The Southlake Youth Action Commission (SYAC) started the 2024-2025 academic year with purpose and enthusiasm. From goal-setting retreats to community service projects and hands-on learning experiences, these young leaders are already making a big impact this fall.

The excitement began on October 14 with SYAC’s first-ever Board Retreat at Legends Hall. Student leaders participated in goal-setting workshops led by Community Relations Manager Vicky Schiber and Recreation Programs Manager Jennifer Blackstock. The retreat inspired the board to set a bold direction for the year with their new Mission, Vision, and Goals:

  • Mission: Provide an environment for the youth voice of Southlake.
  • Vision: Be the go-to youth voice to improve the community.
  • Goals: Increase SYAC Alternate attendance by 15%, expand Intern Day to a full-day event in April 2025, and develop a 5-Year Strategic Plan.

In November, SYAC shifted gears to community engagement and experiential learning. On November 11, students learned about the development of the Southlake Pickleball Complex through a presentation by city leaders, including Director David Miller, Deputy Director Fince Espinoza, and Pickleball Manager Eric Clay. The session highlighted how citizen input drives local projects. Afterward, SYAC members took to the courts for a lively game and personalized tips from Clay, blending education with fun.

In December, 15 SYAC members rolled up their sleeves for the Keep Southlake Beautiful Adopt-A-Street program. Together, they removed nine bags of litter from Shady Oaks Drive, demonstrating their commitment to keeping Southlake clean and beautiful.

With a dynamic fall semester underway, SYAC is setting the bar high for student leadership and community impact. Stay tuned as these world-class young leaders continue to shape Southlake’s future.

Learn more about SYAC at https://www.cityofsouthlake.com/262/Southlake-Youth-Action-Commission.

The Programs Team wrapped up its annual Club Metro Camp earlier in August, which is a part of the Adapted Recreation program named Club Metro. For those unfamiliar, Club Metro is designed to provide enriching experiences for adults and teenagers with special needs. Club Metro Camp consists of three one-week sessions in June, July, and August.

Club Metro Camp offers diverse environments where participants can socialize and explore new experiences alongside their friends. The camp fosters an atmosphere of acceptance and support, ensuring that every individual has the tools they need to engage in activities tailored to their abilities. With a focus on inclusivity and personal growth, Club Metro Camp provides a welcoming space for everyone. The activities these Campers participated in were games, crafts, sports, and STEM activities.

One of the Camp’s highlights is its field trips, which offer campers opportunities for learning and enjoyment. The field trips are designed to provide educational experiences that go beyond the Camp. For example, at the Best Maid Pickle Emporium, campers learned more about pickle-making and sampled a variety of pickle flavors ranging from sweet to spicy. This field trip was an educational adventure everyone enjoyed.

Some other field trips the campers took part in were the Frontiers of Flight Museum, Evo, Tornado Terry’s, Medieval Times, Meow Wolf, Sea Life Aquarium, the Southlake Library, and more.

Out of these exciting educational field trips, there were a few fan favorites. Kailey Elrod said, “I liked the library because I read Harry Potter and the Dork Diaries.” Another camper, Greg Podjan, mentioned: “The flight museum was really cool because of all the planes.”

Overall, the camp was a success this past summer, and Club Metro Camp 2025 planning is well underway for some new fun and exciting activities! We can’t wait to see you next year!

July is Park and Recreation Month, and we’re taking the time to celebrate the hundreds of Southlake Parks and Recreation professionals who work tirelessly to provide world-class experiences to our residents.

This year’s theme is “Where You Belong,” with more than 1,000 acres of parkland, hundreds of programs and activities, and an award-winning Recreation Facility, it’s easy to find where you belong with the Southlake Community Services Department!

When you visit one of our parks, The Marq, or participate in one of our programs, our goal is to make sure you're creating life-long memories. Everything we do is to create a world-class experience for you, and this month we celebrate all the stories that make up our parks and recreation history.

Want to learn more about all our parks and visit all of them? Visit the Parks facilities page to see our full list of parks. Chances are, there's a park near you with a great walking trail. Looking for a new playground? We have about six to choose from!

