Events
Wednesday 1st Feb to Saturday 31st Mar: Globe: Pieces of Friendship 22 — Quilt Show
Cobre Valley Center for the Arts, 101 N. Broad St. – Quilts from Southern Gila County and surrounding communities. Includes special display of Az Centennial quilts. Daily 10-5, Sun Noon-4, free admission. 928-425-0884 or www.cvarts.org
Saturday 11th Feb to Sunday 1st Apr: Apache Junction: AZ Renaissance Festival
US Hwy 60 – Every weekend starting February 11th/12th through to March 31st / April 1st. Also open Presidents’ Day Mon. 10a-6p: A medieval amusement park, 12-stage theater, 30-acre circus, arts & crafts fair, jousting tournament & feast – all rolled into one non-stop family adventure! Gate: Adults $22, 5-12 $12, under 5 free. Be a fan on Facebook! 520-463-2700; for tickets & directions: www.renfestinfo.com
Thursday 16th Feb to Sunday 26th Feb: 57th Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show & Shopping Expo
Largest Show of its Kind in the World!
The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show will celebrate its 57th birthday at WestWorld of Scottsdale during the week of February 16-26, 2012. The Show attracts over 2,400 of the world’s finest Arabian and Half-Arabian horses. These magnificent, versatile, user-friendly animals and their owners will gather from around the world to compete for over $1,000,000 in prize monies in more than 640 colorful classes.
Come watch the exciting Gamblers Choice where Arabians and Half-Arabian horses race around the arena jumping obstacles for points, the Mounted Native Costume class where riders and horses dress in traditional desert regalia, the $5000 Arabian Freestyle Liberty Class where beautiful Arabian Horses are set free in the arena saddleless and bridleless to music… and much more.
In addition to its gorgeous horses, the Scottsdale Show is a shopper’s paradise. The dazzling commercial exhibits area overflows with treasures for every taste and budget, with more than 300 vendors and trade booths offering everything from lavish jewelry, clothing and works of art, to boots, saddles, gifts and trinkets.
Tempting international cuisine courts, exciting demonstrations, and unique educational seminars compete for visitors’ attention with the luxurious, exotically decorated stabling areas in which the horses are housed.
Hours: Starts daily at 8 am. See the website for specific show times. Admission: $10 general, $7 seniors, under 12 free. FREE family night Friday, Feb. 24, 6 pm.
A Scottsdale tradition, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is also a highly successful fundraiser put on by the Arabian Horse Assn. of Arizona. Over the years, millions of dollars have gone to worthy charities.
480-515-1500, www.scottsdaleshow.com
Thursday 16th Feb to Sunday 26th Feb: Scottsdale: 57th Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show & Shopping Expo
Westworld – Most prestigious Arabian horse show in the world. 2400 horses, 300+ vendors & eateries, starts daily 8a, see website for specific show times, $10 gen, $7 Srs, under 12 free. 480-515-1500, www.scottsdaleshow.com
Saturday 18th Feb to Sunday 26th Feb: 87th Annual La Fiesta de los Vaqueros® — The Tucson Rodeo
Arizona’s Celebration of the Cowboy
In February 1925, Leighton Kramer, the president of the Arizona Polo Association, paraded area cowboys, visiting trick riders, folk dancers and marching bands through downtown Tucson en route to a midtown polo field. There a long-planned, community-sponsored rodeo and Wild West show debuted to a full house.
Celebrating the heritage and contributions of the cowboy and Mexican vaquero is as popular today as it was almost nine decades ago. As one of the top 25 rodeos on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) calendar, the Tucson Rodeo attracts the sport’s current and former world champions, all vying for a share of over $420,000 in prize money.
Rodeo evolved from a friendly competition among ranch cowboys to a popular and unique American sport. Come enjoy the six performances: Feb. 18 and 19, and Feb. 23-26. Festivities begin at 12:30 pm. each day. Tickets are $12-$26, and available in advance online or by calling 800-964-5662. Don’t miss the little buckaroos competing in Dodge Mutton Bustin’ and the Justin Junior Rodeo.
A treasured tradition of rodeo week, the Tucson Rodeo Parade is billed as the largest non-motorized parade in the world boasting over 150 western-themed floats and buggies, Mexican folk dancers and musicians. The parade is Feb. 23 at 9 am; grandstand seating is $7 for adults and $5 for children under 13.
