New year, new Happenings! Here’s my list of upcoming goings-on and goodies.*

The Anywhere section is for anyone, wherever you are. There are also things you can enjoy ANYWHERE sprinkled throughout the rest of the List.

 

What Happenings are you looking forward to this year?

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The Happenings List

– Central Arizona –

Asian Festival: Sape + Flow

Jan 12-13 / Mesa Community College, Mesa / Free

Community-building festival celebrating Asian cuisine, arts, and traditions in Mesa’s Asian District.

From the organizers: “The Asian Festival mission is to promote a peaceful world by increasing international awareness and cultural understanding.”

• Entertainment: Mathew Ngau Jau, an indigenous cultural guardian from Borneo, will play a traditional stringed instrument called “sape,” as well as giving workshops on how it is crafted. Master Ong will perform Flow Arts, which is a mix of meditation, movement, and juggling.
• Vendors: Over 20 vendor booths.
• Food + beverage: 45 food vendors.
• H/T Visit Phoenix

 

New Moon PJ Party + Jewelry Making Workshop: Soak in Slumber Party Vibes

Jan 12, 7pm – 10pm / Palabras Bilingual Bookstore, Phoenix

Jewelry-making workshop and lunar gathering with games, food, a place to work on creative projects/crafts, and space to reflect and set intentions.

• Wear PJs, bring pillows and blankets, and a notebook. Optional: bring games and snacks to share.
• Andria from Andria’s Tienda will be hosting a lunar bracelet make-and-take workshop ($10, materials included).
• Wasted Ink Zine Distro, Palabras Bookstore, and Cuentos Café will all be open until 10pm!
• *ANYWHERE: Palabras Bookstore has a $14.99/month Audiobook Membership, which gives you an audiobook credit each month, plus 30% off additional audiobook purchases!

 

Intro into Keum-Boo: Silver-Gilty Pleasure

Jan 14, 1pm / KP Studio, Phoenix / $160 fee

3-hour, beginner-level workshop on Keum-Boo, an ancient Korean technique used to apply thin sheets of gold to silver. Attendees will apply this silver-gilt technique to a pair of earrings.

• Supplies are included and so are 3 hours of studio time!
• 1/13 is Korean-American Day!
• *Unlimited monthly studio time for $95/month. (A deal if you’re planning to use 6.5 hours a month or more!)
• ANYWHERE: Online classes on metal smithing.

 

Ceasefire Postcard-Writing Campaign: Craft a Message

Jan 14 + on, 11am – 2pm / Palabras Bilingual Bookstore, Phoenix / Free

Weekly gathering to make, write, and mail postcards to Congressional reps to demand a ceasefire in Palestine. The postcard writing sessions will continue every Sunday until there is a permanent ceasefire.

• If you’re unable to make it on Sundays, postcards and materials will be available in the backroom seating area anytime Palabras is open.
• Contributions of stamps, postcards and cereal boxes (to be made into postcards) are needed!
• ANYWHERE: Viva Palestina: Liberation Movement Resources

 

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: Going Beyond “I Have a Dream.”

Jan 23, 6pm / Tempe History Museum, Tempe / Free

While many MLK Day festivities focus on Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, the most pivotal years of his life may have come afterward, from 1965-1968. This community chat will focus on Dr. King’s life during those years and his stand against the Vietnam War.

• *ANYWHERE: Free Tempe coloring pages + activity books
• *ANYWHERE: eMuseum online database

 

Phoenix Chinese Week Culture and Cuisine Festival: Dragon  Dances + Dim Sum

Feb 3-4 / Steele Indian School Park, Phoenix / Free

Two-day festival with continuous live entertainment and hands-on activities.

• Entertainment: Dragon and Lion Dances, folk dances, musical and cultural performances, Tai Chi and martial arts demonstrations, koi pond and other exhibits. Play a game of Mahjong, compete in a chopstick challenge, try a Chinese yo-yo, and have your English name translated into Chinese characters! There’s also an arts and crafts area for kids.
• Vendors: Merchandise vendors with unique items.
• Food + beverage: A wide variety of Asian food available from food trucks and food vendors. Also a beer garden.

 

Local Hearts Club Makers Market: We Get by With a Little Help from Our Friends

Feb 10, 10am – 4pm / Shops @ Town + Country, Phoenix / Free to shop

Market with locally handmade jewelry, one-of-a-kind art, treats, apparel and accessories, and health and beauty goods.

• Entertainment: Live local music all day and a raffle for prizes donated by vendors.
• Vendors: Local Phoenix makers.
• Raffle to benefit AZK9 Rescue.
• *Happy hour specials on drinks, snacks, and free kids’ meals at The Macintosh (also at Town + Country) 3-6pm, Monday to Saturday – so you could stop by after the Makers Market!

 

VNSA (Volunteer Nonprofit Service Association) Book Sale: Paperbacks for Penny Pinchers

Feb 10-11 / Arizona State Fairgrounds, Ag. Center Building, Phoenix / Free to shop

Annual sale of hundreds of deeply discounted used books, media, and other items. This is both a way to give the community access to books inexpensively, and a way to raise money for nonprofit organizations Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation and Literacy Volunteers of Maricopa County!

• Arizona State Fairgrounds charges a $12 parking fee that supports the Fairgrounds. VNSA does not receive any money from parking fees.
• All unmarked standard-size paperback books are $2.
• *Everything is half-price on Sunday (except for the books in Rare + Unusual)!
• ANYWHERE: Shop their online bookstore.

