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Get ready to bask in the wonderful Arizona spring weather at these festivals around the Phoenix area for 2017. We have options in March, April and May.
There are dozens of fairs and festivals scheduled that celebrate food and drink, different cultures, hobbies and more. Whether you’re looking for a way to entertain out-of-town guests or just to mix things up on a weekend afternoon, there’s something here for you.
3/16-19: Art Detour 29
Art Detour is a guide to the arts and culture of Phoenix, where people get the opportunity to discover the myriad of art spaces downtown. Visitors will be able to meet artists in their working environment; take self-guided tours of over 100 artist studios, galleries, and other venues; and take part in performances and activities. Along with pop-up galleries and docent-guided shuttles, there will also be a “Kids’ Detour” featuring family-friendly activities.
Details: March 16-19. Art D’Core Gala: 6-9 p.m. Thursday. Third Friday event : 6-10 p.m. Friday. Art Detour: Gallery hours vary, shuttles run 11 a.m – 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Downtown Phoenix. artlinkphoenix.com/art-detour.
3/17-18: Pot of Gold music festival
Lucky Man Concerts has announced the dates for Pot of Gold 2017, which returns to Rawhide Events Center Friday, March 17, and Saturday, March 18. Friday’s lineup will feature hip-hop, reggae and rock acts, with Saturday’s lineup focused more on punk, alternative and pop. The headliners include G-Eazy, Flogging Molly and Death Cab for Cutie.
Details: 11 a.m. Friday-Saturday, March 17-18. Single-day tickets are $69. Weekend passes are $130. VIP tickets are $200 for a single day or $350 for the weekend. Rawhide Events Center, 5700 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler. 877-435-9849, www.potofgoldaz.com.
3/17: Shamrock Fest
This St. Patrick’s Day festival will include live entertainment, Irish dancers, bagpipes, traditional food, festive games, a VIP tent, themed activities and a beer garden. The Kiss Me I’m Irish zone will have jumbo lawn games, stein-holding contests, eating contests, cabbage bowling and a money-grab game.
Details: 4 p.m.-midnight. Friday, March 17. Dr. AJ Chandler Park, 178 E. Commonwealth Place, Chandler. $8 online, $10 at the door, $80 for VIP. 602-276-2499, shamrockfestaz.com.
3/17-19: Roots n’ Boots Queen Creek
Roots n’ Boots returns for its weekend-long event featuring a PRCA Pro-Rodeo, community barrel roping and sorting competitions, a carnival, live entertainment, vendors, a rodeo dance and numerous free family activities for all ages.
Details: 9 a.m. Friday, 9 a.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. Sunday. Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Center, 20464 E. Riggs Road, Queen Creek. Admission free. Many events/activities free. Rodeo tickets start at $16; Carnival wristbands $18. Parking $5. 480-358-3710, www.rootsnboots.org.
3/17-19: 22nd Annual Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival
Carefree’s signature event will feature art LaChaussee Studios, a husband and wife duo who specialize in creating glass work, along with tasty wine, specialty chocolate, food and live music. Besides the work by Dan and Joi LaChaussee, attendees can see over 150 juried artists displaying more than 5,000 original pieces of art.
Details: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, March 17-Sunday, March 19. Downtown Carefree. $3, $10 for wine tasting ticket with souvenir glass. 480-837-5637. thunderbirdartists.com.
3/18-19: Desert Botanical Garden Spring Plant Sale
Gardening newbies, folks with serious green thumbs and everyone in between will definitely find plenty of plant-based inspiration at the Desert Botanical Garden Spring Plant Sale. The event features a whopping 30,000-plus plants for sale, including perennials, cacti, succulents, shrubs and herbs.
Details: March 18-19. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Desert Botanical Garden, Events Plaza Parking Lot, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Free admission. 480-941-1225, dbg.org.
3/18-19: Glendale Folk and Heritage Festival
The two-day festival celebrates folk music, its culture and history, with more than 400 performers taking the stage. Hear folk and bluegrass music, along with cowboy poetry and storytelling. A hands-on workshop, vendors and a cultural program will also be part of the day.
Details: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, March 18-19. Sahuaro Ranch Park Historic Area, 9802 N. 59th Ave., Glendale. Free. 623-930-4201, glendaleaz.com.
