THPRD's annual Party in the Park to feature many new activities

On Saturday, July 29, Party in the Park returns with several brand-new activities on tap for Beaverton residents.

The annual daylong festival, presented by THPRD, is hosted at the Howard M. Terpenning Recreation Complex, 15707 SW Walker Road.

• Campus map & activity schedule

Party in the Park features an array of fun, family-oriented activities, most are free and run from 11 am to 4 pm; (the early-morning Family Triathlon does include a small entry fee to offset expenses).

“This event is a great way for us to say thank you to the community for its support of our programs,” said THPRD General Manager Doug Menke. “We look forward to bringing families, neighbors and friends together to celebrate summer, and enjoy a small sample of the recreational activities that THPRD has been providing Beaverton residents for more than 60 years.”

New activities scheduled include a puppet show and puppet-making workshop, a silent disco dance party, a rocket-building station and circus skills training.

These complement the already dizzying array of activities that includes three climbing walls, several giant inflatable toys, arts and crafts, face painting and more.

The Family Triathlon kicks off the day’s activities at 9 am. This non-competitive event includes a 50-yard swim, two-mile bike ride, and half-mile run. Participants can preregister at thprd.org. This year, the event includes a free helmet fitting and replacement station.

• Register now for the Family Triathlon: Individual l Family

The field activities begin at 11 am, with the Beaverton Police Department’s popular K-9 unit demonstration scheduled from 11:30 am to 1 pm. The athleticism and discipline of the dogs always draws a big crowd.

Throughout the day, THPRD’s Rec Mobile will offer a sampling of games and activities for guests of all ages, and THPRD’s Nature Mobile will provide nature and science learning opportunities, activities and games. The Wellness on Wheels van will host group fitness activities.

Free swimming will be available at the Aquatic Center from 1:30-3:30 pm and 4-6 pm. Free drop-in tennis and instructor-led sessions are available all day, no equipment required. The Tualatin Hills Athletic Center will host drop-in basketball, badminton, volleyball and table tennis. Basketball and pickleball will also be available on the outdoor courts.

Field #5 will host bubble soccer tournaments, as well as bocce, giant Jenga, and corn hole competitions.

“This year’s Party in the Park will offer more activities than ever before,” said Deb Schoen, superintendent of Community Programs and Special Events. “We have introduced some really creative new ways for kids and families to enjoy a fun afternoon together.”

A diverse selection of food and beverages will be offered: hamburgers, hot dogs, tater tots, gourmet sausages, pizza, kettle corn and Hawaiian shaved ice as well as Asian, East African and Mexican specialties.

Parking is free for all Party in the Park activities, but space is limited. The HMT Complex is served by bus routes 59 and 67, and bicycle racks are available. In addition, THPRD will run a shuttle between the complex and the Merlo Road/SW 158th MAX light rail station from 10:30 am to 5 pm.

About THPRD

Formed in 1955, THPRD is the largest special park district in Oregon, spanning 50 square miles and serving about 240,000 residents in the greater Beaverton area. The district provides year-round recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Offerings include thousands of widely diverse classes, 95 park sites with active recreational amenities, nearly 70 miles of trails, eight swim centers, six recreation centers, and about 1,500 acres of natural areas. For more information, visit www.thprd.org or call 503-645-6433.