Parks & Recreation

Our Commitment to Heartfelt Living

At the Bessemer City Parks and Recreation Department, we believe that a truly connected and thriving community is built through meaningful experiences, shared spaces, and opportunities for all ages to grow, celebrate, and engage. Guided by our city’s “Heartfelt Living” values, our department works daily to create welcoming environments that foster joy, belonging, and togetherness.

Our Core Objectives

To meet the diverse needs of our residents and strengthen community connections, we strive to:

• Coordinate and deliver inclusive, year-round programs, events, and recreational opportunities that serve citizens of all ages and abilities.
• Collaborate with schools, civic groups, and regional partners** to expand access to recreation and enhance the overall quality of life for residents of Bessemer City and greater Gaston County.
• Inspire a culture of volunteerism** by engaging residents in meaningful service that enriches our community spirit.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Bessemer City Parks and Recreation Department is to enrich the lives of our residents by providing safe, affordable, and diverse parks, facilities, and programs. Through our dedication to service and stewardship, we create spaces and experiences where Heartfelt Living can truly flourish.

Signature Events & Community Programs

We host a variety of beloved events that bring neighbors together and showcase the spirit of our city:

• Concert & Cruise-Ins
• Brew & Que Festival
• Down Home Festival
• Juneteenth Festival
• Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony
• 9/11 Memorial Service
• Movies in the Park
• Independence Day Celebration
• Community Easter Egg Hunt
• Halloween Egg Haunt

In addition to these signature events, we offer a variety of weekly programs for residents of all ages, promoting creativity, movement, and connection.

Athletic & Recreational Programs

We provide structured opportunities for youth, adults, and seniors to stay active and engaged:

Youth Sports

• Basketball
• Baseball
• Soccer
• Girls Softball

Senior Activities:

• Monthly Bingo and Meals
• Music and Dances
• Holiday Programs
• Day Trips & Craft Classes

Adult & All-Ages Recreation:

• Pickleball League
• Gaston County Senior Games
• Gaston County Sports Hall of Fame Events

Whether you’re enjoying a family movie night under the stars, coaching a youth team, or volunteering at a community event, Bessemer City Parks and Recreation is here to help you live, play, and connect — the Heartfelt Living way.

Kiser Senior Center

Kiser Senior Center
123 W. Pennsylvania Ave.
Bessemer City, NC 28016
(704) 729-6465

The Kiser Senior Center’s primary mission is to be a focal point in the community with services that support senior adults and promote the health, emotional, social, and intellectual well-being of senior adults living in the community. Through planned programs and activities, participants are offered enriching opportunities in a safe, fulfilling environment for seniors.

“Enter as strangers, leave as friends.”

Please give us a call at (704) 729–6465 for more information regarding upcoming programs.

Our Purpose

The purpose of the Kiser Senior Center is to provide information and services for the senior community of Bessemer City, including opportunities for meaningful leisure and recreational activities, the availability of persons with whom you can share your concerns, and a place of fellowship and understanding. The Kiser Senior Center is made possible through the generous contribution from Dr. Glen A. Kiser and his wife, Muriel C. Kiser.

Hours of Operation:

• Monday: 8:30am-12:30pm
• Tuesday: 8:30am-12:30pm
• Wednesday: General Facility Closed
• Thursday: General Facility Closed
• Friday: 8:30am-12:30pm

*Please note that hours may vary depending on program activities. Please visit the calendar and programs page for details.

Our Mission

The goal of the Kiser Senior Center is to enhance the physical and social well-being of adults 50 years and older. Programs are planned to promote the independence of senior adults. Programs are designed to meet the interest and needs of seniors of every age, whether you are 50 and looking to get in shape, or 90 and hoping for a safe place to join friends in a game of cards or social time.

Fitness equipment is available with no fee for use during operational hours. Other programs are offered at minimal costs.

Programs

• Trips
• Men’s Breakfast Club
• Lunch and Learn
• Fitness Programs
• BINGO
• Tech Talk
• Chair Volleyball
• Themed programs
• Special Events

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