City of Decatur | Decatur Parks & Recreation

Celebrate National Farmers Market Week in Decatur!

August 9, 2024 by Gael Doyle Leave a comment

This week, we’re shining a spotlight on the essential role farmers markets play in our community. Farmers markets are more than just places to buy fresh, locally grown food—they are vibrant hubs that bring together neighborhoods, promote healthy eating, and foster a strong sense of community.

Why Farmers Markets Matter:

Farmers markets provide access to fresh, affordable, and locally sourced produce, making healthy eating accessible to everyone. They create inclusive spaces where consumers can connect directly with local farmers, building trust and transparency in our food systems. Beyond shopping, farmers markets offer a wealth of education and engagement opportunities. Whether it’s learning about nutrition, understanding food production, or discovering new ways to enhance health and well-being, farmers markets serve as living classrooms for our community.

Economic and Community Impact:

National Farmers Market Week highlights the critical role these markets play in supporting local economies. By shopping at farmers markets, you’re not only getting fresh produce, but you’re also supporting local farmers and producers. This creates a sustainable food system and strengthens the economic foundation of our community. Additionally, the relationships formed between buyers and sellers at farmers markets build trust and contribute to a more resilient and connected community.

Explore Decatur’s Farmers Markets:

Decatur is home to two regular farmers markets, both of which are hosted by Community Farmers Markets. These markets bring a culturally diverse, educational, and social experience to our city, offering fresh produce and more:

Decatur Farmers Market
Location: First Baptist Church of Decatur
Season: March through November
Hours: Wednesdays, 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Features: Dog-friendly, free parking
Oakhurst Farmers Market
Location: Sceptre Brewing Arts in Decatur
Season: Year-round
Winter Market: January 13 – March 23
Hours: Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

These markets are more than just a place to shop—they’re community events that connect us to the land, to our food, and to each other. This National Farmers Market Week, we encourage everyone to visit your local market, support local producers, and take advantage of the fresh, healthy options available right in our neighborhood.

Let’s come together to celebrate the farmers, artisans, and community members who make these markets such a special part of Decatur!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation Tagged with Active Living, City of Decatur

Metro Atlanta Cities Wellbeing Initiative

August 8, 2024 by Gael Doyle Leave a comment

The City of Decatur is committed to fostering a community where every resident can thrive. That’s why we were proud to participate in the Metro Atlanta Cities Wellbeing Initiative, alongside other esteemed community leaders.

Participants from the City of Decatur included Mayor Patti Garrett, Clarity Fitness owner Abbey Griffith, Fire Captain Gary Menard, and Parks and Recreation Center Supervisor Jada Jordan. Together, they engaged in impactful discussions aimed at enhancing our understanding of wellbeing and informing policy action through data-driven insights.

Facilitated by ARCHI (Atlanta Regional Collaborative for Health Improvement), GMA (Georgia Municipal Association), and AWP (Athens Wellbeing Project), this initiative provided a platform for city leaders to delve into critical topics related to community wellbeing.

The initiative unfolded over eight months, encompassing various aspects of wellbeing-related issues. The first half focused on didactic sessions led by subject matter experts, covering topics such as stewardship, social determinants of health, health equity, systems thinking, and peer learning.

In the second half, participants applied their learnings to develop policy action plans, guided by the CDC’s policy process. They utilized a wellbeing glossary and metric factsheets developed by MACWI to create these plans, emphasizing data-driven decision-making.

Our participation in the Metro Atlanta Cities Wellbeing Initiative underscores our commitment to leveraging data and collaborative efforts to drive positive change in our community. We believe that by engaging in initiatives like this, we can better understand the needs of our residents and work towards creating a healthier and more vibrant Decatur.

To learn more about the Metro Atlanta Cities Wellbeing Initiative and our involvement, click here and read the full report. Thank you to all our community leaders for their dedication to improving the wellbeing of City of Decatur residents. Together, we can continue to build a community where everyone can thrive. Watch a video about Decatur’s part in the initiative by clicking below or for a full overview of all the cities involved click here.

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise Tagged with Active Living, City of Decatur, Exercise, nutrition

Celebrating Parks & Recreation Month: Belonging Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond

August 2, 2024 by Gael Doyle Leave a comment

As we wrap up Parks & Recreation Month, we take a moment to reflect on the past few weeks and look ahead to the future. From July 28 to August 3, our theme is “Belonging Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond.” This final week is an opportunity to celebrate the sense of community and connection that Decatur Parks & Recreation fosters every day.

