PARD 2026 Summer Essentials

Cit y of Brownsville Parks and Recreation Depar tment

PARD

20 26 Y O U R O F F I C I A L S U M M E R P L AY B O O K

Summer Essentials

MAY- AUG

Ex plore. Ex perien ce.

Conn ec t .

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A Message from the Parks and Recreation Director To our Brownsville Family, This season, we are doing things differently. You are holding the Summer Essentials—a curated lifestyle guide designed to get you straight to the heart of what makes our city thrive. We’ve moved away from the traditional catalog to bring you a focused look at the high-impact programs and spaces you’ve asked for.

This shift is rooted in your feedback and the Parks, Health, and Recreation Master Plan. We heard your calls for more shade, better lighting, and truly inclusive spaces. From the new Musco lighting at the Brownsville Sports Park and Tennis Center to the reimagined playground and canopies at Joe & Tony Oliveira Park, the PARD team is dedicated to ensuring our city remains Rooted in Nature and Connected by Community.

As we celebrate National Park and Recreation Month this July, we embrace the theme: "The Power of Parks and Recreation." We see that power every day—it’s in the confidence of a child passing their "Learn to Swim" test, the health of a senior in our recreation programs, and the connection found on our trails.

This guide is an invitation to experience that power for yourself. The stage is set; the summer is yours.

Parks and Recreation Director Sean De Palma, MS, CPRE, CSSGB Parks@BrownsvilleTx.gov

Our Mission

The mission of the Brownsville Parks and Recreation Department is to directly contribute to the City’s quality of life by providing exceptional programs, facilities, parks, and trails while celebrating and preserving the community’s natural and cultural heritage.

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Table of Contents A Message from the Parks and Recreation Director

1

PARD Map

3-4

Pulse Of Our Parks

5-6

2026 Summer Bucket List

7-8

Aquatics: Gonzalez & Sams Pool

9-10

Learn To Swim With Paddles The Pup

11-12

BSP And The Power Of PARD: Rentals

13

Retired & Active Plus Volunteer Opportunities

14

Summer Rec Program at DRC & Gonzalez Park

15

All Abilities Day Camp at Oliveira Park

16

Premier Facilities: Brownsville Golf Center

17

Premier Facilities: Brownsville Events Center

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Stay Connected Dial 911 for emergencies only.

For non-emergencies, you can: Dial (956) 542-2064 or email parks@brownsvilletx.gov

Pros at PARD Think you know what it takes to steward miles of trails, premier facilities, and city-wide events? Watch our weekly reels to see the professional craft and hard work behind every acre. Follow us on social media @BTXPARKS

Report maintenance concerns during business hours at 546-HELP (956) 546-4357 or 546help@brownsvilletx.gov Report online: bit.ly/546-HELP

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I

Belden Trail End Points: 50 W. 5th Street and 1598 Old Alice Road

II

Belden Trail III End Points: 1105 E. Tyler Street and 1080 Filmore Street

III

Central Parkway Paseo De La Resaca 2750 FM 802

IV

Monte Bella Trails 2525 W. Alton Gloor Bouleveard

V

Brownsville Historic Battlefield End Points: 1338 E. 6th Street and 8000 Paredes Line Road

VI

Southmost Nature Trail End Points: 3529 Southmost Road and 3720 International Blvd

VII

Rose M.Z. Gowen M.D. Trail. (West Rail Trail) End Points: 33 Palm Boulevard and 6371 Frontage Road

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04

PARD MAP

Scan the QR for more details:

#

Parks and Facilities

1

14th Street Plaza | 520 E. 14th St.

2

Alice Wilson Hope Park | 1300 E. Levee St.

3

Antonio Gonzalez Park | 34 Tony Gonzalez Dr.

4

Brownsville Bike Barn | 624 E. Madison St.

5

Brownsville Community Resource Center & Senior Center | 519 E. Madison St.

6

Brownsville Events Center | 1 Event Center

7

Brownsville Golf Center | 1800 W. San Marcelo Blvd.

8

Brownsville North Park | 1 Event Center

9

Brownsville Sports Park | 1000 Sports Park Blvd.

10

Catherine Stillman Dog Park | 416 FM 511

11

Central Avenue Park | 25 N. Central Ave.

12

Charles M. Cabler Park | 550 Burnett Rd.

13

Dean Porter Park | 501 E. Ringgold St.

