Central Park in Karaganda—Kazakhstan’s largest park—is a vibrant and historic destination. Formerly known as the Central Park of Culture and Recreation, commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Komsomol, this park stretches across a sprawling 150 hectares. Its history began in 1935, when the city set about building a pond and landscaping the surrounding area with lush greenery and a scenic shoreline. The park officially opened in 1946, and over the decades, it has seen periods of renovation and decline. In 2011, a city-wide competition led to a new park design, initiating a wave of reconstruction, which saw the addition of new pathways, fountains, and a pier. Further improvements in 2021 added fresh rest areas, gazebos, and a unified look for signage and kiosks, along with expanded café and kiosk options, now evenly spread across the park. There are dedicated areas for cycling and rollerblading as well.
The park’s extensive green spaces are complemented by charming fountains, paved walkways, and meandering trails. Visitors can enjoy the shade of trees, row or paddle across the lake, and take in the various amusement rides. For families, the park still boasts a well-preserved gem: a children’s playground featuring classic Soviet-era swings and carousels. Live concerts are often hosted here, with open-air events bringing the space to life in summer.
Today, Central Park has become Karaganda’s beloved leisure spot, offering something for everyone. Adults and children alike can enjoy amusement rides, peaceful walks down the picturesque paths, active sports, or a jog along the lake, which sits at the heart of the park. On weekends and holidays, the park holds concerts, celebrations, competitions, and performances. Each event is lively, accompanied by games, contests, upbeat music, and a joyful atmosphere.
Operating Hours: Daily: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Admission: Free of charge
Location: Central Park Karaganda, Voinov-Internatsionalistov St., Karaganda
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