Reflecting on the Month

Throughout Parks & Recreation Month, we’ve hosted numerous events, classes, and programs that have brought our community together. It’s been a joy to see familiar faces and welcome new ones as we’ve explored the many benefits of our local parks and recreation facilities. Whether it was participating in guided hikes, attending educational workshops, or simply enjoying the green spaces, we’ve seen firsthand how parks and recreation create a sense of belonging.

Where is Our Community Going?

The future of our community looks bright, thanks in large part to the ongoing support and participation in our parks and recreation programs. With three recreation centers and a diverse range of offerings, Decatur Parks & Recreation is truly “Where You Belong.” Our goal is to continue providing spaces and opportunities for everyone to connect, grow, and thrive.

We are excited about the upcoming classes, events, and programs that will continue to bring us together. From sports leagues and fitness classes to cultural events and environmental initiatives, there’s something for everyone. We look forward to seeing you at our facilities and programs as we build a stronger, more connected community.

A Big Thank You

We want to extend a heartfelt “Thank You” to everyone who has supported Decatur Parks & Recreation during Parks & Recreation Month and throughout the year. Your involvement and enthusiasm are what make our community special. We appreciate your dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and well-being for all.

Fostering Belonging for the Future

As we look to the future, we are committed to fostering belonging through the seven dimensions of well-being in our park and recreation system:

Cultural: We celebrate diversity and inclusivity by offering programs that reflect our community’s rich cultural heritage.
Economic: Our programs and facilities provide affordable recreation opportunities that contribute to the local economy.
Emotional: Parks and recreation spaces offer a place for relaxation, reflection, and emotional well-being.
Environmental: We prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship in all our initiatives.
Intellectual: Educational programs and workshops promote lifelong learning and intellectual growth.
Physical: Our fitness classes, sports leagues, and recreational activities encourage physical health and wellness.
Social: Parks and recreation bring people together, fostering social connections and a strong sense of community.

Thank you for being part of Decatur Parks & Recreation. Together, we can create a future where everyone belongs, today, tomorrow, and beyond.

Filed under Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Glenlake Pool, Glenlake Tennis Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center, Teens Tagged with Active Living, City of Decatur

School starts July 30!

July 29, 2024 by Gael Doyle Leave a comment

A key aspect of Parks and Recreation’s role in back-to-school preparations is the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program. This national program encourages children and families to walk and roll to school when and where it is safe, aiming to provide accessible and protected routes for students. The ultimate goals of SRTS are to increase daily activity, improve fitness, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance air quality around our schools.

How Are “Safe Routes” Designed?

Safe routes are developed through a process called “Walk Auditing.” In these audits, SRTS team members, school administrators, local government officials, and elected representatives observe how drivers, pedestrians, and bikers interact with their environment. The group meets before school lets out and follows key routes taken by students, noting patterns, popular routes, surrounding infrastructure, and locations where drivers, pedestrians, and/or bikers are unsafe.

Some questions that auditors ask include:

Are there convenient, accessible, and continuous sidewalks or paths between school entrances and adjacent streets?
Are the pathways separated from the roadway by a curb, landscaped buffer, or parking lane?
Is there a school zone speed limit, and is it appropriate for a school zone?
Are there unobstructed sight lines between pedestrians and motor vehicle drivers?
Are kids crossing the street safely, e.g., do they look left-right-left, use marked crosswalks when available, and obey traffic signals and crossing guards?
Are there additional locations where crossing guards would be helpful?

As the kids get ready to go back to school, Decatur has been working to ensure the Safe Routes to School sidewalks and paths are clean and ready for kids to walk and roll to school! Check the map to find a safe route that works for you!

Save the Date for Safe Routes to School Celebrations in the Upcoming School Year!

International Walk and Roll Day: October 9th, 2024
Crossing Guard Appreciation Week: November 10-16th, 2024
Love My Bus Month: February 2025
GA Walk & Roll Day: March 5th, 2025
Bike to School Day: May 7th, 2025

Filed under City of Decatur, City of Decatur School System, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Safe Routes to School Tagged with Bicycle Safety, City of Decatur, City Schools of Decatur, Safe Routes to School

Week Four: A Kinship With the Land

July 22, 2024 by Gael Doyle Leave a comment

Promoting Nature Connectedness Through Harmony With the Environment

Decatur’s Parks and Recreation agency is committed to environmental protection through green infrastructure, public land maintenance, and wildlife habitat preservation. Our parks not only connect people to nature but also create environmental stewards who protect our land, water, trees, and wildlife.

