Cranston’s summer programs – swim, splash and music

Mayor Hopkins has announced a host of city sponsored programs for the summer. The city’s splash pad is open for the season, a free swim program for city residents at the Cranston YMCA will launch July 5, and a free concert series will begin July 11.

“I am thrilled to announce the launch of the Cranston Community Swim Program promoting health, safety, and fun through swimming,” Hopkins said. “We are thankful to the YMCA for this partnership. The program is designed to cater to individuals of all ages, ensuring everyone can enjoy the benefits of swimming.”

Swim!

Residents will be able to access the Cranston YMCA pool, at 1225 Park Avenue, Cranston, during listed hours: Mondays, 10 to Noon; Fridays, 4:30 to 6:30 pm; and Saturdays, 1 to 3 pm, from July 5 through August 10, 2024.

This program is open to all city residents. Proof of Cranston residency and a registration waiver is required to attend. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Participants must bring their own bathing suit and towels. Space is limited to adhere to YMCA safety guidelines.

To complete the waiver, please visit – https://gpymca.formstack.com/forms/waiver.

“Let’s dive into a healthier, happier future, Cranston!” Mayor Hopkins said.

Splash!

The city’s splash pad, located off Oak Street by the Cooney Playground and Hugh B. Bain Middle School adjacent to the Bain walking track, also opened this past Monday, June 24. The splash pad will be operating Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., throughout the summer. The first in the city, Hopkins noted, the splash pad was completed last summer at zero-cost to city taxpayers and was fully supported by Community Development Block Grant funding, the mayor noted.

“We are pleased to introduce this enjoyable and safe method for families to beat the heat on a summer day,” Hopkins said.

Summer Concerts

For those looking to stay dry, or to enjoy some evening fun, the Free Summer Concert Series will run on Thursday evenings from July 11 through Aug. 22. The concert series is free to the public and is sponsored by the Cranston Parks and Recreation Department and the Cranston Public Library.

“I can’t wait to see everyone at our annual free summer concert series,” Hopkins said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for families, friends, and neighbors to gather, enjoy great music, and create lasting memories under the open sky. We look forward to seeing everyone for an unforgettable summer of music and joy!”

All concerts start at 6:30 p.m. and end at 8 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs.

The full concert schedule is as follows:

• July 11 – Billy Shears Band at Itri Park.
• July 18 – Kelly and the Poor Boys at the William Hall Library.
• July 25 – Stone Cold Gypsies at the William Hall Library.
• Aug. 1 – Jesse Liam Band at Itri Park.
• Aug. 8 – Aftershock Allstar Big Ban at the William Hall Library.
• Aug. 15 – To Be Continued Big Band at Itri Park.
• Aug. 22 – Smug Honey at the William Hall Library.

Family-friendly concerts are planned for Tuesday, July 23 and July 30, at the William Hall Library.

• July 23 – Toe Jam Puppet Band.
• July 30 – Cool Banana Wig.

For more information on all programs, including tentative concert rain dates, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 401-780-6169.