The History of Decatur’s Touch-a-Truck

March 11, 2026 by Leave a comment

For more than twenty years, Touch-a-Truck has been one of Decatur’s favorite family traditions. Every spring, kids climb into fire engines, honk the horns of big trucks, and meet the people who help keep the city running every day.

What started as a simple idea has grown into a beloved community event that brings families together year after year.

Where the Idea Began

The idea for Decatur’s Touch-a-Truck started in 2002, when a City of Decatur staff member attended a Georgia Recreation and Park Association (GRPA) conference and learned about the concept.

The idea was simple but exciting: give kids the chance to get up close to the trucks and equipment they see around town every day.

The following year, Decatur Parks & Recreation brought the idea to life. In 2003, the first Touch-a-Truck event was organized by longtime Parks & Recreation leader Greg White and held at McKoy Park.

From the beginning, the event was about more than trucks. It was about helping residents connect with the people and services that make the city work. Fire engines, dump trucks, police motorcycles, street sweepers, and other equipment were lined up for kids to explore, climb inside, and ask questions.

Greg White once described the event as a way to show residents “what we do as a city.”

Growing and Moving Around Decatur

As word spread and the event became more popular, Touch-a-Truck needed more space.

Over the years, the event has been hosted in several locations around Decatur, including:

• McKoy Park, where the first event was held in 2003
• The Decatur High School parking lot
• The Callaway Building parking lot in downtown Decatur
• The East Lake MARTA Station parking lot, where the event moved in 2010

Each move helped accommodate more vehicles, more families, and more opportunities for kids to explore.

Today, the event has come full circle and is now back at the Decatur High School parking lot, where it has been held for the past two years.

Adding Touch-a-Budget

Several years after the event began, the City added Touch-a-Budget, expanding the day beyond trucks and equipment.

Touch-a-Budget gives residents the opportunity to meet staff from across city departments and learn more about the programs and services funded through the city’s budget. While kids explore the vehicles, adults can stop by booths, ask questions, and learn more about how the city operates.

It’s a great example of Decatur’s commitment to making local government accessible, informative, and family-friendly.

New Activities and Traditions

Like many long-running community events, Touch-a-Truck continues to evolve.

In recent years, the event has added bike safety and education activities, including a Bike Rodeo where kids can practice riding skills through obstacle courses and learn basic bike safety.

The Bike Rodeo helps introduce young riders to safe biking habits while encouraging more families to explore active transportation in Decatur.

A Decatur Tradition

Today, Touch-a-Truck remains a free, family-friendly event that celebrates the vehicles, workers, and services that help keep Decatur moving.

Kids still climb into the driver’s seats of fire engines, check out construction equipment up close, and learn about the trucks they see around town every day.

More than twenty years after it began, Touch-a-Truck continues to do exactly what it was designed to do: bring the community together and connect residents with the people who help make Decatur such a special place to live.

Filed under Bike Decatur, CFCI, City of Decatur, City of Decatur School System, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Safe Routes to School, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , , , ,

Celebrating Georgia Arbor Day in Decatur

February 20, 2026 by Leave a comment

Today, February 20, is Georgia Arbor Day, a time to recognize the important role trees play in our health, environment, and community. While National Arbor Day is celebrated in April, Georgia observes it earlier because late winter is the ideal time to plant trees in our region while they are still dormant.

Trees do far more than beautify our neighborhoods. Research shows that urban trees improve air quality, reduce heat, support mental health, and even lower rates of chronic disease by encouraging outdoor activity and creating more comfortable spaces for people to walk, bike, and gather. Simply being around trees has been linked to reduced stress and improved overall well-being.

In Decatur, caring for our urban canopy is part of how we support a healthier, more connected community. This year, residents have an opportunity to celebrate Arbor Day together at the upcoming Seed and Scion Exchange on March 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Wylde Center (435 Oakview Road). This casual, drop-in event invites community members to share seeds and scion cuttings, pick up pre-ordered fruit trees, and connect with neighbors who love growing things.

City of Decatur arborists will also be on site to celebrate Arbor Day by giving away native tree and shrub seedlings in limited quantities, available first come, first served. Beginning at 10 a.m., arborists will offer a tree planting and care class, followed by opportunities for participants to either take seedlings home or help plant a native tree or shrub at Decatur’s Green Street property.

Available species include Beech, Burr Oak, American Persimmon, Flowering Dogwood, Sourwood, Witch Hazel, and Ninebark.

Planting trees is an investment in the future. It supports cleaner air, cooler neighborhoods, stronger ecosystems, and healthier people. Whether you plant a tree in your yard, volunteer in your community, or simply spend time outdoors under the canopy, every action contributes to a greener and more vibrant Decatur.