3/18: Celebrity Fight Night
The late Muhammad Ali will be honored during Celebrity Fight Night, one of the nation’s top charity fundraisers. The evening features plenty of stars and professional athletes joining together to perform, take part in live auctions and raise money for charities.
Details: Saturday, March 18, check website for location and time. Individual seats are $1,500 to $10,000 and a table for 10 ranges from $15,000 to $100,000. celebrityfightnight.org.
3/18: Sneaker Con
Billed as the “Greatest Sneaker Show on Earth,” Sneaker Con is making its first ever stop in Phoenix. More than 50,000 sneakers will be on hand (or foot?) for this unique event.
Details: 12-7 p.m. Saturday, March 18. Phoenix Convention Center, 33 S. Third Street, Phoenix. $20. sneakercon.com.
3/22-26: 61st Annual Pinal County Fair
The Pinal County Fair features tasty fair fare, vendors, a carnival, exhibits, entertainment, junior livestock, 4-H corner and more. Around 20,000 people make their way to Casa Grande for this annual family-friendly event each year.
Details: March 22-26. 4-10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-midnight Saturday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. Pinal Fairgrounds and Event Center, 512 S. Eleven Mile Corner Road, Casa Grande. $8 for ages 13 and up, $4 for ages 6-12, free for 5 and under. 520-723-7881, pinalfairgrounds.com.
3/23-26: Phoenix International Sportsmen’s Expo
WestWorld will transform into a family-friendly, outdoor enthusiast’s wonderland during the Phoenix International Sportsmen’s Expo. Now in its 18th year, the event features hands-on activities, boats and RVs and exhibits on gear, guides and services for campers, boaters, anglers, hunters and more. A Watersports Pond with wakeboarding, kayak and SUP demos promises to be a fan fave.
Details: March 23-26. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. $14, free for age 15 and under. $5 per car to park. sportsexpos.com.
3/24-26: Fountain Hills Fine Art and Wine Affaire
Stroll through elegant art displays while enjoying the town’s famous fountain. In addition to the show, take time to visit the surrounding specialty shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants and outdoor cafes.
Details: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday, March 24-26. 16810 E. Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills. $3 admission, $10 wine-tasting ticket. 480-837-5637, thunderbirdartists.com.
3/25: Falcon Field Open House
This free family-friendly event includes aircraft flyovers, food and music, as well as Impala Bob’s Classic Car Show. Children’s activities, educational programs and exhibits will be part of the day’s event. Canned food donations will benefit the United Food Bank.
Details: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, March 25. Falcon Field Airport, 4636 E. Fighter Aces Drive, Mesa. Free. 480-644-2450, falconfieldairport.com.
3/25: Swim and Gym Festival
Hubbard Family Swim Schools and the Arizona Sunrays Gymnastics & Dance Center host the 8th annual Swim and Gym Festival. Kids will get to enjoy free gymnastics and dance classes, family swim and water play at Hubbard Family Swim School, as well as karate, face-painting, balloon making, bounce houses, food vendors, local vendors and more.
Details: 3-6 p.m. Saturday, March 25. Kino Plaza, 13832 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix. Free. 602-992-5790, www.hubbardswim.com or www.arizonasunrays.com.
3/25: Great American Barbecue and Beer Festival
A casual backyard-barbecue atmosphere permeates at the Great American Barbecue and Beer Festival in Chandler. This year will host more than 100 exhibitors and over 60 pit masters from across the nation serving up more than 20,000 pounds of mouth-watering pork ribs, pulled pork, brisket and chicken, all paired with the state’s finest craft beer. This year’s full day of country music will include performances by Easton Corbin, Georgia Chrome and Laura Walsh with special guests The Deep Down and Good Rust.
Details: Noon-10 p.m. Saturday, March 25. Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 178 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $10 pre-sale at Bashas’; $15 pre-sale online; $20 at the gate; free for age 12 or younger. VIP packages available. 602-276-2499, chandlerbbq.com.
3/25: Salsa Festival
Salsa chefs will showcase their skills in the competition, and attendees can enjoy food and spirits, and entertainment by local entertainers. Salsa tasting and voting runs until 6:30 p.m. There will also be kids games and activities in the Little Pepper Zone.
