Home / Lifestyle / Beat the Heat: Worcester Aquatic Program Kicks Off
Beat the Heat: Worcester Aquatic Program Kicks Off
19 Jun
Summary
- Five city locations will offer free swim lessons starting June 30.
- Paddleboard and kayak rentals available at Coes Pond Beach.
- Aquatic facilities and spray parks open daily from noon to 7 p.m.
Worcester's summer aquatic program is set to begin on Friday, June 30, offering a variety of recreational activities for residents. This program will feature free swimming lessons at five city locations, including Bell Pond Beach, Coes Pond Beach, Indian Lake Beach, Shore Park Beach, and Crompton Park Pool. These lessons are scheduled for the morning, typically from 9 or 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., depending on the specific site.
The city has partnered with the YMCA of Central Massachusetts for the third consecutive year to provide lifeguards and gatekeepers. The YMCA will also manage a free paddleboard and kayak rental program, exclusively available at Coes Pond Beach. From June 30 to August 22, these aquatic facilities will be open to the public daily from noon to 7 p.m.
In addition to the beaches and pool, four spray parks—East Spray Park, Greenwood Spray Park, University Spray Park, and Tacoma Street Spray Park—will operate seven days a week. These spray parks will be staffed by the city and will be accessible from June 30 to September 7, also from noon to 7 p.m.
Commissioner Robert C. Antonelli Jr. emphasized the importance of safety, recommending that all residents swim in guarded locations and ideally with a companion. Registration details for elementary school students, which previously occurred via the YMCA website, were not yet finalized for the 2026 season.