 

World Championship Hoop Dance Contest: You Make Me Wanna Hoop

Feb 17-18 / Heard Museum, Phoenix / All ages / Regular adult tickets are $25/day

The traditional art of hoop dancing takes a lot of skill, and it’s amazing what expert hoop dancers are able to do!

• Entertainment: 100 contestants from across North America, two award-winning drum groups, activities for kids.
• Food + beverage: Food trucks.

 

– Northern Arizona –

Chocolate Lovers’ Special: Romance on the Rails

Feb 10-14 / Verde Canyon Railroad, Clarkdale / $145/ticket + tax

Valentine-themed excursion on a renovated vintage train! Couples can enjoy the scenery of a red rock canyon, as well as house made truffles, pralines, cupcakes, mousse cups, and other chocolate treats along the way. Passengers receive a Champagne toast upon boarding, service at their seats, and a variety of complimentary appetizers. There will also be full-service cash-bars with S’mores cocktails, strawberry Sangria, and premium liquors on the menu.

From the organizers: “…Since Arizona became the ‘Valentine State’ and the 48th star on the U.S. flag on February 14, 1912, this holiday is the perfect time to memorialize romance on the rails.”

• Available February 10, 11 and 14.
• All cars connect to open-air viewing platforms.
• A portion of all train ticket revenue is donated to Liberty Wildlife Raptor Rescue program.
• ANYWHERE: Train ride video gallery. 
• *ANYWHERE: Oral Histories from Clarkdale residents.

 

Sedona International Film Festival: Sedona is for Cinephiles

Feb 24 – Mar 3 / Mary D. Fisher Theatre + Alice Gill-Sheldon Theatre, Sedona / $660/Gold Priority Pass (free entry to all screenings).

30-year-old festival of independent films from around the world, including features, shorts, documentaries, animation, foreign films, and student films. Over 140 films total!

• Individual tickets will be available for purchase starting one week before the festival.
• *Discounts on rental cars and lodging for Film Festival attendees.

 

– Southern Arizona –

Popol Vuh and the Maya Art of Storytelling: Two Words — Piñata. Wall.

now – October 20 / Tucson Museum of Art, Tucson / Included with admission.

Exhibition that looks at the traditions of Maya storytelling and image-making from ancient times up to the present. As a starting point, it uses Mayan mythology from the Popol Vuh. Artwork by Guatemalan modern artist Carlos Mérida, which it inspired, complement the ancient work.

• Fun fact: I thought this exhibition had ended, but when I looked at the date, I didn’t pay attention to the year. It actually runs until this October!
• *First Thursday. On the first Thursday of the month, TMA offers extended hours (5-8pm), pay-what-you-wish admission, art and gallery activities, entertainment, and a cash bar. Reserve your free ticket online.
• *Second SundAZe. Focused on intergenerational learning, the Second Sunday of the month features activities and art-making for kids, as well as docent talks, free performances, and pay-what-you-wish admission.

 

Art in Oro Valley Gallery Exhibition: OV at 50!

Jan 11 – May 3 / Ventana Gallery at Roche Tissue Diagnostics, Tucson / Free

Exhibition of work by artists who live, work, and/or were inspired by Oro Valley, in honor of the town’s 50th anniversary. It will be housed in an unconventional space – a gallery located on the campus of Roche Tissue Diagnostics!

• 1/24, 5-7pm: Opening Night Celebration. Experience the exhibition with the artists who created each work. The event will also feature wine, light snacks, and live music. Free admission with registration.
• H/T SAACA newsletter

 

Wings Over Willcox: Cranes Convene

Jan 11-14 / Willcox Community Center, Willcox / $20 fee (+ activity fees)

Birding + nature festival that takes place annually during MLK weekend, which happens to be a great time to see sandhill cranes and other bird species in the Sulphur Springs Valley! Activities include field trips, tours, seminars, and a Nature Expo.

• *ANYWHERE: Sandhill crane cam!

 

Tucson Jazz Festival: All That Jazz

Jan 12-20 / Multiple venues in Downtown Tucson / Ticket prices vary by event.

Festival created to influence the discovery and celebration of live jazz performance and music education. It features world-class musicians, as well as up-and-comers.

• Jan 13: Jazz Jam at Hotel Congress. Festival artists are paired together in unique ensembles that perform throughout the day. Tickets $45
• Jan 15 (MLK Day): Downtown Jazz Fiesta at Corbett’s. Annual day of free performances.
• Jan 20, 2pm: Blue Note Records 85th Anniversary Concert at Fox Theatre. Tickets $35-104 (including fees).

 

The Speakeasy: Prohibition Party

Jan 13, 6pm / AZ Hops and Vines, Sonoita / $40/ticket

Twenties-themed release party to celebrate the new Tempranillo from AZ Hops + Vines! Dress like it’s Prohibition times. The Speakeasy password will be shared right before the event!

• Entertainment: Big Band vibes and belly dancers! Live music from Bees Knees, a Pennsylvania band covering danceable hits from throughout the decades.
• Food + beverage: Admission Includes a souvenir glass, appetizers, and your choice of a glass of wine!
• ANYWHERE: Buy AZ Hops and Vines wines online!

