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!  

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What's Happening

Top Gun 2.jpg.100Looking for a fun adult night out? Join us Saturday, June 3, at Smithville Park for our adults only Outdoor Cinema night! Gates open at 6:30 p.m. with delicious grilled food from B's Grill and beverages from D9 available for purchase, yard games, and more!  We will be showing Top Gun: Maverick at dusk (approximately 8:30 p.m.) Must be 18+ years old to attend. No pets allowed. Don't forget chairs or blankets! 
Food Truck Fridays
Swing by for Food Truck Fridays on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month, June 16 through August! Bring your friends, family, and co-workers and enjoy lunch in the park. We will also have fun games onsite for you to enjoy while you wait for your order or after your meal. All Food Truck Fridays are from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. UP NEXT: June 16, Urban Flavor at Robbins Park, 17738 West Catawba Avenue.
FireworksJoin us Saturday, June 24, 6-10 p.m., for Symphony in the Park & Fireworks at Bailey Road Park! This free, family-friendly evening features the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra. Enjoy beautiful music, food trucks, local beer and wine, children's activities, inflatable bounce houses, and more! No pets allowed at this event. Don't forget chairs or a blanket.
Puzzle Palooza Logo 2Do you love puzzles? Have a competitive streak? Looking for a fun night out with friends and family? Then pair up and join us for our first Puzzle Palooza on Wednesday, June 28, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Teams of two will compete against other teams to see who can finish the same 500-piece jigsaw puzzle the fastest. Registration required, as space is limited. $30 per team for Cornelius residents/$36 for non-residents. Price includes pizza, soft drinks, and the puzzle.
SummerCamps2023View our 2023 Summer Camps Guide listing over 70 camps spread over nine weeks, for ages 4-16. Registration is underway! Many of our half-day sports and recreation camps are sold out, and all full-day camps are sold out. Don't wait any longer!
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!  
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 or court