Since the 1890s the City Park has been a center for summer band concerts and gala affairs. An island in the lake held a platform for band concerts in the 1890s. Musicians were ferried to the island by boat for the evening concert. Citizens brought rugs or blankets to sit upon the grass and listen, or even promenade around the park as musical numbers were played.
Today a city pool has been added to the park as well as playground equipment for the children. Picnicking and fishing are still favorite summertime activities around the lake.
The Annual Pierce City Arts Festival is held in the Pierce City Park the 2nd or 3rd Saturday in May. Howdy Neighbor Days is held in the South Park each August. The park was declared to be a pleasant setting for the event which will be held in the park from now on.