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December 6, 2024
  • Celebrate the Holiday Season with M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County

    Free or low-cost Holiday Events for the Entire Family  

    RIVERDALE, Md. – The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s Countyinvites the community to celebrate the holidays with free or low-cost events for the entire family. From dazzling light displays, holiday concerts, and visits from Santa the entire family can Live More, Play More this holiday season.

    Upcoming events include:

    Festival of Lights

    Friday, November 28 – Thursday, January 1, 5 pm – 9:30 pm nightly

    Watkins Regional Park

    301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD

    Experience the magic of the holiday season at the annual Festival of Lights, all from the comfort of your car. Drive through three miles of dazzling light displays featuring more than 2.5 million lights, the largest show of its kind in the Washington D.C. area. Returning this year, Holiday Hayrides, a festive way to enjoy the sights with loved ones. Advanced registration is required for hayrides.

    Santa Fly-In

    Saturday, December 6, 10 am – 3 pm

    College Park Aviation Museum

    1985 Corporal Frank Scott Drive, College Park, MD

    Enjoy a festive day filled with holiday cheer from around the world! Experience magic, fun, and family with Santa as he makes his annual return to the College Park Aviation Museum and files in for a day of holiday merriment. Be dazzled with the Berwyn Ballet’s excerpts from “The Nutcracker” and explore how other cultures celebrate winter traditions with fun and festive crafts and activities. Advance registration required by December 3.

    The Nutcracker with the National Ballet Company

    Saturday, December 6, 7 pm & Sunday, December 7, 4 pm

    Prince George’s Publick Playhouse

    5445 Landover Road, Hyattsville, MD

    Returning to the Publick Playhouse stage, the National Ballet Company revisits the enchanting world of “The Nutcracker,” a holiday classic that has captivated audiences of all ages for generations. The production, with its magical storyline, vibrant costumes, and breathtaking choreography, is set against the backdrop of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, creating an immersive experience that transports viewers to a whimsical winter wonderland.

    Holiday Jingle Jam | FREE

    Saturday, December 13, 9 am – 12 pm

    Southern Area Aquatics and Recreation Complex

    13601 Missouri Ave, Brandywine, MD 

    Spend a magical morning of holiday fun with the family. Create your own Elf on the Shelf, enjoy cookies with cocoa, and snap a photo with a special jolly guest. Then, experience the heartwarming children’s show Holiday Block Party at 11 am, performed by the Canady Foundation for the Arts Repertory Theatre. Through music, dance, puppetry, and storytelling, journey globally to explore cultural traditions from Diwali to Kwanza, Las Posadas and more.

    Holiday Craft Fair | FREE

    Saturday, December 13, 11 am – 4 pm

    Brentwood Arts Exchange

    3901 Rhode Island Avenue, Brentwood, MD

    Kick off the holidays at the festive Holiday Craft Fair, where you can shop from over a dozen local artisans showcasing their handcrafted goods. Discover unique gifts, enjoy live music, and sip on seasonal favorites from Maryland Meadworks. Whether you’re searching for the perfect present or simply soaking in the holiday cheer, you’ll find something special for everyone on your list.

    Skate with Santa

    Saturday, December 13, 2 pm – 4 pm

    Herbert W. Wells Ice Rink

    5211 Campus Drive, College Park, MD

    Break out your festive holiday wear and celebrate the season, ice skating, and taking photos with Santa. No registration required.

    A Charlie Brown Christmas with the Eric Byrd Trio

    Saturday, December 20, 2 – 4 pm

    Montpelier Arts Center

    9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel, MD

    Christmastime is here! Celebrate the season with an afternoon filled with festive music from the Peanuts’ special. Comprised of pianist/ vocalist Eric Byrd, bassist Bhagwan Khalsa, and drummer Alphonso Young, Jr., the Trio has traveled the world as enthusiastic ambassadors of jazz. Bringing fresh arrangements to these familiar songs, they are sure to put you in a holiday mood.  

    In the Water Basketball Showcase

    Friday, December 26 and Saturday, December 27, 12 noon tip off

    The Show Place Arena

    14900 Pennsylvania Avenue, Upper Marlboro, MD

    In the Water Basketball Showcase brings two electrifying days of high school basketball action to The Show Place Arena. Don’t miss this holiday showdown, featuring the top boys’ and girls’ teams across the DC Metropolitan Area battling it out under one roof in a high-stakes, high-energy atmosphere.

