LeisureLink

LeisureLink: The City of Auburn's Parks and Recreation Weekly Newsletter

April 21-27, 2025

Lake Wilmore Pickleball Courts Now Open

The first set of pickleball courts at the new Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center are now open. Twelve covered and lit courts will be available for public use free of charge.

The courts will be first-come, first-served daily from sunrise to 9 p.m. unless otherwise reserved or designated for a Parks and Recreation program. Restrooms inside the recreation center will be available during the center’s regular hours:

Monday-Thursday: 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday: 6 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m.-noon

Sunday: 1-6 p.m.

During peak times when the courts are full and players are waiting to use the courts, players should follow the following rotation rules:

Limit warm-up times to five minutes or less.

Limit court time to best two out of three games to 11, winning by 2. Winners may stay on for three games max.

After games, players should exit the court immediately and return to the waiting area.

Waiting players should place their paddles in the paddle rack from left to right.

Another six pickleball courts are under construction and are expected to open later in 2025. Temporary closures of all courts are expected as construction is completed. All closures will be announced via the City’s eNotifier, at auburnalabama.org/parks and @COAParksAndRec Facebook and Instagram.

For everyone’s safety, visitors are reminded to follow all posted signage and to stay away from active construction zones on the property. The City thanks the community for its patience and support as it ensures the facility meets the highest quality standards.

For more information, please contact 334-501-2930, visit auburnalabama.org/parks or follow @COAParksAndRec on Facebook and Instagram.

Auburn Parks and Recreation offers new membership options along side opening of Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center

The City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Department is excited to introduce a new membership structure designed to provide greater access and affordability for residents to enjoy Parks and Recreation facilities.

This update coincides with the addition of the Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center, a brand-new facility featuring a fitness center, indoor track, basketball courts, pickleball courts and pool.

Auburn residents are invited to register for a two-week free trial, which will begin on March 17, for the fitness center, indoor track and pool. Those portions of the facility will open to members and daily pass holders beginning on April 1. Details on registering for the free trial and membership options can be found below.

Auburn Parks and Recreation has designed membership plans for every lifestyle — from those looking for a fitness upgrade to families seeking fun and wellness.

Membership options for Auburn residents (must live or work in Auburn)

Free Amenities Membership: Includes access to free-play basketball at Boykin Community Center (BCC), Dean Road Recreation Center (DRRC), Frank Brown Recreation Center (FBRC) and Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center (LWP), as well as the eSports room, game room and racquetball court at FBRC.

Annual registration is required for this free membership, which is available at auburnalabama.org/parks/registration.

Paid Memberships: Includes access to all fitness centers (BCC, FBRC and LWP), indoor walking track (LWP), aquatic facilities (LWP and Samford Pool), free-play basketball (BCC, DRRC, FBRC, LW) and additional amenities at Frank Brown Recreation Center (eSports room, game room and racquetball court).

Individual Memberships

$20/month or $200/year

Family Memberships (includes up to six household members)

$60/month or $600/year

Add-On Member: $10/month per additional person

Low-Income Discount (Medicaid Card Holders)

50% off membership fees

SilverSneakers® Members (65+) – Available for registration beginning April 1, 2025

Membership is FREE if the individual is eligible through a qualifying Medicare Advantage or supplement plan. To check if you are eligible, visit tools.silversneakers.com/Eligibility/CheckEligibility.

Fitness Membership to BCC and FBRC ONLY

$30/person/year

Options for non-residents & non-members

Daily Pass: $10 per day grants access to all fitness centers, indoor track and pools

Pool Daily Pass: $5 per day grants access to both pools (LWP and SP)

Current membership holders

Current memberships at Boykin Community Center and Frank Brown Recreation Center will be honored for those facilities ONLY. However, members interested in accessing Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center or the pools (LWP and SP) will need to purchase a new membership and will receive a one-time $30 discount off their first annual membership purchase.

Membership access

Membership is non-refundable, non-transferable and can only be used by the card holder.

Children ages 16-18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian while using the fitness centers.

