Jersey City

The Jersey City Department of Parks, Recreation & Youth Development provides a wide range of recreational opportunities that promote healthy lifestyles and personal growth for our community, with a strong focus on youth engagement. We offer sports, aquatics, and enrichment programs designed to keep young people active, learning, and connected.

Join us for Jersey City’s community kickoff event as excitement builds for FIFA World Cup 2026! The Jersey City Cup is a free, friendly soccer tournament for youth taking place over Memorial Day weekend.

JERSEY CITY CUP
Open to Jersey City youth ages 7-14 yrs.

Sign up soon! Spots will fill up fast!
5v5 teams - Register Your Squad or Join One
REGISTER HERE AT REC DESK

“Jersey City will play a major role before and during the FIFA World Cup 2026, and getting our youth involved from the very beginning is a chance to inspire and motivate our youngest residents.” - Mayor Steven M. Fulop

Presented by Mayor Steven M. Fulop, the Jersey City Municipal Council, the Department of Recreation and Youth Development, and the Office of Cultural Affairs.

Division of Parks

The Department oversees the maintenance and care for over 70 municipal parks and recreational spaces in Jersey City, ensuring they remain safe, accessible, and welcoming for all. The division of Parks handles the installation and repair of playground equipment, landscaping, and the upkeep of city-owned dog runs, ball fields, basketball and tennis courts, and other recreational facilities. Routine maintenance and improvements help keep these spaces clean, functional, and accessible for residents of all ages. If you notice any issues in the municipal parks, such as broken equipment or maintenance concerns, please report it through SeeClickFix. For field reservations and permits, visit Facilitron.

Rec Programming

Jersey City’s Department of Recreation & Youth Development offers year-round aquatics and seasonal ice skating opportunities for residents. Pershing Field Pool operates year-round, while Lafayette Pool and Pavonia Pool are open during the summer months. These facilities provide swim programs, open swim sessions, and water safety education. During the winter, the Charlie Heger Ice Skating Rink at Pershing Field offers public skating and learn-to-skate programs. For more information on schedules and registration, visit jcrec.recdesk.com.

Division of Enrichment

We provide engaging programs and activities that extend beyond the typical school day, offering City youth opportunities to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Our goal is to empower young people by fostering their strengths, nurturing positive relationships, and guiding them toward becoming civic-minded leaders who make a lasting impact on their community.

The Division also manages the Department’s summer camps, coordinates hiring and professional development for the City’s Summer youth employment and internship programs, and facilitates meaningful volunteer opportunities for youth.

Special Needs Program

The program offers a variety of programs for residents with special needs. Our programs provide participants with opportunities to socialize with peers, connect with the community, and enjoy fun-filled recreational experiences in a supportive and inclusive environment.