If you miss the parade, the Tucson Rodeo Parade Museum opens Jan. 3 – April 7 at 4823 S. 6th Ave. in the Tucson Rodeo Grounds. This world-class museum was featured on Antiques Roadshow! View more than 150 vehicles including the recently restored Maximilian & Carlotta Inauguration carriage made under Napoleon’s order in 1863, and surreys featured in the film ‘OKLAHOMA’. The museum also offers many displays of historic southwest Arizona. See ad this page for hours. 520-294-1280
Rodeo: 520-741-2233, 800-964-5662, www.tucsonrodeo.com
Rodeo Parade: www.tucsonrodeoparade.com
Saturday 18th Feb to Sunday 26th Feb: Sedona: 18th Annual Sedona International Film Festival & Workshop
Nine days of “Reel” Magic – Documentaries, shorts, features, and animations from around the world; fabulous parties. Ticket info: 888-399-FILM, www.sedonafilmfestival.com
Saturday 18th Feb to Sunday 26th Feb: Tucson: 87th Annual La Fiesta de los Vaqueros® (The Tucson Rodeo)
Tucson Rodeo Grounds, 4823 S. 6th Ave. – PRCA Rodeo, largest outdoor winter rodeo in US. Six performances: Feb. 18 & 19 and 23-26; starts 12:30p. Tickets $12-$26. 800-964-5662, www.tucsonrodeo.com
Thursday 23rd Feb: Indio, CA: Canadian Snowbird Assoc. Winter Information Meeting
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway – Thursday – Entertainment featuring Tom Leadbeater and Jimmy Flynn, valuable information geared toward the unique snowbird lifestyle, 1-4pm, FREE admission. 800-265-3200
Thursday 23rd Feb: Tucson: Tucson Rodeo Parade - 87th Year!
Irvington Rd & S. Sixth Ave – Arizona’s largest one-day spectator event: 150 western-themed floats and buggies, Mexican folk dancers and musicians, horses & riders, starts 9a. Pre-parade entertainment 8a. Grandstand seating available: 520-294-1280, www.TucsonRodeoParade.org
Friday 24th Feb to Sunday 26th Feb: Apache Junction: 48th Annual Lost Dutchman Days
“An Official Centennial Event”. Community celebrates Lost Dutchman legend – Professional Rodeo & Rodeo Dance, carnival, two free entertainment stages, 100+ vendors of arts, crafts & food. Wild Horse & Burro Adoption. Themed parade on 25th. 800-252-3141 or 1-888-75RODEO
Friday 24th Feb to Sunday 26th Feb: Apache Junction: Wild Horse & Burro Adoption
Lost Dutchman Days @ AJ Rodeo Grounds – Bureau of Land Management will offer wild horses & burros for adoption, 9a-5p. Fri. preview day. Sat. silent bid adoption at 1p. After silent bidding through Sunday at 3p, all unadopted animals are available on a first come first served basis. Dates & locations subject to change. 1-866-4MUSTANGS (468-7826)
Saturday 25th Feb: Arizona City: Arizona City Daze
Fire Dept. complex, Sunland Gin Rd – Parade 9a, festival immediately after from 10-6 with arts & crafts, Battle of the Bands, carnival, games, food vendors, free adm. 520-466-5141
Saturday 25th Feb to Sunday 26th Feb: Tempe: 11th Annual Ceramics Studio Tour
Organized by the ASU Art Museum. Take a FREE self-guided tour of eleven studios throughout the Valley hosting a total of 44 artists with live demonstrations and work for sale. 9a-5p each day. 480-965-2787; Map available at: asuartmuseum.asu.edu/ceramicsresearchcenter/
Friday 2nd Mar to Sunday 4th Mar: Bluegrass on the Beach
Lake Havasu “Bluegrass on the Beach”
Featuring the U.S. Navy Bluegrass Band and the 3-time IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out
Mar 2-4, 2012, Lake Havasu City, AZ.
By Larry Baker
“Bluegrass on the Beach” returns to the beautiful shores of famous Lake Havasu. L&S Promotions celebrates 10 years of southwest bluegrass with this year’s festival again being held March 2-4, 2012 at the beautiful Lake Havasu State Park Windsor #4.