Purchase your membership

Memberships are available for purchase with membership access beginning April 1, 2025.

Membership cards can be picked up from the Frank Brown Recreation Center or Lake Wilmore Park Recreation Center beginning March 17, 2025.

For cash payments, please visit the Harris Center. Please note, those paying in cash will still be required to complete the online registration for membership.

Future opening phases

Other elements of Lake Wilmore — including the pickleball courts, multipurpose fields and mountain bike trails — will continue to open throughout the year as different components of the project are completed. Visitors are reminded to stay away from active construction zones on the property for everyone’s safety.

Please stay tuned for further announcements regarding upcoming events, activities and future opening dates. The City thanks the community for its patience and support as it ensures the facility meets the highest quality standards.

For more information, please contact 334-501-2930 or registration@auburnalabama.org, visit auburnalabama.org/parks or follow @COAParksAndRec on Facebook and Instagram.

Auburn Studio Project Reception Thu., April 24

Auburn Parks and Recreation, the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University (JCSM), and East Samford School proudly present this year’s Auburn Studio Project—a collaborative program that offers seventh-grade students a unique opportunity to explore their creativity while connecting with the community. Aligned with JCSM’s 2024–2025 theme of “work,” the project began with a visit from award-winning photojournalist Kate Medley, who guided students through the art of documentary photography. With support from JCSM’s Christy Barlow and Auburn Parks and Recreation’s Emillie Dombrowski, students from Auburn High School and East Samford School were inspired to tell meaningful visual stories through the lens of everyday work in Auburn.

In November, East Samford students put their skills into action, photographing local businesses under the guidance of art teacher Tricia Oliver. Their work will be celebrated in two exhibitions: Object Lab: Portraits of Work, a juried selection by Kate Medley on view at JCSM through May 25, and a full showcase of 137 student photographs at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center from April 18–25. The community is invited to a public reception with Medley on Thursday, April 24, from 4–5 p.m. Special thanks to Coffee Mafia, Amsterdam Café, Parlor 113, Southside Market, and East Samford School staff for their support. For more information, contact Emillie Dombrowski at edombrowski@auburnalabama.org or (334) 501-2963.

Creative Songwriting Showcase Set for April 24

Participants in Auburn Parks and Recreation’s Therapeutic Programs are preparing to share their original songs at a Creative Songwriting Showcase on Thursday, April 24, at 6 p.m. at the Boykin Community Center Auditorium.

Led by instructor and guitarist Leigh Anne Armstrong, individuals ages 14 and older have been developing and rehearsing their own music since January as part of the Creative Songwriting class. The showcase will feature an open mic-style performance, highlighting the talents and hard work of each participant.

The public is invited to attend the free community event, and friends and family of the performers are especially encouraged to come out and support them. Light refreshments and seating will be provided.

For more information, contact Therapeutics Program Coordinator Elizabeth Kaufman at (334) 501-2939 or email ekaufman@auburnalabama.org. For more information about Auburn Parks and Recreation events, programs and facilities, visit auburnal.gov/parks or follow @COAParksandRec on Facebook and Instagram.

Weekend Events at Auburn Parks and Recreation Facilities | April 25-27

Auburn Parks and Recreation is gearing up for an action-packed weekend from April 25–27 with exciting events and tournaments across several of its premier facilities. At Duck Samford Park, baseball fans can catch the Perfect Game Baseball Tournament on April 26 and 27, where talented teams will go head-to-head in competitive matchups, showcasing their skills and passion for the game. Meanwhile, the Auburn Softball Complex will host the World Sports League Adult Softball Tournament on the same dates, drawing teams from across the region for a weekend of high-energy play. There will be a AU Club tennis tournament at the Yarbrough Tennis Center Sat., April 26.

Don’t miss one of Auburn’s most beloved spring traditions—Auburn CityFest! The 25th Annual Auburn CityFest will take place Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kiesel Park. This free, family-friendly outdoor arts and crafts festival will feature live music, a wide array of food and vendor booths, children’s activities, special guests, and more. Held rain or shine on the last Saturday in April, CityFest brings the community together for a full day of fun. For more information or to apply as a vendor, visit auburncityfest.org.