Details: 2 p.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, March 25. Copper Sky Regional Park, 44345 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Maricopa. Free, but there is a parking fee of $5, and $5 for ages 3 or older for unlimited playtime in Little Pepper Zone. Free shuttles are available from local elementary schools. maricopa-az.gov/web/salsa-festival.
3/25-26: Annual Italian Festival
The Italian Festival brings Italian culture, food and fashion to Scottsdale for its biggest year yet. Taking place at the Scottsdale Civic Center, this two-day event features everything from live music and unique, hand-crafted Italian items, to wine tastings, authentic Italian cuisine and artists straight from Italy.
Details: March 25-26. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Civic Center Mall, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale. $15. $10 pre-sale online; free for children 12 and under. 480-745-7020, italianfestivalaz.com.
3/25-26: 14th annual Arizona Dragon Boat Festival
Cheer on your favorite colorfully decorated boats as they zip through the water at Tempe Town Lake. Teams will be on hand from across the U.S. and world, racing and honoring a 2,000-plus year tradition. The event also features live entertainment.
Details: 8 a.m. Saturday-Sunday, March 25-26. Tempe Town Lake Marina, North Shore, 550 E. Tempe Town Lake, Tempe. azdba.org.
3/25-26: Arizona Game and Fish Outdoor Expo
See wildlife, fish and learn archery in a safe, supervised environment on the range. Instructors will also guide attendees through specialty shooting disciplines like clay target, cowboy action, practical pistol, black powder, and air gun. After the sports, watch a cowboy mounted shooting competition and check out more than 150 exhibitors.
Details: March 25-26. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Ben Avery Arizona Shooting Range Facility, 4044 W. Black Canyon Blvd., Phoenix. Free. 623-582-8313, azgfd.com/expo.
3/25-26: Anthem Days
Everyone is welcome at Anthem Days, a family-friendly event that features an egg hunt, food and craft vendors, a business expo, live entertainment, a carnival and more. A petting zoo and pony rides are new attractions this year.
Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, March 25 and Sunday, March 26. Anthem Community Park, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem. Free. onlineatanthem.com.
3/25-26: 33rd Annual My Nana’s Best Tasting Salsa Challenge
This tasty two-day event celebrates the most popular condiment in the United States. The salsa-themed celebration features 100-plus fresh salsas that attendees are welcome to sample along with crunchy chips. Enjoy live music, a KidZone and vote for your fave salsa chef, and wash down the chips and salsa with cold beer and/or margaritas.
Details: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, March 25 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, March 26. Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. $15. Free for 12 and under. salsachallenge.com.
3/25: S’more Sweets Festival
Indulge your sweet tooth at this decadent event, where a variety of desserts, candies and baked goods will be available for purchase. A kids’ zone and toddler zone will provide some fun for the little ones, and there will also be live music and other entertainment.
Details: 1-6 p.m. Saturday, March 25. Founders Park, 22407 S. Ellsworth Road, Queen Creek. $5; free for ages 12 and younger. sweetsfest.com.
3/26: OrigiNation – A Festival of Native Cultures
French and Arizonan culture are celebrated in this afternoon of interactive experiences and entertainment. Guests may enjoy music, dance, arts-and-crafts from local artists, art stations for families, and native-inspired foods and beverages.
Details: 12-4 p.m. Sunday, March 26. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. Free. 480-499-8587, www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org.
Through 3/28: Spring training
Spring in Arizona means perfect weather, day drinking and, of course, baseball. Spring training draws huge crowds each year to one of the 10 statewide stadiums and 15 Major League Baseball teams. Tempe Diablo Stadium, where the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim train, and Sloan Park, home of the Chicago Cubs and Colorado Rockies, are ideal for ASU students on the Tempe campus. One of the most popular venues is Scottsdale Stadium, where San Francisco Giants play, because it’s in the heart of downtown Scottsdale. Most of the stadiums have dirt-cheap lawn or bleacher seats, and it’s even cheaper to go during the week.
Details:cactusleague.com.
