Awards & Recognitions

American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA), in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (news release)
Population 150,001 - 400,000

• 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Parks and Recreation Management

Arlington County’s Department of Parks and Recreation has been named a 2025 National Gold Medal Award Winner - one of the highest honors in our field. 

Presented by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) and National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), this award recognizes agencies that set the national standard for innovation, community impact, and excellence in service. It also honors the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and residents who make Arlington’s parks and programs a place for everyone, everywhere, every day. 

This Gold Medal win represents Arlington’s ongoing commitment to equity, inclusion and access for all. It’s a reminder of what happens when a community comes together to plan, play, and participate - because when we do, everyone benefits. 

Watch the video that earned Arlington the Gold and see how we’re connecting our community through play, wellness, and belonging.