Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – While school is out, the City of McAllen Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) helps children stay active, continue learning and create meaningful connections through one of the most extensive youth summer recreation programs in the Rio Grande Valley.
With Summer Session 2 now underway, children of all ages can participate in seasonal camps, activities and interactive programming. From sports and fitness activities to creative arts and skill-building classes, children are encouraged to learn and explore new interests.
Each year, families eagerly anticipate the release of the Summer Activity Guide, with many offerings reaching capacity shortly after registration opens. Continued participation reflects a long-standing commitment to providing impactful summer opportunities that support youth development beyond the classroom.
These programs are made possible through an extensive parks and recreation system that gives families access to spaces designed for active play, learning and connection. More than 100 parks and recreation sites span over 1,047 acres of green space, along with community centers, aquatic facilities, athletic complexes and recreation spaces.
This summer, more than 110 seasonal employees support Parks and Recreation operations by leading camps and classes while providing the mentorship and guidance that make a lasting impact on the children they serve.
“A community’s greatest investment is its children, and one of our greatest responsibilities as a city is ensuring they have access to safe, enriching opportunities that help them build confidence and reach their full potential,” said City Manager Isaac J. Tawil. “The investment we make through Parks and Recreation extends far beyond summer activities. It strengthens families, supports youth development and helps create a community where children have the foundation they need to succeed.”
Parks and Recreation Director Denny Meline said the lasting impact of summer recreation can be seen when children return years later to help create the same positive moments that shaped their own childhoods.
“These programs are designed to meet kids where they are and give them space to learn and build confidence,” Meline said. “Our staff see firsthand how quickly children develop over the course of a summer. Many of the people leading our programs today were once participants themselves. They grew up attending our camps and activities, and now they’re helping the next generation build the same confidence, friendships and lifelong memories that shaped their own childhoods.”
Continued investment in summer programs helps provide children with access to high-quality activities and facilities that keep them engaged and connected throughout the summer.
Families are encouraged to explore the Summer Activity Guide and register for remaining Summer Session 2 activities while space is available.
Program details and registration information are available at https://issuu.com/mcallenparks/docs/2026_summer_activity_guide_.