Ready to learn a new sport? Pickleball has a permanent home in Bicentennial Park at the new Southlake Pickleball Complex. Memberships are free for residents, affordable for out-of-towners, and so worth it once you experience how fun this game is!

Maybe July is too hot for you to explore the outdoors? No problem, visit Champions Club for all sorts of great activities in the AC, from the Aquatics Center to the indoor turf field, we're sure you'll find something to do. 

Need a summer camp for the younger family members, we've got something for you! Do you have a budding artist or a future scientist at home, check out our programs and activities listings page. Looking for our adaptive recreation programs? Visit the Club Metro page to learn more about activities and programs coming up this summer.

Parks and Recreation Month isn't just for the kids in the house, we're also celebrating all of the wonderful activities and programs offered by the Senior Activity Center. Visit their website here.

Summer is a fabulous time for weddings. Did you know we can host your wedding or special for you? Visit Legends Hall to learn more about our state-of-the-art event offerings.

How will you find where you belong this summer? Use our Park and Recreation Month activity calendar below as a guide for how to celebrate and make the most of your parks and recreation amenities.

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, it’s the perfect time to welcome summer and honor the memory of our fallen heroes.

This year, why not make the most of the extended weekend by immersing yourself in nature and enjoying the great outdoors at your Southlake public parks? From outdoor adventures to peaceful relaxation, here are some world-class activities to schedule for your Memorial Day weekend.

Enjoy the MasterWorks Concert Series
Start your weekend right this Memorial Day by heading to Rustin and Family Park for a free public concert on Friday, May 26 at 7:00 PM! Come out and enjoy a performance by Satellite, a modern, high-energy party band, as they perform the hottest party hits from the 70s to current Top 40 songs. Spread your blanket on the lush green grass in Southlake Town Square, sway to the music, and immerse yourself in the crowd's energy. The Masterworks Concert Series is perfect for sharing joy, connecting with others, and creating life-long memories.

Picnic at the Park
Gather your loved ones and embark on a delightful picnic in the scenic surroundings of Bob Jones Fishing Pier, the Playground at Bicentennial Park, or at Liberty Park at Sheltonwood. Pack a smorgasbord of delectable treats, refreshing beverages, and classic American favorites like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches! Set up a cozy blanket, enjoy the warm sunshine, and indulge in good food and great company over the long weekend. Reserve a pavilion today!

Hiking and Nature Trails
Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life by exploring the nature trails and hiking paths at the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve. Lace up your hiking boots, grab a water bottle, and venture into the Cross Timbers ecosystem to witness the beauty of our local flora and fauna firsthand. Breathe in the fresh air, admire breathtaking views, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Remember to choose trails suitable for your fitness level and bring a camera to capture our animal neighbors. Share your pictures on our Instagram @bjncp_southlake!

Reflect with Public Art
While a long weekend is always appreciated, Memorial Day weekend is about honoring those who have passed while serving our country. Spend a moment of quiet contemplation at the Liberty Gardens in Bicentennial Park while admiring the newest piece in our Public Art Collection. “Remembrance and Renewal” by Mark and Diane Weisbeck. While this piece is specifically dedicated to those lost during the 9/11 attacks, its presence in the Liberty Gardens invites everyone to honor those who sacrificed for our freedoms.

This Memorial Day weekend, reconnect with nature, honor the spirit of remembrance, and revel in the beauty of our Southlake public parks!

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, it’s the perfect time to welcome summer and honor the memory of our fallen heroes.

This year, why not make the most of the extended weekend by immersing yourself in nature and enjoying the great outdoors at your Southlake public parks? From outdoor adventures to peaceful relaxation, here are some world-class activities to schedule for your Memorial Day weekend.

Enjoy the MasterWorks Concert Series
Start your weekend right this Memorial Day by heading to Rustin and Family Park for a free public concert on Friday, May 26 at 7:00 PM! Come out and enjoy a performance by Satellite, a modern, high-energy party band, as they perform the hottest party hits from the 70s to current Top 40 songs. Spread your blanket on the lush green grass in Southlake Town Square, sway to the music, and immerse yourself in the crowd's energy. The Masterworks Concert Series is perfect for sharing joy, connecting with others, and creating life-long memories.

