The Gilbert Town Council approved the second and final construction contract for Phase 2 of Desert Sky Park at its Sept. 15 meeting, the town says. The phase adds five multi-use fields, an inclusive playground and splash pad, pickleball and tennis courts, and a new entrance off Power Road. Desert Sky already has the town's only all-inclusive playground, and the town says this phase was shaped so a child using a mobility device and a child without one can play side by side; that part is expected to open in March 2028. Council also approved the next Gilbert Regional Park contract, which brings a six-field youth softball complex, a roadway connection to the new Ocotillo Road bridge, and new parking and lighting. Both projects respond in part to a 2024 teen safety task force that found Gilbert teenagers lacked safe places to go after school.
This brief records the information reported on Sep 18, 2026. Opening dates and operating details may have changed.
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Gilbert Days takes place Saturday, Nov. 21, 2026, with a Heritage District parade from 8:30 to 11 a.m. and an all-ages festival on the new Ocotillo Bridge from 4 to 9 p.m. Festival admission is free. Organizers list parking at Gilbert Regional Park, 3005 E. Queen Creek Road, with free shuttles between the parking lot and festival throughout the event. The evening offers music, food and drinks, and a chance to visit the bridge deck before its planned December opening to traffic. Check the event page for registration and arrival details.
Source: Discover Gilbert / Gilbert Special EventsThe Gilbert Heritage District. Area context photograph; the business or event in this story is not pictured. Photo: Tony the Marine ( talk ) · CC BY-SA 3.0
Hot Pot Spot has opened in Gilbert, according to separate November reports from Mouth by Southwest and DiningOut. Mouth by Southwest places the restaurant in the Fry’s Marketplace plaza at the southwest corner of Gilbert and Baseline roads. Both reports describe all-you-can-eat hot pot with a grilled-skewer option. Check the restaurant’s current menu and terms before ordering.
Source: Mouth by Southwest / DiningOutThe Gilbert Heritage District. Area context photograph; the business or event in this story is not pictured. Photo: Tony the Marine ( talk ) · CC BY-SA 3.0
Bring a blanket to the Green at Verde at Cooley Station for a free outdoor screening of Toy Story 5 on Friday, November 6. The venue’s flyer puts the start at about 5:45 p.m., so arrive early to find a spot. All ages are welcome. The venue also lists complimentary popcorn and playground access.