L&S Promotions is bringing another incredible line-up of world-class award-winning bluegrass music to the shores of Lake Havasu. This year’s incredible line-up brings The U.S. Navy Band, Country Current performing their superb music with 2 great sets, one Fri and one Sat. The band has entertained fans all around the U.S including most recently a nationally televised Sunday night NFL National Anthem and half time show. Also performing is IBMA’s three Time (including 2011) Male Vocalist of the Year Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out. They have also been Vocal group of the year 7 consecutive years – one of the hottest & most exciting bands in the business today. One you don’t want to miss! They are scheduled for both Friday at 4:30 pm & Saturday at 4:00 pm performances.
We are just getting started: add the popular hard driving sounds with great traditional music The Bluegrass Brothers. They have many musical accomplishments over numerous years, and their vocals and musicianship are second to none. The Bluegrass Brothers are one of the finest bluegrass shows in the country, and they are friendly country folk. Wayne Taylor & Appaloosa, the former Master Chief and lead singer of the U.S. Navy Band has one incredible band with his smooth and stellar voice bringing a great selection of music. Wayne Taylor is one of the most respected performers in the bluegrass today.
L&S Promotions has assembled more outstanding bluegrass music starting with the powerful, hard-driving sounds providing excitement and entertainment from Nova Scotia, Canada, for our Canadian friends, The Spinney Brothers. They bring a blend of traditional and southern flavored music with a professional approach to their work. Their influence is the first generation fathers of bluegrass, yet their personal lives and local heritage comes forward in their performances incorporating original material intertwining the past and present. Look for this band to make a big splash in the years to come with freshness & excitement. Their professional approach to the music is something special and a must see performance.
Fasten your seatbelts for this one! Brand New Strings with hardcore bluegrass for the hardcore fan. These are exciting, fresh, songs played and sung by superbly talented musicians and singers in take-no-prisoners, no apologies, strictly bluegrass style. This is bluegrass the way it ought to be! Kyle Cantrell (SIRIUS XM Radio).
Arizona’s own Thomas Porter & Copper River… talk about a array of experience, with every band member having played with many well known bands including Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver among many others. Thomas brings a smooth voice with a variety of great original songs. The Central Valley Boys, dedicated to paying homage to the great country and Bluegrass musicians. Vern Williams, Del Williams, Ray Park, Rose Maddox and the Maddox Brothers. The Farmer Boys and more were all performing out of the beautiful Central Valley of California. Belle Monroe & Her Brewglass Boys first got together in 1995 and the lineup has remained remarkably steady ever since. Belle Monroe leads the group with her powerful and sultry vocals and steady rhythm guitar playing. While the band has a great appreciation for traditional bluegrass music, they don’t quite play it straight; they inject a bit of blues, a smidgen of swing, and a whole lot of fun and frenetic energy.
To wrap up this great line-up you better be ready for some wonderful fun, laughter and a great act with the Cleverlys. This act will bring you to your feet or have you laughing with their one of a kind entertainment. This is one you don’t want to miss!
The wonderful southwest sunshine brings the best out in everyone along with great traditional bluegrass music in the Arizona desert. With sights and experiences you will not forget, such as beautiful sunsets against the rocky terrain of the desert mountains to the smooth sights of beautiful Lake Havasu, with the sounds of guitars, mandolins, basses, banjos and more in the background. Lake Havasu City has it all with all the amenities that come with large cities, fabulous restaurants, big super markets, competitive gas stations, hotels, sightseeing activities, the famous London Bridge, full service RV Parks, for those shoppers a brand new mall, great fishing, golf courses and much more.
The LHC Visitors &Tourism Bureau has worked with L&S Promotions and has lots of valuable LHC information available for bluegrass fans that have never been to the area. It’s time to schedule your winter vacation to enjoy the southwest while taking in “Bluegrass on the Beach” Mar 2-4, 2012 and not to be left behind, the great sound will be provided by the popular and fan favorite “Old Blue Sound Co.”
For those of you who have attended an L&S Promotions festival in the past and for those of you who will be first timers, we welcome you with open arms and big smiles as early camping opens at 8:00 am Monday Feb 27, 2012. For those camping, we encourage early arrival (Mon) to insure a camping spot close to the stage area. Everyone who purchases a 3-day ticket with camping is guaranteed a spot within the park. Our shuttle service will be fully manned and in action all week long.
