Parks News August 2026

nature themed play area
An example of a Nature Play area. This is in Somerset West Park

A new playground is coming to Bonny Slope Park! Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District (THPRD) is enhancing connections to nature by replacing the existing playground with a new, nature‑themed play experience. See more about THPRD’s Nature Play here.

Public outreach to gather input from neighbors on the design is starting this month with an event at the park on August 4, 5:30-7:30. A survey will also be available from August 4-18 for the community to share input on the playground options. Learn more on the project page and sign up to get email updates.

Construction of the new playground is expected to begin between December 2026 to March 2027. As part of this bond project, funded through the 2019 Metro Parks and Nature bond measure, the playground design will feature activities and amenities that help connect people to nature in a variety of ways and serve community needs.

Fall registration opens August 8 for THPRD classes. Register online at the THPRD portal.

Safety Services are expanding service hours to 7 am-11:30 pm. If you need their assistance, please call 971-246-0169 to report hazards, vandalism, or other safety concerns.

THPRD is looking for volunteer photographers to capture events, concerts, camps, sports, and more! Get practice, develop a portfolio, and help publicize district programs with your work! Follow this link to get started.

TriTogether

Volunteer with friends and family to support participants living with disabilities at TriTogether. Volunteers are encouraged to make signs to cheer participants on. Sign up today at www.thprd.org. Lunch will be provided! Visit the event webpage for details.

TRI Together is an inclusive, family-friendly event hosted by THPRD to provide an opportunity for people of all abilities to come together and be active. This triathlon is intended for beginners and groups of all ages. This is not a timed event. Register here.

Crews broke ground last month to replace the Hardin Stadium Court with 12 dedicated pickleball courts at the HMT Campus. For mockups and additional details, visit the web page and/or follow Tennis on Facebook for weekly photos.

Join a Community Design Workshop for art features planned for the new pedestrian bridge across Highway 26. THPRD is gathering community ideas to inspire artwork for the future crossing. This event brings together artists, neighbors, and planners to envision how art can enhance the experience. Activities include free iced treats; collective brainstorming; visual idea boards; hands-on design prompts; and kid-friendly art activities. Walk, roll, bike, or take public transit; neighborhood parking is available. Visit the event webpage for details.

THPRD completed asphalt repairs along two sections of the Waterhouse Trail. Sections include from Walker Road to Willow Creek and Laidlaw Rd to Rock Creek Trail.

Registration for volleyball at the Tualatin Hills Athletic Center will open in August for adult and youth leagues. The adult league has been competitive and has grown to a maximum capacity with multiple divisions.

Cool off with water slides, splash games, and outdoor fun at Summer Splash Days! This exciting event is perfect for families looking to beat the heat. Volunteers are also needed. Access off Bonnie Brae, Erickson, or Berthold.

Experience live, outdoor Shakespeare with Theater in the Park, presented by OPS Fest. Bring a blanket and enjoy a classic play under the summer sky.

An all-ages community event partnering with the Rose City Rollers. Features include the Skatemobile with 150+ loaner skates; beginner-to-advanced lessons; music by DJ Will; and all wheels welcome.

Find August events at the Rec Center here (scroll down).

Summer theme nights-Spidey & friends

Swing into heroic fun and splashing adventures. Children under seven years or under 43 inches must have a parent in the water. Children under 10 must have an adult in the building. Visit the event webpage for details.

Summer sock hop dance

Put on your poodle skirt or leather jacket and dance to timeless hits. Use code ES16618 to register at the THPRD portal.

Understanding advance directives for dementia

Learn about advance care planning and end-of-life decision making focusing on dementia. Use code ES15615 to register at the THPRD portal.

TR summer solstice dance

Soak up the longest day of the year with music and dancing. Therapeutic Recreation (TR) programs are for teens and adults (16+) with disabilities. Use code TR15721 to register at the THPRD portal.

Free Rec Mobile Camp

Spots still open for three weeks in August. This camp is for children 6-10 yrs living in low-income housing who qualify for THPRD scholarships or are in houseless status. Crafts, sports, games, science, art, and more. Call 503-629-6341 for an application.

Canine community carnival

Join our annual outdoor Canine Community Carnival. Bring your furry friend for music; vendor booths; raffle prizes; treats; a pop-up dog park; and water stations. All dogs must be leashed.

Grab a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy live music in the park this summer! THPRD’s free Summer Concert series offers performances at parks across the district, featuring a variety of music, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to gather outdoors with friends and neighbors.

Enjoy free outdoor movies under the stars. Bring a blanket or low-back chair. Concessions available. Movies are closed captioned in English. Lineup: 8/7-Zootopia 2; 8/14-Inside Out 2; 8/21-How to Train Your Dragon; 8/28-E.T. Visit the event webpage for details.

Sunday, August 9, 12-6 pm, Hillsboro Ballpark, 4460 NE Century Blvd, Hillsboro, free

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Latino Community Festival with entertainment, art, and local businesses. Experience Latin culture at its finest. Visit the event webpage for details.