20th Annual Juried Art Show Preview Reception Thu., April 24

Auburn Parks and Recreation, in partnership with the Auburn Arts Association and Auburn-Opelika Tourism, invites the community to the 20th annual Juried Art Show and Preview Reception on Thursday, April 24, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Historic Nunn-Winston House in Kiesel Park. Held in conjunction with Auburn CityFest 2025, this exhibition will showcase an impressive variety of fine art from regional artists, including paintings, drawings, mixed media, sculpture, ceramics, and photography. Guests can enjoy live music by local artist Wynn Christian while mingling with artists and browsing the displayed works, many of which will be available for purchase.

Artists interested in participating must register through the City of Auburn MyRec system at auburncityfest.org by Monday, April 21. The entry fee is $35, but it is waived for artists with exhibitor booths at Auburn CityFest. Up to $1,000 in merit awards will be presented, including two $250 Special Awards sponsored by Auburn-Opelika Tourism, with winners announced during the reception. All submitted works will remain on display during Auburn CityFest on Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For details, contact the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center at 334-501-2944 or email coordinator Emillie Dombrowski at edombrowski@auburnalabama.org.

24th Annual Auburn CityFest Sat., April 26

Auburn’s largest outdoor festival returns this spring as the 24th Annual Auburn CityFest takes over Kiesel Park on Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free, family-friendly event features a full day of live entertainment, arts and crafts, food vendors, and children’s activities. This year’s headlining performance is Circus Incredible, a jaw-dropping act featuring a blend of first- and seventh-generation circus performers. The festival will also include Lew-E’s Comedy Circus, Bama Air Dogs, Todd Key the stilt walker, the Auburn University Raptor Center, and appearances by everyone’s favorite tiger, Aubie.

Families can enjoy live music from The WannaBeatles, a Beatles tribute band, as well as inflatables, face painting, and interactive art at the Children’s ArtFest Tent. With more than 100 arts and crafts vendors, over 20 food vendors, and a wide variety of community organizations, Auburn CityFest offers something for everyone. The first 1,000 attendees will receive a free giveaway. Auburn CityFest is free to attend and will be held rain or shine. For full event details, visit auburncityfest.org.

Auburn Community Orchestra Spring Concert Nationalism In Music Tues., April 29

The Auburn Community Orchestra (ACO) invites the community to a free performance of Nationalism in Music on Tuesday, April 29, at 7 p.m. at Auburn United Methodist Church. Presented in partnership with the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, this family-friendly concert will feature a powerful program of classical masterpieces inspired by national pride and cultural heritage. Highlights include selections from Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9 “From the New World”, Bartók’s Romanian Folk Dances, Vaughan Williams’ English Folk Song Suite, and A Symphonic Portrait of Irving Berlin arranged by Hawley Ades. Join us for an uplifting evening of music that celebrates diverse traditions through timeless compositions.

Auburn Babe Ruth 13U 2024 Southwest Regional Champion Plaque Ceremony Wed., April 30

Join Auburn Parks and Recreation for a special Plaque Ceremony honoring the Auburn Babe Ruth 13U team, champions of the 2024 Southwest Regional Tournament, on Wednesday, April 30 at 5:30 p.m. at Duck Samford Park, Fields 8–10 (Plaque Wall). The ceremony will celebrate the team’s outstanding achievement, recognizing their hard work, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the season. Led by Head Coach TJ Pearson and Assistant Coaches Randy Griffin and Jeremy Holley, the team proudly represented Auburn on a competitive stage. All are welcome to attend and show their support for these talented young athletes. For more information, contact Mike Goggans at mgoggans@auburnalabama.org or visit auburnalabama.org/parks.

