In keeping with the idea of creating a family-friendly environment, the town is organizing a free water-themed carnival, “Back2School Bash,” on Friday, Aug. 26.

The new event is scheduled from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at Four Peaks Neighborhood Park’s north field on Del Cambre near the Boys & Girls Club.

That venue was chosen because of the availability of potable water and lights.

Town recreation and tourism supervisor Rachel Goodwin; Grace Rodman-Guetter, tourism coordinator; and Corey Povar, program coordinators, are planning the activities.

The Fountain Hills Coalition and Thrivent Financial Services have signed on as sponsors. More local businesses and food vendors are welcome, said Goodwin.

“It will be a new event of food and fun because school has started,” said Goodwin. The test on whether the event is repeated will depend on attendance.

“We will know if we have found a winner by the number of people,” Goodwin added.

Inflatable water slides, slip and slides, a basketball game, food trucks with child-friendly food such as pizza and grilled cheese, a corn hole game and recorded music played by Povar will be on offer.

The team is recruiting teachers, town personalities and possibly council persons, to be targets for the dunk tank. A fire truck and sheriff’s vehicle will be available for inspection.

Thrivent Financial Group will create identification cards for the children for safety purposes.

“It’s meant to be a social gathering,” said Goodwin.

Slide the City

Another day of water park-style fun will be Sept. 24 when Slide the City returns.

The 1,000-foot slip and slide is designed more for older youngsters, teens and young adults.

The hours will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Online tickets are already being sold at slidethecity.com. Some categories are already sold out. Available tickets range from $14 for one ride to an all-day pass for $67.

Participants must be at least five years old and 46 inches tall.

Riders provide their own inflatable tubes.