Parks in Decatur help cool the city with tree canopies, clean water, reduce flooding, and improve air quality. Our city has 196.3 acres of parkland and greenspace, serving as vibrant ecosystems that promote physical well-being, environmental stewardship, and a strong sense of community.

Parks act as natural sponges, soaking up runoff during rain events to prevent flooding and property damage. They also reduce water usage by recycling and storing water for dry periods. Decatur’s parks are part of the 11 million acres of open space managed by local park agencies across the U.S., focusing on strategies that protect natural habitats and manage stormwater. Climate-ready parks are cost-effective and sustainable environmental solutions.

Common sustainability actions include planting trees, using native and climate-adaptable plants, and updating buildings and other park infrastructure. Decatur has received a $750,000 community project funding grant from Rep. Nikema Williams (GA-5) for solar panels at the Decatur Recreation Center, with installation planned for the Fall.

Join our walking tours this week to see how Decatur implements these sustainability actions. Learn about the history, sustainability efforts, and conservation at three iconic locations:

Walking Tours Schedule:

Date: July 23
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Decatur Cemetery, 229 Bell Street, Decatur 30030
Meet at the cemetery office

Description: Guided hike through the natural area of the cemetery, including a pond, stream, and waterfall. Learn about significant trees, the orchard, and the naturalized creek.

Date: July 24
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Legacy Park, 500 South Columbia Drive, Decatur 30030
Meet at the main front building (white with columns)

Description: Guided hike through the conservation area to learn about the beavers at Legacy. Wear rain boots, waders, or hiking boots for off-trail exploration.

Date: July 26
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Hawk Hollow, 2304 First Avenue, Atlanta 30317

Description: See how overgrown properties in Atlanta and Decatur have been transformed into beautiful spaces with native plants and wildlife, including deer, turtles, coyotes, and hawks.

Join us in celebrating the fourth week of Parks and Recreation Month, and discover how Decatur is building a greener, more sustainable community.

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

Week 3: Being an Advocate for Belonging

July 18, 2024 by Gael Doyle Leave a comment

How Fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Builds Community for All

At Decatur Parks and Recreation, our mission is to provide inclusive spaces and opportunities for all Decatur residents. This week, as part of Parks and Recreation Month, we are shining a spotlight on our initiatives and programs that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community.

Our goal is to bring together diverse cultures, languages, and identities, ensuring that everyone feels seen, reflected, and welcomed in our programs. Some of our inclusive initiatives include:

Functional Aerobics: This class is designed for those with mobility or balance challenges, allowing seniors to stay active and healthy in a supportive environment.
Wheelchair Basketball: In collaboration with the Atlanta VA Medical Center’s recreational therapy program, we offer wheelchair basketball for adults with physical disabilities, ensuring that fitness activities are accessible to all, regardless of mobility limitations.

We are proud to be part of the 92% of parks agencies in the US that offer Staff Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) education and resources. This ensures that our professionals have the necessary tools to support everyone in the City of Decatur.

In addition to our staff training, we provide diverse community-based educational opportunities, offering safe spaces for all to learn and discuss various important topics. Examples include:

Free Monthly Meetings: Covering topics such as financial management, burial planning, children’s finances, and LGBTQ+ family/estate planning. These meetings welcome everyone to engage in open and inclusive discussions.
American Sign Language (ASL) Classes: These classes aim to bridge communication gaps and promote inclusivity, ensuring that all community members can engage fully in our activities and events.

We offer enriching experiences such as:

The Beacon Hill Museum: Located inside Ebster Recreation Center, this museum highlights the role of the black community in Decatur’s history, providing educational opportunities for residents to learn about the city’s past. The Beacon Municipal Center’s site was once home to Decatur’s segregated African American public schools – Herring Street School, Beacon Elementary, and Trinity High School. Exhibit content was developed through close community consultation and highlights community life in the Beacon community, student life, important community leaders, and the larger historical context that impacted the community, including segregation and desegregation, and the city’s “urban renewal” projects that changed the landscape of the area.
Inclusive Playground at Legacy Park: This playground, suitable for all children, was developed with input from elementary children, ensuring that it meets the needs of all kids and promotes inclusivity from a young age.

We invite everyone to check out our Playbook for a complete list of inclusive programs and activities available at Decatur Parks and Rec.

Finally, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff members. Your hard work and commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces and programs are what make Decatur Parks and Recreation a vital resource for our community. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to fostering belonging and inclusion for all.

(L-R) Daijza Miller, BJ Crowder, Stacy Green, Brandon Shannon, Ty Taylor

Join us this week and every week in celebrating diversity, equity, and inclusion as we continue to build a community where everyone belongs.

