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RECREATION REPORT
recommended action
RECOMMENDATION
Informational Item Only
Recreation staff will provide updates on Stockton Arts Night, Project Toolbox Events, and Spring Break Activities.
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Summary
Stockton Art Nights
The Stockton Arts Commission will host its first Arts Night event of 2026 at the Civic Auditorium on March 11, 4:00 - 7:00 PM. The Commission’s Stockton Art Nights are held quarterly throughout the year, showcasing art by a variety of local artists across multiple genres. The Commission is currently accepting applications from artists for all 2026 events. More information on the application process can be obtained by emailing Thomas Freeman at thomas.freeman@stocktonca.gov.
Project Toolbox Events, Ages 13-17
The Project Toolbox staff will host a snow-filled day at Spicer Sno-Park in Stanislaus National Forest on Saturday, February 28, 2026. This event promises classic winter fun, from snowball fights and snow play to building snowmen and enjoying the crisp mountain air. Admission, transportation, and lunch are included free of charge. Registration ended on February 14, and the trip is full, but teens can be placed on a waitlist if they are interested in attending. An information night will take place on February 24 at 6:00 PM at Stribley Community Center. This event is subject to the weather conditions.
In March, participants will have the opportunity to explore creativity and innovation at the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco’s Presidio. Scheduled for Friday, March 20, 2026, this excursion will immerse teens in interactive galleries, rare artwork, and a spectacular model of Disneyland, all narrated in Walt Disney’s own voice. Admission, transportation, and lunch are provided at no cost. Registration closes March 7, and an information night will be held on March 17 at 6:00 PM at Stribley Community Center.
Additionally, a Career and Resource Expo will take place on Saturday, March 14, from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM at Arnold Rue Community Center. This free event offers teens the chance to explore career opportunities, educational programs, and community resources. Attendees can connect with professionals, participate in hands-on demonstrations, and gather valuable information on jobs, colleges, and training programs. Registration is not required, and light refreshments will be provided.
Spring School Break Activities
Playmobile
The Playmobile program will roll into neighborhood parks this March, bringing recreation on wheels to local communities. This free drop-in initiative offers safe, engaging activities for youth and families, including games, crafts, and sports, led by mobile recreation staff. Playmobile will visit Sandman Park and Victory Park on Monday, March 16; Sousa Park and Long Park on Tuesday, March 17; Panella Park and Oak Park on Wednesday, March 18; and Van Buskirk Park on Thursday, March 19. Activities at the first park will run from 12:00 to 2:00 PM, and the second park from 3:30 to 5:30 PM.
Play in the Shade
In addition to Playmobile, the Community Services Department will host a free, action-packed park program for children ages 5-14 from March 16 through March 20. This Play in the Shade program operates Monday through Friday from 12:00 to 3:00 PM and provides a safe, welcoming space for kids to explore creativity, stay active, and make new friends. Daily activities include arts and crafts, sports, games, and spring-themed projects, ensuring a variety of experiences for participants. Locations include Anderson Park, Long Park, McKinley Park, Panella Park, Stribley Park, Van Buskirk Park, and Paul Weston Park. All activities are free of charge, reinforcing the City’s commitment to accessible recreation opportunities for youth.
Camps
The Community Services Department will host a variety of camps during the March school breaks. These programs provide a safe and fun environment where children ages 5-12 can enjoy sports, games, crafts, and social activities under the guidance of trained recreation leaders. Camps emphasize small group interaction to ensure personal attention and foster friendships among participants. Scholarships are available upon request when submitting registration forms, reinforcing the City’s commitment to accessibility.
Spring Break Discovery Day Camp will operate Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The cost is $84 per child per session, with a discounted rate of $63 for each additional sibling. Session 1 runs March 16-20 at Arnold Rue Community Center, Egusa Gym (adjacent to August Knodt Elementary School), Seifert Community Center, Van Buskirk Community Center, and Stribley Community Center. Session 2 will be held March 23-27 at Arnold Rue Community Center.
Additionally, the Community Services Department will host three youth sports clinics in March to promote skill development and active play. Our Volleyball Clinic takes place on March 14 at August Knodt Gym for ages 7-14, with sessions from 9:00 AM -12:00 PM and 1:00-4:00 PM. Registration closes March 8; cost is $27.75. The Soccer Clinic will be held on March 21 at McNair Soccer Fields from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM for ages 5-14; registration ends March 15; cost is $27.75. Intro to Golf runs March 16-19 at Panella Park or Paul E. Weston from 4:30-6:00 PM for ages 7-14; registration closes March 11; cost is $47.25. All programs provide a safe, supportive environment for learning and fun.