🌷What’s Happening in Mesa This May

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Community Engagement Newsletter

MAY 2026

Mesa neighborhood comes together
for America250 celebration

As part of the America250: Neighborhood Celebration initiative, Mesa neighborhoods are gathering to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary through connection and community-building events.

On Saturday, April 18th, the Mountain View Neighborhood in District 1 welcomed nearly 100 residents for a BBQ and potluck. The event created an opportunity for neighbors to connect, build relationships and strengthen their sense of community.

With support from the program, including a Party in a Box kit, residents were able to host a fun and welcoming gathering for all ages. As participants in the initiative, the neighborhood is now entered for a chance to receive $250 toward a future 2027 neighborhood event.

Residents interested in hosting their own gathering are encouraged to join the America250: Neighborhood Celebration initiative and begin planning their event.

Learn more and get started: https://my.mesaaz.gov/42pLV4t

Learn how to host a neighborhood gathering –
no prior experience needed! 

Resident’s Guide to America250 Webinar

Join the City of Mesa Community Engagement team to learn how to host a neighborhood gathering and take part in the America250: Neighborhood Celebration with a chance for your neighborhood to win $250.

Tuesday, July 14
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual (Zoom)

Get quick tips, resources, and ideas to bring your neighborhood together.

Arizona Celebration of Freedom

Saturday, July 4th | 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Join us in downtown Mesa for Arizona’s coolest Independence Day event.
Food, fun, fantastic patriotic displays and activities, and fireworks.

The Willmeng Arizona Celebration of Freedom returns Saturday, July 4, with more than just fireworks. It is a full tribute to liberty, packed with high-energy entertainment, moving patriotic moments and family-friendly fun. From live performances to interactive attractions, this is Mesa’s can’t-miss Independence Day celebration.

Live Music and Fireworks on Stage America
The lawn outside the Mesa Convention Center (263 N. Center St.) will come alive with live music and entertainment. Just before the sky lights up, the Salute to America program at 9:15 p.m. sets a patriotic tone leading into a spectacular fireworks finale at 9:30 p.m.

Pro Wrestling in the Amphitheatre
Phoenix Championship Wrestling returns to the Mesa Amphitheatre with SLAMU, bringing high-energy action to the ring. Cheer on fan favorites as they deliver exciting, family-friendly matchups full of energy and showmanship.

Outdoor Patriotic Attractions
Get up close to impressive military vehicles at the Patriotic Military Showcase, connect with representatives from the U.S. Armed Forces, and experience the adrenaline of the Patriotic Superhero Stunt Show with thrilling live performances.

Cool Off Inside with Inspiring Indoor Experiences
Step into the air-conditioned Mesa Convention Center for a lineup of indoor patriotic programs, including:

• Let Freedom Ring Laser Light Show, a dazzling display of lasers, music and imagery
• Live musical performances between laser shows
• The Fallen Soldiers Memorial, a moving tribute to Arizona’s heroes
• Historic Flags Presentation, sharing the history and meaning of U.S. flags

Bring the whole family and join us for the 17th annual Willmeng Arizona Celebration of Freedom. Enjoy an evening of festivities from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Mesa Convention Center and Mesa Amphitheatre.

Heat Safety Season Begins!

As temperatures start to heat up, Mesa residents are encouraged to stay safe during extreme summer heat by taking advantage of local heat relief resources available throughout the city. Information on Cooling Centers, the Day Respite Center, Hydration Stations, heat safety tips, and additional community resources can be found at mesaaz.gov/heatsafety.

Please check on neighbors, older adults, and vulnerable community members during periods of high temperatures and remember that heat can be dangerous for everyone.

Secrets of Successful Associations: The Top 10 Things Every HOA/Condo Board Member Must Know: Unlock the keys to running a thriving, legally compliant, and harmonious HOA/condo! In this power-packed session, we’ll reveal the “Secrets of Successful Associations” and break down the Top 10 Things You Need To Know about Arizona community association law. Learn best practices to protect your board from liability, foster a positive community, and steer clear of common pitfalls. We’ll cover important topics—from open meeting requirements and financial audits to rental restrictions, board member removal, and more—paired with real-world tips that separate thriving associations from struggling ones. Tuesday, May 19th, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to noon. Registration open.

