David Deal Playday

Playday was introduced in 1953 by Joseph C. Carter, the first director of Sunland Park (renamed Carter Park in 1994), as an opportunity for Fort Lauderdale youth to participate in track and field events. In 1971, the event was renamed David Deal Playday in honor of David Deal Sr., a longtime Broward County educator, coach and community mentor. Today, David Deal Playday is a summer celebration featuring multiple events including a golf tournament, teen concert, basketball tournament, jazz concert, boxing tournament, championship swim meet, and of course, the legendary David Deal Playday Kids Day.

The City of Fort Lauderdale Parks and Recreation Department will celebrate the 72nd Annual David Deal Playday with a series of events from July 28 to August 21. With the exception of the golf tournament, all Playday events are free and open to the public.

Event Schedule

Teen Night

Friday, July 31, 2026

5-8 PM
Carter Park

Teens will enjoy a night with friends featuring swim education, water games, a DJ, vendors, and much more.

Golf Tournament
Saturday, August 1, 2026

8 AM – Noon
Osswald Park

Come join this 9-hole golf tournament recognizing community legends. The tournament will consist of a closest-to-pin contest and a putting contest. Refreshments will be served. Register in person at Osswald Park by July 27, 2026. Entry Fee: $25.00

Sunshine Health Orange Bowl Family Fun and Fit Day
Presented by PNC Bank
Saturday, August 1, 2026

9 AM – 12 PM
Carter Park

In partnership with the Orange Bowl Festival Events, this family event will include a youth football clinic, free backpacks and school supplies, a kids fun zone, free haircuts, food trucks, music, and interactive fun for the whole family!

For more information, visit the Sunshine Health Orange Bowl Family Fun and Fit Day website.

Boxing Under the Stars

Thursday, August 6, 2026

7-10 PM
Carter Park

Contender’s Boxing Club, the USBA, and the City of Fort Lauderdale proudly present the annual boxing event at Carter Park Arena featuring South Florida’s most talented boxers competing for their titles.

Summer Jamz

Friday, August 21, 2026

7 – 10 PM
Mills Pond Park

Summer Jamz marks the end of summer with the hottest concert you don’t want to miss featuring a national recording artist! In addition to the main stage performances, Summer Jamz also features a kids zone with bounce houses and yard games as well as food, drink, and merchandise vendors. The concert is free to attend.

For more information, visit the Summer Jamz webpage.