Live & Local Music Series begins at Kiesel Park Thu., May 1

Auburn Parks and Recreation invites the community to enjoy Live & Local Music Series—formerly known as the Sundown Concert Series—every Thursday in May at Kiesel Park from 6–7:30 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and the whole family for a relaxing evening of live music from local favorites under the spring sky. The Chill Spot food truck will be on site offering delicious dinner options, and guests are welcome to bring their own picnic. Leashed dogs are welcome, too! This year’s lineup features Soul Co. (May 1), Front Seven (May 8), Auburn High and Jr. High Jazz Bands (May 15), The Sally Brown Band (May 22), and The Tony Brook Band (May 29). For more information, contact Jarrett Jones at (334) 501-2941 or jyjones@auburnalabama.org.

Registration open for the 31st Annual Fishing Rodeo

Get ready to cast your line at the 31st Annual Fishing Rodeo, sponsored by Evans Realty! This family favorite returns on Saturday, May 3 from 7–11 a.m. at the Auburn Technology Park South Lake. Registration opens April 1 for Auburn residents and April 14 for non-residents, and spots fill up fast—so don’t wait! Registration is $5, Auburn Parks and Recreation will supply the bait. The free rod and reels giveaway is now sold out. Enjoy prizes awarded for the biggest, smallest, and most fish caught, it’s sure to be a fun-filled morning for all. Entry is just $5 per child, with age categories of 0–3, 4–6, 7–10, and 11–14. Pre-registration is required, so visit auburnal.myrec.com or auburnal.gov/parks to secure your spot today! For more information contact Trevor Culligan, Community Program Coordinator at (334) 501-2948 or tculligan@auburnalabama.org.

SummerNight sponsorship and applications now open

Mark your calendars for one of Auburn’s favorite summer traditions—the 19th Annual SummerNight Downtown Art Walk, happening Friday, June 6 from 6–10 p.m.! This vibrant, family-friendly festival transforms downtown Auburn into a bustling arts district, featuring local and regional artists, live music, delicious food, and interactive activities for all ages. Hosted by the City of Auburn/Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn Arts Association, Auburn Downtown Merchants Association, and St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church, SummerNight is a celebration of creativity and community in the heart of our city.

This year’s theme celebrates the great outdoors, and culinary artists are invited to join the fun by entering the Marshmallow Mania Culinary Contest—get creative with your favorite marshmallow treat for a chance to win! Artists, businesses, volunteers, and food vendors can register starting March 19 at auburnsummernight.org or auburnal.myrec.com. Vendor applications are due by May 28, and marshmallow contest entries are due June 6 by 11 a.m. Want to support the arts and promote your business? Sponsorship opportunities are available—contact Emillie Dombrowski at edombrowski@auburnalabama.org or 334-501-2963 to get involved!

2025 Auburn Parks and Recreation Summer Brochure now available

Get ready for a summer full of fun, adventure, and community with the 2025 Auburn Parks and Recreation Summer Brochure—now available in print and online! Whether you're looking for exciting camps for the kids, engaging programs for adults 50+, or ways to stay active with aquatics, fitness, and art classes, there’s something for everyone this season.

Summer program registration begins Monday, May 5, so be sure to plan ahead and secure your spot early. Pick up a printed copy of the brochure at the Auburn Public Library, any Parks and Recreation facility, or City Hall. You can also view the full brochure online for easy access anytime, anywhere.

Don’t miss out on everything Auburn Parks and Recreation has to offer this summer!

Call for entries for the 2025 May Invitational Exhibition: Color in the Garden

Area professional, student, and amateur artists and craft persons 18 years and older are invited to submit up to two original, theme-reflected works for possible inclusion in the 2025 May Invitational Exhibition: Color in the Garden. Submissions may be two- or three-dimensional in any style or medium—including photographic and digital—with creative interpretations of gardens, color, and nature-inspired subjects encouraged. All 2-D works must be framed and properly prepared for hanging; 3-D works must be stable and ready for display. There is no entry fee, and works may be available for sale. Entries must be hand-delivered to the Art Gallery at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center on Tuesday, May 6 or Wednesday, May 7 from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. A public reception will be held during the exhibition. For more information, contact Sara Custer, Cultural Arts Administrator, at 334-501-2963 or scuster@auburnalabama.org.

