Mesa’s Day of Play will take place during KaBOOM’s national effort to focus on play. From Sept. 19-27, over 1,000 communities across the U.S. will host free, fun-for-the-whole-family events that focus on the important role of play in a child’s life. Play Day attendees can help get the word out that fun is serious.

“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the “Playful City USA” award than with a day of play,” Mesa Mayor Scott Smith said. “I’ve lived in Mesa all my life and know Mesa is a great place to work, live and play but to have an organization such as KaBOOM formally recognize us really puts us over the top.”

The Day of Play will feature open gyms and youth activities at the recreation centers and a free showing of Bolt at the Mesa Amphitheatre with bounce houses and arts and crafts for the kids. All events are free for the public to attend and will begin around 2:30 p.m. To view a list of events, specific locations and times visit http://www.mesaaz.gov/parksrec/dayofplay or contact Parks, Recreation and Commercial Facilities Planning and Development Supervisor, Andrea Moore at (480) 644-2643.

The fall class schedule can be viewed online at http://www.mesaaz.gov/parksrec. Publication of TimeOut is no longer printed due to budget reductions.

“We offer such a great variety of classes,” Assistant Director of Mesa Parks, Recreation and Commercial Facilities Department J.D. Dockstader said “from karate or belly dancing to volleyball or ballroom dance. There are afterschool programs, sports programs, and so much more that most people aren’t aware of.”

To view the fall schedule or to sign up for classes visit http://www.mesaaz.gov/parksrec. You can also register in person at the Parks and Recreation Office, 200 South Center Street. For questions call (480) 644-2352.