Happy Fall! Or should I say “happy last-gasp-of-summer”!?

Even if it doesn’t feel like autumn, we’re heading into September and October, and fall things are going on!

So here’s the current Happenings List, my seasonal selection of goings-on for lovers of art, craft, culture(s), and nature.

• *Goodies: The List is peppered with extras, freebies, and discounts! Just look for the asterisks (*).
• While the in-person events are pretty much all in Arizona, you can skip down to the last section for Happenings and Goodies you can enjoy from virtually ANYWHERE!
• I link to artists’ Etsy sites and may earn a small commission if you click through and purchase something. But no one has paid to be included in the List.
• What Happenings on the List have you gone to? I’d love to hear about it! Send me an email or hashtag social media posts about your experience with #TCJreco.

The Happenings List

– Central Arizona –

Picturing Resistance + With These Hands: Duel Documentary Photography Exhibitions

now – September 30 / Gallery 4 at HD South, Gilbert Historical Museum, Gilbert / Included with admission.

Photography exhibitions inspired by two books by Ken Light, a documentary photographer and UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism professor.

• With These Hands: A collection of Ken Light’s images of undocumented migrant children working in oppressive conditions on farms throughout the United States.
• Picturing Resistance: Images from marches, protests, rallies, and demonstrations, showing people in the public view voicing their passion for change. Public protests embody dissent and express the urgency for policy change.
• ANYWHERE: See select pieces from Gallery 4 exhibitions.

 

Early Days: Indigenous Art from the McMichael: Carving Artist

September 1, 4-8pm / Heard Museum, Phoenix / Free.

Grand opening and U.S. debut of the Early Days exhibition, a survey of Canadian Indigenous art from coast-to-coast-to-coast and from historical to contemporary pieces. Artist James Johnson (Tlingit) from Southeast Alaska will be demonstrating centuries-old carving techniques and sharing his approach to art.

Organized by the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in collaboration with Indigenous scholars, artists, and traditional knowledge keepers, the exhibition will be at the Heard through the end of the year.

• 6pm: Artist talk with James Johnson about his perspectives on key pieces from the exhibition.
• As part of First Friday, the museum, Café, and Cantina are open late.
• Sept. 1, 2023 – Jan. 2, 2024: The exhibition will be at the museum through the end of the year.
• *During regular admission times at the Heard, you can save 10% by purchasing online tickets in advance.
• *ANYWHERE: James Johnson talks about the ways he is continuing Tlingit carving traditions (on Vimeo).

 

Creative Saturday: Fireflies

September 9, 10am-2pm / Phoenix Art Museum, Phoenix / Included with admission.

Re-opening of Yayoi Kusama’s interactive infinity mirror room installation, “You Who are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflies” (2005). This special Fireflies-themed Creative Saturday features art programming, workshops, and specialty food and beverages.

• *Save 10% on PhxArt memberships if you purchase by September 6 + use code FIREFLIES10. As a bonus, you’ll get admission to member preview days to see Fireflies before it re-opens to the public!

 

Ryan’s Case for Smiles Sew Day: Sew Helpful

September 22, 10am-2pm / A Quilter’s Oasis, Mesa / Free.

Join other crafters in sewing bright and cheerful pillowcases for children in 5 local hospitals. You can stay and sew all day or as long as you wish.

• There’s no fee to participate.
• Pre-register (required) online or by calling the store (480-354-4077).
• Kits will be available.
• Pillowcases will be distributed by Ryan’s Case for Smiles, Phoenix Chapter.

 

Ballet Under the Stars: Dancing the Night Away

September 23-30, 7pm / Fountain Hills, Glendale, Goodyear, Phoenix / Free. (Donations accepted.)

Ballet on an outdoor stage with lighting and costumes! These performances kick off Ballet Arizona’s 2023-2024 season. Dancers perform excerpts from both contemporary and classical ballets, so you get a preview of what’s ahead.

• Bring a blanket or lawn chair.
• Go early to save your spot and watch the dancers warm-up against the backdrop of an Arizona sunset!
• *If you go to Fountain Hills, you can take a self-guided art walk tour before the performance. There are 35 pieces in Fountain Park alone! (PDF map)
• Related: Why free, outdoor performances are great!

Performance dates:

• Sept. 23 – Sahuaro Ranch Historic Park, Glendale
• Sept. 28 – Fountain Park, Fountain Hills
• Sept. 29 – Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater, Goodyear
• Sept. 30 – Steele Indian School Park, Phoenix

 

Cine Cubano: Cuba-Centric Film Series

September 27 + October 11, 6pm / Phoenix Art Museum, Phoenix / Tickets $8.

The last half of a four-film series celebrating Cuba’s complex history, which provides deeper context for the museum’s current exhibition Juan Francisco Elso: Por América (which runs until 9/17). Each monthly screening will be on a Wednesday at 6pm in Whiteman Hall on the first floor of the Phoenix Art Museum.

• The special-engagement Juan Francisco Elso exhibition is in the Steele Gallery and requires a $6 ticket for adults (youth 17 and under are free)!
• *Enjoy free general admission to the museum before the films (starting at 3pm), because all 4 screenings take place during Pay-What-You-Wish-Admission evenings!
• Read about a film costume exhibit we saw at Phoenix Art Museum.

