.

Independence Day in Gahanna

Independence Day Celebration- Presented by Kemba Financial

Thursday, July 3 from 5 - 11 p.m.

Join us for an unforgettable celebration of Independence Day at the Gahanna Municipal Golf Course presented by Kemba Financial and sponsored by G&J Pepsi—an evening of music, food, and fireworks. Get ready for a night of excitement under the stars Thursday, July 3 (weather permitting): 

• Live music kicks off at 5:30 p.m. with crowd-favorite Nat and the Boys
• Followed by high-energy hits from Session Five starting at 7:45 p.m. 
• Food trucks will be serving up delicious eats all evening long 
• Cap off the night with a dazzling fireworks show at 10 p.m.—don’t forget your chairs and blankets! 

Independence Day Parade

Friday, July 4

Join us the next morning for the Independence Day Parade, presented by the Gahanna Lions Club! The parade steps off at Clark Hall at 10:30 a.m. and will proceed down Granville Street, ending at Royal Plaza Shopping Center on Stygler Road.

Go to ExploreGahannaParks.com for event details, maps, vendor lists and more!

Summer Event Series

Creekside Live

Set against the scenic backdrop of Creekside Park, this FREE event invites music lovers of all ages to enjoy live performances from a diverse lineup of local bands and artists. Grab a CORA drink, meet up with friends, then set up your seats for a night to remember.

Friday, July 11
Opener: The Boogie Woogie Kid | 5 - 7 p.m.
Headliner: Bears on Unicycles | 7:30 - 10 p.m.

Friday, July 25
Opener: Annie Hawe | 5 - 7 p.m.
Headliner: The Funky Uncles | 7:30 - 10 p.m.

The Gahanna Market

The first market is in the books! This reimagined market is built on a commitment to fresh, local products, sustainability, and community interaction. Don't miss the next market, where you can stroll through Creekside to shop local vendors, enjoy live music from the Rotary Stage (presented by Visit Gahanna) and enjoy family friendly activities.

• Wednesday, July 23
• 4 - 7 p.m.
• Creekside Park and Plaza
• Admission: FREE

Cinema Under the Stars

Sponsored by Tina Wedebrook, RE/MAX Connection and Heartland Bank

This isn't just another movie night, it's an experience! Arrive early to enjoy yard games and crafts from 5 - 8 p.m., then snag the perfect spot on the hill before the big screen lights up at 8 p.m.

• Friday, July 18 | Kung Fu Panda 4 (PG)
• 5 - 10 p.m.
• Friendship Park
• Admission: FREE

Aquatics

Dive-In Movie

Bring your friends, grab your floaties and dive into the ultimate movie night, sponsored by GSTCO! Our Dive-In Movies are a great opportunity to relaxing, swimming, and spending quality time with friends and family. July's movie will be Disturbia (PG-13).

• Saturday, July 12
• Admission begins at 6 p.m.
• Hunters Ridge Pool
• Admission: $8 PM/$10 R/ $15 NR

Night Swim with DJ Matt Ryan

This action-packed event will include live entertainment, games and contests, including the Biggest Splash Contest, to win prizes! Bring the whole family and get ready for a fun-filled evening!

• Thursday, July 17
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Gahanna Swimming Pool
• Admission: $8 PM/$10 R/ $15 NR

Fridays on the Grill

Don't forget! We will be grilling out all summer long at the Gahanna Swimming Pool! Join us each Friday for $1 hot dogs and $3 grilled hamburgers. This is a great way for the whole family to end the week together, and who doesn't like not having to cook dinner?

• Fridays through August 8
• 4 - 8 p.m.
• Gahanna Swimming Pool
• Admission: Pool Membership or Day Pass required

Adult Programs

Adult Summer Camp

Who says camp is just for kids? Step back into the magic of your youth with a grown-up twist on all your favorite summer camp memories! Whether you're racing to first base in a spirited game of kickball, paddling across the water in a kayak, or getting hands-on with fun, nostalgic crafts, there's something for everyone to enjoy. It's the perfect blend of play, creativity, and connection—no curfews, just pure summer joy. Bring your sense of adventure (and maybe a few friends!) and rediscover what made summer camp unforgettable.