This festival is shaping up to be another “Don’t Miss” Festival in the desert southwest. The weather in March is generally in the upper 70’s to low 80’s so be sure to pack your sunscreen. Lake Havasu State Park with its fresh facelift has great facilities including a large audience area, nice showers, clean restrooms, lots of walking & nature trails and the beauty of the lake.
In addition to the wonderful music and beauty of the lake, we will again feature great band workshops. Our superior arts & crafts show returns with dynamite vendors along with the tasty food vendors. The LHC Main Street Association will man the beer concessions. Ice will be available for purchase. A honey wagon & water truck will be available. Our Shuttle Service within the festival grounds proved to be valuable and will continue in full force at LHC. With the nice big layout of the park, jamming is again expected to be at major levels.
Tickets can be purchased on-line via our web site www.landspromotions.com. We continue to work to bring this exciting festival to a higher level. Early camping/jamming is encouraged and welcomed beginning Mon. Feb 27, 2012. Music starts at 10:00 am Mar 2. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for grass seating and most important have FUN! For additional festival information and/or questions call L&S Promotions ~ Larry & Sondra Baker (209) 480-4693 or e-mail us at roaddog@caltel.com. Get your tickets today and don’t be left out! See you there!
LIFE IS TRULY GOOD!!
Friday 2nd Mar to Sunday 4th Mar: Carefree: 17th Annual Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival
Downtown, 101 Easy St – World-class festival with 165 strictly juried fine artists, wine tasting ($10 incl’s engraved wine glass), live entertainment, 10a-5p, adm $3. 480-837-5637
Friday 2nd Mar to Saturday 3rd Mar: Casa Grande: 54th Annual Cactus Antique Aircraft Fly-In
Municipal Airport – Antique, classic, warbird, replica and homebuilt aircraft will be on display, Fri. & Sat. 8-5, $10 adults, 12 & under free. Sponsored by the Arizona Antique Aircraft Association. www.cactusflyin.org
Friday 2nd Mar to Sunday 4th Mar: Cave Creek: 3rd Annual ArtFest™ Market of Cave Creek
Stagecoach Village, 7100 E. Cave Creek Rd – Featuring over 60 fine artists, jazz and contemporary entertainment, plus great food in magnificent surroundings, 10a-5p, FREE admission & parking. 888-278-3378
Friday 2nd Mar to Sunday 4th Mar: Coolidge Cotton Days 31st Annual Festival
The Coolidge Chamber of Commerce would like to invite one and all to come celebrate our Annual Cotton Festival with us at located San Carlos Parkat 320 W. Central Ave., Coolidge AZ 85128.
This year’s festivities include three days of fun filled activities for everyone. Friday evening’s Teen Night Dance Contest will give everyone a chance to show off his or her dance moves. Start your Saturday morning with our Boy Scott Pancake Breakfast followed by a fantastic Parade. The 6th Annual Ride to the Ruins bike run will benefit the Pinal County Advocacy Center. They will lead the parade.
Join us for a laugh with David Membrila, a great comedian who will entertain you all day long. The fun doesn’t stop there. We have a Cotton Bale contest, Horse Shoe tournament, Carnival, delicious food booths and lots to see with all the arts and craft booths.
Come join us for an action packed weekend. We have live entertainment all day long. Registration for the Bike run is still open. For more information visit our website www.coolidgechamber.org or join us on Facebook.
