June is Recreation & Parks Month

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What is June is Recreation and Parks Month?

June is Recreation and Parks Month logo

June is Recreation and Parks Month (JRPM) is a movement that promotes the benefits of recreation and parks for physical, social, and environmental health. Communities across Ontario have embraced JRPM as a way to promote local programs and events, parks and facilities that are available for all citizens to enjoy. 


Access to park and recreation is a fundamental human need that helps foster personal health, strong communities, and social inclusion. JRPM celebrates Ontario’s spectacular parks and recreation services and raises awareness for the role they play as a pathway to individual, community, and environmental well-being.

 Get your Durham Region JRPM Passport!

We're celebrating June is Recreation and Parks Month across Durham Region. Explore, participate and win! With your passport, you can track your visits to various events and also have a chance to win prizes including a new bike!

How it works:

  • Use your passport to guide your event choices.
  • Attend at least three events across the Durham Region
  • Scan the unique QR code while participating in the events towards your entry to the prize draws. After three unique QR code scans you will be entered to win the grand prize of a bike.

June is Recreation and Parks Month is not only a chance to win but an opportunity to explore your community and make memories with your friends and family. So grab your passport and start your journey through Durham Region's recreation and parks opportunities!

See Durham's events & get your passport

 Help Ajax be crowned Canada's Most Active Community

People doing yoga outdoors

The ParticipACTION Community Challenge is a national physical activity and sport initiative that encourages everyone in Canada to get active throughout June in search of Canada's Most Active Community. The most active community will win $100,000 to support local sport and physical activity initiatives!

The Community Challenge is open to anyone. All community events registered on the challenge webpage from June 1-30 will count toward a community's total score. Register as an organization or an individual. Take the pledge to be active for your community this June and you could win prizes!

Learn more

Town of Ajax Recreational Events and Activities this June

The Town has a wide range of programming to get you active and enjoying recreation this June!

Aging Well Month Activities

Seniors socializing and playing cards

In June, we recognize the role that older adults and seniors play in our community. Celebrate by participating in free activities! Hosted in part by the Ajax Public Library. Check out the Aging Well Month activity calendar. Pre-registration is required.

Learn more

Durham Pride Parade and Celebration

People taking part in a Pride event

In partnership with Pride Durham, the Town of Ajax is happy to host Durham's annual Pride Parade and after party. The parade starts in our downtown core (Harwood Avenue South & Falby Court) and ends at Arbour Park with a post-parade celebration featuring entertainment, activities, vendors, and fun for everyone!

June 2, 2024 | 20th Anniversary Durham Pride Parade: 1 p.m., Durham Pride Festival: 2 p.m. 

Learn more

Zumba® in the Square

People doing Zumba in Pat Bayly Square

Get ready to sweat and smile while moving to the rhythms of Zumba® in the Square.

June 7, 2024 | 7 to 8 p.m. | Pat Bayly Square

Registration now open!

Learn more

Basketball

The Town of Ajax is offering free basketball for all ages during the month of June. Drop-in programming is available in the following categories:

Parent & Child Basketball
Woman and boy give a high five while playing basketball

Each week children accompanied by an adult, will work on basketball skills/drills and part take in friendly scrimmages. This Free Play model will allow you to develop your ball handling, teamwork skills, and strengthen friendships. This program is for children/youth aged 7 to 14, accompanied by an adult.

June 8, 2024 | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

Learn more

Children's Basketball

Image of a basketball on an indoor court

Join us for drop-in basketball for both boys and girls. Each week participants and their friends will get the opportunity to play ball, develop teamwork skills, and strengthen friendships. This program is for children/youth aged 10 to 14 looking to improve on their basketball skills in a fun, safe and friendly atmosphere.

This is a drop-in activity. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 10, 2024 | 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

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June 11, 2024 | 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. | McLean Community Centre

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June 11, 2024 | 4 to 6 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

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June 13, 2024 | 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. | McLean Community Centre

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Youth Basketball 

Image of a basketball on an indoor court

Each week participants and their friends will get the opportunity to play ball, develop teamwork skills, and strengthen friendships.

