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Tick Safety: Enjoy the Outdoors, Stay Protected

Ticks are a natural part of our environment, and unlike mosquitoes, there’s no broad treatment used in parks. The good news: a few simple steps go a long way in keeping you safe.

Before heading out, use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin or permethrin (follow label directions). When you’re in wooded or brush areas, wear long sleeves and pants when possible. Before leaving the park, do a quick tick check—for yourself, kids and pets—and shower soon after you get home.

If you find a tick, remove it promptly to reduce the risk of infection. You can also submit ticks to Columbus Public Health through their Tick Report Form for identification.

Want to learn more? Explore how Columbus Public Health monitors and treats disease vectors like ticks, mosquitoes and rodents.

One Pass, More Ways to Play: All-Access Fitness Pass

We’re making fitness simpler—and more affordable. Our Fitness Pass gets you:

• Gym equipment at 27 community centers
• Access to 20 Get Active fitness centers

It costs just $108 per year (that’s less than $10 a month). Seniors ages 60+ pay just $85 per year.

Upgrade your routine, and get moving!

A Practically Perfect Performance Takes the Stage

Get ready for a little magic close to home. Westgate Children’s Theatre brings Mary Poppins Jr. to life with a high-energy production inspired by the beloved Broadway musical and Disney classic.

Follow the Banks family as their world is turned upside down by a nanny who’s anything but ordinary. With colorful characters, familiar songs and plenty of heart, this show delivers a fun, feel-good experience for all ages.

Join us on Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, May 17, at 2 p.m. at Westgate Community Center. Tickets are $5 at the door.

Learn more about this family-friendly performance!

Kick Off Summer at FountainFest

Summer officially kicks off with FountainFest as we open up the Scioto Mile Fountain for the summer! Join Downtown Columbus, Inc. and Columbus Recreation and Parks for a free, family-friendly celebration on Saturday, May 23, from 12-4 p.m. at Bicentennial Park.

Expect an afternoon packed with energy: inflatables, fountain fun, stiltwalkers, bubble artists and music from DJ IQ. At 2 p.m. you won’t want to miss Puppy Pals Live - The Action-Packed Comedic Stunt Dog Show, which is a high-flying stunt show featuring rescued dogs pulling off incredible tricks. Learn more about FountainFest and many more free fun activities along the Scioto Mile!

Come ready to play, cool off and celebrate the start of summer in the heart of downtown!

Thank You, Volunteers—Let’s Keep It Going

In April, we kicked off volunteer season and celebrated National Volunteer Week. Thank you for showing up in a big way! 

In just one month, nearly 880 volunteers contributed 2,640 hours at 44 events. That impact shows up everywhere—cleaner parks, stronger neighborhoods and spaces we can all be proud of. A standout moment was our Earth Day and Arbor Day celebration at Glenwood Park on April 24. More than 100 volunteers helped plant trees, clean up litter and refresh park spaces—and we proudly continued our Tree City USA recognition!

We’re just getting started! Volunteer season is in full swing, with opportunities across the city from park projects and tree plantings to event support. Here are a few upcoming opportunities:

• Conservation at Westmoor Park on May 16: Clean up litter and remove invasive species.  
• Conservation Stewardship Program Training: Help us document the species and maintenance needs of the department's 37 pollinator habitats. Sign up with a virtual or in-person training. 
• Assist with upcoming Mobile Produce Markets on Thursdays and Fridays: Help prep and pack produce in reusable grocery bags. 

Jump in, and be part of what’s next!

Check out upcoming events below, and explore the events calendar!

Opening Reception: Pandemic Portraits Gallery Exhibit
May 8  |  6-8 p.m.  |  Priscilla R. Tyson Cultural Arts Center

Mobile Produce Markets
May 14  |  2 p.m.  |  Dodge and Holton community centers

Mobile Produce Markets
May 15  |  2 p.m.  |  Adams and Douglas community centers

Westgate Children’s Theatre: Mary Poppins Jr.
May 15-17  |  Westgate Community Center