Manatee County Explore and Play

Your Return on Community: Making Waves

Looking for the perfect way to beat the summer heat? Head over to Lincoln Aquatic Center for a day of fun in the sun!

📍 715 17th St. E., Palmetto, 34221

Summer swim hours:
💦 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
💦 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Whether you're swimming laps, splashing with the family or enjoying the play structures, Lincoln Aquatic Center is the perfect place to cool off and make lasting summer memories. Grab your sunscreen, bring your friends and family and make waves this summer in Manatee County!

'Twas the night before Race No. 2 of the Run Manatee 5K Series (Presented by RWP Runs), and the excitement is building!

Tomorrow, Coquina Beach comes alive with an evening of running, community and summer fun. While the race is officially sold out, everyone is welcome to come out and enjoy the festivities, cheer on the runners and soak in the beachside atmosphere.

Want to complete the connecting-medal series? Registration is still open for the final race at Rye Preserve on November 21 at https://runsignup.com/runmanateepreserve2026. We can't wait to see you at the starting line—or on the sidelines—tomorrow evening!

Your Return on Community with the Power of Play: Summer campers have been having a blast! Last week was packed with summer fun, from an action-filled field day to cooling off in the pool and playing games in the gym. Campers wrapped up the day with a sweet treat from Kona Ice, making it a day full of smiles, laughter and unforgettable summer memories.

Your Return on Community: Making a Splash 💦

Looking for a fun and FREE way to beat the summer heat? Manatee County's splash pads are open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk and are the perfect place to cool off with family and friends.

Make a splash at:
💧 Tom Bennett Park – 280 Kay Rd., Bradenton, 34208
💧 Pride Park – 6032 9th St. E., Bradenton, 34203
💧 Parrish Community Park – 7550 Fort Hamer Rd., Parrish, 34219
💧 John H. Marble Park – 3675 53rd Ave. E., Bradenton, 34203
💧 Lincoln Park – 715 17th St. E., Palmetto, 34221

Whether you're cooling off after the playground, burning off some energy or simply escaping the Florida sun, these splash pads are a great way to enjoy summer in Manatee County—all at no cost.

Youth Basketball Camp Registration is now OPEN!

When an hour-long practice just isn't enough, join us for Basketball Camp. Throughout the week participants will work on improving their game, footwork, defense, v-cuts, rebounding, left hand and more.

Session 4 July 14 - 16
Location: John Marble Recreation Center
Ages: 10 - 15
Times: 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $75
Skill Level: Advanced Players Only

Click here to register: https://bit.ly/4y3MDDn

Calling all little explorers! 🦋

Join us at Mixon Farms for Crafty Critters, a brand-new hands-on nature program designed for Pre-K and elementary-aged children. Each Thursday from July 16 through August 6, kids will enjoy an interactive nature lesson, create a themed craft to take home and explore the wonders of the natural world through fun, creativity, and discovery.

Sessions run from 9 to 11 a.m. and are the perfect way to spark curiosity while making lasting summer memories. To learn more, contact [email protected].

Register at bit.ly/MixonCraftyCritters

Our VolunTeens hit the water at Emerson Point Preserve last week, paddling through the mangrove trails with a mission to make a difference!

Along the way, they removed piles of trash from the mangroves, discovered an old ship's logbook and spotted incredible wildlife in its natural habitat. Every piece of litter removed helps protect these vital coastal ecosystems, proving that even a small group can make a big impact.

Looking for a way to keep your teen active, engaged and making a difference this summer? Check out upcoming VolunTeen opportunities and other nature programs at mymanatee.org/ecoevents!

From campers and staff to our amazing community members working out at our recreation centers, the Fourth of July spirit is shining bright! ❤️🤍💙

If you're stopping by today or tomorrow, don't forget to show off your red, white and blue. We can't wait to see your patriotic spirit!

Happy Fourth of July from Manatee County! Today we celebrate the freedoms we enjoy, the heroes who helped shape our nation and the communities that make our county such a special place to call home. Whether you're spending the day with family and friends, enjoying our beautiful parks and beaches or watching fireworks light up the night sky, we wish you a safe, fun and memorable Independence Day. As you celebrate, remember to be mindful of wildlife, clean up after your festivities and help keep Manatee County beautiful for everyone. Have a happy and safe Fourth of July!