This is a drop-in activity intended for participants aged 14 to 18 years. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 8, 2024 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

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June 9, 2024 | 4 to 6 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

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June 10, 2024 | 4 to 6 p.m. | McLean Community Centre

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June 11, 2024 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. | McLean Community Centre

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June 13, 2024 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. | McLean Community Centre

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Adult Basketball 

Image of people playing basketball on an indoor court

Enjoy a game of pick-up ball or just practice your three-pointer. For both men and women. Proof of age may be required.

This is a drop-in activity. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 10, 2024 | 8:30 to 10:30 p.m. | McLean Community Centre | Ages: 19 years and up

Learn more

June 12, 2024 | 8 to 10 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre | Ages: 30 years and up

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Family Open Gym

Girl playing on an exercise ball

Each week children accompanied by an adult, will play in a variety of sports and active games. This Free Play model will allow you to play variety of sports and activities, develop teamwork skills, and strengthen friendships. This program is for children/youth aged 3+, accompanied by an adult. This is a Drop-In activity. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 9, 2024 | 9 to 11 a.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

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Badminton

Child playing badminton 

Parent and Child Badminton

Enjoy a game of recreational badminton. A knowledgeable badminton instructor will assist in game play and rules of the game. Equipment provided. Intended for ages 8 years and up. This is a Drop-In activity. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 9, 2024 | 6:30 to 8 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

Learn more

 

Adults playing badminton

Adult Badminton

Enjoy a game of recreational badminton. A knowledgeable badminton instructor will assist in game play and rules of the game. Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment as limited supplies are available. Intended for ages 18 years and up. This is a drop-in activity. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 9, 2024 | 8:15 to 9:45 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

Learn more 

June 11, 2024 | 10 to 11:30 a.m. | McLean Community Centre

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Drop-in Pickleball

Woman playing pickleball

Adult Pickleball Practice Clinic

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in recreation that combines three other popular sports: badminton, tennis and table tennis. This drop-in clinic will emphasize paddle handling and court rules in basic two-on-two competition with fellow participants. The first hour of this clinic will be instructor-led and participants will practice their skills for the last two hours. Pickleball is a fun, easy-to-learn game for all ages and skill levels! This is a drop-in activity intended for ages 18 years and up. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 10, 2024 | 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

Learn more

 

Man playing pickleball

Adult Pickleball

Pickleball is a hybrid of badminton, tennis and table tennis. This sport is easy to learn and great exercise. Participate in drills and game play. Equipment available for use or bring your own. Intended for ages 18 years and up.

This is a drop-in activity. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 11, 2024 | 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

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June 13, 2024 | 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

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June 13, 2024 | 7:30 to 10 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

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June 14, 2024 | 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | McLean Community Centre

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Multisensory Drop-in

Girl playing with multisensory equipment

Multisensory rooms/spaces are dedicated spaces that control a sensory environment and allow individuals of all ages and abilities to come in and use various equipment to meet their own sensory needs and goals. Multisensory spaces allow for the equipment and the room to be adjusted to meet the needs of the individual using the space to provide the level of sensory stimulation they benefit from. Using a multisensory space can have a variety of positive benefits, including but not limited to calming/relaxation, sensory stimulation, fine and gross motor skill development, communication development, socialization and more. The Multisensory Space Drop-In at the Town of Ajax is designed with this adaptability in mind. 

All ages; a caregiver must be present.

No pre-registration required. Maximum capacity applies. 

June 3, 2024 | 5:30 to 6 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre - Studio

June 3, 2024 | 6 to 6:30 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre - Studio 

June 10, 2024 | 5:30 to 6 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre - Studio

June 10, 2024 | 6 to 6:30 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre - Studio 

June 17, 2024 | 5:30 to 6 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre - Studio

June 17, 2024 | 6 to 6:30 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre - Studio 

Learn more

Drop-in Cricket

Person playing cricket

Enjoy a game of recreational cricket. A knowledgeable cricket instructor will assist in game play and rules of the game. Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment, limited supplies available. Intended for ages 13 years and up.

This is a drop-in activity. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 10, 2024 | 8:30 to 10 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

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Movies in the Park

Illustration of people watching an outdoor movie

Enjoy a unique, outdoor, family cinema experience projected on a giant inflatable movie screen. Admission is free (registration not required) and movie goers are encouraged to bring a chair, blanket and bug spray!