    For more information about upcoming M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation events, visit pgparks.com.

  • Major Aquatic Capital Improvement Project and Renovation at Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex Scheduled to Begin December 2025

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 31,2025

    COMMUNITY MESSAGE

    UPDATE (October 31, 2025) – The major aquatic capital improvement project and renovation at the Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex is now tentatively scheduled to begin in December 2025. As part of the first phase, the competition pool will be closed for approximately one year. The aquatic facility will remain open until construction begins and the Leisure pool will remain open during the first phase of construction. M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County thanks you for your patience and understanding as we embark on this exciting journey. If you have any questions or concerns, please email splex@pgparks.com.

    RIVERDALE, Md. (August 12, 2025)– M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County is excited to announce the upcoming start of a major aquatic capital improvement project and renovation at the Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex. The project is tentatively scheduled to begin mid- to late October 2025, with the competition pool as the first phase.  This extensive project, strategically evaluated over the past two years, will include a two-phase, two-year approach designed to minimize service disruptions while maximizing time efficiency and cost effectiveness. It will include mechanical system replacements and measures to protect daily operations. Our goal is to enhance the quality and experience of the Department’s aquatic venues and amenities, ensuring they meet the highest standards of safety, accessibility, and operational efficiency in continuing to provide enjoyment for all our user groups and patrons.

    Project Overview

    The improvement project will include significant upgrades to the existing infrastructure of the competition pool, including demolition and reconstruction. Key components of the project include reconfiguration the groundwater drainage systems to support site dewatering, installing, state-of-the-art filtration and heating systems, renovating the pool shell and deck surfaces, and enhancing surrounding amenities such as family changing rooms, locker rooms, showers, and fixtures in conjunction with accessibility upgrades. These renovations will not only improve the aesthetic appeal of the aquatics facilities but also will ensure longevity and enhance functionality for years to come.

    Information for Our Valued Community

    We understand that this renovation project will impact our existing users, and we are committed to minimizing any inconvenience. To help patrons plan for the fall and beyond, we along with the contractor will:

    • Maintain open communication via email, social media, and public meetings to address any questions or concerns. Starting with In-Person and Virtual community engagement meetings to take place on Tuesday, August 26th, In Person at 10 am at The Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex in our Town Hall Room, and Virtual at 6:30 pm via Zoom.
    • Provide a draft rendering of the final renovation design.
    • Share a tentative project timeline at pgparks.com.  
    • Provide constant updates through community bulletins and announcements that include video and photos of progress.
    • Communicate in advance and provide signage and construction site plan logistics for awareness and safety.
    • Offer access to alternative aquatic facilities and programs during the closure period.

    Our goal is to deliver a revitalized aquatic venue that will serve the community better than ever before.

    Looking Ahead

    M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County is committed to investing in our community’s recreational resources. This major aquatic capital improvement project is a testament to our dedication to providing high-quality facilities that enhance health, wellness, and overall quality of life for all residents and user groups.

    We thank you for your patience and understanding as we embark on this exciting journey. Together, we can look forward to a future filled with enhanced recreational opportunities and a beautifully renovated aquatic venue.  The improvements will increase functionality, energy efficiency, reduce downtime, expand programming offerings and enhance our ability to accommodate event requests and access for swim teams, practices and competitions particularly those serving youth and teens, both within the county and beyond.

    During this initial phase and with the anticipated closure of the competition pool beginning in October 2025, there will be some impacts to programming. This includes logistical and scheduling adjustments for programs such as the Senior Day Program, lap swimming, water walking, learn-to-swim, and water fitness classes. These programs will be relocated to the Leisure Pool.

    The Aquatics program and management staff will continue working diligently to adjust scheduling and logistics to support a wide variety of existing programs. Our goal is to minimize disruptions to patrons and preserve the user experience regarding pool availability. However, given the high demand and limited availability of the Leisure Pool, program adjustments and prioritization may be necessary.  

    In the coming months, we will provide regular updates and reminders to help prepare users for fall and winter programming changes to ensure a smooth transition during this renovation period. We invite you to visit any of our six indoor pools this fall-winter season for additional aquatic programs, services, and drop-in swim opportunities.