 

National Day of Racial Healing: Come Together

Jan 13, 1pm / YWCA of Southern Arizona, Tucson / All ages / Free

An afternoon of discussions, cultural performances, and activities for the whole family. The event, hosted by League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson and the YWCA of Southern Arizona, is meant to bring people together and inspire action to create a more just and equitable world.

• The Day is part of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s Truth, Racial Healing Transformation efforts.
• ANYWHERE: Find a National Day of Racial Healing event that’s near you or online.

 

Sahuarita Art on the Lake Festival

Jan 13, 10am – 4pm / Sahuarita Lake Park, Sahuarita / Free

Second annual festival featuring immersive and experiential activities throughout the park. With REFLECTION as this year’s theme, the event will encourage attendees to explore personal and creative reflection, conscientious art-making, and multi-cultural and generational community performances. It will also feature floating art installations that will take the theme of reflection literally.

• Entertainment: Live music, community chalk art competition, live plein air painting, mural unveiling, and kids’ crafts. There will also be an eclectic variety of performances unfolding throughout the day, including Mexican Folk Dance, immersive avant-garde, Celtic Dance, mariachi, and the Chinese Lion Dance.
• Vendors: Up to 25 artisans exhibiting throughout the walkways of the Sahuarita Lake Park.
• Food + beverage: BlackJack Citrus Infusions (Lemonade), Greater Faith World Church Intl. (BBQ), Moreno’s Roasted Corn, Mr. Ice Guy (Italian Ice), Springtide Catering (American Fare​).

Goodies from Festival vendors…

• *ANYWHERE: $3 off 2 bags of black garlic when you order online from Santa Cosecha with coupon code: SAVE$3.00
• *Ask Wear a Touch of Spirit if they’re offering their buy 2 bracelets get 1 free deal at this show.
• *ANYWHERE: Gluten-free Breakfast Cookie recipe by Untamed Confections.

 

Tucson’s Annual MLK Day Celebration: March + Learn

Jan 15, 8am – 2pm / Reid Park, Tucson / Free

Beginning with a march from U of A Tech Park (MLK Way and 36th St) to Reid Park, this day of commemorating Dr. King’s legacy will culminate in a celebration at Reid Park’s outdoor performance center. There will be live performances, food, vendors, and informational tables.

• 8am: March begins
• 10am – 2pm: Celebration in the park.

 

Wine and Craft Show: Sipping, Shopping, Charcuterie

Jan 20, 10am – 4:30pm / Old Pueblo Cellars, Tucson / Free to shop

Craft show, wine tasting, and charcuterie boards at a winery in the desert.

• Reservations are only required for tastings.

 

Dino-Light: A Lightwire Act

Jan 26, 6:30pm / Fox Theatre, Tucson / $23-43/ticket (fees included)

Glow-in-the-dark performance that depicts an original story of a scientist who brings a friendly dinosaur to life. The dinosaur wanders away from home and finds a world full of creatures that light up the darkness.

From the organizers: “This glow-in-the-dark adventure is visually amazing and has been praised for its cutting edge blend of puppetry, technology and dance by audiences all over the world.”

• Throughout North America: Check out Lightwire Theater’s tour schedule for upcoming performances in other cities.

 

Cooking Class: Chinese New Year Nian Gao and Dumplings

Jan 27, 11am – 1pm / Tucson Chinese Cultural Center, Tucson / $65/class

Hands-on cooking class to make two Lunar New Year dishes! Instruction on preparing complete Chinese meals is part of the cultural center’s AANHPI-inspired health and wellness program. This series of classes continues through May.

• Sign up for the 1/27 class by January 17.

 

Tucson Gem, Mineral + Fossil Showcase: Treasures Unearthed

Jan 27-Feb 11 / sites around Tucson

Most of these shows are free and open to the public.

• Jan 27 – Feb 3: Colors of the Stone with To Bead True Blue and Artisan Workshops at Casino Del Sol. Free.
• Jan 27 – Feb 11: African Art Village on the Mercado District Festival Grounds. Outdoor marketplace with vendors from across the African continent selling artisan goods.
• Mineral District shows including the 1801 Oracle / Mineral Village Show, Rock Yard Show, and Mineral City Show.
• Gem Show tips: 10 Things to Know About Gem Shows in Tucson

 

Understanding Color: Know Your Hues

Feb 2-4 / Tubac School of Fine Art, Tubac / $420 fee

Workshop on the elements of color and how to mix oil paint to match what you see.

From the organizers: “Students will understand the strengths and limitations of every color on and off their palette. Students will then see how to choose their palette for each painting to support their specific color goal.”

• *Tubac Day Trip Itinerary 
• H/T Tubac Center of the Arts (TCA)

 

Tubac Festival of the Arts: Artists Take Back Tubac

Feb 7-11 / Tubac / Free to shop

Over 200 fine artists and craftsmen exhibit throughout Tubac, along roadways and plazas, and woven among the more than 125 art galleries, boutiques, specialty shops, and restaurants. There will also be live entertainment, horse-drawn trolley rides, and a large assortment of festival eateries.

• *50% off select bottles of wine Sunday nights at Tubac’s Stables Ranch Grille (found on TCA’s dining guide).