3/31-4/1: Chandler Jazz Festival
Enjoy a spectacular weekend of great jazz in a variety of outdoor and indoor venues. A blanket or lawn chair is suggested for the outdoor shows. Also wander around downtown Chandler to visit the shops, restaurants and galleries.
Details: 5-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 31-April 1. Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 125 Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. Free. 480-782-2709, chandleraz.gov/jazz.
3/31-4/2: Tempe Festival of the Arts
As many as 350 artist booths will line Mill Avenue and surrounding streets representing 17 arts categories, including wood, photography, ceramics, wearable art and jewelry. There also will be live entertainment, street performers, food and beverage vendors. Kids Block is a new kids area that will include activities for kids and artwork made by their peers.
Details: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday, March 31-April 2. Mill Avenue between Third Street and University Drive, Tempe. Free. tempefestivalofthearts.com.
3/31-4/3: Final Four Fan Fest
Come celebrate the Final Four weekend in Phoenix with a festival that is jam-packed for basketball fans of all ages. The event includes youth clinics, concerts, interactive games, giveaways, autograph signings and much more.
Details: March 31-April 3. 12-8 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday; 12-6 p.m. Monday. Phoenix Convention Center, 33 S. Third Street, Phoenix. $8, $4 for seniors and military, before March 15. Free for age 12 and under. ncaa.com/final-four/fan-fest/overview.
3/31-4/2: NCAA March Madness Music Festival
Embrace the sunshine and sounds of the March Madness Music Festival in downtown Phoenix. The schedule for events includes the AT&T Block Party Friday (artists TBA), the Chainsmokers at the Coca-Cola Music Saturday, and Macklemore with Ryan Lewis along with Aerosmith at the Capital One Jamfest Sunday. This weekend-long festival is free for all ages.
Details: March 31-April 2. 4-10 p.m. Friday, 2-10:30 p.m. Saturday, 3-10 p.m. Sunday. Margaret T. Hance Park, 67 West Culver St., Phoenix. Free. ncaa.com/final-four.
3/31: Agave on the Rocks
Wet your whistle while celebrating Sonoran roots. The evening event features cuisine prepared by Valley restaurants, margaritas in a glowing glass and a tequila-sampling station. There will also be a variety of live music.
Details: 6-10 p.m. Friday, March 31. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. $75; $70 for members. 480-481-8188, dbg.org.
Through 4/2: Arizona Renaissance Festival
It comes every year, and it’s one of the largest Renaissance Festivals in the U.S. — the Arizona Renaissance Festival. Families can enjoy food, drinks, shows, the festival marketplace and jousting. You can dress up with the many characters roaming around area, or you can watch the festival unfold with its usual color and excitement.
Details: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday-Sunday and President’s Day, through April 2. Arizona Renaissance Festival, 12601 E. US Highway 60, Gold Canyon. Online tickets are $23 for adults, $13 for children 5-12, free for 5 and under. Box office tickets are $24 for adults, $14 for kids 5-12, free for kids 5 and under, $21 for seniors 60 and over. 520-463-2600, arizona.renfestinfo.com/?.
April
4/1: Thieves Market
This antique and handmade-item flea market features approximately 100 parking spaces filled with antiques, collectibles, furniture and jewelry.
Details: 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, April 1. Big Surf Waterpark, 1500 N. McClintock Drive, Tempe. $6 early admission at 8 a.m., $3 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free for children 12 and younger. thievesmarketvintageflea.com.
4/1: DogFest Walk ‘n Roll
Grab your pup and a leash and head to Canine Companions DogFest Walk ‘n Roll. This community dog walk supports the mission of Canine Companions for Independence. Put together a team of friends, family members and co-workers, raise money for the cause and earn DogFest prizes like doggy bandanas.
Details: 9 a.m. Saturday, April 1. Scottsdale Civic Center Park, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale. Registration is free. cci.org.
4/1-2: Phoenix Pride Parade and Festival
More than 2,000 participants, including those with decorated vehicles and colorful floats are expected for the parade. It starts on Third Street at Thomas Road and heads north to Indian School Road. More than 150 entertainment performances on five stages, more than 300 exhibitors and food vendors will be on hand for the festival. The Arts Expo, KidSpace and Dance Pavilions are some of the highlights. This event raises funds for Phoenix Pride Community Programs.
