JBLM's Freedom Park will give families at Joint Base Lewis McChord a focal point this summer, and be the spot for a couple summer parties.

"It offers a nice open space community park for families of all ages," said Colin Brooks, Community Activities Specialist JBLM MWR.

The park has been open for three months. The grounds include the JBLM Skate Plaza, a green picnic area and an adjacent water park. It also features a brand new space for special events, with a permanent stage for performances and ceremonies.

Brooks explained that it provides a venue to hold small and mid-sized events as opposed to the much larger events held on post. This will allow for more flexibility. And MWR hasn't wasted any time making plans to use the space, this summer is already filling up.

One June 20 at 1 p.m., Freedom Park will host a "Skate Jam," in celebration of the 12th annual national "Go Skateboarding Day." MWR will partner with Rhythm Ride Shop (at the Lewis Main Mini Mall, 2202 Liggett Ave.), a veteran owned skateboarding shop. The event will feature an amateur skateboard competition and live music with a performance by local punk band Harvest States.

The Skate Jam will also have a range of other activities such as gladiator jousting, bungee runs and a climbing wall. The Redbull Wings Team will be in attendance and there will be a variety of free swag and giveaways. Competition winners will be announced at 5 p.m. and will take home an Xbox, Dell Tablet or Dell laptop. The competition is open to everyone at any experience level. On-site registration starts at noon at the Freedom Park Skate Participants can check out rhythmskateshop.

On July 31 the park will host a party celebrating the Armed Forces Community Service's birthday, an organization that helps assist veterans from all branches of the military.

On Aug 15th Freedom Park will host a "Back to School Bash," an event catering to younger children. It will have lots of fun activities and attractions for kids such as magicians, jugglers, music, inflatables a climbing wall and a puppet show on stage.

Brooks said MWR is already mulling over ideas for September, including a Car Show and a Jazz and wine show aimed at the adult crowd. He said he's interested in knowing what kind of events members of the community want to see. You can e-mail MBR or comment on their Facebook page to make suggestions.

Freedom Park is located at the corner of Liggitt and 41st Division Drive at Lewis Main.