With triple-digit temperatures here to stay around the Valley, CityScape Phoenix is keeping things cool while raising awareness for water safety with the return of the popular H2Oasis weekend event.
In partnership with the Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA, H2Oasis will shut down Central Avenue and transform CityScape into an outdoor waterpark on July 13 and July 14. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., those looking for a break from the summer heat can slide down eight giant inflatable water slides, splash around the foam machine and enjoy a variety of other family friendly activities. Admission is free with a suggested $5 minimum cash donation. All proceeds will be donated to the Lincoln Family Downtown YMCA.
“Now in its third year, H2Oais has become one of our most highly anticipated events at CityScape, attracting more than 500 guests,” said McKenzie Shaver, marketing specialist for RED Development. “With this event, we’re creating a fun and safe environment that gives families an excuse to spend an afternoon together while learning the importance of staying safe around water.”
Known for being “America’s Swim Instructor”, the YMCA launched the “Safety Around Water” program to educate parents, caregivers and children on the importance of water safety skills. The program walks children through a sequenced set of skills over eight, 40-minute lessons that give them more confidence in and around the water. A typical session includes exercises to help kids adjust to the water; an introduction to “jump, push, turn, grab” and “swim, float, swim”, two skills they can use if they unexpectedly fall into the water; specific safety lessons; and fun activities that reinforce the skills.
After a day of play, families can grab a late lunch or early dinner to go from one of the 19 restaurants at CityScape and enjoy the view from the shaded areas in Patriots Park. Ample and convenient underground parking is available and validated by restaurants and retailers with purchase.
For more information about H2Oasis and to learn more about upcoming events at CityScape, visit cityscapephoenix.com. For more information about the “Safety Around Water” program, visit valleyymca.org/programs/water-safety-classes/.
