ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. -- A brand new, 18-hole disc golf course is set to open this Friday, Sept. 20 between both Lundquist-Bicentennial Park and Island Park in Elkhart, the city's Parks and Recreation Department announced this week.

"With nine holes in each [park], it offers an expansive and scenic disc golf experience," city officials said. "The course is now fully open and listed on UDisc, allowing players to track scores and find local disc golf opportunities."

Friday's ribbon-cutting ceremony will be attended by local officials and there will be a brief demonstration of the course. Those who come out for the ceremony are encouraged to bring their own discs and play the course after the event.

The new course is the first free 18-hole disc golf course in Elkhart County and officials say it is geared toward families and beginner players.

“We are blessed to have wonderful greenspaces throughout the City of Elkhart, and one of our main goals is to activate them,” said Jamison Czarnecki, Elkhart Parks & Recreation Superintendent. “Disc Golf is an equitable, low-barrier sport that will bring a new experience into the downtown area. This project is one of many that focuses on enhancing the quality of place in the community, and we are so grateful to everyone who has helped make this happen."

Organizers say the project was only possible with the help of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, weImpact Group, and Play It Again Sports of Elkhart.

"The creation of the Island Park Disc Golf Course is part of the city’s continued commitment to expanding recreational opportunities and aligns with enhancing the quality of life for Elkhart residents through the ASPIRE Initiative," city officials said.