Parks & Recreation

Overview

The Cornelius Parks & Recreation Department works to enhance the lives of citizens and visitors by providing exceptional parks, greenways, and community experiences, from sports leagues and fitness classes to summer camps and family events. Don't see what you like? Make a suggestion!  

Keep up:

View current and archived editions of our monthly e-newsletter.

What's Happening

Public MeetingHelp us craft a new Comprehensive Parks and Greenways Master Plan! Cornelius residents are invited to attend one or more of our listening sessions offered at Town Hall on Thursdays, October 5 and November 2, 12-1 p.m. and 6:45-8 p.m. each day. The new plan will identify current and emerging needs and allow us to develop facilities to help meet them. Let us hear from you!
Tawba Walk crowdBring your family to the 'Tawba Walk, a Town-sponsored event featuring dozens of local vendors, live musical performances, shopping, amazing food, and more. In Downtown Cornelius on Saturday, September 30, 2-8 p.m. Free to attend, with concessions and other items available for purchase.
AADS 2021Registration is now open for the 23rd Annual All American Dog Show, to be held on Sunday, October 1, 2-5 p.m. at Robbins Park. It is free to attend, but registration is required to participate in the contests, and online, early-bird registration is just $6 for up to two contests. Onsite registration on event day will be $10. In addition to the fun and friendly competitions, visitors can enjoy raffles, concessions, pet-related vendors, and more.
Festival of Cultures graphicJoin us  at Cain Park on Saturday, October 7, 3-6 p.m., as we
celebrate over twelve different cultures at the first ever Cornelius Festival of Cultures! Enjoy unique food and arts & crafts vendors, live performances, and more! This event is free to attend, with concessions and other items for sale.
2nd FridayCome to downtown Cornelius on Friday, October 13, 6-10 p.m., for the 2nd Friday Street Festival. Enjoy live music, food trucks, local breweries, local artisans, and more at this free monthly event.
Laketoberfest2021If it's October, it's time for Laketoberfest! Join us Saturday, October 14, 4-9 p.m., at Bailey Road Park, for this award-winning Lake Norman favorite. Enjoy live music from Pluto for Planet and Machine Gun Band, over a dozen local craft breweries, NC wine and cider, and a variety of delicious food trucks and concessionaires. Fun activities for everyone including our Kids Zone, axe throwing and more. Admission, parking, and shuttles service are free. Proceeds benefit Lake Norman Wildlife Conservationists. NO PETS allowed at this event.
Fitness groupView our list of Athletics, Fitness Classes & Recreation programs. Register now for the next sessions of our popular fitness classes including Tai Chi and Yoga for Youth, or drop in for Cardio Funk!  
Visit our greenways and trails, including the Emerald Necklace, a 13-mile greenway network that can connect you to where you live, work, congregate, and recreate. Download our maps and get moving today!
Gift CertificateLooking for a unique gift for friends or family? A gift certificate from Cornelius Parks & Recreation is always the right size! Gift certificates can be used for full-day & partial-day summer camps, fitness classes, and more. 
Facility ImageWe offer a variety of Parks, Recreation Centers, and Trails & Greenways for your enjoyment. Read more about renting a shelter, field, gym, or court.