 

Tucson Gem and Mineral Show®: The O.G. (Original Gemshow)

Feb 8-11 / Tucson Convention Center, Tucson / Single-day admission $12 (+$1 convention center fee)

The world’s oldest and largest gem and mineral show. The 2024 show theme is “Pegmatites – Crystals Big and Beautiful!” (I don’t know enough to ever really get what their themes are about. )

• Children 14 and under are free with a paying adult.
• There actually are dozen more shows under the umbrella of the Tucson Gem, Mineral + Fossil Showcase from January 27 to February 11!

 

Arizona Statehood Day Museum Open House: Celebrate State 48!

Feb 10, 10am – 3pm / Arizona History Museum, Tucson / Free

To commemorate Arizona Statehood Day, the Arizona History Museum will have free admission on February 10th, so you can explore the exhibits and learn about history.

 

La Fiesta de los Vaqueros: Tucson Rodeo

Feb 17-25 / Tucson Rodeo Grounds, Tucson / General admission tickets start at $18

A Tucson tradition since 1925, the Fiesta celebrates real-life ranch skills and cowpoke culture. Events include bull and bronco riding, barrel racing, roping competitions, junior rodeo events, and a big parade.

• Parking at the Tucson Rodeo Grounds is $10 per vehicle.
• 2/22: Rodeo Parade. Grandstand tickets are $12 (+ $2 fee). Or watch from the curbside for free (no tickets required).

 

Yuma Art Symposium: Year 45, a Reunion

Feb 22-24 / Yuma / Registration fee $220

Series of presentations by both internationally recognized and emerging artists across a variety of disciplines.

 

Quilt Fiesta: Quilters Get Crazy!

Feb 23-25 / Pima County Fairgrounds, Tucson / $10 admission

Expo featuring hundreds of quilts in Old Pueblo Hall, along with product demos, vendors, raffles, and special exhibits.

• Small quilt sale to benefit Old Pueblo Community Services and Aviva Children’s Services
• Quilts of Valor sit + sew booth
• Food + coffee vendors
• Parking $7 (+ free shuttle)
• *$2 off admission 2-5pm on Saturday or anytime Sunday, if you show their online coupon at the door.
• *$20 for a 3-day Pass (save $10!)
• *ANYWHERE: Paper Piecing 101 Guide (free)
• *ANYWHERE: Dozens of free downloadable patterns (past patterns-of-the-month)

 

Tucson Together Market: Part Tu

Feb 24, 11am – 4pm / Depot Plaza (also known as the MLK lot), Tucson / Free to shop

The second artisan market hosted by #ThisIsTucson. These events are all about connecting artists with their community and showing the local love!

 

– Anywhere –

Stitch-In-Public Day: Embroider Out Loud!

Feb 3 / wherever you are / Free

A day when the EGA (Embroiderers’ Guild of America) encourages anyone who sews to practice their craft out in the open and share their passion for needle arts with others!

 

Met Live Opera: Carmen

Jan 27 / livestream in movie theaters / varies (around $25/ticket)

Gritty, present-day reimagining of the classic opera Carmen. The new production shines a light on the labor struggles, gendered violence, and other power imbalances we are still facing today.

The January 27th performance will stream live to participating movie theaters. If it won’t be showing at a theater near you, you may be able to get a ticket to watch from home.

• Encore screenings on 1/31.
• More information on ticketing, streaming, and Met Opera on Demand.
• *Sale items at the Met Opera Shop!
• H/T Sedona International Film Festival

This year, it feels like one minute we still had long summer days and the next it was suddenly dark by dinnertime.

Which means it’s the time of year to light candles, line your walk with luminarias, drink hot beverages around a bonfire – celebrate bringing light to the darkness.

There’s plenty of light in this season’s Happenings List. And hot beverages. And maker-focused holiday markets. Oh yeah, and goodies! (Look for the *s.) Plus, other fun stuff I happened to find and thought you’d want to check out.

Not in Arizona? The ANYWHERE section is for you!

I’ve included links to shops and items I’ve found on Etsy, because I like them and because I can earn a little affiliate commission if you buy something. And that helps support this site and keep the Happenings List… happening.

Anyway, read on and let me know where you go!

The Happenings List

– Central Arizona –

 

Early Days: Indigenous Art from the McMichael

Now – January 2, 2024 / Heard Museum, Phoenix / Included with admission.

The Early Days exhibition is a survey of Canadian Indigenous art from coast-to-coast-to-coast and from historical to contemporary pieces. Organized by the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in collaboration with Indigenous scholars, artists, and traditional knowledge keepers.

• *During regular admission times at the Heard, you can save 10% by purchasing online tickets in advance.
• *ANYWHERE: See artist James Johnson‘s Tlingit carving demonstration and learn about the ways he is continuing his ancestral traditions (on Vimeo).
• *Free shipping on all US orders when you purchase James Johnson’s art via his online gallery.
• Some Tlingit artists on Etsy: Nick Alan, RobMartin (engraved jewelry) + NorthwestNativeGifts (prints + housewares).

 

Shemer Honors Ed Mell: Painter of Iconic Southwestern Landscapes

Now – January 4, 2024 / Shemer Art Center, Phoenix / Free (suggested donation $7 per person).

Exhibition honoring the career of Arizona artist Ed Mell, including some never-seen-before works of art!

• Check out: Ed Mell artwork from a Phoenix Library.

 

Canal Convergence: Public Art Lights Up the Waterfront

November 3 – November 12 / Scottsdale Waterfront, Scottsdale / Free.

