Amarillo Splash Pads to Open on May 9, Despite Early Heat Wave

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Despite record-breaking high temperatures hitting Amarillo in March, the city's 14 public splash pads will not open until their regularly scheduled date of May 9, the start of Mother's Day weekend. The splash pads are a popular summer destination for families, but will remain closed until the official opening date even as the area experiences an early heat wave.

Why it matters

Amarillo's splash pads are an important community resource during the hot summer months, providing free, family-friendly recreation for local residents. While the early heat may have some residents eager to cool off, the city is sticking to its regular splash pad opening schedule to ensure proper maintenance and safety protocols are in place before welcoming the public.

The details

Amarillo has a total of 14 public splash pad locations spread across the city, including parks like Benton, Bones Hooks, and Memorial. These splash pads typically open on Mother's Day weekend each year, and 2026 will be no exception, with the official opening date set for May 9. This comes despite the area experiencing record-breaking high temperatures in March, with the mercury reaching the 90s and even flirting with 100 degrees. However, the city has confirmed that the splash pads' opening schedule will not be moved up to accommodate the early heat wave.

• Amarillo has experienced record-breaking high temperatures in March 2026, with the mercury reaching the 90s and even approaching 100 degrees.
• The city's 14 public splash pads will officially open on May 9, 2026, which is Mother's Day weekend.
• Amarillo's one outdoor city pool at Thompson Park is scheduled to open on May 24, 2026.