Picnic at the Park
Gather your loved ones and embark on a delightful picnic in the scenic surroundings of Bob Jones Fishing Pier, the Playground at Bicentennial Park, or at Liberty Park at Sheltonwood. Pack a smorgasbord of delectable treats, refreshing beverages, and classic American favorites like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches! Set up a cozy blanket, enjoy the warm sunshine, and indulge in good food and great company over the long weekend. Reserve a pavilion today!

Hiking and Nature Trails
Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life by exploring the nature trails and hiking paths at the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve. Lace up your hiking boots, grab a water bottle, and venture into the Cross Timbers ecosystem to witness the beauty of our local flora and fauna firsthand. Breathe in the fresh air, admire breathtaking views, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Remember to choose trails suitable for your fitness level and bring a camera to capture our animal neighbors. Share your pictures on our Instagram @bjncp_southlake!

Reflect with Public Art
While a long weekend is always appreciated, Memorial Day weekend is about honoring those who have passed while serving our country. Spend a moment of quiet contemplation at the Liberty Gardens in Bicentennial Park while admiring the newest piece in our Public Art Collection. “Remembrance and Renewal” by Mark and Diane Weisbeck. While this piece is specifically dedicated to those lost during the 9/11 attacks, its presence in the Liberty Gardens invites everyone to honor those who sacrificed for our freedoms.

This Memorial Day weekend, reconnect with nature, honor the spirit of remembrance, and revel in the beauty of our Southlake public parks!

Summer is in full swing in Southlake and the entire town is bustling with activity. The Southlake Senior Activity Center is no exception with three adventure-filled trips scheduled for July.

Planning and accompanying our Seniors on local field trips is a staff highlight at the Senior Center. July’s Senior trips have something for everyone—from resident dino-philes, art buffs, or musical theater connoisseurs!

The Dinosaur Company
Wednesday, July 6 at 10:00 AM

Visit the only animatronic dinosaur factory in the US. Enjoy a one-hour tour of the creature workshop and animatronic exhibit in the City of Allen. The Dinosaur Company is a leader in the development and design of animatronic technology. See the amazing world of dinosaurs come to life. Register here.

The Music Man at Theater Denton
Sunday, July 17 at 1:00 PM

Revisit Meredith Wilson’s infamous Golden Age musical about a traveling conman who falls in love with a witty librarian in the stubborn town of Rivercity, Iowa. Sing along to Broadway classics such as “76 Trombones,” “Shipoopi,” and “’Til There Was You.” Enjoy a wonderful weekend matinee performance with friends. Register here.

Kimble Art Museum
Wednesday, July 27 at 9:30 AM

Art lovers assemble and join us as we explore The Language of Beauty in African Art special exhibit at the Kimble Art Museum in Fort Worth. This world-class art museum curates the most cutting-edge exhibits and brings them to life for a DFW audience. This exhibit illustrates sub-Saharan concepts of beauty through a unique exploration of language, objects, and visual arts. Register here.

Explore the DFW Metroplex with us! See you at the Southlake Senior Activity Center!

Summer is in full swing in Southlake and the entire town is bustling with activity. The Southlake Senior Activity Center is no exception with three adventure-filled trips scheduled for July.

Planning and accompanying our Seniors on local field trips is a staff highlight at the Senior Center. July’s Senior trips have something for everyone—from resident dino-philes, art buffs, or musical theater connoisseurs!

The Dinosaur Company
Wednesday, July 6 at 10:00 AM

Visit the only animatronic dinosaur factory in the US. Enjoy a one-hour tour of the creature workshop and animatronic exhibit in the City of Allen. The Dinosaur Company is a leader in the development and design of animatronic technology. See the amazing world of dinosaurs come to life. Register here.

The Music Man at Theater Denton
Sunday, July 17 at 1:00 PM

Revisit Meredith Wilson’s infamous Golden Age musical about a traveling conman who falls in love with a witty librarian in the stubborn town of Rivercity, Iowa. Sing along to Broadway classics such as “76 Trombones,” “Shipoopi,” and “’Til There Was You.” Enjoy a wonderful weekend matinee performance with friends. Register here.

