Season 1 of Parks and Recreation has 6 episodes.
The first season aired on NBC from April 9 to May 14, 2009. Its six episodes introduced Leslie Knope’s work in the Pawnee Parks Department and established the mockumentary style, workplace ensemble, and local-government setting that defined the series.
The season begins with “Pilot,” in which Leslie tries to turn a dangerous construction pit into a public park. Other episodes include “Canvassing,” “The Reporter,” “Boys’ Club,” “The Banquet,” and “Rock Show.” “Rock Show” serves as the season finale and centers on Andy’s band Mouse Rat, while also advancing Leslie’s relationship with Ann Perkins.
A frequent mix-up comes from later seasons, which were much longer. Season 2 contains 24 episodes, while the first season’s unusually short six-episode order reflects the show’s initial launch and the limited number of episodes commissioned. The compact opening season also predates the expanded ensemble and warmer comic tone that became more prominent in subsequent seasons.