• Saturday, July 19
• 2 - 9 p.m.
• Gahanna Swimming Pool
• Fee: $20 PM/$28 R/$35 NR

Adult Pickleball

Serve up some fun – Pickleball lessons are back! There’s still time to register for our Adult Pickleball Lessons this July– the fast-growing paddle sport that’s easy to learn and tons of fun! Whether you’re just getting started or looking to sharpen your skills, we’ve got you covered with beginner and intermediate classes. All ages and fitness levels welcome – come see why everyone’s talking about pickleball!

• Monday sessions start July 7
• Friday sessions start July 11

Save your spot today!

Gahanna Senior Center

Attention Senior Center members! We've got a GREAT event line up for July. Take a look at what's on the calendar this month so you don't miss out.

Summer Picnic

Kick-off the summer season with yard games, water games, and a picnic lunch.

• Thursday, July 10
• 12 p.m.
• Senior Center

Hamilton at the Ohio Theater

Covering the American Revolution and political history of the early United States, this fast-paced musical is an enjoyable experience for both history and music lovers.

• Tuesday, July 15
• 4:30 - 10:30 p.m.
• The Ohio Theater

Senior Day at the Ohio State Fair

This premier agricultural-based fair showcases the best of Ohio with world-class visitor experiences. Celebrate Senior Day with a special senior concert and activities.

• Tuesday, July 29
• 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
• The Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds

Save-the-Date for the 2025 Senior Expo!

Meet with a variety of vendors, learn resources available to you, meet new friends, and discover the variety of programs offered through the Gahanna Senior Center. This event is open to the public, no membership required!

• Thursday, September 18
• 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• The Gahanna Sanctuary

Want to join in on the fun? Senior Center memberships are available for purchase year-round to both residents and non-residents ages 55+. Call 614-342-4265 or stop into our Gahanna Senior Center (480 Rocky Fork Blvd.) to purchase yours today!

Snow Cones at the Splashpad

Looking for a fun and refreshing way to spend your summer afternoon? Head over to the splashpad and dive into one of our favorite warm-weather traditions! Cool off, laugh with neighbors, and make new friends. And while you're at it, treat yourself to a complimentary snow cone—because nothing says summer like icy, fruity goodness under the sun. Whether you're a kid, parent, or just a fan of fun, this is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Don’t miss out—your sweetest summer memories start here!

• Friday, July 11
• 10 - 11 a.m.
• Gahanna Splashpad

Outdoor Exploration

Kayaking 101

Learn the basics of paddling and get comfortable on the water through this introduction to kayaking. Participants will practice on land and get hands-on experience on the water. 

• Tuesday, July 8
• 5 - 7 p.m.
• Hannah Park

Celestial Paddles

Go on an adventure to see unique lunar events, such as full moons and meteor showers as you float along Hoover Reservoir. This month, our guides will lead you to view the Buck Moon for a unique summer experience.

• Thursday, July 10
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Hoover Reservoir Oxbow Road Boat Ramp

Big Walnut Kayak Float

Enjoy an afternoon in nature as you float through the Big Walnut Creek on this two-mile trek.

• Saturday, July 26
• 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Hoover Reservoir Park

Paddle Gahanna

Creekside paddleboat and kayak rentals are officially open for the season, and there’s no better way to soak up the sunshine! Glide through the scenic waterways of Creekside Park, where peaceful currents, lush greenery, and hidden corners of natural beauty await around every bend. Whether you're looking for a relaxing solo paddle or a fun outing with family and friends, a 30-minute rental is the perfect mini adventure.

Visit PaddleGahanna.com for full summer hours and to book your adventures today!

Muddy Miler

Calling all thrill-seekers, mud lovers, and outdoor adventurers—the Muddy Miler is back, and it's messier than ever! This family-friendly adventure run, sponsored by Tina Wedebrook, RE/MAX Connection, is packed with muddy obstacles, splash zones, and slippery fun for all ages. Whether you're leaping over logs, crawling through ooze, or racing through the woods, one thing's for sure: you will get muddy from head to toe—and you'll love every second of it.

So lace up your oldest sneakers, bring your wild side, and get ready to conquer the course. It’s the perfect way to explore the outdoors, challenge yourself, and make unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Registration is now OPEN! Save your spot today!

Warning: Clean clothes and dry feet not guaranteed. Fun absolutely is.