Event showcases things to see and do in Yuma

Many already know the abundance of services Yuma has to offer, but PLAY Day gets the word out with a showcase of the area's homegrown treasures.

The 17th annual People Learning About Yuma (PLAY) Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Yuma Civic Center. In past years, the Yuma Jaycees' event has attracted more than 4,000 people who come out to enjoy the free entertainment and children's activities, and to learn more about what is available right here in Yuma from shopping to local organizations and recreational opportunities.

PLAY Day was originally developed by the Yuma Marketing Group to market and promote the community. It was created especially for year-round residents, featuring local businesses, attractions and nonprofit organizations in an expo-style show. But it's fun, too, with family-oriented activities. And lots of prizes will be given out.

Why PLAY Day? To raise awareness among Yumans about all the local businesses and opportunities available to them in their own backyards, to destroy the myth that you have to go out of town to shop or for entertainment — and ultimately to build pride in our community.

Admission is free.