City of Moorhead to Dedicate Newly Renamed Friendship Park on October 16

The City of Moorhead is proud to announce the renaming of Johnson Farms Park to Friendship Park, a change inspired by the growing cross‑cultural partnership between Moorhead and the City of Zakho in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. This new name reflects the values of connection, collaboration, and community that have blossomed through the Friendship City relationship.

A ribbon‑cutting ceremony will be held Friday, October 16, from 1–2 pm, at the newly named Friendship Park. The community is invited to celebrate this meaningful milestone.

The renaming of the park follows continued momentum in the partnership between Moorhead and Zakho, including the Global Intelligence Friendship Update event cohosted by the City of Moorhead and Minnesota State University Moorhead. That program highlighted Kurdish culture, global learning, and shared reflections from the Moorhead delegation’s visit to the Kurdistan Region, underscoring the importance of cultural exchange and community connection.

“Friendship Park embodies the spirit of our growing relationship with Zakho and the rich cultural diversity that strengthens Moorhead,” said Moorhead Mayor Shelly Carlson. “This name represents who we are and what we value. Welcoming neighbors, building bridges, and celebrating the friendships that make our community vibrant.”

The park dedication event will include brief remarks, the unveiling of the new park signage, and an opportunity to learn more about ongoing international partnership efforts.

Event Details
Date: Friday, October 16, 2026
Time: 1–2 pm
Location: Friendship Park (formerly Johnson Farms Park - 1599 Johnson Dr, Moorhead)

Moorhead is home to an estimated 3,500 Kurdish residents, representing approximately 8 percent of the population. The Friendship City initiative aims to honor and strengthen these connections while creating educational, cultural, and community opportunities for all residents.