14

Downtown Rec Center (DRC) | 1338 E. 8th St.

15

Edelstein Park | 1159 E. Polk St.

16

Eva's Park and Path | 1101 E. Van Buren St.

17

FM 511 Kickball Park | 1355 FM 511

18

Garfield Park | 1640 E. Garfield St.

19

Harry E. McNair Park | 350 E. St. Charles St.

20

Heritage Trail Park | 3650 Heritage Trail Blvd.

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Hudson North Park | 3000 Heritage Trail Blvd.

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Hudson South Park | 2900 Hudson Blvd.

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Joe & Tony Oliveira Park | 104 El Paso Rd.

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John Gloor Park | 1355 PUB Dr.

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La Galxia Park | 1501 Calle Espacio

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La Posada Park | 1325 La Posada Dr.

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Lincoln Park | 2150 W. University Blvd.

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Monte Bella Trails Park | 2525 W. Alton Gloor Blvd.

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Morningside Park | 1207 S. Central Ave.

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North Brownsville Little League Park | 300 S. Iowa Ave.

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Old City Cemetery | 300 E. Monroe St.

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Portway Acres Park | 4775 Austin Rd.

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Prax Orive (Sunrise) Jr. Park | 1245 Palm Blvd.

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Riverside Park | 15 Riverside Blvd.

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Rosa Allala Park | 309 N. Park Dr.

36

Ruiz Park | 2550 Ruiz St.

37

Seville (Duck Pond) Drive Park | 2812 Seville Dr.

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Southern Pacific Linear Park | E. 6th Street & E. Ringgold St.

39

Trail of Texas Trees Park (Central Parkway) | 2745 Trail Heads Ct.

40

Tres Angeles Park | 805 E. Tyler St.

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Veterans Park | 2500 Central Blvd.

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Washington Park | 700 E. Madison St.

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West Brownsville Little League Park | 1295 Cottonwood Dr.

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Windwood Park | 420 Trailwind Way

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Cannery Public Market | 1700 E. 6th St.

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Brownsville Tennis Center | 3 Events Center

THE PULSE OF OUR PARKS

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Rooted In Your Voice

For the City of Brownsville Parks and Recreation Department, "community engagement" isn’t just a checkbox—it’s our blueprint. Over the past year, through the Your Rec, Your Voice series and our city-wide surveys, we’ve sat down with hundreds of you to ask a simple question:

What does the future of play look like in your neighborhood?

The data we collected through our Master Plan assessment revealed a community that is deeply connected to its green spaces. We learned that our parks aren’t just amenities; they are vital to the physical and mental wellbeing of our residents. This feedback has transformed the Master Plan from a static document into a living mission. Every trail we pave and every canopy we install is a direct response to the specific needs you’ve shared with us.

69%

68%

#1 Requested Upgrade:

Year-Round Comfort:

Enhanced safety and visibility for all parks.

Priority shade for playgrounds and pavilions.

61% Improved Access: Better trail connectivity and pedestrian safety.

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A Reflection of Brownsville As we look toward Summer 2026 and beyond, our focus has shifted to the next generation of recreation. We are currently in the design phase for reimagined Community Recreation Centers—facilities that are being built from the ground up to reflect the diversity and energy of our city.

of age or ability—has a seat at the table.

You spoke, and we listened.

Building The Answer

We are taking those dreams and turning them into groundbreaking realities. We aren’t just building Based on your feedback, these centers buildings; we are will serve as "all-abilities" hubs, featuring building a Brownsville sensory-friendly zones and universal design. that reflects you.

This ensures that every resident—regardless

Turning Vision into Reality: Your feedback is the blueprint for our next chapter. We are currently finalizing designs for the comprehensive renovation of two recreation centers and the complete rebuild of a third facility, ensuring our spaces evolve alongside our community.

Built by 1,500+ Voices. Your

feedback shaped our Parks, Health & Recreation Master Plan. Scan below to read the full vision.

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2026 SUMMER YOUR HOT LIST FOR A COOL SUMMER A Season of Celebration This summer, Brownsville is more than just a place on a map—it’s a destination. Our 2026 Summer Season is designed to bring the "vacation" to your own backyard through highimpact, community-centric events that celebrate our traditions and our people.

From the high-energy spirit of Rebel Fest and the tropical rhythms of our Havana-themed Lunada to the patriotic tradition of our Salute to Freedom Celebration, we are creating the spaces where memories are made.

