Bellevue’s 24-Hour Relay Challenge, a popular event where teens take big steps toward being productive citizens while they walk around Downtown Park, will be a community celebration Saturday. The public is invited to enjoy food, games and live entertainment.

In its 10th year, the Relay Challenge requires 10-member teams of teens and adults to walk or run around a half-mile path at the park for 24 hours, from 10 a.m. Saturday to 10 a.m. Sunday. Participants pitch tents and camp for the night at the park, 10201 N.E. Fourth St.

Last year, 1,600 people participated, and this year’s relay is expected to be even bigger. A total of 108 teams already have registered. It’s a major social event in a safe drug- and alcohol-free environment. Each team raises at least $400 for community projects.

From 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, the public is welcome at the Relay. There will be a 24-foot climbing wall, adult-size inflatable “bouncers” and stage entertainment, including a performance at 4 p.m. by the award-winning break dance troupe Massive Monkees. Nearly 40 agencies will have booths at a community resource fair.

For elementary-school children, seniors and people with disabilities, there will be a three-hour “Relay Within a Relay” from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Admission and entertainment during the public hours are free, though a $2 donation is encouraged to help offset the cost of the climbing wall and inflatable toys. Free parking is available at Bellevue High School after 10 a.m. on Saturday, with a free shuttle to and from the Downtown Park available until 5 p.m.

The Relay Challenge endeavors to help youth become productive citizens by promoting strong family support, self-esteem, integrity, service to others, positive peer influences and good adult role models.

Bellevue’s 24 Hour Relay Challenge is cosponsored by the city of Bellevue and Bellevue School District, with help from more than 80 businesses and organizations, including Boeing Credit Union, 425 Magazine, King County Community Organizing Program, SOAR (Student Online Achievement Resources), Radford & Company and more.

For more information about Bellevue’s 24-Hour Relay Challenge, call the city of Bellevue Parks & Community Services Teen Services Office at 425-452-2846.