Details: April 1-2. Festival: Noon-9 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Parade: 10 a.m. Sunday. Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road. $15-30. VIP tickets $75. 602-277-7433, phoenixpride.org/events.
4/1: Peoria Arts and Cultural Festival
The city is teaming up with the Peoria Unified School District to present a day of performances and activities. Highlights include student art displays, a children’s area, live performances, craft activities and food trucks.
Details: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, April 1. Old Town Peoria, between Peoria and Grand avenues. Free. 623-773-7000, peoriaaz.gov.
4/1: El Tour de Mesa
With nearly 2,000 cyclists of all ages and abilities competing in various distances, the tour is the centerpiece of CycloMesa, a three-day celebration that includes the El Tour Criterium (short-course races on city streets), the Arizona Bicycling Summit, a beer garden, food-truck alley and live music.
Details: Saturday, April 1. 6:15 a.m. (72-mile course); 8:15 (28-mile course); 11 a.m. (11- and 6-mile courses). Various starting locations in Mesa for each race. 520-745-2033, perimeterbicycling.com/el-tour-de-mesa.
4/2: Copperstate 1000 Roadrunner
The annual Copperstate 1000 vintage car rally spans over 1,000 miles of scenic Arizona from April 1-5, and the cars and drivers get their start at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Approximately 80 event participants will show off their hot rods, sports cars and classics to members of the public before heading out on their journey. There will also be coffee and donuts provided via food trucks.
Details: 7:30-11:30 a.m. Sunday, April 2. Cars begin departing at 9:30 a.m. Tempe Diablo Stadium, 2200 W. Alameda Drive. Free. 602-307-2007, mensartscouncil.com.
4/2: Modern Phoenix home tour
For those fascinated with the Valley’s mid-century modern architecture, this is a must-do event. This year, the tour explores Paradise Gardens. The event has morphed into Modern Phoenix Week, with talks, socials and other activities.
Details: Sunday, April 2. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, Feb. 1. modernphoenixweek.com.
4/4-9: Yuma County Fair
The Yuma County Fair features entertainment for the entire family including concerts, 4H and FFA exhibits, commercial vendors selling their wares, a demolition derby, carnival, livestock show and auction.
Details: April 4-9. See website for times and schedule details. Yuma County Fairgrounds, 2520 E. 32nd St., Yuma. $6. Children 6-12, $4; children under 5, free. 928-726-4420, yumafair.com.
4/5-9: Arizona Bike Week
Hop on your motorcycle and help celebrate Arizona Bike Week’s 21st anniversary. Get together with fellow sons of anarchy for the biggest bike rally in Arizona, featuring vendors, shows and concerts from Brett Michaels, Creedence Clearwater Revisited, Korn, and Alice Cooper. Events include stunt shows, charity rides, an awards presentation, flat track racing and motorcycle drill teams.
Details: April 5-9. Full event $58; Wednesday and Thursday, gates open at noon, $25; Friday, gates open at 10 a.m, $30; Saturday, gates open at 9 a.m., $30; Sunday, gates open at 10 a.m. $20. Passes include admission to concerts. Westworld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road. 480-644-8191, azbikeweek.com.
4/6-9: Phoenix Bikefest
Bikefest celebrates all things motorcycle with a four-day event featuring demos, live entertainment and group rides. Every day of the event, the top bike brands in the industry will hold demo rides of their latest motorcycles. More than 100 vendors will sell biker-related clothing, motorcycle accessories and design products.
Details: April 6-9. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Demo hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Sunday. Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria. Free. phoenixbikefest.com.
4/6-13: Phoenix Film Festival
More than 175 features and shorts from local, national and international filmmakers will be screened at this cinematic celebration. Visit phoenixfilmfestival.com for complete times and listings.
Details: April 6-13. Harkins Scottsdale 101, 7000 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. VIP pass includes opening night and priority seating to all films, $250. Regular festival pass includes all films, $125. Four-film flex pass, $40. 602-955-6444, phoenixfilmfestival.com.
4/8: Lake Pleasant Paddle Fest
Try out canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboats, as well as contests, games, live music, clinics and demonstrations. Vendor booths will be on hand with information and items for sale.