Filed under Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Glenlake Tennis Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center Tagged with City of Decatur

Parks and Recreation Month Week Two: “Fit” in Fitness

July 11, 2024 by Gael Doyle Leave a comment

Welcome to Week Two of Parks and Recreation Month in Decatur, where we’re diving into “Fit” in Fitness! This week is all about celebrating the diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility of Decatur’s vibrant fitness opportunities. At Decatur Parks and Recreation, we’re dedicated to connecting every member of our community with programs and services that promote health equity, enhance health outcomes, and elevate overall quality of life.

Accessible Fitness for Everyone

Decatur residents are fortunate to be within a 10-minute walk of a park or trail at any time, making healthy fitness walks an easy and enjoyable option for everyone. Just a few minutes a day dedicated to fitness can deepen your connection with nature, improve interpersonal relationships, and boost mental well-being.

Community Engagement Through Fitness

Our offerings go beyond mere physical activity; they foster a sense of community through a variety of classes, events, and programs. Whether you’re participating in community fitness programs or taking a leisurely walk in your neighborhood, we encourage you to discover how you “fit” into our vibrant community of wellness.

Upcoming Events – Week 2: July 7 – July 13

“Fit” In – Clarity Fitness Pop-up Activity:

July 10: Yoga at 10 am – Decatur Square
July 12: Dance Fitness at 6 p.m. – Decatur Square, in conjunction with Rock the Mic: Karaoke Night

Join Us for Rock the Mic: Karaoke Night!

Don’t miss out on the fun! Join us this Friday at 6 p.m. on the Square for Rock the Mic: Karaoke Night, featuring a special free dance fitness class by Clarity Fitness. It’s the perfect opportunity to dance, sing, and celebrate community spirit!

Recap of Yoga on the Square

We had an amazing time on Wednesday with Clarity Fitness, practicing yoga on the Square. It was a fantastic way to unwind, stretch, and connect with our community. Thank you to everyone who joined us, and we look forward to seeing you Friday on the Square!

Filed under Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Yoga Tagged with Active Living, City of Decatur, Exercise

Juneteenth in Decatur

June 17, 2024 by Gael Doyle Leave a comment

Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates June 19th, 1865, when the enslaved people of Galveston, Texas, finally learned about their freedom. This momentous occasion came more than two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, highlighting the deep-rooted racism in the country as the South attempted to hold onto slavery long past its date of abolition. Juneteenth is celebrated to honor and remember a past that has often been erased and to connect that past to our ongoing efforts towards liberty and justice for all.

Traditionally, African American families celebrate Juneteenth with family gatherings, cookouts, and parades, focusing on the connections of family and community.

Celebrations in Decatur: The Praise House Project

In Decatur, celebrations include the Praise House Project, located on the greenspace at Commerce Drive and West Trinity Place. The Praise House Project is a community-based initiative by visual artist Charmaine Minniefield, featuring multimedia, site-specific public art installations that honor the African American histories of various areas.

In honor of Juneteenth, on June 23rd from 6-9 pm, The Praise House Project will partner with Historic Lilly Hill Baptist Church to celebrate the African American history of Beacon Hill and its legacy as a Freedman’s town in Downtown Decatur.

Extended interior viewing hours of the Praise House will be from 3-6 pm at 346 W. Trinity Place, Decatur, GA 30030. At 6 pm, a drum procession led by Giwayen Mata, an all-sistas African drumming, dance, and vocal ensemble, will guide attendees from Lilly Hill to the Praise House for a Juneteenth Family Reunion gathering on the lawn, featuring music by DJ Cozy Shawn.

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and baskets with plenty to share with their neighbors for a potluck Family Dinner from 6-9 pm. Limited chairs and tables will be provided for the elders. The evening will conclude at sunset with an exterior projection onto the Praise House, making the structure glow with Beacon Hill history, led by digital media artist Kimberly Binns from 8-9 pm.

Join us in celebrating Juneteenth and honoring the rich history and enduring spirit of the African American community.

For more information visit: praisehouseproject.org

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

Dive Into Summer: City of Decatur Pools Opening This Saturday!

May 23, 2024 by Gael Doyle Leave a comment

Summer is fast approaching, and we’re thrilled to announce that City of Decatur pools are opening this Saturday! Whether you’re looking to cool off or enjoy some fun in the sun, our pools are the perfect spot. For unlimited access, consider getting a pool pass for the season.

Important Update

Unfortunately, due to a mechanical issue, McKoy Pool will not be opening on Memorial Day Weekend 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience and will keep you updated on the status of repairs.

