Looking for free, family-friendly events in Sacramento this summer? Southgate Recreation & Park District is excited to announce the return of R.E.C. Van Season — your go-to source for fun, active, and creative experiences for kids in the park!
Running twice a week throughout the summer for approximately 25 scheduled park visits, the R.E.C. (Recreation Engaging Children) Van brings free recreation and enrichment programs directly to Southgate parks near you. Each event features exciting hands-on activities like games, arts and crafts, sports, and more — all designed to engage kids of all ages in a safe, outdoor setting.
Why Attend a R.E.C. Van Event?
- It’s completely free! No registration required — just show up and join the fun.
- Hosted by trained and friendly Southgate recreation staff.
- Great way for families to enjoy local parks and stay active during summer break.
- Held at multiple park locations throughout the South Sacramento area.
Special R.E.C. Van + Movie Night Combo Events
In addition to weekly R.E.C. Van stops, don’t miss our special Movie Night in the Park combo events — four events held during this summer. Families can enjoy outdoor activities from the R.E.C. Van, followed by a free movie screening under the stars. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks for an unforgettable evening at your neighborhood park.
When & Where
All R.E.C. Van events are scheduled from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, unless otherwise noted. Locations vary, so be sure to check the full schedule below to find a stop near you!
Stay Connected
For the latest updates, weather notifications, or additional summer programs offered by Southgate Recreation & Park District, follow us on social media or visit us on our website at southgaterecandpark.gov.
Make the most of your summer with Southgate’s R.E.C. Van — where play, creativity, and community come together in the park!
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📅 May-June Schedule
| Date | Day | Location | From | To |
| 5/29/25 | Th | Illa Collin Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 6/3/25 | T | Robert D. Cochran Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 6/5/25 | Th | Don & Brenda Nottoli Community Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 6/10/25 | T | Rutter Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 6/12/25 | Th | Toby Johnson Park – Movie in the Park: Despicable Me 4 | 6 p.m. | 10 p.m. |
| 6/14/25 | Sa | Strawberry Festival, Old Florintown Park & Historical Museum | 11 a.m. | 3 p.m. |
| 6/17/25 | T | Edwin A. Smith Community Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 6/19/25 | Th | Sky Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 6/24/25 | T | Rainbow Park – Movie in the Park: Harold & The Purple Crayon | 6 p.m. | 10 p.m. |
| 6/26/25 | Th | Woody Hampton Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
📅 July Schedule
| Date | Day | Location | From | To |
| 7/1/25 | T | Hardester Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 7/3/25 | Th | Vintage Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 7/8/25 | T | Willowood Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 7/10/25 | Th | Tamarindo Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 7/15/25 | T | Sunrise Florin Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 7/17/25 | Th | Southwoods Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 7/22/25 | T | Carlisle Woods Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 7/24/25 | Th | Larry Gury Community Park – Movie in the Park: The Last Wish | 6 p.m. | 10 p.m. |
| 7/29/25 | T | Nicholas Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 7/31/25 | Th | Silver Leaf Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
📅 August Schedule
| Date | Day | Location | From | To |
| 8/5/25 | T | Norman S. Waters Park – National Night Out | 5 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 8/7/25 | Th | Jimmie R. Yee Park – Movie in the Park: Moana 2 | 6 p.m. | 10 p.m. |
| 8/12/25 | T | Florin Creek Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 8/14/25 | Th | Crofoot Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 8/19/25 | T | Jack W. Davis Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
| 8/21/25 | Th | Bowling Green Park | 6 p.m. | 8 p.m. |