Details: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, April 8. Lake Pleasant Regional Park (Fireman’s Cove), 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road, Morristown. $6 per vehicle. 928-501-1710, maricopacountyparks.net.
4/8: Katsina Doll Marketplace: A Gathering of Carvers
Hopi katsina doll carvers will show and sell their unique creations in the Steele Auditorium. There will also be musical performances, carving demonstrations and a drawing for the featured katsina doll, carved by Mavasta Honyouti.
Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, April 8. Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. Free. 602-252-8840, heard.org.
4/8: Gilbert Global Village Festival
Celebrate cultural traditions from around the world at this family-friendly event. See traditional and contemporary forms of dance, music and art while tasting ethnic foods. The event also features arts and crafts, and children’s activities while offering a friendly and educational way to learn more about culture and traditions.
Details: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, April 8. Gilbert Civic Center, North Campus, 50 E. Civic Center Drive. Free. 480-503-6229, gilbertaz.gov.
4/8-9: Phoenix Lights Festival
Attend this open-air electronic music festival to see artists like Alesso, Above and Beyond, Tiesto, Oliver Heldens, Hucci and more. VIP packages include preferred seating and VIP entrance, 2 drink tickets, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and catered food and premium views of the main stage.
Details: Noon-11 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, April 8-9. 1202 N. Third St., Phoenix. General admission $159-$179 and VIP for $349-$399. Table experience available starting at $500. 323-908-0607, phoenixlightsfest.com.
4/8: Taste of Surprise
Several local restaurants will be on hand at the Taste of Surprise, an event that highlights some of the best foods in the West Valley. Featured restaurants will include Booty’s Wings Burgers & Beer, Red Line Grill and Peoria Artisan Brewery. Check out the wine and beer garden and enjoy live music at the food-festive event.
Details: 4-9 p.m. Saturday, April 8. Surprise Stadium, 15850 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise. $40. tasteofsurprise.com.
4/8: Phoenix Children’s Festival
Kids ages 3-12 are the focus of this family-friendly outdoor event. Check out the themed Fun Zones, take your teddy bear in for a checkup, cheer on your favorite tot at a diaper derby, and take part in Kids Zumba dancing, discovery zones and face painting. Meet actress Peyton List from Disney Channel’s “Jessie” and “Bunk’d.” When hunger strikes, check out the food trucks.
Details: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, April 8. CityScape, 1 E. Washington St., Phoenix. $10, free for under 3. phoenixchildrensfestival.com.
4/8-9: Scottsdale Culinary Festival
Foodies will have a gastronomically great time at the Scottsdale Culinary Festival. Sample foods from over 40 restaurants, quaff some brews in the beer garden, enjoy live music, play yard games and check out the chef demos.
Details: 12-9 p.m. Saturday, April 8 and 12-6 p.m. Sunday, April 9. Scottsdale Civic Center Mall, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. $15, free for age 12 and under. scottsdalefest.org.
4/9: Redneck Run
The annual Redneck Run supports Dogs on Deployment, a non-profit which helps to take care of service members’ pets while they are deployed overseas. In addition to the typical 1-mile, 5K and 10K runs, there will also be a plunger relay, prizes and giveaways and live country music including the Geetars and Shari Rowe.
Details: 8 a.m. Sunday, April 9. Westgate Entertainment District, 6770 N. Sunrise Blvd., Glendale. $15 to $90. 480-609-3978, redneckrunaz.com.
4/10: Arizona Storytellers Project: Our Family, Our Culture
Join azcentral.com and The Republic for a night of tales from the families we’re born into and the ones we choose.
Details: 6 p.m. check-in, stories 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, April 10. Phoenix Theatre, 100 E. McDowell Road, Phoenix. $10; $5 students. 602-444-8605, tickets.azcentral.com.
4/12-16: Maricopa County Fair
True to its agricultural roots, the fair includes a livestock show with pigs, sheep, goat, cattle, rabbits and chickens. But it also has thrill rides, fried foods, carnival games, performances and a shopping pavilion with more than 60 vendors. Food choices include fried coffee, deep-fried Oreos and Twinkies and mac-and-cheese hot dogs.