 

Hop Around the Valley: Quilt Stores Cut Loose

October 6-14 / Quilt shops throughout the Phoenix area, Phoenix / Passports $10

The Hop Around the Valley: Maricopa County Shop Association Shop Hop is a Valley-wide celebration of local quilt shops with demonstrations, giveaways, and activities. Purchasing a passport to the Shop Hop allows you to join in the extra festivities and be entered for prize drawings. If you “hop” to all 9 participating shops, you’re eligible for even bigger prizes!

• Purchase a Passport at any of the participating shops.
• Related story: My mom and I went on a fact-finding mission to get the dirt on this Hop Around the Valley!

 

– Northern Arizona –

Art with Nature in Mind: Organic Assemblages

Now – September 14 / ‘Tis Art Center in the Mezzanine Gallery, Prescott

Exhibition of ceramic and mixed media sculptural works by Denise Incao. She creates her art using a spontaneous process, drawing inspiration from nature and her past travels.

• *ANYWHERE: ‘Tis Art Center virtual gallery tour
• *SECRETS: Guide to Prescott’s public art that includes a map to public art sites in Prescott, photos, and historical facts about each piece. It’s available at ‘Tis for a suggested donation of $3.
• H/T Experience Prescott

 

Music on the Square: Flagstaff Summer Concerts

now – September 29 / Heritage Square, Flagstaff / Free.

Free concerts in Heritage Square all summer long! Follow Downtown Flagstaff on Instagram and Facebook for details and updates.

• Thursdays 5-7pm: Jazz, blues and funk.
• Fridays 6-8pm: Local bands in the evening.
• Sundays 12-2pm: Local bands at lunchtime.

 

Faire on the Square: Prescott Arts + Crafts Show

September 2-4 / Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza, Prescott / Free.

Art festival on the lawn of Prescott’s town square with artwork, crafts, and food vendors. Old West re-enactment group the Prescott Regulators and Their Shady Ladies will perform hourly.

• *National Cabernet Sauvignon Day Special: $10 off a bottle of award-winning 2019 Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon at the Del Rio Springs Vineyard Tasting Room Sept. 1-3! The Tasting Room is located in the Old Firehouse Plaza, about a block away from the Faire.
• Related info: Quilt shops in Northern Arizona.

 

Flagstaff Art in the Park: Crafts with a Soundtrack

September 2-4 / Wheeler Park, Flagstaff / Free.

Fine arts and crafts festival that takes place over the Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends in a grassy park in Downtown Flagstaff.

• Vendors: Juried selection of 70 artists from across the Southwest. Crafters include Created with Repurpose (upcycled lamps and book art), Kimbajul (jewelry) and HatsNThings By Shelly (crocheted hats. And things.)
• Food + beverage: Square Root Foods, Hot Bamboo, Safari Samosas, Cody Coyote Kettle Corn, Lulu’s Italian Waterice, Single Speed Coffee Roasters, and the Shady Beer Garden, which features local and regional breweries and benefits Special Olympics Arizona.
• Entertainment: Nonstop live music, including Craig Yarbrough, Flag5, Matt Bingham, Matthew Henry Hall, Rideshare, Sister and the Sun, Two Hand Union, Stan Clark and Tim Hogan, Paul and Friends, and TheatriKids.

 

Music in the Pines: Country Club Concert Series

September 2, 3:30pm / Pinetop Lakes Golf and Country Club, Pinetop / Free.

Live music and dancing on several summer Wednesdays and Saturdays. The event is free and open to the public! Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets to sit on.

• Food + beverage: Hamburgers, hot dogs, adult beverages, and soft drinks available for purchase. (Cash only.)
• Entertainment: Free line dance lessons at 3:30pm. Music by Lakesides 4:30-7:30pm.

 

Prescott Indian Art Market: Fine Art + Fry Bread

September 16-17 / Sharlot Hall Museum, Prescott / Admission $15 per day.

Juried show featuring artwork from over 100 top Native artists in a variety of media, including oil painting, beadwork, pottery, and weaving. Plus music, performances, demonstrations, and food!

 

Flagstaff Festival of Science: Discuss DNA + Discoveries

September 22 – October 1 / venues throughout Northern Arizona (particularly Flagstaff) / Free.

Annual 10-day event designed to promote awareness and enthusiasm for science in Northern Arizona and beyond. Established in 1990, it is the longest continuously running, entirely free science festival in the world.

This year’s theme is “The Mammoth World of Science” to highlight research and scientific discovery by Beth Shapiro, PhD, a pioneer in the field of ancient DNA.