520-723-3009
www.coolidgechamber.org
Friday 2nd Mar to Sunday 4th Mar: Coolidge: Cotton Days
San Carlos Park, 320 W Central – Parade Sat 10a, “Ride to the Ruins” biker rally & bike show (Sat), arts & crafts, live entertainment, food, beer garden, carnival, cotton bale rolling contest, Fri 5-10p, Sat 10a-10p, Sun noon-3p. 520-723-3009
Friday 2nd Mar to Sunday 4th Mar: Lake Havasu City: Bluegrass on the Beach
Lake Havasu State Park – Some of the country’s best talent incl the 2011 Male Vocalist of the Year Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out. Band workshops, art, craft & food vendors, raffles, jamming & more, 10a-6p. 209-480-4693, www.landspromotions.com
Saturday 3rd Mar: Casa Grande: 34th Annual AZ State Open Chili Championship
Ed Hooper Park, 2525 N. Pinal Ave – Cookoff, tasting cups on sale, plus arts & crafts vendors, car & motorcycle show, food and live entertainment, 10a-6p, free adm. 520-560-2256
Saturday 3rd Mar to Sunday 4th Mar: Phoenix: 54th Annual Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market
Heard Museum – One of the Southwest’s most prestigious events! 700+ top American Indian artists offer jewelry, sculptures, paintings, weavings, baskets, katsinas, pottery & more; music, dance, Native foods; 9:30a-5p, adm includes museum: $20, $10, age 16 & under free. 602-252-8848
Saturday 3rd Mar: Phoenix: Arizona Archaeology and Heritage Expo
Arizona State Capitol – Hands-on activities, special displays/booths, make crafts, play games, hear storytellers, Native American entertainers & more! Tours of archaeological sites/ museums in area will be highlighted. 9a-4p, FREE adm. 602-542-4174
Saturday 3rd Mar to Sunday 4th Mar: Sedona: Bell Rock Plaza Art & Craft Show
Bell Rock Plaza – 35 to 50 artists showing fine art paintings, sculpture, jewelry, hats, leather, wood furniture, clothing, pottery, much more, 10a-5p. 928-284-9627
Saturday 3rd Mar: Tucson: 11th Annual Valley Animal Hospital Arizona Animal Fair
Reid Park – 100+ exhibitors and over 30 animal rescue agencies, demonstrations, entertainment, food court & beer garden, 10a-4p, free adm. 520-270-0763, www.azanimalfair.com
Sunday 4th Mar: Tucson: Fords on Fourth Classic All Fords Auto Show
Fourth Ave – Fords of all types, Tucson’s trolley, lots of great restaurants and shops. Presented by Southern AZ Mustang Club, oldest Mustang Club in world. 8a-3p, free adm. 520-624-5004, www.fourthavenue.org
Friday 9th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Scottsdale: Goodguys 3rd Spring Nationals
WestWorld of Scottsdale – Hot Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars, vendor exhibits, swap meet, cars for sale corral, Goodguys AutoCross, Super Sunday Get-Together, model cars show. Fri & Sat 8-5, Sun 8-3. 925-838-9876, www.good-guys.com
Friday 9th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Sedona: Red Rock Factory Outlet Fine Art & Craft Show
Factory Outlets, Hwy 179, Village of Oakcreek – 35 to 50 artists showing fine art paintings, sculpture, jewelry, hats, leather, wood furniture, clothing, pottery, much more, 9a-6p. 928-284-9627
Friday 9th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Superior: 24th Annual Apache Leap Mining Festival
Downtown Superior – Mining competitions, carnival ($), parade, chihuahua races, world reknowned Yellow Bird Native American Hoop Dancers, historians, live band for Sat night street dance, vendors, food, beer garden, entertainment all weekend. FREE. Fri 5-10 pm, Sat 10-midnite, Sun 11-6. 520-689-0200, www.superiorarizonachamber.org
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: 30th Annual Wa:k Pow Wow
Head to the San Xavier Mission South of Tucson
For an exciting display of American Indian inter-tribal dancing along with a great selection of traditional food and crafts, come to the 30th Annual Wa:k Pow Wow on March 10-11, 2012. The pow wow takes place at the San Xavier Del Bac Mission 10 miles southwest of Tucson. Gates open at 10:30 am on Saturday and 10 am on Sunday.
There will be Gourd Dancing Saturday at 1 pm and Grand Entries at 2 pm and 7 pm. On Sunday the Gourd Dancing takes place at 11 am followed by the Grand Entry at 12 pm. There will also be a Drum Contest, Team Dancing, Hoop Dance Contest and Two-Step Contest. Registration for all categories closes at 7 pm on Sat.
Visitors looking for Native American arts and crafts and souvenirs will find an excellent selection including silver jewelry, beaded earrings, Native American T-shirts and hats, CDs and much more. Try the delicious traditional foods such as Indian fry bread, red and green chili burros and Indian tacos.
Take I-19 South, Exit 92. No alcohol, drugs or video cameras are allowed. Admission is $7 adults, $5 children (6 & under free) and parking is $3/car. Pow Wow hours are Sat 10:30 am – 11 pm and Sun 10 am – 7 pm.
