Double rainbow over a park with people gathered under a pavilion and tents.

The Parks Division

The Carterville Parks Division works to provide community events, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly activities for residents and visitors of Carterville.

Each year, the City strives to host Summer Fun Day as a free event for Carterville families. This event typically includes activities such as a petting zoo, free food, cotton candy, snacks, water slides, and other kid-friendly attractions. The goal of Summer Fun Day is to give children a fun and safe way to enjoy a summer day at the park at no cost to their parents.

The City also works to celebrate Carterville’s connection to historic Route 66 through community events such as Cruisin’ Carterville. This event brings residents, visitors, and tourists into town for a car show, fireworks, live music, food truck vendors, bounce houses, a mechanical bull, and other attractions.

Through these events and continued park improvements, the Carterville Parks Division is committed to creating opportunities for families, supporting community pride, and making Carterville a welcoming place to live, visit, and enjoy.

The Carterville Parks Committee

The Carterville Parks Committee serves as an advisory committee for the City’s parks and recreation efforts. The Committee is made up of nine members appointed by the Mayor. This committee helps plan, support, and promote events that bring the community together and make use of Carterville’s parks and public spaces. The committee works with the City Administrator, Mayor, and City Council by providing recommendations related to yearly events, park activities, and community recreation opportunities.

In addition to making recommendations, Parks Committee members volunteer their time to help organize, prepare for, and work City events throughout the year. Their involvement plays an important role in helping the City provide free and family-friendly events for residents and visitors.