• Sept. 22, 7pm: Keynote Presentation “How to Clone a Mammoth” at NAU. Dr. Beth Shapiro will share her expertise on the science of de-extinction. Free keynote tickets are now available for reservation.
• Other event reservations will be open for booking on Sept. 8.
• *ANYWHERE: Videos of past festival presentations.
• *ANYWHERE: Free 43-page ebook, Girls Just Like You Who Grew Up to Become… Scientists (Flagstaff edition), by local science writer and festival board member, Kerry Bennett. (H/T “Ecologist Clare Aslan Encourages Girls To Imagine, Be Creative, And Be Curious About Science”)

 

Flagstaff Fadeaway: Music Fest at a Mod Mountainside Motel

September 30, 5pm. / High Country Motor Lodge, Flagstaff / General Admission Ticket $75

All-ages festival outside a refurbished mid-century motel off Route 66. Featured performers include Color Green, Sylvie, The Senators, Spencer Cullum + Rich Ruth, and Kacy + Clayton. Proceeds benefit the Glen Canyon Institute, which is working to restore the ecosystem of Glen Canyon and Colorado River.

• Doors open at 4pm. Bands start at 5pm.
• Food trucks and a full bar will be on-site. All attendees will be carded.
• The show will go on rain or shine!
• *Complimentary valet parking for all attendees presenting a valid Flagstaff Fadeaway ticket.

 

Pop Up Program: Behind the Mask

October 27, 10am – 1pm / Sharlot Hall Museum, Prescott / Included with admission.

Learn about the history behind masquerade parties in the Arizona territory, while making a mask of your own during this pop-up program held in one of the museum’s exhibits. These monthly mini-programs give you the chance to engage with Arizona history in an interactive, hands-on way through crafts, games, and activities!

• Open to all ages.
• No reservations required.
• H/T Experience Prescott

 

Día de los Muertos (Sedona): Remember Me

October 28 – November 1 / Tlaquepaque Arts + Crafts Village, Sedona / Free.

Five-day celebration of life and remembrance with large-scale installations and vignettes throughout Tlaquepaque. It’s also a commemoration of Mexican culture and heritage.

• Oct. 28: Special performances.
• Oct. 28 – Nov. 1, 11am-5pm: Marigold Mural Project. Visitors can paint tributes to their loved ones on a 26-foot long community remembrance wall on the Calle Independencia. Paints and brushes will be provided on site.
• Related: Día de los Muertos symbolism + DIY ideas

 

– Southern Arizona –

Popol Vuh and the Maya Art of Storytelling: Anyone else take Latin American Lit? Just me?

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 the Mayan creation story, Popol Vuh, and a series of images by Guatemalan modern artist Carlos Mérida, which were inspired by it.

• *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.

 

Sabino Canyon Crawler Night Tours: Desert Night Riders

now – October 28, on Saturdays / Sabino Canyon Visitor Center, Tucson / Tickets $15/adult, $8/child + $8/vehicle Sabino Canyon Recreation Area fee

Evening tours through beautiful Sonoran desert on the Sabino Canyon Crawler. Normally, the electric shuttle’s daily rides end at 4pm. However, during the hottest months, they add an extra tour time on Saturday nights. Night tours start at 7pm in September and 6:30pm in October.

• The Crawler offers year-round tours on a 7.4-mile route with automated narration about Sabino Canyon.
• *Now through 10/14: Summer Family Rates to Sabino Canyon Dam. $15 per family rides on the Bear Canyon shuttle to Sabino Canyon Dam, where you can picnic in a shady spot.

 

Arizona Biennial 2023: Arizona Artist Showcase

Now – October 1 / Tucson Museum of Art, Tucson / Included with admission.

Every-other-year exhibition of innovative and diverse new works by Arizona artists. It provides an opportunity for emerging artists to exhibit their art in a museum setting and to introduce it to the public.

A new juror from outside the state is selected to curate each Arizona Biennial, reviewing the works of hundreds of artists to create a cohesive exhibition that becomes an overview of artistic creativity in Arizona.

 

Colors of the Stone: Gem Show Warm-Up

August 31 – September 3 / Casino Del Sol, Tucson / Free.

Colors of the Stone with To Bead True Blue and Artisan Workshops is a show that includes established and emerging glass artists, gem cutters, ceramists, bead makers, jewelry artists, mineral hunters, lapidaries, and goldsmiths.

Shop from a collection of artisan handcrafted products made from sustainable materials in natural colors and buy directly from the source.

• Hands-on workshops offered daily, 8am-9pm.
• Part of the Tucson Fall Gem Show.

 

Tucson Comic-Con: Pop Culture Fans Convene

September 1-3 / Tucson Convention Center, Tucson / Adult Full Weekend Membership Pass $64

Community-based pop culture event that seeks to be America’s friendliest convention! The 3-day con features Q+A panels, workshops, costume contests, photo ops, and a large exhibitor hall. There will be actors, authors, comic book artists, and cosplayers appearing as special guests.

• Artist Alley: Meet writers, pencillers, inkers, and colorists from all over the world. Some offer one-of-a-kind sketches and commissions at their tables (usually grouped together in one aisle or section of the exhibitor hall).
• Game Area: Play video games – including vintage arcade games – board games, card games, and role-playing games!
• Inclusive Quiet Zone: A welcoming place to take a break from the hectic convention floor.
• *Hotel McCoy offers 15% off stays of 3 nights or more with code STAY – that means that for a 8/31-9/3 stay you’d pay $286.45 instead of $337!

 

Sonoran Restaurant Week: Taste a New Place

September 8-17 / restaurants across Tucson

10 days when many Southern Arizona restaurants offer special prix fixe menus for $25, $35 or $45 to encourage diners to try restaurants they haven’t been to, as well as revisiting old favorites. Ask for the Sonoran Restaurant Week menu at participating eateries.