Details: April 12-16. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday; 10 a.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday. Arizona State Fairgrounds, 19th Avenue and McDowell Road, Phoenix. $9; free for age 7 or younger; $8 per vehicle for parking. maricopacountyfair.org.
4/15: All-Star Comedy Explosion
The All-Star Comedy Explosion: Best of Humor will bring Marlon Wayans and more to Comerica Theatre on Saturday, April 15. Billing itself “a Super Bowl of Comedy” and vowing to “redefine comedy shows in Arizona,” the All-Star Comedy Explosion also features Rickey Smiley, DeRay Davis, Michael Blackson, John Witherspoon and surprise guests.
Details: 8 p.m. Saturday, April 15. Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix. $50-$125. ticketmaster.com.
4/15, 5/20, 6/17: Spark! After Dark
The nighttime version of Mesa’s creativity festival is just as much fun. Explore craft projects and interactive displays while enjoying live performances. Beverages, beer and wine are available for purchase. Food trucks will be on hand for visitors to grab a bite to eat. See website for details on each evening’s theme, which changes monthly.
Details: 7-11 p.m. Saturdays, April 15, May 20 and June 16. Free. Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St. 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com.
4/15-16: Phoenix Pet Expo
The Phoenix Pet Expo is the ultimate pet event. Highlights include pet-friendly exhibitors and rescue groups, obedience training and pet care demonstrations, prizes and giveaways, product discounts, talent and costume contests, vendors, complimentary nail trims, discounted vaccinations, adoptable animals and more. Pets welcome.
Details: April 15-16. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. Free. 480-312-6802, phoenixpetexpo.com.
4/20-22: Phoenix Improv Festival
The three-day event kicks off with an evening of laughs as 11 local improv troupes take the stage. The weekend includes shows with groups from California, Texas, Illinois and Wisconsin, plus an international ensemble. Guests can view a matinee Saturday as three improv troupes take the stage.
Details: April 20-22. 6:30-10 p.m. Thursday-Saturday for main shows; 4:30-6:30 p.m. for the matinee. Herberger Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix. $10-$20. 480-389-4852, phoeniximprovfestival.com.
4/21-22: Front Porch Pickins Vintage & Handmade Market
The Southwest’s largest and most eclectic vendor showcase returns. Fans and past attendees of Front Porch Pickins events know that they offer prime opportunities for outfitting one’s home, uncovering rare and unique vintage items and finding the perfect gift for the person who has just about everything.
Details: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday-Saturday, April 21-22. Tumbleweed Park, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler. $6. Ages 12 and under are free. 623-298-5002, frontporchpickins.com.
4/21-23: 31st annual Pow Wow at ASU
The ASU band practice field will transform into the site for an exciting Pow Wow. Come watch the Grand Entry, gourd dancing ceremony and more.
Details: Friday-Sunday, April 21-23; times vary, please check Facebook page for details. ASU band practice field, E. Sixth St. and S. Rural Road, Tempe. $8, $6 for students, free for under 6 and over 60. facebook.com/PowwowASU.
4/22: Recycle Arts and Youth Festival
Event highlights include an artist’s reception and and the Eco Chic Fashion Show, a creative display of recycled fashion that underscores the importance and possibilities of working with post-consumer, reusable materials. There will be several art activities for children, and local food vendors and entertainers.
Details: 4-9 p.m. Saturday, April 22. WHAM Community Arts Center, 16560 N. Dysart Road, Surprise. Free. 480-823-4120, wham-art.org/recycle-arts.html.
4/22: Peoria Planetpalooza
Celebrate Earth Day with Peoria at Planetpalooza by getting educated on ways to protect the planet. There will be prizes, food trucks, music and appearances by Peoria’s Planetary Superheroes Desert Defenders.
Details: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 22. Westwing Park, 27100 N. Westwing Parkway, Peoria. Free. 623-773-7133, peoriaaz.gov/NewSecondary.aspx?id=54405.
4/22: Southwest Cajun Fest
Celebrate Cajun culture and handcrafted beer. Featuring live jazz, blues and contemporary swing music, patrons of the event will feel as though they have gone to the southeastern region of Louisiana. Local restaurants will be on hand offering crawfish, jambalaya and po’ boys and cornbread.
