The City of New Ulm and local organizations scheduled a full slate of parks, youth programs and community events through Labor Day.

The city has one of the strongest park systems per capita in Minnesota, with 43 distinct park units. They range from nature areas and riverfront parks to neighborhood playgrounds, athletic fields, specialty parks and historic sites.

This includes Flandrau State Park, Nehl’s Park and Riverside Park, a spot for picnics, exploring the interpretive center and views along the Minnesota River, the Pollinator Park, a dog park, skate park, disc golf courses and neighborhood playgrounds.

The park and recreation department is opening the city’s parks and facilities on different schedules this summer. 

Riverside Park in New Ulm, a perfect spot for picnics, exploring the former Franklin School building, and enjoying views along the Minnesota River. Photo by Amy Zents

The North Park splash pad is operating daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Labor Day. Wading pools at Lincoln and Washington parks open Friday, May 29. 

Playgrounds, shelters and green spaces across the system remain available daily. The SouthPoint Recreation Center offers indoor pool and track access on hot or rainy days.

Ben Doeden, recreation program supervisor with New Ulm Park and Rec, said families should check the summer brochure when kids say they are bored.

“We have a lot of great free options during the week Monday through Thursdays,” Doeden said. “We have programs that run such as day camps, youth sports, pottery and different arts and craft opportunities. And then also just get out to one of our forty plus park units. We try to provide opportunities for people to get out and be creative.”

Doeden highlighted several free programs.

Nehl's Park at 1100 Summit Avenue features picnic tables, open green space, playground equipment, and a disc golf course. Photo By Amy Zents

“Our summer programs are open for registration, but starting to fill, so get in there today,” he said. “We also have more free programs this summer, such as our concerts in the park, puppet wagon, line dancing and Rec on the Go.”

Rec on the Go will visit multiple parks throughout the week, including North Park on Mondays from 10:15 a.m. to noon. The program will incorporate the splash pad into games and activities.

German Park will host free Concerts in the Park series Thursday evenings throughout June, July and August. Many events will also feature family-friendly entertainment including the puppet wagon.

“We have brand new puppets and new stories this year that are actually all new themes,” Doeden said. “They include Herman the German, Gertie the Goose, Herbie the Hedgehog. So lots of fun stuff. We’re really excited for those.”

The park and recreation department offers scholarships to help with fees.

Registration details are available in the 2026 summer brochure, through the department’s mobile app or at newulm.com.

The New Ulm Public Library will launch its annual Summer Reading Program, “Unearth a Story,” June 8. 

Children can track their reading, complete challenges and earn prizes.

The schedule also includes story times, craft workshops, movie matinees, Creative Kids sessions for kindergarten and first-grade students, and the Battle of the Books program for tweens and teens. 

Free summer lunches for youth will be available through the public schools in June and July.

The downtown Glockenspiel performs daily at noon, 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. in Schonlau Park.

Bavarian Blast is set for July 16-19 at the Brown County Fairgrounds. The Brown County Free Fair runs Aug. 12-16. Downtown Crazy Days is set for July 24-26.

Farmers markets are held Thursdays 2:30-5pm and Saturdays 9-12 am in the River Bend Education District parking lot, 1315 S. Broadway St. 

Farm to Fun Days held at the Farmer’s market parking lot location, feature extra family activities, live entertainment and music, are scheduled for June 20, July 11, August 22 and September 12, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The State Street Theater is offering summer theater camps and productions, including “Matilda the Musical” in late July.

Historical and cultural sites including Schell’s Brewery, the Brown County Historical Society and the Riverside History & Nature Learning Center maintain regular hours.

Families can also enjoy camping and fishing along the Minnesota River, with access at Flandrau State Park, Minnecon Park and Riverside Park areas.

For the latest schedules, registration and updates, residents can check newulm.com/events.