Purpose

The City of Great Bend Park Department strives to serve the public by providing quality leisure opportunities through the establishment, implementation, and maintenance of a comprehensive parks, buildings, and grounds system.

Responsibilities

The Department is responsible for maintaining over 2000 acres of public lands within the City limits, including 10 City parks.

Events

The Department is actively involved with numerous community events and activities including the Farm and Ranch Show, Barton County Fair, the Great Bend fireworks show on July 3, June Jaunt, Party in the Park, Airfest and one of the top Christmas light displays in the Midwest.

To reserve space on City property please fill out and return a special events permit. Be detailed in needs and please give at LEAST 14 business days in advance to get approval. Some requests may need City Council approval.

SPECIAL EVENTS PERMIT

Citywide Cooperation

The Department works closely with the Great Bend Recreation Commission, U.S.D. #428, Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, Barton County Fair Board, Sunflower Rod and Custom Association (SRCA), as well as many others.

FAQS

Jack Kilby Square and the band shell can be reserved for special events on a first-come, first-served basis.

Please fill out and return a Special Events Permit AT LEAST 14 business days in advance and be detailed and specific on location and needs. Turn it into City Hall and approval will be made by the Public Lands Director and/or city council if necessary.

To have a form sent to you, please call (620) 793-4160 or visiting the Public Lands Department located at 1217 Williams Street.

At the present time, the large shelter at Vet’s Park may be reserved by calling (620) 793-4160. Reservations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis.

City parks are open from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

  • Glass containers are not allowed in any City park
  • Noise that is unreasonable, injurious or endangers the comfort, health, peace, or safety of others is not permissible
  • City codes and regulations shall be followed at all times
  • No littering
  • No swimming, wading, ice fishing, or ice skating on public lakes or ponds

City ordinance allows 3.2 alcohol content beer in the shelter houses and picnic areas of the parks. Glass containers are not allowed.

The Great Bend Recreation Commission prohibits the use of alcoholic beverages in any area where their activities are being held, such as ball fields, soccer fields, and other sports fields unless a resolution has been adopted by City Council.