Kids make a splash at the new splashpad in North Park. The water attraction is up and running.

NEW ULM — The new amenities in North Park are sure to make a splash. The splashpad in North Park officially opened Thursday afternoon.

A special ribbon-cutting ceremony was held before area youth were free to turn on the water features.

A splashpad is an aquatic play feature with no standing water or depth and is described as a playground with water features. With no standing water, a lifeguard is not necessary.

To activate the water feature, a button at the center of the pad is pushed as the water cycles through a four-minute program. Fountain and sprinkler features turn on and off in programmed patterns.

The splashpad was made possible through a donation from Babara Haroldson. Haroldson donated the money for the splashpad. She was able to attend the ribbon-cutting. Haroldson said she was inspired to donate the money after seeing a splashpad in Red Wing.

“I saw how much the kids loved it and thought the kids here would love one too,” she said.

The splash pad is operational from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. The water features will not function after 9 p.m.

As COVID-19 is still a concern, users of the splashpad are encouraged to keep a six-foot distance when using the water features.