Internationally-recognized public art exhibition that illuminates the Scottsdale Waterfront for 10 evenings in November. The immersive event features large-scale, light-based artworks created by local, national, and international artists. There are also educational workshops and activities, art tours, live music and dance performances, a beer and wine garden, and food trucks!

 

Grand Ave Festival PHX: Celebration of Running Against the Grid

November 4, 11am – 7pm / Historic Grand Avenue, Phoenix / Free.

Quirky, artsy community party on Phoenix’s unparalleled Grand Avenue. Everyone is invited to join the festivities, which will include an artisan market, live music, and interactive art experiences, other events showcasing the neighborhood’s artists and businesses.

• H/T Grand Avenue Arts + Preservation
• Read about the completion of the Colibrí mural in the heart of the Grand Avenue arts district.

 

Arizona Fall Festival: Shop, Eat, Drink + Play Local

November 4, 10am-4pm / Margaret T. Hance Park, Phoenix / Free.

Local First’s festival of Arizona businesses!

• Vendors: 200 local businesses/organizations, includingArizona State Parks, Ben’s Bells, Bookmans, Juju + Moxie, and Verde Canyon Railroad, as well as a Mujeres Mercado pop-up of local Latina businesses and a Buy Black Marketplace curated by Archwood Exchange.
• Food + beverage: Local restaurant food court. Drink in AZ Beverage Garden, serving locally-made wine, beer, and spirits. You’ll find Barrio Brewing, Burgers Amore, Danzeisen Dairy, Four Peaks Brewery, San Tan Brewery, and many more!
• Entertainment: Live music all day, aerial yoga sessions hourly, silent auction and raffle. Kid Zone with crafts, kite flying, face painting, and a playground.
• Dogs are allowed!
• *Free Goodie Bag filled with local surprises to the first 300 attendees.
• ANYWHERE: Online silent auction, with over 100 local gifts, staycations, and Arizona experience packages.

 

Holiday Greeting Cards with Sandy Gatlin: Create Cards on Canvas

November 5, 4pm – 7pm / Fountain Hills Artists’ Gallery, Fountain Hills / $50 class fee

Workshop on creating greeting cards and bookmarks from your own painting on a canvas sheet.

• No experience necessary.
• All supplies included.
• Class is limited to 6 students.

 

Early Bird Makers Market

November 18, 10am – 4pm / Shops @ Town + Country, Phoenix / Free.

Annual market, featuring local makers with one-of-a-kind wares, including art, clothing and accessories, furniture, food, and health and beauty products.

• Live music.
• Raffle prizes to benefit Phoenix Children’s Foundation.
• *Free photo with Santa with any donation to Phoenix Children’s Foundation.

Sneak preview these Phoenix-based vendors’ work on Etsy:

• Lan Art+Design – desert-inspired paper collage art
• Winifred Street – mixed media collage art journals and cards
• RedheartWoodwork – wooden jewelry and home decor
• StellasBalcony – gemstone jewelry and pre-Columbian design

 

Scottsdazzle Holiday Extravaganza

November 25 – December 31 / Old Town Scottsdale / Price varies by event.

Month-long holiday extravaganza featuring more than 45 events!

• Vendors: Merry “Merchantile” Market, Gold Palette ArtWalk galleries, Old Town Farmers Market.
• Food + beverage: Chef’s Table, whisky tastings, Sugar Plum tea party, cookie decorating, wine charcuterie class.
• Entertainment: Sing-along and tree lighting, dueling piano shows, holiday movie nights, painting party, centerpiece making and cork crafting classes.
• Find free public parking using Scottsdale’s Old Town Parking Map.
• *Some Scottsdale shops and restaurants will be offering special Scottsdazzle deals!

 

Tempe Festival of the Arts

December 1 – December 3, 10am – 5:30pm / Downtown Tempe / Free.

Well-loved urban fine art festival and community event that showcases over 350 artists from around the country, plus local music, a Kids Block, and many great food options – all located on the streets of historic Mill Avenue!

 

Discovery Days: Wander Taliesin West

December 9, 10am – 4pm / Taliesin West, Scottsdale / Adults $5, youth free with registration

Opportunity to explore a part of Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home, Taliesin West, at your own pace. There will also be performances and participatory activities like ask-me stations and crafts for all ages!

• Advance registration is recommended. Tickets are limited.
• Food and drink will be available for purchase.
• This is not a formal tour of Taliesin West. You can purchase a tour if you would like to see more of the property.

 

Heritage Holidays: Historic Phoenix Plaza Gets Festive

December 9, 10am – 3pm / Heritage Square, Phoenix / Free.

First-annual holiday celebration in Phoenix’s Heritage Square!

• Vendors: Shop the Square museum store.
• Food + beverage: There are 5 restaurants in the Square, including the renowned Pizzeria Bianco.
• Entertainment: The Victorian Rosson House Museum will be decorated for the holidays and open for self-guided tours. There will also be a children’s area with lawn games and crafts.
• ANYWHERE: Select Museum Store merchandise is available online.
• *ANYWHERE: Sci-Fi Squared! Resources about science fiction history, Heritage Square’s theme this year – like links to online books, exhibits, kids’ activity pages, and the first science fiction film ever made.

 

Phoestivus: Holiday Shopping for the Rest of Us

December 14 – December 16 / Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market space (720 North 5th Street), Phoenix / Free.