Each year, part of the proceeds benefit a local non-profit, like the San Xavier Co-op Farm, a Tohono O’odham landowners’ cooperative committed to using healthy farming practices to grow traditional crops.

 

Summer Night Market: After Hours at the Annex

September 29, 6- 10pm / MSA Annex, Tucson / Free.

Over 60 local vendors, plus music, food trucks, and extended hours for MSA Annex shops the last Friday evening of the month. It runs from May through September, so this will be the last one of the year!

• Related: What you might find at the MSA Annex Summer Night Market.

 

Tucson Meet Yourself: T-Town is Talented… and Tasty!

October 13-15 / Downtown Tucson / Free.

Annual three-day celebration of the folk arts of the Sonoran region that’s been going on for 50 years! It features food, artisans, dancers, musicians, and special exhibits from the richly diverse communities in Southern Arizona and Northern Mexico.

Where to start? Here are some TMY artists we’ve seen before:

• Bonyang Michaels, who demonstrates beautiful Lao weaving on a large loom.
• Jaliya World Contemporary Music – we saw Yacouba Traore (half the duo!) perform one year during the Arizona International Film Festival.
• Las Azaleas popular all-female mariachi group.
• Ukrainian American Society‘s booth displays several traditional Ukrainian crafts, including pysanky.

 

Sky Islands Fall Artisan Market: Fall Festival at 4000 Feet

October 14-15 / Patagonia Town Park, Patagonia / Free.

Festival to showcasing the Patagonia community’s talent in a park nestled at over four thousand feet in the mountains of Southeast Arizona.

Vendors: 100 booths of the region’s top artisans who work in ceramics, textiles, glass, jewelry, wood, painting, photography, and metalwork. Plus, a library book sale!

Food + beverage: Food court with Patagonia Fire Department’s annual barbecue and a variety of food trucks.

Entertainment: Bluegrass, rock, jazz, and classical music performances from regional and local acts throughout the weekend at the Town Park Gazebo. For kids, there will be arts experiences, crafts, and youth music acts.

• A few of the artisans who participated in 2022: Michelle Caillet (Greyt Escape), Diane Fortney (Phun Potz and KChi Ceramics), Lenor Glover (Camino Lenor), Dan Kihl, Deanna Martinez-Hay (Art 4 Your Glasses), and Robin Tenelshof (Little Leoni Paints).
• Well-behaved leashed dogs are allowed. (I think they specified “well-behaved” after the year Quijote was there barking at everyone.)
• *ANYWHERE: Wine sale! $55 off the Wingman Trio of three bottles of wine (reg. $113) plus free shipping from AZ Hops and Vines in nearby Sonoita!

 

Pulse: Weavings and Paintings by Marlowe Katoney: Diné Today

October 14, 2023 – 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!

 

Willcox Wine Festival: Yes, they make wine there!

October 20-22 / Railroad Park, Willcox / Admission $30-45

Festival with over 15 Arizona wineries, along with live music, and fine arts, artisan foods, and vintage vendors. Admission includes 10 tasting tickets + commemorative wine glass.

• *Save $10 by purchasing admission tickets in advance instead of at the gate!
• *Outside of the festival, wine tasting flights at Willcox wineries usually include a souvenir glass, which you can take with you for a discount at the next Willcox tasting rooms you visit!

 

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.

 

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

November 5, 7pm / Fox Theatre, Tucson / Tickets $20-67.50

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.

– Anywhere –

Art Chat @ Five: Talk about Artwork by Women (virtual)

September 1, 15, 29 + October 6, 5pm (ET) – 5:45pm / Free.

Informal discussions with National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) educators about selected artworks from the museum’s collection. Each chat will have a different theme and sampling of artworks, which you can see in advance.

• All chats are scheduled on Fridays at 5pm (ET) for 45 minutes.
• Registration is required in order to get the link to the event.
• Limited to 45 participants each chat.
• Art Chats will be all virtual until the Museum re-opens in late October, when some will move to being an in-person/virtual hybrid (“”Art Chat Live””).
• *NMWA @ Home: resources and online exhibitions
• Related: Art-viewing and craft-making when we visited NMWA in DC.

 

The Jubilee Series with Lucy Barter: Scotland’s Thistle + Wales’s Daffodil

September 6 – October 18, 10 am-3 pm / Class fee $360 + materials

Two-session Zoom courses using embroidery to explore the history of the national flowers of the United Kingdom. It is part of a series on the symbolic flora of the UK’s four countries taught by Lucy Barter, SFSNAD Creative Director. Each classic design will consist of cross filling, blackwork patterns, gold couching, pearl purl, and padded satin stitching.

Upcoming courses will be centered around the thistle of Scotland and the daffodil of Wales.

• Materials: The kit for these classes will be sold separately. Your instructor will email you with further instructions.
• September 6 + 13: Scotland’s Thistle
• October 11 + 18: Wales’s Daffodil

 

Annular Solar Eclipse Livestream: Ring of Fire

October 14, 9am PDT / Free.
An annular solar eclipse is when the Moon only covers the center of the Sun, and there’s still a ring of light around it. The October 14th annular eclipse will be visible in parts of the Americas. However, the Exploratorium will be providing live coverage of the eclipse from the Valley of the Gods, Utah, so you can see it from anywhere in the world!

