The Everett Mall is playing host to a unique “dart battle” event on Nov. 16 that promises not only high-energy fun but also aims to foster community connection in an exciting new way!

After running a toy and collectible business for many years, Tom Harrison, owner of Planet Mynd Play Lab, found himself repeatedly drawn to the exciting world of dart blasters.

Through meetups and dart blaster battles with a growing local community, Harrison saw an opportunity to bring this inclusive activity to Everett.

“I’m a big believer in teaching and connecting through play,” Harrison says. “Dart blaster battles offer a really exciting way for friends, family and the larger community to connect. I’ve been facilitating smaller battles around Everett for a while now, but this will be the first large-scale Dart Blaster Battle of its kind in the area.”

The event, for ages 8 and older, will be hosted in a 7,600-sq.ft. space inside the Everett Mall. The ‘game map’ will also include rest and spectator areas and a small hobby vendor section. Game modes are custom-designed to be inclusive of a range of mobility levels. It will feature special appearances by dart blaster community influencers Dr. Flux and Captain Xavier, free collectible tokens, and giveaways.

Attendees should bring their own blasters, eye protection, snacks and water, however free loaner blasters will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Safety measures are also in place, including an on-site chronograph to enforce FPS caps.

“Only foam darts and balls are permitted and there are FPS (feet per second) limitations in place. From 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. there will be a 150 FPS cap, then from 12:30 to 2 p.m. our ‘superstock speed rounds’ allow for a 160 FPS cap. From 2 to 5 p.m. is the all-ages game with an FPS cap of 130,” Harrison says.

Inspired by his son, Harrison rediscovered the importance of play for both children and adults and he encourages families and community members to reconnect with their inner child through this unique event.

“When I had my son, I quickly learned that play could be a powerful way to teach him life skills in a fun and meaningful way,” Harrison says. “It helped us connect and it helped me connect with my own inner child. I’m honored to share that experience with my community.”

To bring his vision to life, Harrison is partnering with Change the Narrative. Founder and Executive Director Michael Adams shares his excitement for what this event and future gatherings can bring to Everett.

“For us at Change the Narrative, this is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen the culture and community in the Everett area,” Adams says. “This will likely be a new experience for both youth and adults, providing a unique chance for cross-generational connection. It’s also a great way to encourage foot traffic through the Everett Mall and highlight the space for other entrepreneurs interested in the area.”

Harrison plans to host monthly Dart Blaster Battles from December through April, with the next Holiday-themed Blaster Battle set for December 14.

“These events are the perfect antidote to the Pacific Northwest ‘winter blues,’” Harrison adds. “Hosting indoors offers the community a great place to come together, have fun and make fantastic new memories with friends, family and neighbors.”

Event Details

• Date: Nov. 16, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Location: Everett Mall, 1402 SE Everett Mall Way (Event access through the rear entrance)
• Ticket Pricing: Advanced tickets available until Nov. 15 for $12/player; $15/player at the door.

Game Day Schedule:

• 9 a.m. — Check-in begins
• 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Superstock games (150 FPS cap)
• 12:30 to 2 p.m. — Lunch break/Superstock speed rounds (160 FPS cap)
• 2 to 5 p.m. — All-ages games (130 FPS cap)
• 5 to 6 p.m. — Dart sweep and clean-up

Volunteers needed!

Volunteers are needed to help with game moderation and post-game clean-up, those interested can – reach out to Tom Harrison at events@planetmynd.com.

Change the Narrative is also always accepting new volunteers for a variety of positions – email ctngfalls@gmail.com or visit changethenarrativegf.org.

For more information visit the Planet Mynd Play Lab’s Facebook page or Eventbrite.