Holiday market with its own Phoenician traditions! It’s also fundraiser for Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market and Community Food Connections, which supports local growers and businesses. This year, the event will extend to two back-to-back nights and a Saturday morning!

• December 14 + 15, 5-10pm: 2 nights of Phoestivus
• December 16, 8am – 1pm: The The Phoestivus Hangover + Farmers Market.
• Vendors: More than 200 small businesses selling locally grown and produced gifts.
• Food + beverage: Eating Area with food trucks and tables. Pour the Rest of Us bar area with local beer, wine, spirits and Phoestivus ale.
• Entertainment: Live music and DJs, hipster Santa, “pheats” of strength, airing of grievances.
• Dog friendly event that will even have a fur-family photo booth!

 

– Northern Arizona –

Rachmaninoff: A Two-Piano Performance to Rach Your Socks Off!

November 5, 3pm / Sedona Performing Arts Center, Sedona / General admission $45, reserved seats $65

Concert celebrating the 150th birthday of romantic composer Sergei Rachmaninoff. Pianists Orion Weiss and Roman Rabinovich perform his two monumental two-piano suites, alongside other works by composers in his orbit.

• Sedona Performing Arts Center is located on the Red Rock High School campus.

 

Brave the Wild River: The Untold Story of Two Women Who Mapped the Botany of the Grand Canyon

November 13, 12:15pm / Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, Flagstaff / Included with admission.

Riordan Mansion Lunchtime Lecture by Science journalist Melissa L. Sevigny on the riveting tale of two pioneering botanists and their historic boat trip down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon in 1938.

• Space is limited.
• Reserve your spot online or call 928-779-4395.

 

Jerry “Geronimo” Martin Presentation: How much do you know about Geronimo?

November 18, 2pm / Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Cottonwood / Included with admission.

Presentation by Jerry “Geronimo” Martin. Not only is he the great-great-grandson of the legendary Geronimo, he is also a historian of Geronimo’s birth, life, struggle between the U.S. and Mexican armies, and life as a prisoner of war.

• Program located at Quail Loop Amphitheater.
• Celebrating Native American Heritage Month!

 

35th Annual Acker Night: Musicians for Music Ed

December 8, 5-8:30pm / Downtown Prescott / Free. (Donations accepted.)

A night of live music down the festively-lit streets of Downtown Prescott that raises money for music education. It begins with an Opening Ceremony and school choir performance. Over 100 Prescott businesses open their doors to give Acker Night musicians a place to play. Tips go to provide music lessons and instruments to local youth and support school music programs.

• *Sale and clearance items at one of Acker Night’s sponsors, Wade’s Cabin + Ranch Furniture.

 

Christmas Village + ChristkindlMarket

December 15-17 / W. Goodwin Street, Downtown Prescott / Free entry.

Traditionally-inspired German Christmas Market with Prescott flavor. West Goodwin Street will be filled with holiday vendors and live music.

• Horse-drawn carriage rides around the Courthouse.
• German-style food, Bier Garten, and hot mulled wine.
• *Prescott Public Library outdoor art: A few blocks from the market, on East Goodwin Street, you’ll find the library’s exterior art collection. It includes several bronze sculptures, a history of words mural, and a nearly 300-foot long timeline of the world (according to artist Fran Wildman in 1975) on the sidewalk!

 

Riordan Mansion Christmastime Evening Walks

December 20-23, 4:30pm / Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, Flagstaff / Free entry.

In the days leading up to Christmas, the Riordan Mansion grounds will be open until 6pm. Get a cup of hot apple cider, and enjoy walking along the luminaria-lined pathways.

To see the inside of the mansion, decorated for the holidays and illuminated by Edison bulbs, reserve a special Christmas Twilight Tour. This guided tour begins at 5pm and focuses on historical Christmas traditions.

• Entry to the grounds and hot cider are included with admission.
• Twilight Tour tickets are an additional $16/person. Recommended for ages 12+.
• Tour tickets go on sale 11/15! Space is limited.

 

– Southern Arizona –

 

Pulse: Weavings and Paintings by Marlowe Katoney: Diné Today

Now – March 23, 2024 / University of Arizona Museum of Art (UAMA), Tucson / Included with admission.

Exhibition of approximately thirty weavings and paintings created by Marlowe Katoney. The multidisciplinary artist combines elements from painting with traditional Navajo iconography and designs to create pieces that take inspiration from popular culture, street art, nature, Navajo culture, and his own life.

• *Get free admission for two when you check out a Culture Pass from an Arizona Library.
• Related: The stolen painting we had to see at UAMA!

 

Tucson Film Festival (f.k.a. TFMF or Tucson Film + Music Festival)

November 2 – November 5 / The Screening Room, Tucson / Tickets start at $10.

Festival focused on music-related content, with an emphasis on films and filmmakers with a connection to Arizona and the desert Southwest. It includes both narrative and documentary features, and shorts of all genres including animation, experimental, comedy, drama and world.

• H/T Tucson Film Festival

 

All Souls Procession: “Remembering Together”

November 3 – November 5 / Mercado District and Tucson’s west side, Tucson / Free. (Donations accepted.)

A uniquely Tucson celebration, which draws on the many cultural traditions of the community, to honor the lives of our loved ones and ancestors. The focal point of the event is a two-mile long procession on blocked-off streets in west Tucson, where all are invited to walk and remember. It ends on the Mercado District Festival Grounds, where there will be performances, art installations, and food vendors. The culmination is the ceremonial burning of collected remembrances in a large metal urn.

