Splash pad season
Definition
The annual operating window of an outdoor splash pad, typically Memorial Day through Labor Day in northern states and March through October in the Sunbelt.
Splash pad season is set by freeze risk — pads must drain and winterize before first hard frost to avoid pipe damage. Northern cities open Memorial Day weekend; Florida, Texas and Arizona open in March or earlier.
Many cities post their splash-pad opening date weeks in advance on the parks-department website. Calling ahead in May (Northeast/Midwest) or October (Sunbelt) saves a wasted trip.