“We had a terrific time today celebrating our 76 centenarians in Montgomery County with two, in particular, turning 107 this year!” Montgomery County Recreation (MoCo Rec) shared via social media. The celebration involved any resident who is at least 100 years old (centenarian) and their families. MoCo Rec began its search for Montgomery County centenarians in January of this year. Photos below, courtesy of MoCo Rec, with a video of the event coming soon:


Arts access has been an important part of Strathmore’s mission since its founding. In 2016, Strathmore expanded its commitment to taking the arts beyond its walls, particularly in the eastern part of Montgomery County. “Strathmore is such an important part of the identity of Montgomery County, and it is such a special place,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “But we know the arts are not equally accessible to all members of our County. The ‘East County Initiative’ of Bloom by Strathmore is a creative way to bring a variety of music to community members who might otherwise never have this opportunity. We are happy that Strathmore and Montgomery County Recreation are again partnering in this innovative program.”

For more information about the concert series, contact Martita Galindo of Strathmore at 301-581-5249 or [email protected].


Montgomery County Recreation is working to ensure the dream of attending prom can come true for all high school students. To ease the financial obstacle, the department is collecting gently used and new dresses, suits and accessories for “Praisner’s Project Prom Dress” giveaway event on Saturday, April 15, at the Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center in Burtonsville. Dresses, suits and accessories can be donated at the recreation center until March 15 during the following hours: Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. The center is located at 14906 Old Columbia Pike in Burtonsville. Three other community centers are also collecting items and have specific donation drop-off dates (see below).

Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 15, any high school student can visit the Praisner community center, show their school ID card, shop the racks and select an outfit for free.


If you know a centenarian living in the County, fill out this online form or contact the senior programs team at [email protected]. Please include the centenarian’s name and address and the contact person’s name, email and telephone number. The deadline to submit is March 10.”


Per Montgomery County: Montgomery County Recreation Center membership passes will be free for County residents in 2023. Starting Jan. 3, a free pass will provide access to fully equipped fitness rooms, open gym (drop-in) activities and game rooms at any community recreation center during regularly scheduled hours. The free pass does not include access to aquatic centers. For aquatic center pass information and prices, visit Aquatic Passes – Department of Recreation – Montgomery County, Maryland (montgomerycountymd.gov).

“We are pleased to be offering this service free to our residents in 2023,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “As we head into the new year and many are renewing their fitness goals, I encourage our County residents to take advantage of these great spaces. Make sure to head to a community recreation center near you to check out all they have to offer. Thank you to the team at Montgomery County Recreation for helping make this happen.”


Once approved, each eligible family member will receive $200 placed on qualifying individual’s ActiveMontgomery account for use. Rec Assist 2023 funds are available for use from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2023, or until the funds are depleted. Funds are available on a first come, first served basis. Rec Assist applications will be accepted online, by mail to Montgomery County Recreation Attention Rec Assist, 2425 Reedie Drive, 10th Floor, Wheaton, MD, 20902, or can be dropped off at that same address Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.


Montgomery County Recreation membership passes for exercise enthusiasts will be free for County residents in 2023. The free pass provides access to full-equipped exercise rooms, open gym activities, and game rooms at any Community Recreation Center during regularly scheduled hours.

This membership makes it easy to work out close to home, near your office, or at any recreation center location that’s convenient. Passes include both the gym and weight room. Please note the free pass does not include access to aquatic centers. List of MoCo Rec Centers below:


Montgomery County Recreation is hosting holiday-themed, family-friendly events for everyone to enjoy this winter. From cocoa and crafts to photos with Santa, December events will be hosted at community recreation centers, senior centers and aquatic facilities across the County. Registration for events can be completed online at ActiveMONTGOMERY.org. Registration for winter programs and activities is also currently underway. Upcoming special events hosted by Montgomery County Recreation will include:

Saturday, Dec. 3:


This Saturday, October 29, the Kensington Volunteer Fire Department and the Town of Kensington are once again hosting their annual Halloween Movie Night. “Hotel Transylvania” will be shown at dusk in St. Paul Park on the big screen. Costumes are encouraged for all attendees.

The Kensington Volunteer Fire Department and the Town of Kensington will have refreshments available for purchase in the Park, including pizza, popcorn, and candy.


View More Stories