• *How to make your own pinhole projector for safe eclipse viewing.
• *Other ways to safely view an eclipse.

 

Goodies to enjoy anytime + anywhere:

• ‘Tis Art Center virtual gallery tour
• Video: Artist James Johnson talks about traditional Tlingit carvings and his work continuing the centuries-old art form.
• Videos of past Flagstaff Festival of Science presentations.
• Free 43-page ebook, Girls Just Like You Who Grew Up to Become… Scientists (Flagstaff edition), by local science writer and festival board member, Kerry Bennett.
• $55 off the Wingman Trio of three bottles of wine (reg. $113) plus free shipping from AZ Hops and Vines in Sonoita!
• See select pieces from the Gallery 4 exhibitions that are at Gilbert Historical Museum.

 

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P.S. Photos are by me unless noted otherwise and linked to their source.

While we haven’t seen any big storms yet, it’s technically Arizona monsoon season. One of these days, the clouds will move in overhead to deliver much-appreciated rain to this desert town.

In the meantime, our schedules shift to avoid the midday heat. Events move to nighttime, indoors, or up in elevation. This season’s Happenings List focuses on events in cooler parts of Arizona and at cooler times of day.

If you’re new to the Happenings List, here’s what to know:

1. The Happenings List is my seasonal selection of goings-on for lovers of art, craft, culture(s), and nature.
2. *Goodies: The List is peppered with extras, freebies, and discounts! Just look for the asterisks (*).
3. Not in Arizona? In the last section are Happenings and Goodies you can enjoy from virtually ANYWHERE!
4. World Embroidery Day is July 30! So this time, the ANYWHERE section also includes worldwide embroidery classes and bonus embroidery Goodies!
5. Full disclosure: There’s not much to disclose. I’m not paid to list particular events. I don’t work for any of these companies. As an Etsy affiliate, I may earn a small commission from links I share, but I choose which artists and products to highlight.
6. Did you go to one of the events on the List? I’d love to hear how it went! Send me an email or hashtag social media posts about your experience with #TCJreco.

That’s enough things, right?! Let’s get to the List…

 

The Happenings List

• Central Arizona

 

Try Taiko Classes: Intro to Japanese Drums

July 8, 4-5:30pm / Fushicho Daiko Dojo, Phoenix / Trial class fee $20

Single-class sessions on Taiko, Japanese ensemble drumming, so you can try it out before deciding whether to commit to ongoing classes. Learn the background and significance of Taiko and learn your first song! Try Taiko classes for adults are on Saturday evenings at the beginning of each month. Classes for kids happen less frequently, so watch the registration page.

• Secure facemasks required inside the dojo.
• *On Phoenix First Fridays, the dojo is open to visitors and you can watch classes practice taiko (free).

 

Page Possibilities: Papercraft Peacocking

July 9, 2-4pm / Tempe Public Library, Tempe / Free.

Step-by-step paper craft class on turning a “retired” book into a colorful, decorative peacock! There is no fee, but registration is required.

• *Part of the library’s Adult Summer Reading Program. Earn points and prizes by signing up, logging your time reading, and participating in events (like this class)!
• Read more about Why I look for Art in Libraries.

 

Cine Cubano: Cuba-Centric Film Series

July 12 – October 11, 6pm / Phoenix Art Museum, Phoenix / Tickets $8.

Four-film series celebrating Cuba’s complex history, which provides deeper context for the museum’s current special-engagement exhibition Juan Francisco Elso: Por América (which runs until 9/17). The films will screen monthly, starting this summer and continuing through Hispanic Heritage Month. Each screening will be on a Wednesday at 6pm in Whiteman Hall on the first floor of the Phoenix Art Museum.

• The related Juan Francisco Elso exhibition is in the Steele Gallery, (between the museum entrance and the room where the films are showing). This special exhibition requires a $6 ticket for adults (youth 17 and under are free)!
• *Enjoy free general admission to the museum before the films (starting at 3pm), because all 4 screenings take place during Pay-What-You-Wish-Admission evenings!
• Read about a film costume exhibit we saw at Phoenix Art Museum.

 

• Northern Arizona

Music on the Square: Flagstaff Summer Concerts

now – September 29 / Heritage Square, Flagstaff / Free.

Free concerts in Heritage Square all summer long! Follow Downtown Flagstaff on Instagram and Facebook for details and updates.

• Thursdays 5-7pm: Jazz, blues and funk.
• Fridays 6-8pm: Local bands in the evening.
• Sundays 12-2pm: Local bands at lunchtime.

 

2023 Lavender Bloom + Wine Festival: A Feast for the Nose

now – July 22 (Thursdays through Saturdays) / Red Rock Ranch and Farms, Concho / Free.

Six-week festival of lavender grown in the mountains of northeastern Arizona. See the fields in bloom, learn about growing and cooking with lavender, visit the lavender shop to purchase plants and gift items, or cut your own lavender bouquet (clippers provided).

