National parks month drives Glendale events

July is National Park and Recreation Month and the city of Glendale is ramping up with free events.

Events in Glendale this month include:

• Art at the Park is from 10 a.m. to noon July 11 at an air-conditioned, fruit-packing shed at Sahuaro Ranch Park (south of Brown Street between 59th and 63rd avenues). The West Valley Arts Council will provide an instructor and all the materials needed to create family-themed large magnets.
• Family Play Date is from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 24. Explore the modern fitness equipment, sports courts, rock-climbing walls and other features. Take time to play games, create crafts, eat pizza and enter for a chance to win prizes at all four city recreation centers. Bring the family to Glendale’s Foothills Recreation and Aquatics Center at 5600 W. Union Hills Drive, the Glendale Community Center at 5401 W. Ocotillo Road, Rose Lane Community Center at 5003 W. Marlette Ave., and O’Neil Recreation Center at 6448 W. Missouri Ave.
• Thank a Ranger Day is from 6 to 8 p.m. July 25, Visit with a park ranger in the various city parks, and find out how they keep Glendale’s outdoor space beautiful. Play games with the rangers, take home giveaways and try to winning prizes at Heroes Regional and Sahuaro Ranch parks.
• Glendale Adult Center Open House is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 30, Anyone ages 18 and older may explore the programs, equipment and events at this expansive, welcoming facility. It’s a center for people of all ages to get in shape, make friends and create memories.