Whether you’re cooling off at a DiveIn Movie or grabbing a hotdog at our Memorial Splash Day, we invite you to experience a summer rooted in

Arts & Literacy Festival at Linear Park July 25, 2026

connection and pride. This isn’t just a calendar of dates; it’s an invitation to rediscover the heart of your city. You can either join us for every moment or spend the season checking off this ultimate bucket list—either way, don't let the summer pass you by. Let's go!

WE’RE COMING TO YOU!

BUCKET LIST REBEL FEST: A STAR WARS FESTIAL MAY 9 | 6 -10 PM | LINEAR PARK

LUNAR YOGA | LAST SATURDAY OF MONTH 7:30 PM | DEAN PORTER PARK

A galactic celebration, where Darkside meets the PARKside featuring vendors, contests, cosplay, music and entertainment.

JUNE

MAY

27

30

JULY

AUG

25

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LUNADA Artisan Market: A NIGHT IN HAVANA MAY 16 | 6 - 10 PM | LINEAR PARK

Our only Lunada of the summer is going out with a bang. Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Havana right here in Brownsville.

Artisan vendors, live music, one night only art installation, and tropical energy—don't miss the "World Tour" stop of the year!

Special Guest Paddles the Pup

MEMORIAL SPLASH DAY | MAY 25 | SAMS POOL We’re opening the gates for the season! Admission now follows standard pool rates, but we’re keeping the tradition delicious with FREE hotdogs for all swimmers (while they last!). Come for the water, stay for the snacks!

Dive-In-Movies | Friday Nights | $3 General Admission Join us for Dive-In Movies at Gonzalez Pool. Grab a float, settle in, and enjoy the show from the water.

JUNE

26

JULY

AUG

24

7

Doors open at 7:30 PM, movie begins shortly after sunset.

MOBILE REC UNITS (MRU) 2026 SUMMER BLOCK TOUR: CELEBRATE WITH US ON FRIDAYS 6 TO 8 PM DISTRICT 4 JUNE Monte Bella

5

Trails Park

DISTRICT 3 JULY Joe & Tony

10 Oliveira Park

2 JULY DISTRICT Charles M.

31 Cabler Park

DISTRICT 1 AUG Morningside

7

Park

Please note: Information and dates in this publication are subject to change without notice due to unforeseen circumstances, including but not limited to weather conditions and other factors. For the latest updates, follow us on social media @BTXPARKS.

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Aquatics | Gonzalez and Sams

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2026 Summer Public Swim: June 1 - August 6

Gonzalez Pool

• 6 Lane Pool • Diving Wel • Deck • ADA Restrooms • Lawn & Chaise loungers • Showers

34 Tony Gonzalez Dr. Public Swim Cost of Admission $3 General Ages 13 and over $2 Child Ages 12 and under

$2 Senior Ages 55 and over

Public Swim General Guidelines: • Admission fee required for entry.

• Capacity and schedules subject to change.

• Same-day, walk-up entry only; first-come, first-served.

• No re-entry.

• Ice chests and coolers prohibited.

• No weather-related refunds.

• Ages 16 & under must be accompanied by an adult.

Note: Always check the weather before heading out! All outdoor activities and programs are subject to change due to inclement weather. Follow us @BTXPARKS for the most up-to-date information.

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2026 Summer Public Swim: June 1 - August 6

• Shade • 6 Lane Pool • Deck with Gazebo • Splash Pad • ADA Restrooms • Lawn Chairs • Showers

Sams Pool

501 E. Ringgold St. Brownsville Aquatics • Public Swim • Health and Wellness: Lap Swimming & Water Aerobics • Swim Team

Dive in Movies Relax in the water or lounge poolside while watching a fun film on a big screen. Cool off and enjoy a movie night with family and friends (see page 8 for dates). General Admission fees will apply.

Pool Rentals Make a splash at your next event by renting one of our fantastic public pools. Whether it's a birthday bash, a family reunion, or just a fun get-together, our pools offer an affordable and refreshing way to celebrate. Booking is a breeze – simply visit our website or scan qr code, and secure your spot online today!

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LEARN TO SWIM WITH PADDLES THE PUP Dive into lifelong well-being! This program builds essential water safety and strong swimming skills.

Certified instructors and lifeguards ensure a safe and supportive environment. Learn techniques that promote fitness, boost well-being, and open doors to a lifetime of enjoyable activity.