• Red Rock Ranch’s wine tasting room will be open during the festival for tastings, as well as for purchasing wine and cheese plates.
• Pets are not allowed at the farm during the festival.
• Post-festival hours: Starting July 29, the Wine Tasting Room and Shop will be open Saturdays 1-6pm.

 

July 4th Fine Arts + Crafts Festival: Celebration of High Country Craftsmanship

July 1-3 / Charlie Clark’s Orchard, Pinetop / Free.

Arts festival with live music, food and drink under tall pines. Attended by thousands of seasonal and year-round residents and visitors, it takes place in the Orchard, a park-like setting adjacent to Charlie Clark’s restaurant.

• The Festival is organized by the High Country Art Association, a non-profit, all volunteer organization dedicated to showcasing creative, original visual arts and fine crafts in the White Mountains.
• Read about a camping trip we took near Pinetop-Lakeside.

 

Flagstaff Art in the Park: Handcrafts at High Altitude

July 1-3 / Wheeler Park, Flagstaff / Free.

Fine arts and crafts festival that takes place over the Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends in a grassy park in Downtown Flagstaff.

• Vendors: Juried selection of 70 artists from across the Southwest.
• Food + beverage: Square Root Foods, Hot Bamboo, Safari Samosas, Cody Coyote Kettle Corn, Lulu’s Italian Waterice, Single Speed Coffee Roasters, and the Shady Beer Garden, which features local and regional breweries and benefits Special Olympics Arizona.
• Entertainment: Nonstop live music, including Craig Yarbrough, Flag5, Matt Bingham, Matthew Henry Hall, Rideshare, Sister and the Sun, Two Hand Union, Stan Clark and Tim Hogan, Paul and Friends, and TheatriKids.

 

Music in the Pines: Country Club Concert Series

July 1 + 10, August 2 + 16 / Pinetop Lakes Golf and Country Club, Pinetop / Free.

Live music and dancing on several summer Wednesdays and Saturdays. The event is free and open to the public! Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets to sit on.

• Food + beverage: Hamburgers, hot dogs, adult beverages, and soft drinks available for purchase. (Cash only.)
• Entertainment: Free line dance lessons at 3:30pm. Live music 4:30-7:30pm.

 

Japanese Boro Stitch and Scrap Scarf: Sew Sustainable!

August 3, 10am-3pm / Prescott Quilt Works, Prescott / $45 class fee

5-hour course on the art of Boro stitching, a traditional Japanese textile technique renowned for its beauty, history and sustainability. Instructor Socorro “CoCo” Alaniz will explain how Boro originated in Japan during the Edo Period (1609-1868) as a means of mending and repurposing textiles in rural farming communities. Learn about its profound cultural significance and walk away with a beautiful handmade scarf!

• A limited number of kits will be available for purchase at Prescott Quilt Works
  a week before the class. These will include linen or muslin fabric for the scarf,
  lace findings, and other cute accessories to add to your project.
• Fabric scraps not included.

 

Flagstaff Fadeaway: Music Fest at a Mod Mountainside Motel

September 30, 5pm. / High Country Motor Lodge, Flagstaff / General Admission Ticket $75

All-ages festival outside a refurbished mid-century motel off Route 66. Featured performers include Color Green, Sylvie, The Senators, Spencer Cullum + Rich Ruth, and Kacy + Clayton. Proceeds benefit the Glen Canyon Institute, which is working to restore the ecosystem of Glen Canyon and Colorado River.

• Doors open at 4pm. Bands start at 5pm.
• Food trucks and a full bar will be on-site. All attendees will be carded.
• The show will go on rain or shine!
• *Complimentary valet parking for all attendees presenting a valid Flagstaff Fadeaway ticket.

 

• Southern Arizona

Summer Safari Nights: Evening Event for Party Animals

Now – August 12, Saturdays 6pm – 8pm / Reid Park Zoo, Tucson / Admission $6-11.

The zoo opens up on summer Saturday nights for live music and entertainment, keeper chats, animal encounters, crafts and games. Each week is themed around a different kind of animal from the zoo.

• Face painting and glitter tattoos will be available for purchase.
• Ticket details: $10.50 for adults (ages 15-61), $8.50 for seniors (ages 62+), $6.50 for youth (ages 2-14), and free for children under 2.
• *ANYWHERE: Zoo web cams. 

Highlights:

• July 15: Shopping Night showcasing the creative, one-of-a-kind artwork and products of Tucson’s local makers.
• July 29: Entertainment by The Circus Academy.
• August 12 (World Elephant Day): Focus on African Elephants.

 

Sonoran Quipu: Immersive Installation of Knotty Art

Now – August / Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Tucson / Included with admission.

Incorporating locally-found materials, Chilean artist and poet Cecilia Vicuña arranged hundreds of hanging knotted fibers and into what she calls a “poem in space,” which speaks to the way we are interconnected with each other and our environment. This is an exhibition created specifically for the Great Hall of MOCA Tucson, shaped by contributions from the community!

Goodies:

• *Outside the museum is Mini MOCA, a small artworks exchange in the style of a little free library.
• *Discounts for Downtown Clifton Hotel guests: 2 for 1 admission at MOCA, as well as 10% off any purchase in the MOCA Shop.

