The Parks and Recreation Department invites you to Celebrate A Century of Community: Parks, People, and Purpose! For 100 years, the Department has fostered community through various programs, events, and activities. The Department's commitment to the community dates to its establishment in 1925. It all began with the dedication of the city's first park, Vickroy Park. Today, the department proudly operates 42 parks and facilities that serve the community.
Our Centennial Celebration kicks off in January 2025! More information will be available soon. Check this page for the latest.  

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100 Years of Burbank Parks and Recreation

Centennial Timeline

Vickroy Park Article

Parks and Forestry Department and Commission Established

1925

The first park in the Department was dedicated, Vickroy Park.

Natural Bowl Amphitheater

First performance at the Bowl

1935

The first scheduled performance in the natural bowl theater, now the Starlight Bowl.

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USO Headquarters

1942

The USO Headquarters (now the Olive Recreation Center) is built in Olive park to provide recreational services for military personnel and the community.

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Glenoaks Park

1942

Glenoaks Park, now known as McCambridge Park, is dedicated.

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Olive Memorial Stadium

1946

The Olive Park Memorial Baseball Stadium is dedicated.

Natural Bowl Amphitheater

Burbank Aquatics

1948

The Verdugo Swimming Pool and Bath House are completed.

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St. Louis Browns

1949-1952

The St. Louis Browns professional baseball team utilizes Olive Memorial Stadium at Olive Park for training and exhibition games.

Park and Recreation Board

1950

The Park and Forestry Department and Playground and Recreation Department are consolidated into the Park and Recreation Board. The first Civitan Day Parade and Baseball Jamboree are held.

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Starlight Bowl

1951

The Starlight Bowl is dedicated and features a live performance by th eBurbank Symphone Orchestra.

Burbank Athletic Federation

1952

The Burbank Athletic Federation is founded to assist with oversight of sports programs.

Professional Football

1958-63

The Los Angeles Rams professional football team utilizes Olive Memorial Stadium for preseason training.

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Golfing in Burbank

1959

DeBell Municipal Golf Course is dedicated.

Verdugo Recreation Center

1961

Verdugo Recreation Center is dedicated.

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War Memorial

1969

Construction of War Memorial monument at McCambridge Park is completed.

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Adult Center

1972

Joslyn Adult Center is dedicated. Retired Senios Volunteer Program (RSVP) is also formed.

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Creative Arts Center

1989

Creative Arts Center at Izay Park is dedicated.

Art in Public Places

1993

The Art in Public Places Ordinance requires the provision of public art for development projects.

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Burbank Tennis

1997

Burbank Tennis Center is dedicated.

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Nature Center

2001

Stough Canyon Nature Center is dedicated.

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Ovrom Community Center

2009

Robert R. Ovrom Community Center and Park is dedicated.