We hope you will join us in celebrating Georgia Arbor Day and growing something together.

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation Tagged with , , ,

Decatur Parks & Recreation Receives Funding to Improve Physical Activity and Nutrition

January 8, 2026 by Leave a comment

CITY OF DECATUR, GEORGIA—The City of Decatur’s Parks & Recreation Department is pleased to announce that it received funding from the Georgia Health Policy Center through the Georgia State Physical Activity and Nutrition (G-SPAN) initiative. G-SPAN is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s State Physical Activity and Nutrition Program (SPAN).

G-SPAN aims to provide safe and accessible physical activity opportunities, make healthy food choices easier, improve nutrition and physical activity in early care and education settings, and support breastfeeding. In support of this effort, G-SPAN has provided funds to Georgia-based organizations to implement new or existing policy, systems, and environmental change across the initiative’s four priority issues.

The City of Decatur is one of 38 community-based organizations funded by CDC’s State Physical Activity and Nutrition Program (SPAN). Together, G-SPAN’s network of 100+ partners are supporting comprehensive obesity prevention efforts across the state working to design communities to increase access to physical activity.

The funding received will support Decatur’s Bike Bus Initiative, a project that will increase safe, active transportation options for students by launching structured, community-supported “bike bus” routes beginning with Decatur’s upper elementary schools. The goal is to build student confidence on bikes, reduce car congestion around schools, and create long-term habits of physical activity for families across the city. This project is a direct response to growing community demand for safer, healthier, and more sustainable ways for students to travel to school, as well as Decatur’s commitment to strengthening its Safe Routes to School program.

“We’re excited to launch a program that not only helps kids build independence and confidence on bikes but also strengthens community connections,” said Gael Doyle, Communications Coordinator for Decatur Parks & Recreation and Safe Routes to School liaison. “This funding allows us to expand a model that community members are already enthusiastic about, making it safer, easier, and more fun for students to choose active transportation.”

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise Tagged with , , , ,

4-H Volunteers Partner with the City for a Day of Environmental Stewardship

December 8, 2025 by 1 Comment

Last Monday, the City of Decatur was proud to welcome a dedicated group of 4-H Club volunteers who rolled up their sleeves to support environmental stewardship through park cleanup, invasive plant removal, and native plantings. The work was led by the City’s Urban Naturalist and Parks & Recreation staff, combining education, hands-on service, and community care.

Throughout the morning, volunteers worked together to remove invasive plant species that compete with native plants and disrupt local ecosystems. With guidance from staff, they also planted native species selected to support pollinators, strengthen habitat, and improve long-term sustainability. In addition, volunteers helped collect litter and debris, leaving the area cleaner and healthier for wildlife and community members alike.

This effort not only improved the health of the land but also gave students a deeper understanding of how thoughtful environmental practices directly benefit their community. The enthusiasm, teamwork, and commitment shown by the 4-H volunteers made a meaningful impact.

We are grateful to the 4-H Club for their service and to our Urban Naturalist and Parks & Recreation team for leading this important work. Partnerships like this help keep Decatur’s parks vibrant, resilient, and welcoming for generations to come.

If your group is interested in participating in a future cleanup, planting, or stewardship project, we encourage you to reach out to Parks & Recreation at DRPD@decaturga.com to get involved.

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Celebrate Car Free Day in Decatur: Choose Active Transportation and Make a Difference

September 22, 2025 by Leave a comment

Every year, communities around the world take part in Car Free Day to reimagine what our streets and neighborhoods could look like with fewer cars and more people walking, biking, or using public transit. Here in the City of Decatur, this day is a perfect opportunity to highlight the many ways our community supports active transportation and the environmental benefits that come with it.

Decatur is a city designed with people in mind. With an extensive sidewalk network, bike lanes, multi-use paths, and three MARTA stations, getting around without a car is easier than ever. Many of our neighborhoods are part of Decatur’s “10-minute community” vision, where schools, parks, shops, and restaurants are all within a short walk or bike ride. Choosing these options for even a few trips a week can make a meaningful impact.

Going car-free, even for a day, has real benefits. Every mile walked, biked, or taken by transit helps reduce air pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and ease traffic congestion. On top of the environmental impact, active transportation supports personal health, encourages social connections, and creates safer, more vibrant streets for everyone.

Whether you walk your child to school, ride your bike to work, or hop on MARTA to meet a friend, Car Free Day is a reminder that the choices we make about how we travel matter. By embracing active transportation in Decatur, we not only help protect our environment but also strengthen the sense of community that makes our city unique.