 

Arizona Biennial 2023: Arizona Artist Showcase

Now – September 17 / Tucson Museum of Art, Tucson / Included with admission.

Every-other-year exhibition of innovative and diverse new works by Arizona artists. It provides an opportunity for emerging artists to exhibit their art in a museum setting and to introduce it to the public. A new juror from outside the state is selected to curate each Arizona Biennial, reviewing the works of hundreds of artists to create a cohesive exhibition that becomes an overview of artistic creativity in Arizona.

• This year’s juror, Taína Caragol, is the Curator of painting, sculpture, and Latinx art and history at the National Portrait Gallery, who led the portrait commission of former President Obama by Kehinde Wiley.
• *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.

 

Independence Day Celebration Concert: July 4th Pops!

July 1, 7:30pm / St. Augustine’s Cathedral, Tucson

Independence Day concert by the Tucson Pops orchestra, bringing back the tradition of this performance in the historic church.

 

Moonlight Market: Night Shopping among Nightshades

July 1, 7-10pm / Rozet Nursery and Landscape Design, Tucson / Free.

Music, food, drinks, local artists, and plant folks in a plant nursery on a cool(er) summer evening! All ages.

 

Paint Nights in the Park: Stable-side Painting Class

July 14 + Aug 11, 6-8pm / Marana Heritage River Park, Marana / Fee $38

Evening painting class inside a barn on July and August evenings! An experienced instructor will guide you stroke-by-stroke to create your very own take-home masterpiece! The cost of registration includes a 16×20″ canvas and painting supplies. No experience necessary.

• Participants who are over 21 may bring beer or wine to enjoy responsibly (with ID). Although not provided, you can also bring your own food to the event.
• Each month’s paint subject will be on the Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Facebook page.
• Advance registration is required on the event website.
• H/T Discover Marana 

 

Old Pueblo Market: Makers You Might’ve Missed

July 15, August 12, September 16, 10am-5pm / The Annabelle Studio, Tucson / Free.

Indoor market meant to reflect Tucson’s unique, diverse maker community, especially BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ artists. Every Old Pueblo Market has new vendors, because they give priority to creators who are just starting out and may have not have market experience.

 

Summer Night Market: After Hours at the Annex

July 28, August 25, September 29, 6- 10pm / MSA Annex, Tucson / Free.

Over 60 local vendors, plus music, food trucks, and extended hours for MSA Annex shops the last Friday evening of the month, May through September.

 

Tohono Chul Plant Sale: A Plant-Lover’s Paradise

July 29-30 / Tohono Chul Gardens, Galleries, and Bistro, Tucson / Free.

Annual plant sale where Tohono Chul hosts dozens of nursery growers, who showcase their botanicals under the shade of ramadas. You can pre-order plants from Borderlands Restoration Network to pick up there.

• *Free admission to Tohono Chul during the sale!
• More about Tohono Chul.

 

Southeast Arizona Birding Festival: Birder is the Word(er…)

August 9-13 / Headquarters: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Tucson – Reid Park, Tucson / $30 registration + activity fees.

4-day festival for recreational birders, featuring a Nature Expo / vendor fair, field trips, workshops, photography events, and social hours. It’s organized by Tucson Audubon Society, a nonprofit for engaging people in the conservation of birds and their habitats.

• The Opening Celebration and the Nature Expo are free and do not require registration.
• Scholarships Available: Tucson Audubon Society is committed to connecting all people to nature regardless of income. Anyone with a financial need is encouraged to apply. Scholarships are given based on availability of funds.
• *ANYWHERE: Online guide to the birds of Southeast Arizona.

 

Celebration of All Things Tucson: The Old Pueblo turns 248!

August 19, 6:15pm – 9:30pm / Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, Tucson / Free.

Modern-day Tucson’s official founding day fiesta to “Celebrate All Things S cuk-sǫn/Tucson.” Food, drinks, family activities, and cultural performances, including folklorico dancing and Waila Music!

• H/T Visit Tucson
• *ANYWHERE: Visit virtually 
• ANYWHERE: Online Auction benefitting The Presidio Museum August 7-30.

 

Colors of the Stone: Gem Show Warm-Up

August 31 – September 3 / Casino Del Sol, Tucson / Free.

Colors of the Stone with To Bead True Blue and Artisan Workshops is a show that includes established and emerging glass artists, gem cutters, ceramists, bead makers, jewelry artists, mineral hunters, lapidaries, and gold smiths.

Shop from a collection of artisan handcrafted products made from sustainable materials in natural colors and buy directly from the source.

• Hands-on workshops offered daily, 8am-9pm.
• During the Tucson Fall Gem Show.
• *The hotel at the casino offers special room rates for Fall Gem Show attendees. (Book in advance.)
• *Casino Del Sol RV Park is offering discounts up to 10% off.

 

Tucson Comic-Con: Pop Culture Con

September 1-3 / Tucson Convention Center, Tucson / Adult Full Weekend Membership Pass $64

Community-based pop culture event that seeks to be America’s friendliest convention! The 3-day con features Q+A panels, workshops, costume contests, photo ops, and a large exhibitor hall. There will be actors, authors, comic book artists, and cosplayers appearing as special guests.

