Memorial Park Running Complex Community Celebration

Houstonians are invited for a free event celebrating the official grand opening of Memorial Park’s Running Complex. The family-friendly celebration will feature music by DJ Johnny J, activities for all ages, giveaways and more. A Vendor Village will feature local businesses and organizations including Juice Land, Houston Marathon, HOKA, and Lean Body, among others. Food and drinks including hot dogs, popcorn, popsicles will be available for purchase.

At 10:30 a.m., immediately following brief remarks and a ceremonial ribbon cutting by project partners, children under the age of 12 are invited to join the “Kid’s Dash” and be among the first to experience the new 400-meter Roy H. Cullen Timing Track. All participants will receive a special prize. 

The Running Complex is a major programmatic hub and access point on the western side of the Park, nestled into the southwestern arm of the Kinder Land Bridge & Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff Prairie. With amenities including the 400-meter Roy H. Cullen Timing Track, viewing decks, an Event Plaza, gathering spaces, trails, and more, the Running Complex is designed to be a central gathering spot for all types of Park users, while serving as a new gateway to enjoy the Bayou Wilds trails of Memorial Park. 

The grand opening event is hosted by Memorial Park Conservancy and its Ten-Year Plan project partners: Houston Parks and Recreation Department, Uptown Development Authority, and Kinder Foundation, with additional program support from the City of Houston Mayor’s Office. The Running Complex is a project in the Ten-Year Plan, an accelerated set of projects within the Memorial Park Master Plan made possible by a catalyst gift from the Kinder Foundation, and the support of other generous donors.

Pets are welcome at the Grand Opening event; however, no pets are allowed on the Timing Track at any time. 

Registration is encouraged (though not required).