2025 was a remarkable year at Durham Central Park. More people visited, more programs grew, and more community voices shaped the future of our five-acre green space than ever before.
Here are the highlights from an unforgettable year:
PLAYlist Concert Series Reached New Heights
This year’s PLAYlist was our most attended yet. Six free concerts brought thousands of residents together to experience world-class music right in downtown Durham. The atmosphere was electric—families dancing, food trucks buzzing, and community shining.
Attendees often tell us PLAYlist is “their favorite event in Durham,” and in 2025, the crowds proved it. Thanks to the North Carolina Arts Council, the Durham Arts Council, and the City of Durham for supporting this series.
Storytime Expanded to Serve Over 500 Children
Every week, families from across the city gathered under the trees or near Mt. Merrill for joyful reading, singing, and art-making. Storytime continues to play a vital role in early childhood education—free, enriching, and accessible. Durham Central Park collaborated with Book Harvest in 2025, to bring hundreds of free books to Storytime attendees.
Food Truck Rodeos Celebrated Culture and Community
Our Food Truck Rodeos drew more than 15,000 people, showcased 75+ local businesses, and featured special cultural events such as the Solar New Year Food Truck Rodeo.
At the Harvest Rodeo, the community collected a truckload of food for FEED Durham—proof that Durham shows up for one another.
Volunteers Strengthened the Land
Nearly 25 volunteer workdays brought neighbors together to plant, clean, mulch, and care for the land. Their work improved safety, added new plantings, and supported pollinators and wildlife.
Major Progress on the Greenprint
Early design began for the Creekside Gateway, Forest Seating, and Memorial Garden. With more than $135,000 already committed, momentum is building—and the future is bright for the Durham Central Park Greenprint.
This year’s success reflects your generosity, your attendance, your advocacy, and your belief in the power of public space. Donate to Durham Central Park’s Cardinal Campaign to keep this amazing work going in 2026.
If you would like to see a more in depth look at our 2025 Accomplishments, check out our 2025 Impact Report Here.