Ages: 0 - 100 All Levels: Infant, Child, Adult, Adaptive Location: Gonzalez Pool and Sams Pool Days: Monday-Thursday Fee: $35 (per session/participant) Scan the QR code to register:

LIFEGUARD SWIM INSTRUCTOR COURSE Become a certified lifeguard and swimming instructor through this comprehensive course offered by city of Brownsville Parks and Recreation.

Learn essential water safety, rescue techniques, and instructional skills to confidently lead swimming programs and ensure the safety of pool patrons.

Ages: 16 and over Location: Gonzalez Pool and Sams Pool Dates: May 18-19, June 8-9, July 6-7 Call (956) 542-2064 to register now!

Note: Always check the weather before heading out! All outdoor activities and programs are subject to change due to inclement weather. Follow us @BTXPARKS for the most up-to-date information.

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TAAF SWIM TEAM BTX STINGRAYS Participants will receive specialized instruction and compete in various meets across the Rio Grande Valley. Qualifications for participation: Must be able to swim 50 yards comfortable and have no fear of the water.

Ages: 0 - 100 Train with team: $75 (includes cap & shirt) Train on your own: $50 (includes cap & shirt)

Scan the code to represent Brownsville & be a Stingray!

Registration includes TAAF membership, insurance, and T-shirt (fee does not include individual meet entry fees that each athlete must pay for prior to competition).

Participants must be registered by June 9, 2026.

2026 TAAF SWIM MEET SCHEDULE: June 13 | Edinburg Municipal Park, Edinburg, TX June 20 | Pharr Aquatic Center, Pharr, TX June 27 | Banworth Park, Mission TX

Region 2 Swim Meet

July 17-18 | Bannworth Park, Mission, TX

TAAF STATE GAMES OF TEXAS

July 30 - August 2 | Bryan High School, Bryan,TX F o r c o m p r e h e n s i v e i n f o r m a t i o n r e g a r d i n g Te x a s A m a t e u r A t h l e t i c F e d e r a t i o n ( TA A F ) G a m e s o f Te x a s e v e n t s , s c h e d u l e s , r e g i s t r a t i o n , r u l e s , a n d m o r e , p l e a s e v i s i t t h e o f f i c i a l TA A F w e b s i t e : t a a f . c o m /g a m e s o f t e x a s

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THE POWER OF PERFORMANCE

The Brownsville Sports Park is a regional powerhouse, spanning 80 acres of world-class infrastructure. This July, for National Park and Recreation Month, we celebrate the Power of Performance—highlighting elite assets like our pro-tier Musco lighting and championship turf. Whether it’s a regional tournament or a sunset workout, BSP is your stage. You have the power to play here. Call (956) 542-2064.

THE POWER OF YOUR CITY OF BROWNSVILLE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT (PARD) THE POWER OF SCALE

THE POWER OF COOL

THE POWER OF DISTANCE

THE POWER OF PURPOSE

THE POWER OF LIGHT

THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIPS

45 PARD properties covering 827+ acres of curated green space.

47 miles of trails—the perfect backdrop for fitness, 5Ks, and adventure.

Pro-grade turf and Major League-standard lighting for championship play.

HOST YOUR MOMENT

Two swimming pools and a splash pad for elite meets or private pool parties.

Versatile gyms and centers for banquets, workshops, and large-scale expos.

5,000+ ways to connect. The PARD team is ready to help host your next big idea.

CLAIM YOUR FIELD

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

Birthdays, Weddings, 5Ks. Leagues, Tournaments, Training #ThePowerOf

(956) 542-2064

btxparks.com

@BTXPARKS

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RETIRED RETIRED &ACTIVE & C I T Y O F B R O W N S V I L L E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N D E PA RT M E N T

STAY ACTIVE, STAY CONNECTED!

Join the FREE Retired & Active Program (50+) and enjoy activities that support better health, connection, and fun!

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS • Arts & Crafts

• Cardio & Strength

• Line Dancing

• African Quilting

• Exercise from Chair

• Loteria

• Board Games & Bunco • Gardening

• Tai Chi

• Cardio Drumming

• Volunteer Opportunities

• Karaoke

Serving free meals for 60+ 11 am to 2 pm at Brownsville Senior Center

(956) 542-2064

TAKE

bit.ly/48MXHKX

WHEN & WHERE Monday - Friday 8 am to 2 pm

Brownsville Senior Center

519 E. Madison Street

@BTXPARKS

PARD IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

VOLUNTEER

Note: Volunteer eligibility requires that you reside in the State of Texas for 90 days, are 16 or older (with necessary parental/guardian consent), and provide valid photo identification.