Thrive as a Board: Defining Roles, Avoiding Burnout & Hiring Right: Set your board up for success! This essential session breaks down the clear roles and legal responsibilities of HOA/condo board members—drawing on Arizona law and real-world best practices. Discover proactive strategies to reduce board member burnout and create a culture of well-being, engagement, and teamwork. The class also delivers a step-by-step guide to selecting the right management company for your community, including how to evaluate candidates and avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re a new board member or a returning leader, you’ll leave with actionable tools for effective board service and a healthier leadership experience. Tuesday, June 16th, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to noon. Registration open.

Be Part of the Decisions That Shape Mesa

Ever wondered how your ideas and expertise could help shape your community? Join Mesa’s Advisory Boards and Committees! This is a meaningful opportunity to share your expertise, collaborate with city leaders, and make an impact on the future of Mesa. Click here to explore current openings and apply. 

Mesa College Promise and Admission Workshops

Thinking about college but unsure where to start—or how to pay for it? The Mesa College Promise program may be your answer. Join us for an upcoming information session to learn how eligible students can receive up to two years of free tuition at Mesa Community College. During the session, you’ll get a clear overview of eligibility requirements, application steps, key deadlines, and the support services available to help you succeed. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or a returning adult learner, this is a great opportunity to ask questions and take the next step toward your educational goals. Click the link to learn more and reserve your spot today!

Change a child's life-volunteer with
Experience Corps Mesa!

Learning to read is about more than getting a good grade-children who can't read at grade level by 4th grade are four times more likely not to graduate from high school. You can change the course of a child's life by becoming an AARP Experience Corps Mesa reading tutor. By volunteering just a few hours a week, you'll help students in your community become confident readers and form lifelong connections. Applications are now open for the 2026-2027 school year--click the link to start making an impact today!

Free Hiring Event May 14th at Eagles Community Center

Summer is getting closer and it's the perfect time to find your next job! Whether you're looking for a summer job or a change in career, find your path to success at this free hiring event! Join the Workforce Center @ Mesa on May 14th from 10AM to 1PM at Eagles Community Center to meet local employers ready to hire now. Plan to come dressed to interview with copies of your resume. Need help with a new resume or an interview-ready outfit? Visit the Workforce Center to get FREE help with both! Click the link to register and learn more.

Dive Into Summer: Registration Underway for Mesa Parks and Recreation Programs

From youth camps to adult sports and family-friendly activities, Mesa offers opportunities for all ages to stay active, learn new skills and connect with the community throughout the summer months. Adult sports: Tennis, pickleball at six City parks, volleyball, softball and Recess for Adults, which offers a new sport or game each week. Youth activities: Tennis, summer sports and youth camps including Olympic Sports Camp, judo, indoor playball multi-sport, gymnastics and ice skating. Teen activities: Pickleball, tennis camps and tournaments, Super Smash Bros.- eSports Tournament, leadership training, resume workshops and STEM activities. Adaptive recreation: Summer camps, pickleball, recreational bowling, stand-up paddleboard, Foam Fiesta and Adaptive TGIF for individuals with developmental disabilities ages six and up.

idea Museum Summer Camps are On Sale

idea Museum is offering six exciting weeks of summer camps this June and July! Choose from three unique camp themes, each with two different sessions. Camps are available for children ages 4–10, depending on the program, and provide hands-on opportunities to explore a variety of art materials and tools. Pricing varies based on museum membership. Let idea Museum spark your child’s creativity and imagination all summer long! Learn more at ideamuseum.org/camps.

Keep Your Family Safe:
Easy Tips to Protect Your Natural Gas Meter

Keeping your natural gas meter in good condition is an essential part of home safety. Here are some simple tips to help keep your family safe:

• Keep it clear: Make sure the area around your meter is clean and free of clutter so it’s easy to reach.
• Don’t stack items: Never place anything on top of the meter — it must stay uncovered and unobstructed.
• Protect it from vehicles: If your meter is near a driveway or parking spot, add protection to prevent bumps or collisions.
• Plant smart: Avoid planting trees, bushes, or shrubs within three feet of your meter. Their roots can grow and damage it over time.

Is Your HOA Using Too Much Water? Find Out for Free

Ever wondered if your HOA’s common area landscaping is using more water than it should? Now’s your chance to find out – for free! Thanks to a special grant, Mesa HOAs can access Waterfluence, an online water budgeting tool that compares your actual water use to a recommended amount based on acreage, landscape type, and real-time weather data. Take the guesswork out of water management and start saving today.