Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry today announced the launch of the City’s 2025 Safe Summer Initiatives—an effort focused on keeping Evansville families safe, connected, and engaged through expanded recreational programming and community partnerships.

The first round of events kick off tonight and will continue throughout the summer, providing opportunities for fun, connection, and support across the city’s neighborhoods.

“We’re not just planning events, we’re creating safer neighborhoods,” said Mayor Terry. “When young people have access to positive spaces and strong role models, it reduces the risk of violence, isolation, and hopelessness. Safe Summer is about prevention, connection, and showing that in Evansville, every child matters and every neighborhood counts.”

The 2025 Safe Summer Initiative is anchored in the City’s larger commitment to Youth Development, Public Safety, and Neighborhood Revitalization, and features collaborative efforts with Parks and Recreation, the Evansville Police Department, and other local partners.

Among the first Safe Summer events and programs:

•             As Seen at CMOE “Need for Speed” - Friday May 30: Join staff from the Department of Parks & Recreation and the Children’s Museum of Evansville at Lamasco Park for a fun, “Build Your Own Racecar” event for children. This free event is part of the “As Seen at CMOE” series happening in Evansville parks throughout 2025.

•              Movies in the Park – Friday, May 30: The season’s first outdoor movie night takes place at Bayard Park this Friday. The featured film is The Little Rascals, beginning at dusk. Families are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.

•              Rochelle and Lorraine Pools Open Saturday, May 31st two neighborhood pools will officially open for the season this weekend. Due to a break in the circulation pump, the opening of Howell Mosby Pool has been delayed. Repairs are underway, and an opening date will be announced as soon as possible. Currently the proposed opening date is Saturday June 7^th.

•              Puppies and Police – Monday, June 2: This new initiative by the Evansville Police Department invites community members and their furry friends to join officers at Kaycies Barkville at Woodmere from 9–11 a.m. The event is designed to promote positive community-police relationships in a relaxed, pet-friendly environment.

•              Walking Wednesdays - Wednesday, June 4: Each Wednesday in the summer, the EPD looks forward to getting out of their cars and walking in individual neighborhoods throughout the city. Members of the public are encouraged to join officers this Wednesday in the Alvord neighborhood at 10:00 a.m.

•              Splash Into Summer Swimsuit Drive – Thursday, June 6: Held from 9 a.m. to noon at Walmart East, this drive collects new swimsuits for children and adults of all sizes, as well as swim diapers. Donations can also be dropped off anytime at the CK Newsome Center.

•              Parks Squad Cleanup – Wednesday, June 12: The next community-led park cleanup will take place at Garvin Park from 6–7 p.m. Volunteers of all ages are welcome as part of the City’s commitment to neighborhood revitalization and clean, safe public spaces.

The Evansville Police Department also will be doing periodic enforcement sweeps throughout the summer.

“Our Safe Summer programming reflects our belief that a vibrant city is one where every resident has access to fun, safe, and meaningful experiences,” Mayor Terry added. “We’re inviting the entire community to come out, get involved, and be a part of what makes Evansville special.”

Additional Safe Summer events will be announced throughout the season. Residents are encouraged to follow the City’s social media pages and website for updates.