Pool Admission

Our pools cater to swimmers of all ages. Below are our admission fees for different age groups. Starting in the 2024 season, we will only accept cashless forms of payment. If you do not have access to a cashless method, we will accept exact change.

Age	Resident Fee (with card)	Non-Resident Fee
1 and younger	Free	$4
2-13	$4	$6
14-64	$6	$8
65+	Free	$6

Digital Resident Cards

Resident cards are going digital! To receive the resident rate, all patrons must be verified in CommunityPass as City of Decatur residents. Bring a government-issued ID and proof of residency (lease agreement, closing statement, or utility bill) to any of our four centers: Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center, or Glenlake Tennis Center. Physical resident cards will no longer be accepted.

If you’re already receiving resident rates for other activities, you’re verified in CommunityPass! Download a digital resident card to your smartphone or pick up a key FOB at any of our centers. Add the digital resident card to your smartphone wallet by signing into CommunityPass, selecting the appropriate resident card, and completing the transaction. You’ll receive a scan card via email for easy smartphone scanning.

Season Swim Passes

We offer convenient season swim passes for individuals and families. Once verified, you can purchase your season pass online through CommunityPass or at any of our centers. Passes are not available at the pool counters and are valid only at outdoor pool locations.

Category	Resident Fee	Non-Resident Fee
Individual (2-13 years)	$50	$100
Individual (14-64 years)	$75	$150
Individual (65+ years)	Free	$100
Household (5 or fewer)	$225*	$450**
*Add $20 each additional member
**Add $40 each additional member

Swim Lessons

Dynamo Swim School will offer outdoor swim lessons at City of Decatur pools this summer:

Glenlake Pool: June 10 – 20, 9:00am – 10:00am
Ebster Pool: July 24 – August 11 (no class on July 4), 10:00am – 11:00am
McKoy Pool: July 15 – 25, 10:00am – 11:00am

Visit Dynamo Swim School’s website for registration information.

For more info on City of Decatur pools and how to get your pass, check the Aquatics page on our website. Don’t miss out on the best place to stay cool this summer!

Filed under Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Glenlake Pool Tagged with aquatics, City of Decatur, Pool updates

Celebrating Earth Day!

April 22, 2024 by Gael Doyle Leave a comment

Earth Day is a global event celebrated annually on April 22nd to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and the need to address pressing issues such as climate change, pollution, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity. Earth Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness, inspire activism, and advocate for policies and practices that promote sustainability and conservation.

This past weekend, we had a fantastic time celebrating the Earth and alternative transportation in the City of Decatur. On Saturday, April 20th, members of the community, along with the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC), City Manager Andrea Arnold, Capital Projects Manager Hugh Saxon, Mayor Patti Garrett, Mayor Pro Tem Tony Powers, and Parks and Recreation Director Greg White, gathered to cut the ribbon and officially celebrate the new cycle track built throughout the streets of Decatur. We’re thrilled to have dedicated bike lanes as we continue our commitment to being the most bike-friendly city in Georgia. As the only Silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community in the state, Decatur’s dedication to enhancing cycling infrastructure shines brightly.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, we headed to the square to celebrate Earth Day with what the City of Decatur does best, a festival! The Earth Day Festival presented by the City of Decatur’s Environmental Sustainability Board and Park and Recreation Department was filled with community spirit, environmental awareness, and fun activities for all ages! The day kicked off with performances by the Atlanta Conundrums and Capoeira Maculelê, followed by inspiring words from Mayor Garrett about Decatur’s commitment to environmental awareness and sustainability. We also had the honor of congratulating our City Arborist, Kay Evanovich, who was named the Georgia Arborist Association’s 2023 Arborist of the Year!

Throughout the festival, the Quincy Carter Foundation presented scholarships to local area teens, and we enjoyed tunes from DJ K-KAT, one of our talented second graders and Animal Crackers participant.

Here are some additional ways to celebrate Earth Day today and throughout the year:

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimize waste and conserve resources by practicing the three Rs – reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Plant Trees: Participate in tree-planting initiatives to improve air quality and provide habitat for wildlife.
Clean up the Environment: Organize or participate in neighborhood clean-up events to protect wildlife and prevent pollution.
Support Sustainable Practices: Choose eco-friendly products and support businesses that prioritize sustainability.
Educate and Advocate: Spread awareness about environmental issues and support organizations working to protect the planet.

Earth Day is a time to reflect on our relationship with the environment and take meaningful steps to protect it for future generations. Let’s work together to make every day Earth Day!