The main events are free. Ticket sales for the 3 Dance of the Dead Concerts ($12-30) help to support this huge, volunteer-lead undertaking.

• Nov. 3: Dance of the Dead Concert. Flow 4 the Soul with In Rave.
• Nov. 4: Procession of Little Angels with Stories That Soar and Red Herring Puppets.
• Nov. 4: Dance of the Dead Concert. Session yoga workshop, ancestral cacao Ceremony w/ Ricky Abud and an immersive, sonic, concert experience with Steve Roach with visuals by Noctivision.
• Nov. 5: Main Procession + Ceremony (Gather at 4pm / depart at 6pm).
• Grand Finale with Flam Chen and Soriah.
• ANYWHERE: Watch the Procession livestream November 5 at 6pm MST.

 

Cameron Carpenter: Metropolis (1927): Silent Movie Score Live

November 3, 7:30 pm / Fox Theatre, Tucson / Tickets $20-55

Concert of world-renowned organist, Cameron Carpenter, playing the Fox’s Wurlitzer organ to accompany the 1927 film, Metropolis.

 

Tanque Verde Market: Artisan Market on Tucson’s East Side

November 4, 10am – 2pm / Forty Niner Country Club, Tucson / Free.

Eastside artisan market in a covered pavilion with golf course views.

• Sneak preview vendor Points Jewelry‘s work on Etsy.

 

Parsons Dance: Homecoming Performance

November 5, 2pm / Centennial Hall (at UArizona), Tucson / Tickets $39-69.

University of Arizona dancers, Megan Garcia and Christian Blue, take the stage with internationally renowned dance company Parsons Dance. The company is known for their athleticism, stunning ensemble work, and the passion they bring to every performance.

 

Into the Spider-Verse World Tour: Live in Concert: The Amazing Spider-Music!

November 5, 7pm / Fox Theatre, Tucson / Tickets $20-68

Screening of the animated film Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse with live musicians and a DJ on stage playing the film’s soundtrack, which blends symphonic orchestral music with hip-hop. Into The Spider-Verse’s score is composed of of boundary-pushing original music that supports its themes of resilience and universal heroism.

 

Karaoke Night Market: Sing + Shop

November 11, 5pm – 8pm / Proper Shops Courtyard, Tucson / Free.

Sing karaoke and shop local artisans on the Proper Shops patio. Meet the makers behind Beautiful Little Things, ENB Jewelry, Tucson Handmade and Unsilenced Pride while you sing under the stars!

• Restaurant pairings – including where to eat after you go to Proper Shops!

 

Fall 2023 Desert Air Market: DAM Good Time!

November 11, 10am – 4pm / on the corner of 6th Street + 6th Avenue in front of the Firestone Building, Tucson / Free.

Outdoor pop-up market created and run by Tucson artisans. Desert Air Market (DAM) aspires to be a day of joy and connection, where you can shop handcrafted items and meet the people who made them!

• DJ Rob Moonlite will be spinning vinyl.
• Part of the proceeds of this market will go to Youth on Their Own, a nonprofit helping teens experiencing homeless to graduate high school.

Sneak preview these vendors’ work on Etsy:

• Marcy Ellis – Beautiful illustrations weaving together flora and plant goddesses.
• SonoranRainDesigns – Hand-painted terra cotta pots and macrame plant hangers.

 

Fall Artisans Market: Makers at the Museum

November 17-20 / Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block, Tucson / Free.

Street fair with over 100 unique and local artists and artisans with crafts, original artwork, pottery, glass, jewelry, textiles and gift items. Café a la C’Art, the museum’s restaurant, will be open throughout the weekend with outdoor seating on the expanded patio (and some indoor seating, too). The market is organized by TMA’s Museum Store to fundraise for the museum.

• Enter from 150 N. Main Avenue or the museum parking lot.
• *Museum is pay-what-you-wish admission during the market.

 

Oro Valley Riverfront Park Classical Concert Series

November 19, 4pm / Riverfront Park Grass Amphitheater, Oro Valley (Tucson area) / Free.

Performances by classically-trained musicians at the base of Pusch Ridge on select Sundays. Concerts take place outdoors, on the grass at the community’s largest amphitheater.

• Concerts are 60-90 minutes in length.
• Limited seating is provided. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or chairs.
• Food will be available for purchase from food trucks onsite.

 

The Black Owned Business (BOB) Festival: Support Black Excellence

November 25, 10am-5pm / 55 N. 5th Avenue, Tucson / Free.

Small business Saturday celebration of Black business resilience with interactive activities, live music, art, dance, vendors, food trucks and information about the thriving Black community in Arizona. All people and ages are invited to come together to share in the family-friendly festivities!

• Vendors will be in front of the MLK Apartments.
• Food trucks on 5th Avenue.
• Entertainment and beer garden on the Hotel Congress patio.

 

Made in Tucson Market (MinT): Mint Locally-Made Gifts

November 26 / 4th Avenue District, Tucson / Free.

Market of goods handmade by Tucson artists, many of whom will be there demonstrating their work.

• Vendors: 300 local makers and creatives.
• Food + beverage: Food trucks + 4th Avenue restaurants.
• H/T Made in Tucson Market on Facebook

 

Old World Holiday Market: Mead + Makers

December 2, 4pm – 8pm / The Meading Room, Sonoita / Free.