Details: Times TBA. Saturday, April 22. Dr. AJ Chandler Park, 178 E. Commonwealth Ave., Chandler. $10. southwestcajunfest.com.
4/22-23: Arizona’s Ultimate Women’s Expo
This event caters to women, from indulging and getting pampered to trying new food and drink choices and letting your creatives juices flow. Seminars will cover everything from parenting to anti-aging.
Details: April 22-23. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. Third St., Phoenix. $5 advance, $10 at the door. 866-618-3434, azwomensexpo.com/home.
4/28-30: Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market
Over 170 vendors will be offering a diverse array of vintage clothing, furniture, jewelry and more. Other highlights will include live music, giveaways and photo opportunities.
Details: April 28-30. 5-9 p.m. Friday night shopping, 8-9 a.m. Saturday morning early entry, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday general admission. Prices TBA. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. 480-312-6802, junkinthetrunkvintagemarket.com.
4/29: Chandler Craft Spirits Festival
Fans of Arizona’s burgeoning booze scene will mix, mingle and make new friends while sampling dozens of diverse beverages fit for guests of all tastes, from the alcohol apprentice to the cocktail connoisseur. Try over 150 sweet and savory cocktails from local distilleries.
Details: 5-9 p.m. Saturday, April 29. Downtown Ocotillo, 2475 W. Queen Creek Road, Chandler. $40-$60, $10 designated driver. 480-782-3045, chandlercraftspiritsfestival.com.
4/29-30: Phoenix Arab American Festival
The Arab American Festival in Phoenix celebrates the rich traditions and diversity that make Arab-American culture unique. The two-day event features dozens of international musicians, performers and dancers as well as folklore shows, a hookah lounge, arts & crafts, authentic Middle Eastern fare, kids’ rides and a Miss Arab USA Pageant.
Details: 4-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, April 29-30. Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. $5. Free for children 10 and younger. 602-412-1525, arabamericanfestival.org.
May
5/2: Arizona Storytellers Project: Growing Up
Join azcentral.com and The Republic for a night of stories about the funny, and sometimes poignant, leaps of growing and becoming a grown up.
Details: 6:30 p.m. check-in, stories 7:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, May 2. Arizona Heritage Center at Papago Park, 1300 N. College Ave., Tempe. $10; $5 students. 602-444-8605, tickets.azcentral.com.
5/12-14: FORM Arcosanti
FORM Arcosanti, the unorthodox music festival held in the tiny experimental community of Arcosanti in Arizona, is returning May 12-14. EDM producer Skrillex will return this year, and he’s joined by Solange Knowles, Future Islands, Father John Misty and James Blake, who will do a solo piano set. Organized by indie band Hundred Waters, festival-goers, performers, volunteers and Arcosanti residents co-mingle and share a collaborative and creative journey that stretches beyond your typical music festival experience. The experimental set-up has attracted the attention of publications including the New York Times, Billboard and Spin magazine.
Details: Friday-Sunday, May 12-14. Arcosanti, about 65 miles north of Phoenix near Cordes Junction. $389. experienceform.com.
5/13: Greater Phoenix Pond Society tour
Take a self-guided tour of Greater Phoenix Pond Society members’ backyard features. Snap perfect Instagram pictures and chat with the owners about their labors of love, and what it takes to install your own pond. The map for the annual tour will be available Monday, May 8, on the society’s website. Choose to start at any home on the map, and stop at as many as you like.
Details: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 13. Various locations in metro Phoenix. Free. www.phoenixponds.com
5/25-28: Phoenix Comicon
The four-day extravaganza in downtown will take place Memorial Day weekend at the Phoenix Convention Center, and feature vast programming that touches on everything from comic books to sci-fi, anime to steampunk, and horror to fantasy. The 16th annual Phoenix Comicon was held in June, and brought out a record attendance of 106,000.
Details: Thursday-Sunday, May 25-28. Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. Third St. $55 for full event, $20 for Thursday only, $25 for Friday only, $45 for Saturday only, $30 for Sunday only, $249 for Fast Pass, $10 ages 3-12), free for children younger than 2. phoenixcomicon.com.
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Owen Baldner, Tynin E. Fries and Alison Stanton contributed to this article.
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