District Park Visitors Enjoy Fabulous Fourth

July's Fabulous Fourth festivities became even more of a family affair this year thanks to the addition of a new pickleball division.

For the first time parents and their pre-teen children were able to compete as a team in the newly created Family Division of the Liberty Cup pickleball tournament at Patch Reef Park – one of three District-owned parks to play prominent roles in the July 4 celebrations.

“I like it,” said Monica Mosquera, who teamed with daughter Salome to go undefeated in the division. “It's really good. It brings the whole family together. Really well organized. We really enjoyed it and had fun.”

Salome, 10, first picked up a paddle about a year ago. The winning smile didn't leave her face until well after receiving her medal.

“It feels nice, but the main thing is to have fun,” Salome said.

Tournament organizers view the family division not only as a way for families to enjoy outings together, but also as a means to encourage youths to try the nation's fastest growing sport.

“We're probably going to add that division in future tournaments,” Patch Reef tournament organizer Leminyer Zapata said.

Overall, nearly 100 players competed across five divisions in the Liberty Cup pickleball tournament. While the roof over the new 18-court complex allowed players to compete despite some rain, lightning ultimately shortened the event.

The tennis version of the Liberty Cup, held at the Boca Raton Racquet Center, wasn't as lucky. Rain hit the complex early, and continued lightning that morning prompted an earlier end.

Fortunately, skies cleared in time for the Sugar Sand block party later that afternoon. Revelers dressed in patriotic garb enjoyed usual park activities such as carousel rides and exploring the science playground. 

Some beat the heat by heading inside the community center to make patriotic crafts, get their faces painted or receive glitter tattoos.

The party featured a DJ who led some of the children in outdoor games, and food trucks for hungry party goers.

View a photo gallery from the Fabulous Fourth block party here.