• Artist Alley: Meet writers, pencillers, inkers, and colorists from all over the world. Some offer one-of-a-kind sketches and commissions at their tables (usually grouped together in one aisle or section of the exhibitor hall).
• Game Area: Play video games – including vintage arcade games – board games, card games, and role-playing games!
• Inclusive Quiet Zone: A welcoming place to take a break from the hectic convention floor.
• *Early Bird Pricing: Adult (age 14+) Full Weekend Pass $50 through 7/7. Kids (age 9-13) $20.

• Anywhere

Anytime:

• Virtually Visit Tucson Presidio Museum
• Online guide to the birds of Southeast Arizona

Watch:

• • Water Harvester – short documentary about rainwater collection that’s perfect for monsoon season!
  • Reid Park Zoo web cams– see what the animals are up to! August 12 is World Elephant Day.
  • The Thief Collector documentary looks at the painting Woman-Ochre’s theft and the secret lives of the crime’s main suspects. It is available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime. You can also pre-order the Blu Ray/DVD before its August 15 release date.

Events:

Coffee, Tea, and Books

July 18 + August 15, 6-8pm / Free.

Tempe Library volunteer-lead discussion of recent novels or the occasional nonfiction title on the third Tuesday of the month.

• 7/18: American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
• 8/15: The Nightingale by Kristen Hannah
• Socialize with the group 6-6:30pm
• Book discussion 6:30-7:45pm
• You will receive the URL after you register.

Art Talk: Juan Francisco Elso and Mexico: Curator Cuauhtémoc Medina in dialogue with artist Magali

July 19, 12pm – 1pm / Free.

Learn about Juan Francisco Elso’s deep cultural and aesthetic ties to Mexico and Mesoamerican cultural traditions from Mexico City-based artist Magali Lara and Cuauhtémoc Medina, Chief Curator at MUAC (University Museum of Contemporary Art, Mexico City).

• Presented on Zoom (in Spanish with live English translation).
• Juan Francisco Elso exhibition

 

Online Auction Benefitting The Presidio Museum

August 7-30

The Presidio Museum is auctioning off fun and unique items to raise money for operations and programming.

 

July 30 is World Embroidery Day!

“Make 30th July a day filled with creativity for the sake of Peace, Freedom and Equality.”

–from the World Embroidery Day Manifesto (English translation)

Embroidery goodies:

• Fern Stitch Embroidery Tutorial + Free Pattern via Wandering Threads Embroidery
• Special pricing on kits and patterns (at least 30% off!) from Bird Brain Designs
• 18 Modern Embroidery art pieces for inspiration

 

Online Courses

Upcoming embroidery classes from around the world that you can take without leaving home…

Traditional Ukrainian Embroidery Workshop

July 12, 10-11:30am / Class fee $12

San Francisco School of Needlework and Design (SFSNAD) exhibiting artist Lesia Pona demonstrates traditional embroidery techniques from across Ukraine. She will highlight embroidered shirts from regions such as Merezshka (drawn thread), Vyrizuvania (cutwork), and Nyzynka (vertical weaving stitch).

• There are over 250 stitches used in Ukrainian folk embroidery with techniques unique to each region.
• A portion of ticket sales will go towards Razom for Ukraine, a 501(c)3 based in the Bay Area helping provide humanitarian assistance to people affected by the war in Ukraine.

Related in-person San Francisco School of Needlework and Design events:

• July 22 – September 16: Lesia Pona’s exhibition, “Life is One Fragile Thread: Traditional Embroidery of Ukraine” in SFSNAD’s Hanging Thread Gallery. Free admission.
• July 22, 10am-1 pm: donation-based Merezshka (drawn thread) embroidery workshop with Lesia Pona at SFSNAD. Followed by an artist reception (2-4pm).

 

Embroider Your Own Tote with Claribel

July 22, 10:30am – noon (Central) / 9:30-11:am Pacific / Class fee $60

Class with a master embroideress from Sumpango, Guatemala, a town known for its beautiful embroidery tradition. Fee includes live Zoom instruction, background cultural information on the patterns, step-by-step stitching PDF guide, a canvas tote stenciled will the embroidery pattern, and a variety of naturally-dyed cotton threads.

• Materials will be shipped to you.
• Class recording will be available for participatants to re-watch.

 

 

The Jubilee Series with Lucy Barter: Ireland’s Shamrock

August 9 (part 1) + August 16 (part 2), 10 am-3 pm / Class fee $360 + materials

Two-session Zoom course using embroidery to explore the history of the shamrock of Northern Ireland. It is part of a series on the symbolic flora of the UK’s four countries taught by Lucy Barter, SFSNAD Creative Director. Each classic design will consist of cross filling, blackwork patterns, gold couching, pearl purl, and padded satin stitching.

Upcoming courses will be centered around the thistle of Scotland and the daffodil of Wales. (The course on Englands’s Tudor rose was in June.)

• Materials: The kit for these classes will be sold separately. Your instructor will email you with further instructions.
• September 6 + 13: Scotland’s Thistle
• October 11 + 18: Wales’s Daffodil

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PS Photos I didn’t take link to their respective sources.