Friends of Anacostia Park x REI Co-op Summer Programming

Recreation in Anacostia Park takes many forms, with deep cultural and intergenerational significance. It's the only National Park Service–operated park with a roller rink, and a vibrant skate culture thrives thanks to free equipment rentals and regular events. Community fishing all along the Anacostia River has a long history in the residential areas situated along the park’s south side. Elders regularly meet in the park for hand dancing, a regional form of swing dancing from the 1950s and Washington, D.C.'s official dance. Birders, joggers, cyclists and walkers enjoy the sections of the 12-mile Anacostia River Trail that are located within the park’s bounds. Rest is also key to the park's importance: For many it is a place to simply find peace and temporarily escape the city’s chaos.