    Indoor Pools:

    • Allentown Splash Park – 7210 Allentown Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Fairland Sports & Aquatics Complex – 13820 Old Gunpowder Rd, Laurel, MD 20707
    • Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex – 8001 Sheriff Rd, Landover, MD 20785
    • Rollingcrest-Chillum Splash Pool – 6122 Sargent Rd, Hyattsville, MD 20782
    • Southern Area Aquatics & Recreation Complex – 13601 Missouri Ave, Brandywine, MD 20613
    • Southern Regional Aquatic Wellness Center – 7011 Bock Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744
    • Theresa Banks Memorial Aquatic Center – 8615 McLain Ave, Glenarden, MD 20706

    Stay updated by visiting pgparks.com and signing up for PGParks Alerts to receive notifications on your mobile device.

    If you have any questions or concerns, please email splex@pgparks.com.

    About the Department

    With over 29,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds, and more, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for Prince George’s County residents and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s Formula 2040 Plan establishes a framework that will ensure the Department can meet future parks and recreation programmatic and facility needs, fulfilling its mission to determine the combination of land, facilities, and programs that will provide appropriate experiences for Prince Georgians in the future. To learn more, visit www.pgparks.com.

  • Celebrate the Season! Holiday Fun Begins this November with M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County

    From cultural celebrations to family activities, enjoy free and affordable events all November long

    RIVERDALE, Md. – Kick off the holiday season with free and low-cost events by M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County this November. From dazzling light displays and cultural celebrations to family-friendly performances and community gatherings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

    Upcoming events include:

    Concord Emancipation Day CelebrationFREE

    Saturday, November 1, 12 pm – 5 pm

    Concord Historic Site

    8000 Walker Mill Road, Capitol Heights, MD 20743

    Celebrate heritage, resilience, and the progress of African Americans from enslavement through emancipation and beyond. The Concord Emancipation Day Celebration will feature live music and performances by The Kim Michelle Experience, hands-on history craft demonstrations, heritage farming workshops, kids& family zone, classic and custom car showcase, food trucks, and more.

    Jug Bay Run/Walk for Wildlife

    Saturday, November 1, 9 am – 11 am

    Patuxent River Park

    16000 Croom Airport Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772

    Register to walk or run and preserve wildlife! Together, the Patuxent River Park and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary comprise over 3,500 acres along the banks of the Patuxent River. The river and its shore are home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Proceeds from this event support projects, research, conservation, and education in the Patuxent River watershed.

    Sly & The Family Stone Tribute

    Saturday, November 8, 8 pm

    Publick Playhouse

    5445 Landover Road, Cheverly, MD 20784

    Enjoy a live tribute to Sly & The Family Stone, the iconic American funk band from the 1960s and ‘70s. The tribute features Gold Soul Movement, a collective of DMV-based artists celebrating soul music’s timeless, genre-blending power. For all ages.

    Annual Choreographer’s Showcase

    Saturday, November 15, 7 pm

    Publick Playhouse

    5445 Landover Road, Cheverly, MD 20784

    Celebrate the best of choreography in the DMV with a stunning lineup of emerging and established artists. Experience groundbreaking performances that will inspire and captivate. Stay after the show for an exclusive talk-back with the choreographers.

    Trot for a Turkey

    Saturday, November 22, 6- 8 pm

    Watkins Regional Park

    301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD

    Help families in need by running or walking through the beautiful Winter Festival of Lights! The almost 3-mile course will feature dazzling light displays. The registration feed will provide families in need with a holiday turkey.

    Bikes and Lights

    Sunday, November 23, 5 pm – 7 pm

    Watkins Regional Park

    301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD

    Enjoy the unique experience of riding your bike through the Winter Festival of Lights. Experience dazzling scenes celebrating the magic of the holiday season.

    For more information about upcoming M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation events, visit pgparks.com.

    About the Department

    With over 29,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds, and more, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for Prince George’s County residents and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s Formula 2040 Plan establishes a framework that will ensure the Department can meet future parks and recreation programmatic and facility needs, fulfilling its mission to determine the combination of land, facilities, and programs that will provide appropriate experiences for Prince Georgians in the future. To learn more, visit www.pgparks.com.