So this Car Free Day, leave your car at home and take advantage of all the ways Decatur makes it easy to get around sustainably. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more connected city.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Healthy Monday, Monday Campaigns, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , , , ,

Build Together: Creating Parks and Programs for Everyone in Decatur

July 21, 2025 by Leave a comment

At Decatur Parks & Recreation, we believe that when we build together, we build stronger. That means ensuring every playground, program, and park is created with everyone in mind—across age, ability, background, and income. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just guiding principles; they are central to how we serve and shape our community.

One powerful example is the Legacy Park Inclusive Playground, designed so that all children, regardless of physical or developmental ability, can play side by side. It is a space where kids can learn, explore, and grow together, while families gather and connect in a welcoming outdoor setting. This project reflects what is possible when a community comes together to invest in inclusion.

But building together goes beyond infrastructure. It is also about access. Not every family in Decatur has the means to afford afterschool care, athletics, or summer camps. That is why we invite you to support the Mary Miller Decatur Youth Fund, which helps remove financial barriers for local families. The fund, managed by the Decatur Education Foundation, ensures that children can participate in after-school programs, summer school, summer camps and other enrichment opportunities, regardless of their financial situation.

To give, mail a check made out to the Decatur Education Foundation with “Decatur Youth Fund” in the memo line to: 500 S. Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30030
Contributions are tax-deductible. For questions, contact Nancy Brune at 404-377-0494 or nancy.brune@decaturga.com.

This Saturday, join us at Community Day at Ebster Field from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as we wrap up Parks & Recreation Month with a celebration of connection, culture, and play. There will be games, music from DJ K-Kat, food trucks, and a family bike ride. It is a free, family-friendly event that reflects what Decatur is all about: showing up for each other and creating space where everyone belongs.

Filed under City of Decatur, Legacy Park, Teens, Youth Classes, Youth Sports Tagged with ,

Bikes & Brews: Ride Through Decatur This Friday

July 17, 2025 by Leave a comment

Looking for a fun and social way to explore Decatur on two wheels? Join us this Friday, July 18, for Bikes & Brews, our monthly group ride that brings together community members for a casual ride followed by conversation and refreshments at a local establishment.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or simply curious about Decatur’s growing bike culture, this is a great way to get involved, connect with fellow riders, and enjoy the city from a new perspective.

Event Details

Date: Friday, July 18
Time: Meet at 6:30 p.m.
Starting Location: Guild + Journeyman, 115 Clairemont Ave
Ride Length: Approximately 6 miles, at a relaxed, no-drop pace
Post-Ride Meetup: Local establishment

No registration is required. Just bring your bike, your helmet, and a sense of adventure. This event is open to adults only.

Supporting Safe and Active Transportation in Decatur

Decatur is committed to making biking a safe, accessible, and enjoyable option for residents and visitors. Our community has invested in expanding bike infrastructure—like bike lanes, shared-use paths, and improved signage—to support cyclists of all levels. Recent updates to the city’s transportation and mobility plans have emphasized safety, connectivity, and equity, helping more people feel confident choosing active transportation.

Bikes & Brews provides a welcoming space for riders to experience this network firsthand, while exploring neighborhood streets in a fun and supportive group setting.

Safety First

While this ride is casual and social, safety is our top priority. Please review the following before you join:

  • Helmets are required for all riders
  • Check your bike before arriving—ensure tires are inflated, brakes are working, and lights are charged if you’ll be riding home after dark
  • Follow the rules of the road—ride predictably, signal turns, and stay alert
  • Ride respectfully in the group and in the community

Our team will be on hand to help guide the ride and ensure everyone feels comfortable and safe throughout.

Why It Matters

Bikes & Brews isn’t just about cycling—it’s about building community. It’s an opportunity to strengthen connections, share knowledge, and advocate for safer streets for everyone. Whether you ride to work, ride for fun, or are just getting started, your participation helps shape a more active and vibrant Decatur.

Filed under Bike Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise Tagged with , , , ,

Outdoor Activities for a Summer Time Sweat

July 15, 2025 by Leave a comment

Get Outside and Get Moving in Decatur This Summer

There’s no substitute for being outdoors. Fresh air, sunshine, and a breeze through the trees can do wonders—especially after time indoors. This summer, let nature be your gym and Decatur’s parks your playground.

From Glenlake Park to Legacy Park, Decatur offers plenty of outdoor spaces to support your fitness goals while connecting with nature. Whether you’re looking for a high-energy workout or a relaxed afternoon, there are plenty of options:

Biking
Hop on a bike and explore Decatur’s network of bike-friendly streets and trails. Even at a casual pace, cycling helps boost cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and improve mobility. Be sure to wear bright clothing and use bike lights for safety—especially if you’re riding near busy intersections.