Auburn Parks and Recreation hiring summer camp counselors and lifeguards

Auburn Parks and Recreation is looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our team as summer camp counselors and lifeguards! We’re hiring for Camp Kaleidoscope, Camp Wilmore, Camp Quest, and our Therapeutics camps, where you’ll have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of local youth. As a camp counselor, you’ll lead exciting activities, assist with daily operations, and help create a welcoming and inclusive environment that ensures every camper has a summer to remember.

We’re also seeking dedicated lifeguards to work at our city pool facilities, helping community members enjoy their summer to the fullest. Whether you’re passionate about working with kids or skilled at managing pool operations, these positions offer the chance to develop leadership skills, work in a dynamic team environment, and make a difference in your community. Don’t miss out on this rewarding opportunity—apply today at Government Jobs Auburn and join us for an unforgettable summer!

USTA Alabama honors local Auburn Tennis Players

On Saturday, February 8, several Auburn community members were recognized by USTA Alabama at their annual meeting and awards ceremony at the Vestavia Hills Country Club. The Family of the Year was awarded to the Park/Kim Family, the Female League Captain of the Year was awarded to Catherine Williams, the Female Player of the Year was awarded to Tomoko Maeda, and our very own Sarah Hill was recognized with the Marilyn Sherman Spirit Award. The Marilyn Sherman Spirit Award is given annually to a staff member or volunteer who exemplifies extraordinary spirit in growing the game of tennis and the award is named for Marilyn Sherman, a long-time USTA Southern Director of Adult Competition and Leagues. We are thrilled to have so many from Auburn recognized on a state level and are thankful for their commitment to growing the game of tennis and their support of the Yarbrough Tennis Center. And we are especially proud of Sarah for being recognized for her enthusiasm and dedication to growing league play at the tennis center.

City Market Vendor Applications now available

Are you a local grower or artisan wanting to share your products with those in the community? Apply to be a vendor at Auburn Parks and Recreation's 2025 City Market!

City Market vendor applications are now open. City Market will be held every Saturday from May 24 to Aug. 30 at Town Creek Park from 8-11 a.m. Vendor set-up begins at 7 a.m.

Farmers, growers and artists who are interested in participating in the City Market must fill out an online application or apply in-person at the Harris Center located at 425 Perry St.

For more information, please visit www.auburnalabama.org/citymarket.

Auburn Parks and Recreation seeking talented instructors

Auburn Parks and Recreation is looking for qualified contract instructors to teach classes and programs in the community. The department is seeking passionate individuals with expertise in fitness, arts, sports and recreation to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with Auburn residents.

Auburn Parks and Recreation offers a diverse range of programs and activities for people of all ages and abilities. The department is looking for instructors to lead classes in areas such as:

Fitness: Aquatics, Low Impact, Teen Fitness and Preschool Fitness

Wellness: Nutrition Education, Stress Management, Support Group Leaders and Mindfulness Workshops

Senior Programs: Mahjong, Bunco, Fitness, Music, etc.

Special Needs Programs: Art, Writing, Finance, Dance, etc.

Special Interests: Homeschool Leaders, CPR/First Aid, ACT Prep, etc.

Athletics: Youth League Coaches, Tennis Instructors, Special Olympics Coaches

Qualified candidates should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills as well as a proven ability to create engaging and effective learning environments. Experience in teaching group classes is preferred but not required. References, and in some cases certifications, will be required.

Interested individuals may email Community and Special Programs Administrator Gabby Filgo at gfilgo@auburnalabama.org.

Auburn Parks and Recreation accepting reservation request online

Auburn Parks and Recreation is now accepting facility and park reservation requests online. Those who wish to reserve a facility, athletic facility, or park pavilion can complete their application for request using their online account at auburnal.myrec.com.

Please make all requests at least two weeks prior to the desired reservation date in order to leave time for the approval process. Requests must be reviewed and approved by the facility director and department director. Once approved, payments can be made online using a credit card or by cash or check in-person at the Harris Center.

Yarbrough Tennis Center Updates

Visit YTC News for the latest at the Yarbrough Tennis Center