Newton, NC - The Newton Parks and Recreation Department is pleased to announce the Newton Splash Pad is open for the 2023 Season.

The splash pad will operate through Labor Day from 1 to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. After Labor Day, operation will be dependent on daily temperatures.

The splash pad is located beside the Newton Recreation Center at 23 South Brady Ave.

Admission to the splash pad is $1 per person daily. Frequent visitors are invited to purchase $25 season passes that grant unlimited access during operating hours through Labor Day. Concessions such ice cream, candy, snacks, and soft drinks are available for purchase.

The splash pad may be reserved for private parties outside regular operating hours by calling 828-695-4317. The private party rental fee is $50 per hour to Newton residents and $75 per hour to nonresidents, with a two-hour maximum per party.

The 5,900-square-foot splash pad sprays hundreds of gallons of water per minute through two dozen nautically themed water features including pirate hooks, water cannons, ship anchors, and friendly sea serpents. Runoff water is collected and treated through a process that reduces water use and is environmentally friendly. The wet deck is surrounded by picnic tables and benches, a soft turf area that serves as a cool walking surface, and canopies and umbrellas that provide shade and comfort.

Designers went to great lengths to make sure the splash pad is easily accessible to everyone. The entire splash pad area is enclosed by a decorative fence and was constructed to be easily navigable by adults and children who have special mobility needs. Picnic table seating is available for people who use wheelchairs.

The Newton Splash Pad was funded through a bequest from Sue Jones to the City of Newton intended to enhance the city’s recreation programs and facilities. In addition to the splash pad, funds from the Jones estate have supported construction of the Frank & Sue Jones Amphitheatre in Downtown Newton, installation of lighting and a disc golf course at Jacob Fork Park, and development of Chadwick Park. The city remains deeply grateful to Sue Jones for her generosity.

For more information, please contact the Newton Recreation Center at 828-695-4317.