City of Kirkland Opens New Picnic Shelter at O.O. Denny Park

Published on October 22, 2025

Media Contact:
David Wolbrecht
Communications Program Manager
dwolbrecht@kirklandwa.gov

The City of Kirkland is pleased to announce the opening of a new picnic shelter at O.O. Denny Park, enhancing opportunities for families, friends, and community groups to gather and enjoy one of Kirkland’s most beloved waterfront parks.

The project was made possible through a generous donation from longtime Kirkland residents Dick and Nancy Gode, along with remaining funds from the former Finn Hill Park and Recreation District and support from the Kirkland Community Foundation. Together, these contributions reflect the community’s enduring commitment to improving public spaces and strengthening neighborhood connections.

“To the Gode family, the Finn Hill Neighborhood Alliance, Community Foundation, and all who contributed to this project, thank you for helping us build a place that reflects what Kirkland does best: creating spaces where people can come together, rain or shine,” said Mayor Kelli Curtis.

Located near the heart of O.O. Denny Park, the new shelter complements the existing structure by providing additional covered space for picnics, celebrations, and community events. The facility is now available for public use and can be reserved through the City’s picnic shelter reservation system.

“Picnic shelters bring people together, and this addition to O.O. Denny Park creates more opportunities for connection in one of the most scenic settings in Kirkland,” said Parks and Community Services Director Lynn Zwaagstra. “It’s a wonderful example of how philanthropy and community support help us enhance the quality of life in Kirkland.”

For more information about renting picnic areas in Kirkland Parks, please visit www.kirklandwa.gov/ParkRentals.