Woodstock Wants You To Get Outside This Summer

Staff Report

If you’re feeling cramped and like you don’t get to spend enough time outside, you’re not the only one.

Nearly three in 10 U.S. adults do not spend time outside on a daily basis and of those who do, almost half spend less than 30 minutes in the fresh air according to a new survey released by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs. 

That’s why this July, the Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department is challenging everyone to get out and visit their community parks and recreation facilities during National Park and Recreation Month.

This year’s theme, “OUT is IN,” encourages individuals, families, friends and coworkers to do something outside everyday that they would normally do inside. From picnicking in the park instead of sitting inside at a table to sending an email or even holding a meeting outside, there are small ways you can make going OUT part of your daily routine. 

The parks and facilities run by the city of Woodstock offer ample opportunities to go OUTside, get INspired, change your OUTlook and get INvolved. 

Parks and Recreation Director Preston Pooser encourages all Woodstock residents to go outside.  

Residents in Woodstock can explore its trail system’s 20+ miles of mountain bike and paved walking trails; take their dog to play at Woofstock Park; play tennis, basketball or have a picnic at the Dupree Park; come to a concert at the Park at City Center and see the Jets perform on July 12. Or, if you’re a senior, check out what’s happening at the William G. Long Senior Center. 

"This is a great time of the year to get outside and be active," Pooser added.   

In addition to getting involved in Park and Recreation Month locally, people are encouraged to take the OUT is IN 31-day social media challenge on Twitter and Instagram by posting photos of themselves doing typical inside activities outside with the hashtag #JulyOUTisIN.   

To learn more about getting OUTside and INvolved during Park and Recreation Month, visit www.woodstockparksandrec.com and www.nrpa.org/July.