Showing this month: Trolls Band Together (Rated G)

June 14, 2024 | Approximately 9 p.m. (dusk) | Audley Recreation Centre

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Friday Night Fun Drop-in

Kids playing in a gymnasium

Kids Friday Night Fun Drop-in

Join us for the ultimate gym class! Meet new friends, play a combination of active and passive games, teambuilding games and more all in an impactful two hour night of FUN! Intended for ages 6 - 12 years.

This is a drop-in activity. Drop off your child and have some time to yourself while your child is entertained. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 14, 2024 | 6 to 8 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre Gym

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June 14, 2024 | 6 to 8 p.m. | Lakeside Public School Gym

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June 14, 2024 | 6 to 8 p.m. | McLean Community Centre Gym

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Kids playing in a gymnasium

Preschool Friday Night Fun Drop-in

Children will enjoy arts & crafts, songs, creative play and more while parents enjoy a night out! Intended for ages 2.5 to 5 years. 

This is a drop-in activity. Drop off your child and have some time to yourself while your child is entertained. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

June 14, 2024 | 6 to 8 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre Preschool Room

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June 14, 2024 | 6 to 8 p.m. | Lakeside Public School Community Room

Please note: Admittance Punch Card must be purchased at any community centre before entering Lakeside Public School.

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Free Swim Times

People swimming at Ajax Memorial Pool

The Town of Ajax is offering free swims during the following dates & times:

June 14, 2024 | Public Swim: 7:10 to 8:30 p.m. | Audley Recreation Centre

June 14, 2024 | Public Swim: 7:10 to 9 p.m. | McLean Community Centre

*June 22, 2024 | Lane Swim: 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Ajax Memorial Pool 

*June 22, 2024 | Public Swim: 12 to 2 p.m. | Ajax Memorial Pool 

*June 22, 2024 | Public Swim: 3 to 5 p.m. | Ajax Memorial Pool 

*June 22, 2024 | Lane Swim: 5 to 6 p.m. | Ajax Memorial Pool 

*June 22, 2024 | Public Swim: 6 to 8 p.m. | Ajax Memorial Pool 

*Weather permitting

Check swim schedules

Squash57 Try-it Day!

People play squash in a squash court

Squash57 plays with a slightly larger ball (57 mm diameter) with more bounce than a typical squash ball. This allows players to reach shots more easily without the deep lunging movements of traditional squash. Standard racquetball racquets are used. Squash57 is ideal for those with less racquet sport experience and older participants that offers a great workout in a social setting.

Instruction provided. Must be 10 years or older. Equipment supplied. Register by emailing fitness@ajax.ca

June 15, 2024 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Ajax Community Centre

Learn more about squash

Yoga

People taking part in chair yoga

Chair Yoga

Learn yoga postures while supported by a chair to strengthen and gently stretch the body. Breathing techniques will be incorporated to promote relaxation.

June 18, 2024 | 11 to 11:45 a.m. | Audley Recreation Centre - Library

Registration now open!

Learn more

 

People doing sunset yoga at the Ajax Waterfront

Sunset Yoga

To celebrate International Yoga Day, the Town of Ajax is offering free sunset yoga. Take in the peace of and serenity of the beautiful Ajax Waterfront as a back drop to this outdoor yoga class. Bring a yoga mat, ground sheet and a blanket or towel. All levels welcomed. 

June 21, 2024 | 7 to 8 p.m. | Ajax Waterfront - Veterans' Point

Registration now open!

Learn more

Trailfest 2024

Illustration of people on bikes on an outdoor trail

Come explore Ajax’s trails at Trailfest with three fun ways for the whole family to participate -- the 44km Mayor’s Ride, 16km Tour D’Ajax, or our new 10km Family Fun Ride! Enter for a chance to win one of three grand prizes from Northern Cycle! Registration closes on June 14.

June 23, 2024 | Ride start times: 9:45 a.m., 10 a.m. & 10:15 a.m.  | Audley Recreation Centre

Learn more

 

June Activity Planner

June is Recreation & Parks Month Activity Planner

Take advantage of all the great **free recreational activities and events this month in Ajax!