Kimble Art Museum
Wednesday, July 27 at 9:30 AM

Art lovers assemble and join us as we explore The Language of Beauty in African Art special exhibit at the Kimble Art Museum in Fort Worth. This world-class art museum curates the most cutting-edge exhibits and brings them to life for a DFW audience. This exhibit illustrates sub-Saharan concepts of beauty through a unique exploration of language, objects, and visual arts. Register here.

Explore the DFW Metroplex with us! See you at the Southlake Senior Activity Center!

Summer Camp Mania is right around the corner, and you don’t want to miss your chance to snag a coveted remaining spot!

 

The early bird gets the worm, but we still have a few spots remaining for Summer Camp Mania Weeks Five, Six, and Seven! If you are looking for a world-class day camp experience for your kiddos, look no further than Southlake’s premier summer camp!

 

Summer Camp Mania provides a safe and fun environment where kids are number one! Our outstanding combination of structured and free play, guest instructors, educational field trips, and award-winning Champions Club facility makes us the best summer camp!

 

Our dedicated Programs staff is committed to helping our campers create life-long memories. From relaxed movie days, adventurous inflatables and bounce houses, and exhilarating pool days at our Aquatics Center, to field trips, there’s something for everyone at Camp Mania! This summer, our campers will be going to Legoland/Sea Life Grapevine Aquarium, the Crayola Experience, and Hawaiian Falls, to name a few.

 

Each week delivers campers various recreational opportunities that never get redundant. Whether you sign up for one week or more, you’re guaranteed to have an individualized experience.

 

Don’t miss your chance to snag one of our few remaining spots! Take a sneak peek at our incredible schedule and enroll your kiddo today!

Summer Camp Mania is right around the corner, and you don’t want to miss your chance to snag a coveted remaining spot!

 

The early bird gets the worm, but we still have a few spots remaining for Summer Camp Mania Weeks Five, Six, and Seven! If you are looking for a world-class day camp experience for your kiddos, look no further than Southlake’s premier summer camp!

 

Summer Camp Mania provides a safe and fun environment where kids are number one! Our outstanding combination of structured and free play, guest instructors, educational field trips, and award-winning Champions Club facility makes us the best summer camp!

 

Our dedicated Programs staff is committed to helping our campers create life-long memories. From relaxed movie days, adventurous inflatables and bounce houses, and exhilarating pool days at our Aquatics Center, to field trips, there’s something for everyone at Camp Mania! This summer, our campers will be going to Legoland/Sea Life Grapevine Aquarium, the Crayola Experience, and Hawaiian Falls, to name a few.

 

Each week delivers campers various recreational opportunities that never get redundant. Whether you sign up for one week or more, you’re guaranteed to have an individualized experience.

 

Don’t miss your chance to snag one of our few remaining spots! Take a sneak peek at our incredible schedule and enroll your kiddo today!

Summer is right around the corner and it’s time to start planning for our premier recreational program, Summer Camp Mania!

We are looking for various Volunteer Counselors to help us make this year’s camp the best one ever. Do you know a world-class volunteer looking to enhance their resume, gain real-world experience, and create life-long memories for our Camp Mania participants? We’re currently recruiting responsible, creative, and outgoing volunteers!

This is an incredible opportunity for those who love working with kids to earn between 40-80 hours of volunteer service. Sound like the dream gig? Check our criteria to see if we are a perfect match!

  • Be a part of Volunteer Southlake (Register here)
  • Pass a Background Check (17+) and/or submit the Parental Consent Form (under 17)
  • Complete the  Camp Mania Volunteer Counselor Application by May 15, 2022
  • Be at least 15 years old
  • Have prior volunteer experience
  • Commit to working a full week of camp (M-F, 8:30 am-4:30 pm)
  • Volunteers are limited to two full weeks of service
  • Be a good role model, have high moral values, an outgoing personality, strong leadership ability, and experience working with children
  • Available to attend the mandatory volunteer training (dates TBD)

Does this sound like you or someone you know? Spread the word and help us find the best group of Volunteer Counselors. You can learn more about volunteering for Camp Mania here!

linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram