More summer fun returns! Richmond Hill set to reopen playgrounds, drive-in concerts in Stage 3

City also working to gradually open some recreational facilities starting in August

Yorkregion.com
July 24, 2020
Sheila Wang

Richmond Hill residents are expected to return to some more fun in the sun as the city moves into Stage 3 of Ontario’s reopening plan in the COVID-19 pandemic.

The city will begin to reopen its 130 playgrounds, as well as all outdoor exercise equipment, by July 31, according to a news release issued July 22.

It’s the latest step the city has taken to gradually return to normal after opening up splash pads, tennis courts and skate parks last month.

Residents are asked to bring their own hand sanitizer, as playgrounds and equipment are not disinfected.

Meanwhile, the city will host three drive-in concerts in August in the Tom Graham Arena parking lot.

The community will be able to come together in a physically distanced fashion to enjoy the concerts for free.

Residents must preregister online and bring proof of pre-registration with them to gain access to the grounds. Tickets will be available online at www.rhcentre.ca as of 10 a.m. July 24.

Concerts will take place on the following dates and times:

Aug. 13, 7 to 8:15 p.m. -- ABBA Mania;

Aug. 20, 7 to 8:15 p.m. -- British Legends; and

Aug. 27, 7 to 8:15 p.m. -- Simply the Best.

As the spread of COVID-19 continues to slow, the city is also working to gradually open some recreational facilities that have been closed for months.

In August, the city plans to safely reopen the weight room of the Oak Ridges Community Centre fitness studio and Centennial Pool for lane and leisure swims.

Please note, capacity will be limited and residents will be required to reserve their workout and/or swim times online prior to visiting the facilities. More details will be available closer to the opening dates.

Additional facilities are expected to reopen in September, when the city will offer drop-in recreation opportunities with a limited capacity.

For the cooped-up kids, the city has several programs to offer to keep them active and learning new skills.

Kids ages four to 14 are welcome to take part in the city’s virtual programing, where they can interact with instructors through Zoom on a variety of subjects including Junior LIT, art, dance and poetry.

The online program is available until Aug. 28.

The city also offers a Phyllis Rawlinson Park Adventure Program for those who love nature. Recreation staff will lead participants through nature activities, as well as arts and crafts specifically designed for kids to have fun while maintaining physical distancing.

Full details and registration information can be found at RichmondHill.ca/RecGuide.