Gardening
Scott Park’s community garden is more than just a space to grow veggies—it’s a wellness hub. Digging, weeding, and watering not only build strength and flexibility but can also boost mood and vitamin D exposure.

Nature Hikes
Join the City’s Urban Naturalist for a guided nature walk or hike around Legacy Park. Walking among native plants and wildlife offers physical benefits and a major mental reset. Don’t forget to check out upcoming hikes on our social channels @decaturparksandrec

Swimming
Cool off with a swim at Glenlake, Ebster, or McKoy Pool. Swimming offers a full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, and heart health—plus, it’s the perfect escape from the Georgia heat.

And speaking of heat… stay hydrated!
Summer temps in Decatur can rise quickly, so always bring a reusable water bottle. Drink water before, during, and after activity—even if you don’t feel thirsty. Your body will thank you!

Ready to get moving? Explore all the summer programming and outdoor spaces Decatur Parks & Recreation has to offer at decaturga.com/parksrec. Let’s make this summer one of play, movement, and community connection.

Filed under Aquatics, Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Healthy Monday, Legacy Park, Monday Campaigns Tagged with , , , ,

Cemeteries: The Original Parks

July 7, 2025 by Leave a comment

July is Parks & Recreation Month, and here in Decatur, we’re celebrating by spotlighting an unexpected but special green space—the Historic Decatur Cemetery.

Long before manicured lawns and paved trails, 19th-century cemeteries offered what we now call parks—peaceful landscapes for strolling, reflection, and community togetherness. The city cemetery movement, inspired by Mount Auburn in Boston (est. 1831), combined scenic paths, ornamental plantings, and serene spaces—all for public enjoyment.

Decatur Cemetery: Downtown’s Largest Green Space

  • At 58 acres, it’s the largest greenspace in downtown Decatur, located just a half-mile from the Square.
  • Established in the 1820s (even pre-dating Decatur’s incorporation in 1823), it’s the oldest burial ground in metro Atlanta, now housing over 20,000 graves.
  • The Victorian-style 7.5-acre Old Section, with its curving paths and landmark monuments, reflects early “cemetery park” design.
  • Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997, offering a living classroom of local history .

Meet the Friends of Decatur Cemetery

The volunteer group Friends of Decatur Cemetery works alongside the City to preserve, maintain, and enliven this space—through tree plantings, gazebo restorations, tours, and educational outreach.

Join the Scavenger Hunt & Celebrate!

n celebration of Parks & Recreation Month, the Friends of Decatur Cemetery are hosting a fun and family-friendly scavenger hunt throughout the cemetery grounds!

Discover historic markers, unique monuments, and hidden natural gems as you explore Downtown Decatur’s largest green space. It’s the perfect way for families, friends, and history lovers to connect with nature and local heritage—all while enjoying the outdoors!

Come together in this beautiful, living park that tells the stories of Decatur’s past—while celebrating Parks & Recreation Month!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation Tagged with ,

July Is Parks & Recreation Month!

June 30, 2025 by Leave a comment

July 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of Parks & Recreation Month, a nationwide celebration led by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) since 1985. This initiative recognizes the dedicated professionals and volunteers who make our parks safe, inclusive, and thriving. Guided by the theme “Build Together, Play Together,” July is all about the power of parks to connect us, support our health, and strengthen our communities

How Decatur Is Celebrating

Decatur Parks & Recreation has planned a full slate of free events to mark the occasion—and everyone’s invited!

  • July 3: Poppin’ at the Pools – Beat the heat with free popsicles at local pools.
  • July 8: Nature Hike at Legacy Park (10 a.m.) – Explore Legacy Park guided by the City’s Urban Naturalist.
  • July 10: Legacy Park Beaver Complex Tour (10 a.m.) – Discover the fascinating world of beavers.
  • July 12: Hawk Hollow Hike (10 a.m.) – Discover one of Decatur’s hidden gems on a nature walk through Hawk Hollow.
  • July 21: Free Swim Day at Ebster Pool (1–3 p.m.) – Cool off with free pool admission from 1–3 p.m.
  • July 26: Community Day at Ebster Field (10 a.m.–2 p.m.) – Join us for games, music, food, and family fun.

All month long, Decatur Parks & Recreation will be highlighting the people, places, and programs that make our community special. Stories and updates will be shared on our social media platforms, showcasing how parks and recreation bring people together, promote well-being, and support a more connected Decatur.

Let’s Build and Play—Together

Parks and recreation bring people together in ways that few other services can. They create space for belonging, offer opportunities to grow and connect, and help shape a vibrant, inclusive Decatur.

This July, we invite you to experience all that Decatur Parks & Recreation has to offer—and to celebrate the programs, places, and people that help build the community we love.

Learn more at decaturga.com/parksrec

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation Tagged with , ,

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