Legacy Parks, City of Knoxville, and Knox County Host Free Community “Day of Play”

Legacy Parks Foundation, Knox County and the City of Knoxville will celebrate the International Day of Play June 11, 2025 with free, family-friendly activities in parks across Knoxville and Knox County.

Knoxville’s Day of Play with a variety of activities for all ages and abilities — from fun at splash pads, interactive games, nature walks, and yoga instruction. Families are invited to come explore the park, try something new, and enjoy a day of movement and fun.

“Getting outside and being active is essential for our health and well-being,” said Carol Evans, Executive Director of Legacy Parks Foundation. “The Day of Play is about celebrating our wonderful parks and open spaces, and enjoying an active, healthy day.”

 

The schedule includes:

CARL COWAN PARK 11:00AM-2:00PM

  • Splash pad
  • Face painting
  • Sno-cones
  • Guided nature walk
  • Activities and games

SAFETY CITY 10:00AM-1:00PM

  • Bring your own bike and experience Safety City!
  • Games
  • Hands-on crafts and activities

BEVERLY PARK INTERGENERATIONAL PLAYSPACE 11:00AM-2:00PM

  • Encouraging play between seniors and children
  • Bubble play with The Muse
  • CPR demonstrations and movement activities with the American Heart Association
  • Girl Scouts
  • Equipment demonstrations led by Functional Pathways
  • Music and Motions activity with Hillcrest Healthcare
  • Face painting

 

There’s fun for adults too!

CARL COWAN PARK 6:00-8:00PM

  • Pickleball instruction
  • 3-point basketball competition
  • Grass volleyball
  • Yoga/Meditation
  • Axe throwing
  • Cornhole
  • Food trucks

EDGEWOOD PARK 6:00pm

  • Yoga with Nora Vines

SUTTREE LANDING 6:00pm

  • Yoga with Dimara Carberry-Beattie

WEST HILLS PARK 6:30pm

  • Guided walk with Knox Girls Who Walk

 

The International Day of Play is a global celebration of something truly powerful — play! It’s a reminder that play isn’t just about having fun — it’s a fundamental part of every child’s growth, learning, and well-being.

Play is essential in helping children develop social skills, build resilience, explore creativity, and gain confidence. Through play, kids learn to navigate relationships, tackle challenges, and discover who they are — all while preparing to thrive in a fast-changing world.

For more information and updates, visit legacyparks.org/day-of-play.