Evening in Arizona wine country with lights, bonfires, food trucks, live music by Juniper Djinn, and over 20 unique local artisans and makers! Enjoy hot chocolate, hard cider, or mead, while doing some holiday shopping.

• Kids and pets are welcome!
• *Tastings are $12.50 for a flight of five. Choose samples from their current offerings of meads, ciders, and fruit wines.
• ANYWHERE: The Meading Room now ships to select states (2 bottle minimum order). *Full Case Discount (12 bottles or more) offered at checkout!

 

Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair

December 8 – December 10 / along 4th Ave. from University Blvd. to 8th St., Tucson / Free.

Holiday season edition of historic downtown Tucson’s semiannual street fair! Shop original, handmade art from 350+ artists from around the world, while enjoying live entertainment and more than 40 food vendors. Plus, Fourth Avenue merchants are open during the event.

• *Free shuttle service from the Pennington Street Garage.
• You can also park along the streetcar line + take Sun Link in.
• Proceeds are used to support Fourth Avenue’s events and infrastructure.

 

Winterhaven Festival of Lights: Walk in a Winter(haven) Wonderland!

December 9 – December 25, 6-10pm / Tucson / Free. (Donations accepted.)

Neighborhood with elaborate holiday light displays. While the Festival is free to attend, organizers request that everyone bring a donation of food or money for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.

• You can see the lights on foot, on a hayride wagon, a bus trolley, or a pedal-powered group bike! Ride reservations are recommended.
• No drive-thru dates for 2023.
• This event is one the most important for the Food Bank!

– Anywhere –

Arizona Fall Festival Online Silent Auction

Now – November 5, 5pm MST / Free to browse.

Over 100 local gifts, staycations, and Arizona experience packages up for auction to support Local First’s mission of creating a sustainable and inclusive economy for Arizonans.

• Note: You can bid from anywhere, but there are some items (especially experiences, memberships, gift cards, etc.) that you can only enjoy in Arizona.

 

Amerind Free Online Artist Talk: The Art of Ryan Singer

November 4, 11am MST / Free.

Artist talk with Ryan Singer, a Diné (Navajo) artist-painter, who is known for creating artwork based on his Navajo heritage and incorporating pop culture elements, including science fiction imagery. He weaves stories of his childhood memories with nostalgic iconography and has been drawing Star Wars characters since 1977.

 

All Souls Procession Livestream: Be there in spirit.

November 5, 6pm MST / Free.

Community members walk to honor the lives of loved ones and ancestors. (More about this tradition under “Southern Arizona.”) Portions of the procession and finale will be livestreamed for those who can’t be there in person.

 

Being Human Festival Online Events

November 9 – November 18 / Free.

The Being Human festival of the humanities has several virtual events on its program, in addition to the in-person ones held in cities across the UK.

• Nov. 12, 11am or Nov. 15, 1:30pm GMT: Encounters with Sound. Online film screening and Q+A looking at the relationship between touch, movement, and how we experience the world through sound. This event will be held on Zoom. Registration (booking) required.
• Nov. 15, 7pm GMT: Diasporic Snapshot. Online discussion about stories of the diasporic experience that can be seen through photographs, hosted by poet and spoken word performer Shaniece Martin. To be a part of the conversation, find a photo that represents diaspora to you and share why you chose it. For ages 16+. Registration (booking) required.
• Nov. 18, 7:30pm GMT: Writing Under Fire: Poetry and Prose from Ukraine and the Black Country. Transcultural panel discussion led by the University of Wolverhampton on the importance of arts and literature in times of crisis, helping us to work through war trauma while creating a sense of hope for a brighter future. It will include readings from Ukrainian poets and writers, and reflections by writers from the Black Country (a region in England’s Midlands – where Wolverhampton is located – which is known for its historical production of coal and iron.) Hybrid event, available online via Zoom. Registration (booking) required.

 

Wright Virtual Visits: The Wright Stuff

November 9 + December 7, 1pm Eastern / 10am Pacific time / Free.

Behind-the-scenes looks at Frank Lloyd Wright-designed public sites with insider tips for visitors. Those who are streaming live on Facebook will be able to ask questions, and recordings of each event will be available to watch afterward.

Goodies to enjoy anywhere:

• Sale items from Zinnia Folk Arts.
• Sci-Fi Squared! online books, exhibits, kids’ activity pages, and other resources about science fiction history, which is Heritage Square’s theme this year. Plus, you can watch the first science fiction film ever made!
• Select merchandise from the Heritage Square Museum Store is available online.
• Video: Artist James Johnson talks about traditional Tlingit carvings and his work continuing the centuries-old art form.

All the Etsy links from above…

• Tlingit artists: Nick Alan, RobMartin (engraved jewelry) + NorthwestNativeGifts (prints + housewares).
• Tanque Verde Market vendor Points Jewelry.

Early Bird Makers Market vendors:

• Lan Art+Design – desert-inspired paper collage art
• Winifred Street – mixed media collage art journals and cards
• RedheartWoodwork – wooden jewelry and home decor
• StellasBalcony – gemstone jewelry and pre-Columbian design

Desert Air Market vendors:

• Marcy Ellis – Beautiful illustrations weaving together flora and plant goddesses.
• SonoranRainDesigns – Hand-painted terra cotta pots and macrame plant hangers.

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P.S. Photos are by me unless the caption says otherwise.