🚧 Plan ahead: Santan Freeway detours start this week

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Spring in Gilbert is starting to unfold everywhere: from sun-dappled art studios where kids and grown-ups experiment with paint and crochet, to parks humming with laughter and community energy.

We’re spotlighting places that feel both special and just around the corner, the kind you might stumble upon while running errands or walking the dog. Whether you’re escaping into a tropical-inspired cocktail, exploring your creative side, or navigating the occasional freeway detour, there’s a little something for everyone this season.

Take a few minutes to scroll, soak in the local flavor, and plan some outings that make the most of almost-sunny days and vibrant neighborhoods!

🍹 A cinematic tropical escape below deck

UnderTow is less of a bar and more of an immersive voyage, where the lighting dims and the "portholes" reveal passing storms as you settle into the belly of a 19th-century ship.

If your spring break plans feel too far away, head to the Epicenter at Agritopia for an immediate departure. It is atmospheric, intentional, and entirely transportive. While the rum-based storytelling is the draw, the Off The Grid or a perfectly balanced Passionfruit Mojito are the ways to go.

Every drink arrives with theatrical flair, making it the ideal spot for a sophisticated date night or a spirited catch-up with friends. Do secure a reservation early, the ship fills up fast!

🎨 Where local makers find their rhythm

The Art Lobby Studio has been buzzing with a specific kind of quiet focus lately.

While the past weekends might be for the grown-ups, the weekdays belong to the younger crowd exploring everything from the texture of a crochet stitch to the flow of a paintbrush.

Lody has cultivated a bright, welcoming space where the mess is part of the magic. It is the sort of “just-around-the-corner” place where confidence grows alongside the artwork.

🚧 Navigating upcoming Santan Freeway closures

The Gist: Two significant ramp closures are coming to the Loop 202 widening project. Starting this week, the westbound Arizona Avenue off-ramp closes for about 60 days. Shortly after, the southbound Loop 101 ramp to eastbound Loop 202 will close for two weeks beginning late Friday, February 20.

Why It Matters These shifts will change your daily school and work routes, so planning a few extra minutes for detours at Price Road or McQueen Road will keep your morning moving smoothly.

What’s Next The Loop 101 ramp closure begins at 11:30 p.m. on February 20. While the main ramp closes, the HOV ramp remains open for eligible carpoolers.

🧸 Continuing Comfort for Our Children

The Gist: The Chandler Crisis Response Team is reflecting on a constant source of local support: the teddy bears provided by Valley Bloom. These soft companions offer immediate relief to children facing family loss or emergencies. Beyond these bears, the organization quietly keeps emergency vans stocked year-round with "care kits" containing clothing and hygiene essentials for neighbors in crisis.

Why It Matters: While the season of giving often peaks in December, these small acts of kindness provide a steady safety net, ensuring no local child has to face a frightening situation empty-handed.

What’s Next: The community can support these ongoing efforts at the Runway for Hope luncheon on March 28 at the Marriott Phoenix Chandler.

🐾 Yohan is a curious four year old domestic shorthair

He truly lives up to his middle name, Explorer! Weighing in at a sturdy ten pounds, this friendly fellow spends his days investigating every corner of their cattery lobby.

While his history with other pets is unknown, his gentle nature makes him a lovely match for a home with children. He is particularly fond of chin rubs and neck scratches from every neighbor he meets. At a $75 adoption fee, he comes fully vetted and ready for his next adventure.

To learn more about this adventurous boy,

🏹 Gilbert Outdoors Expo | Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch | Gilbert | 02/21 | More
Interactive wildlife encounters and adventure skills for curious desert explorers.

🎭 High School Musical Jr. | Stage Door Studio Kids | Gilbert | 02/21 | More
Youth production featuring iconic songs and themes of teamwork and confidence.

🏃 GPS Run4Fun Community Fiesta | Gilbert Public Schools | Gilbert | 02/21 | More
Energizing morning activities celebrating local health and wellness for all ages.

💧 Gilbert Water Festival | Civic Center | Gilbert | 02/23-02/24 | More 
Hands-on environmental education focusing on the wonder of our desert resources.

❤️ Heart Health Awareness Day | IV Nutrition Gilbert | Gilbert | 02/23 | More
Medical consultations, compression therapy sessions, and vitamin injections.

🏫 Kindergarten Safari | Settler's Point Elementary | Gilbert | 02/24 | More 
Adventurous school exploration designed to welcome the newest local students!

👋 Kindergarten Kickoff | Sonoma Ranch Elementary | Gilbert | 02/25 | More 
Friendly welcome event for families entering the local elementary school system!

🏓 Winter Wellness Pickleball | Center Court Gilbert | Gilbert | 02/25 | More 
Free coaching and open play designed for active adults and their families.

🌸 Wildflower Symphony Painting | Painting with a Twist | Gilbert | 02/26 | More
Guided artistic session capturing the delicate beauty of spring desert blooms.

🎸 Funk and Hip Hop Night | OHSO Brewery | Gilbert | 02/20 | More
Disco and retro hip hop grooves designed to get the dancefloor moving.

🌿 Desert Plant Walk: Medicinal Plants | Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch | Gilbert | 02/21 | More
Guided stroll exploring traditional herbal medicine and identifying seasonal plants.

🎭 Mardi Gras Casino Night | Friends for Life | Gilbert | 02/21 | More
Fundraiser with casino games, refreshments, and drawing prizes to support rescue animals.

⛪ Galentine’s Workout & Worship | The Orchard at Agritopia | Gilbert | 02/21 | More
Uplifting morning of movement and community connection among the trees.

🩸 Community Blood Drive | Gilbert Chamber of Commerce | Gilbert | 02/23 | More
Life-saving donation event: gift card rewards and Renaissance Festival vouchers for donors.

💖 She Night: Galentine’s | Compassion Church | Gilbert | 02/24 | More 
Social evening for women featuring local vendors, food, and meaningful connection.

🎨 S.O.S. Rescue Painting | Painting with a Twist | Gilbert | 02/25 | More 
Session for finishing or rescuing past art projects with professional instructor guidance!

🦷 Ribbon Cutting Event | Bronco Family Dental | Gilbert | 02/26 | More 
Community celebration welcoming a new wellness provider to the neighborhood.