Spring is approaching and there is no better time to explore the numerous activities and events Urbandale hosts for residents and visitors. “You don’t have to look very far to find something you’ll enjoy,” said Scott Hock, assistant director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Urbandale.

Urbandale offers an amazing array of free and low-cost options this spring and summer, including:

• The Great Egg Hunt. Now in its 18^th year, kids are invited to fill their baskets in early April with all the candy and eggs they spot near the Giovannetti Community Shelter. Some eggs even have a few special prizes in them!
• Youth programs, including summer camp activities, Art in the Park, candle making and more.
• Urbandale’s Splash Pad at Lions Park. This unique water feature boasts 25 different sprays, providing endless fun for children and families.
• Pickleball courts at Walker Johnston Park, which are free and available on a first-come-first-served basis. Four additional pickleball courts were installed at Lions Park in 2025.
• An exceptional trail system for outdoor recreation. “Urbandale has more than 60 miles of multi-use trails,” Hock noted.
• Urbandale’s incredible July 4^th celebration, which includes a big parade, a spectacular fireworks show and more.
• The perennially popular Urbandale Summer Concert Series. Held at the Charles Gabus Memorial Tree Park and Gardens, these free, live music shows attract 200 to 400 people.
• Party in the Park, held in June and August at Walker Johnston Park, features fun for the whole family. Up to 3,000 people enjoy the beer garden for adults, food trucks, live music, and free kids activities, including bounce houses, lazer tag, and lawn games.

“We also try to add a few new events each year,” said Mollie Wilhite, recreation superintendent for the City of Urbandale.

That includes the Mobile Recreation van, which visits various Urbandale parks five days a week, all summer long. “The van brings games, activities, crafts and sports equipment free for everyone to use,” Wilhite said.

Staying active at every age

Urbandale also includes a Senior Recreation Center, which provides a safe, welcoming, energizing environment. Adults 55 and over can enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle filled with day trips and tours, educational classes, cards and games, arts and crafts, fitness classes, and the Music Mixer group, where people can share their talent or just enjoy the tunes.

All these recreation opportunities in Urbandale are more than just fun and games, Hock said. “They help connect the community and offer a great way to meet your neighbors.”

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Downtown Master Plan Progress

Infrastructure Projects

• Douglas Re-Striping/Redesign (2026)
• Phase I of Big Block Plaza (2026)

Placemaking Projects

• Revitalization of vacant/underutilized properties
• Temporary Installation at “plaza”
• Fall Community Event

Property Purchases

• 7015 Douglas Ave (Big Sky Bakery)
• 7025 Douglas Ave (former ice cream shop)
• Parking area in the center of 7000 Douglas block

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Congratulations to Derek Zarn, our Director of Marketing & Communications, on his recognition as a Business Record 2026 Forty Under Forty honoree. Derek is an important member of the City of Urbandale team and an advocate for the community, exemplified by his service on the Urbandale Food Pantry board of directors. His dedication to the community makes him an excellent recipient of this award.

CONGRATULATIONS DEREK!