**Applies to listed programs only.

*Activity is eligible for entry in JRPM Passport prize draws

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
           

1

Start of Aging Well Month & June is Recreation Month!

 

Get your JPRM Passport & sign up for the Community Challenge.

2

*20th Anniversary Durham Pride Parade: 1 p.m. at Arbour Park

 

*Durham Pride Festival: 2 p.m. at Arbour Park

3

Explore the cultural heritage of Veteran's Point Garden

 

Multisensory Drop-in: 5:30 or 6 p.m. at ARC

4

 

Play tennis

5

 

Test your skills at the Audley Skateboard Park

6

 

Hike the Miller's Creek South Trail and kick a ball on the soccer pitch

7

 

*Zumba® in the Square: 7 p.m. at Pat Bayly Square

8

*Parent & Child Basketball: 10 a.m. at ARC

 

Youth Basketball: 6:30 p.m. at ARC

9

Family Open Gym: 9 a.m. at ARC

 

*Youth Basketball: 4 p.m. at ARC

 

Parent & Child Badminton: 6:30 p.m. at ARC

 

Adult Badminton: 8:15 p.m. at ARC

10

*Adult Pickleball Practice Clinic: 9:30 a.m. at ARC

 

Youth Basketball: 4 p.m. at MCC

 

Multisensory Drop-in: 5:30 or 6 p.m. at ARC

 

Children's Basketball: 6:15 p.m. at ARC

 

Cricket (13 years+): 8:30 p.m. at ARC

 

Adult Basketball: 8:30 p.m. at MCC

11

Check out the playground at Rotary Park

 

Adult Pickleball: 9:30 a.m. at ARC

 

Adult Badminton: 10 a.m. at MCC

 

Children's Basketball: 3:30 p.m. at MCC

 

Children's Basketball: 4 p.m. at ARC

 

Youth Basketball: 5:30 p.m. at MCC

12

 

Take a stroll at Carruther's Marsh

 

Adult Basketball: 8 p.m. at ARC

13

 

Go for a canoe ride at Rotary Park

 

Adult Pickleball: 9:30 a.m. at ARC

 

Children's Basketball: 3:30 p.m. at MCC

 

Youth Basketball: 5:30 p.m. at MCC

 

Adult Pickleball: 7:30 p.m. at ARC

14

Adult Pickleball: 10:30 a.m. at MCC

 

Friday Night Fun: 6 p.m. at ARC

 

Friday Night Fun: 6 p.m. at MCC

 

Friday Night Fun: 6 p.m. at LPS

 

*Free Public Swim: 7:10 p.m. at ARC & MCC

 

*Movies in the Park: 9 p.m. (Dusk) at ARC

15

 

*Squash57 Try-it Day! 10 a.m. at ACC

16

 

Go golfing

17

 

Hike along Lion's Point

 

Multisensory Drop-in: 5:30 or 6 p.m. at ARC

18

 

*Chair Yoga: 11 a.m. at ARC Library

 

19

 

Bike through Greenwood Conservation Area

20

 

Take a walk and enjoy a public art installation

21

 

*Sunset Yoga: 7 p.m. at Veterans' Point

22

 

*Free Swims at Ajax Memorial Pool: All day (weather permitting)

 

23

 

*Trailfest: 8:30 a.m. at ARC

 

 

24

Explore the Pickering Village Heritage Conservation District by walking or biking the Pickering Village Route 

25

 

Take your dog to a Town of Ajax off-leash park

26

 

Cool off at a Town of Ajax Splash Pad

27

 

Play pickleball

28

Visit the Indigenous Healing Garden as you bike the Clover Ridge Route

29

 

Go fishing at Greenwood Conservation Area

30

 

Plan a picnic at Paradise Park

 

 

           

ARC: Audley Recreation Centre

MCC: McLean Community Centre

ACC: Ajax Community Centre

LPS: Lakeside Public School

Parks, Trails & Conservation Areas

People walking along the waterfront trail in Ajax

Experience Ajax's spectacular natural beauty by visiting one of its many parks, playgrounds, trails, pools and splash pads and conservation areas offering an escape to nature and the great outdoors.

Learn more