Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley Announces 5th Annual Healthy County Challenge

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley Announces 5th Annual Healthy County Challenge

MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley announced the full schedule of events for the 2026 Healthy County Challenge. Hosted in partnership with the Milwaukee Parks Foundation, this beloved annual series brings residents together through fun, free, family-friendly programming in Milwaukee County’s parks and natural spaces.

“I want every Milwaukee County resident to feel welcome in our parks, and the Healthy County Challenge is our open invitation to do just that. From yoga to bike rides to field day, there’s something for every age and every ability this summer,” said County Executive Crowley. “Five years of bringing these events to our neighborhoods is a testament to the power of partnership, and I’m grateful to everyone who has helped us build something worth coming back to.”

Now in its fifth year, the Healthy County Challenge was launched with a simple but powerful mission to encourage Milwaukee County residents to step outside, explore their parks, trails, and beaches, and experience the proven benefits of time spent in nature. Research consistently shows that spending as little as two hours per week outdoors can meaningfully improve mental health, reduce stress, and strengthen overall wellbeing. Beyond the personal health benefits, these events, rooted in the shared green spaces that make Milwaukee County special, create space for neighbors to connect, for families to make memories, and for communities to grow closer.

“Milwaukee Parks Foundation is happy to support Milwaukee County’s Healthy County Challenge for the fifth year,” said Rebecca Stoner, Milwaukee Parks Foundation Executive Director. “We recognize the importance of our parks as the central hubs for recreation and health and are happy to highlight activities open to our community through this event series.”

2026 Event Schedule

Yoga at the Domes: Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Start the season with stillness. Join County Executive Crowley for an all-abilities yoga class, led by Joanna Brooks, owner of Embody Yoga, paired with a restorative sound healing session with Camille Mays. Afterward, attendees are welcome to explore the Domes. Registration required.

Doors Open: 5 p.m. | Class Begins: 6 p.m. | Explore the Domes: 7 – 8 p.m.

Location: Mitchell Parks Domes
524 S. Layton Blvd., Milwaukee, WI 53215

Register Online

Bike Ride Thru the Parks: Wednesday, June 3, 2026Celebrate Wisconsin Bike Week! Join County Executive Crowley and the Wisconsin Bike Fed on an all-abilities bike ride through Milwaukee County’s trails and parks. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just getting back in the saddle, this group ride is a perfect way to experience the county’s park system from two wheels.

Meet at: 5:30 p.m. | Ride Begins: 6 p.m.

Location: Estabrook Beer Garden

4600 Estabrook Pkwy., Milwaukee, WI 53217

Community Field Day: Sunday, July 11, 2026

Bring the kids or channel your inner child for a classic outdoor field day, led by play experts at Playworks! From timeless favorites like the three-legged race to new games like rainbow tag, this afternoon of outdoor play is guaranteed fun for all ages.

Time: 1 – 4 p.m.

Location: Kletzsch Park
6560 N. Milwaukee River Pkwy., Glendale, WI 53209

Community Pool Day: Friday, July 24, 2026

Beat the summer heat with free admission to Schulz Aquatic Center, courtesy of the Milwaukee Aquatics Ambassadors! Enjoy games, giveaways, and a full afternoon of wet and wild family fun.

Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Location: Schulz Aquatic Center
1301 W. Hampton Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53209

Go Green for Parks: Tuesday, September 15, 2026

The Healthy County Challenge wraps up with the Milwaukee Parks Foundation’s annual fundraising event, Go Green for Parks! Join fellow nature lovers for activities, drinks, appetizers, and a chance to invest in the future of Milwaukee County’s parks. Every green space, trail, and beach that made this summer possible depends on community support. This is your opportunity to give back. Tickets required.

Time: 5 – 8 p.m.

Location: South Shore Terrace

2900 S. Shore Dr., Milwaukee, WI 53207

Get Tickets

All Healthy County Challenge events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. Visit county.milwaukee.gov/HCC2026 for the full schedule, updates, and additional details