Scan the QR code to register

We need passionate volunteers to help with: • Park Clean-Ups and Beautification • Special Event Support • Youth/Adult Sports Assistance • Trail Maintenance • Recreation

ANTONIO GONZALEZ PARK,

Urban CENTER

|

DOWNTOWN REC CENTER (DRC)

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SUMMER

REC

PRO G RAM 2026 Summer Day Camp program for children ages 5 -17.

2 LOCATIONS Downtown Rec Center (DRC) 1338 E. 8th Street

Gonzalez Park (Urban Center) 34 Tony Gonzalez Drive

PROGRAM RUNS: JUNE 8 - AUGUST 14, 2026

WEEK

THEME

JUNE 8-12

WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE

JUNE 15-19

TIME TRAVELERS

JUNE 22-26

SPACE EXPLORERS

JUNE 29-JULY 3

UNDER THE SEA

JULY 6-10

SUPER HERO ACADEMY

JULY 13-17

AROUND THE WORLD

JULY 20-24

MAD SCIENCE

JULY 27-31

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS

AUG. 3-7

EARTH WEEK

AUG. 10-14

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION

Program runs Monday - Friday, 7:30 am to 4 pm. Each week has a theme (see description). Cost per child/session is $40.

Meals provided by Bright Nutrition. *$10 Optional extended care additonal fee. Scan the code to register.

(956) 542-2064

recreation@brownsvilletx.gov

@ BTXPARKS

JOE & TONY OLIVEIRA PARK

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2026 Summer Day Camp Program for Special Needs children ages 7 -12.

For just $40 per child per week, your child can enjoy themed recreational activities featuring sports, arts and crafts, & social opportunities. Program is held Monday to Friday, from 9AM to 1 PM, with breakfast & lunch provided by Bright Nutrition.

week theme | Animals & Nature June 22-26 | Space Exploration June 29-July 3 July 6 - July 10 | Superheroes | Under the Sea July 13-17 | Sports & teamwork July 20-24 | Music & Movement July 27-July 31 (956) 542-2064 bit.ly/48MXHKX

recreation@brownsvilletx.gov

@BTXPARKS

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Rates approved by City Commission December 2022.

OUR RATES

PEAK

OFF PEAK

18 Holes with 1/2 cart

$ 35

$ 30

9 Holes with 1/2 cart

$ 25

$ 25

18 Holes walking

$ 25

$ 25

9 Holes walking

$ 20

$ 15

Twilight with 1/2 cart

$ 25

$ 25

Twilight walking

$ 25

$ 20

Juniors under 18

$ 9-

$ 7-

18 HOLE GOLF COURSE *OPEN DAILY: 7 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Peak Season: September 1-May 31 | Off Peak Season: June 1-August 31.

*Note: Hours of operation may vary seasonally and are subject to change, including adjustments for daylight saving time.

CONTACT US Brownsville Golf Center 1800 W. San Marcelo Blvd.

(956) 541-2582 BTXGolf.com Golf@BrownsvilleTx.gov

$30 annual TGA membership is only available to Brownsville Golf Center patrons. Unlock this exclusive rate by signing up via this QR code link or by visiting the the Brownsville Golf Center Pro Shop.

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ABOUT The Brownsville Events Center is your premier destination for meetings, conventions, trade shows, and social gatherings. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, medical centers, hotels, and historic attractions, our venue offers a stunning backdrop of South Texas's lush semitropical scenery.

Our spacious main ballroom features 13,530 square feet of flexible space, ideal for large gatherings. For more intimate events, the ballroom can be divided into five smaller rooms accommodating 65 to 120 people each. Three additional conference rooms offer further options for your event needs.

Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring your event's success. We will work with you to create a memorable experience for you and your guests.

Ready to start planning? Call us at (956) 554-0700. We are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. You can also reach us by email at EventsCenter@BrownsvilleTx.gov.

July is Parks and Rec Month Scan code to celebrate with us!

(956) 542-2064 | b t x p a r k s . c o m | @ b t x p a r k s