REXBURG—Summer in Rexburg starts this Friday with the annual tradition of the Carousel Kickoff, a community event for everyone at Porter Park starting at 4 p.m.
Jon Lewis is the director of Rexburg’s Parks and Recreation Department; he first experienced the community as a student at BYU-Idaho. He has been working for the city for the last 4-and-a-half years.
“I think there's lots of things to enjoy about Rexburg, but for me it's got to be the people who are here,” Lewis said.
Porter Park has a basketball court, tennis courts, a playground, pavilions, the Beehive Stage and open grass areas. However, the park offers some unique summer fun with the Idaho Centennial Carousel and splash pad.
“I would say just highlighting the kickoff of [Idaho Centennial Carousel] being open as well as our splash pad too,” Lewis said.
The carousel is over 100 years old and is run by the Parks and Rec staff all summer long.
Additional fun activities during the kickoff include: a traveling zoo, bouncy houses and a mini golf area. There will also be a DJ and live music throughout the park.
Local vendors will host informational booths where they will provide free activities for the community to participate in and the opportunity to win prizes.
The local farmer’s market and food trucks participate in the fun, keeping the community engaged all night.
“A lot of our [vendors] have had really good success,” Lewis said.
Rexburg’s Parks and Rec Department will have an informational booth for the public as well as a map of what is going on at the Kickoff.
“My favorite part is just seeing the satisfaction of the community afterwards; it's a big part of what I do. Part of the reason why I went into this field is to be able to give back to my community,” Lewis said.
The carousel and splash pad stay open until Labor Day and depending on the weather it could get extended, Lewis said.
To volunteer for events, reach out to the Parks and Recreation Department and ask for Jon Lewis or Parker Anderson.
Join the Rexburg community this Friday at Porter Park from 4 - 8 p.m. for some summer fun.