520-573-4000
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Apache Junction: Art in the Superstitions
Superstition Mountain Museum – “Where Art and History Come Together”, over 50 juried artists will be exhibiting their work, admission free, 9a-3p. 480-983-4888, superstitionmountainmuseum.org
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Casa Grande: 5th Annual Fine Art Explosion
Peart Park, Florence Blvd & Picacho – Multi-media fine art show displayed under century old eucalyptus trees in historic downtown. Golden Corridor String Orchestra on stage Sat. Music all weekend. 520-705-1343, 480-620-3849
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Globe: 28th Annual Historic Home & Building Tour, Antique & Quilt Show
Territorial era homes and buildings in celebration of Arizona’s Centennial. 9 am to 3 pm. We drive! Tours leave from downtown Globe, $15 adults, $10 children under 12. Quilt and Antique shows included in admission price. 800-804-5623
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Goodyear: Tres Rios Nature & Earth Festival
Estrella Mountain Regional Park, 14805 W. Vineyard, 5 1/2 miles south of I-10 off Estrella Pkwy – Free fishing clinic, canoe floats, wildlife watching, recycling exhibits, free admission, parking $3. 9-4 each day. 623-932-2260, tresriosnaturefestival.com
Saturday 10th Mar: Lake Havasu City: 6th Annual GeoCache Bash
Cattail Cove State Park – Search for hidden treasure! Be sure to bring your handheld GPS unit. Begins w/ brief history of GPS and the sport’s etiquette. Music, cactus walk & food vendor, 10a-2p. 928-855-1223
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Lake Havasu City: Havasu Art Guild's 33rd Annual Juried Fine Art Show & Sale
Community Aquatic Center, 100 Park Ave – Showcasing a variety of fine arts created by regional artists. Raffles & donations support the guild’s scholarship fund. Sat 9-5, Sun 10-2. Free adm. 928-453-5734 or 928-855-6799
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Parker: Annual Parker Marathon IWSRA Water Ski Races
BlueWater Resort & Casino – High speed water ski marathon, racecourse extends from BlueWater to La Paz County Park and return, races start daily at 9a. 928-669-7035
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Picacho: Civil War in the Southwest
Picacho Peak State Park – Re-enactments of Civil War battle for Pichaco Pass & two other SW battles. Period costumes, encampments, Civil War memorabilia & food booths. $10/car up to 4 people, $3 each additional person, gates open 9a/close 3p. 520-466-3183
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Tres Rios Nature & Earth Festival
The popular Tres Rios Nature and Earth Festival returns to the vast Estrella Mountain Regional Park in 2012 and will again offer a unique opportunity for nature lovers to visit a riparian corridor in the West Valley near where the Salt and Agua Fria rivers join the Gila River.
Scheduled for March 10-11, 2012, the “Three Rivers” Festival will emphasize local plants, animals, ecological relationships and available recreational opportunities. Don’t miss out on opportunities to see live wildlife up close, go canoeing, try archery, fish, view local birdlife, hike and learn about recycling and green-living zones.
A true family event, the Tres Rios Nature and Earth Festival will feature a special area for children with hands-on activities centering around nature, recycling and the outdoors. A recycling fashion show, free fishing clinic, live reptiles, local performing groups and numerous other features will give the annual event a true festival flavor.
Estrella Mountain Regional Park is located near Goodyear, approximately 5 miles south of Interstate 10 off Estrella Boulevard at 14805 W. Vineyard Blvd. Festival hours are 9 am to 4 pm each day. Although the event is free, a $3 per vehicle entrance fee will be charged by the park. Take advantage of the reduced entry fee to enjoy all of the park’s amenities!
623-932-2260, www.tresriosnaturefestival.com
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Tucson: 30th Annual Wa:k Pow Wow
San Xavier Del Bac Mission – Native American inter-tribal dancing, contests, Native American food/arts & crafts, Sat 10:30a-11p, Sun 10a-7p. Adults $7, children $5, 6 & under free, parking $3. 520-573-4000
Saturday 10th Mar to Sunday 11th Mar: Civil War in the Southwest
Official AZ Centennial Event
This year marks the 150th Anniversary of the Engagement of Picacho Pass! In addition, the 2012 Civil War in the Southwest is an official Arizona Centennial Event. Visitors travel from around the country to experience three fascinating historic battle re-enactments complete with lifestyles of the soldiers in the southwest during the 1860s. More than 200 re-enactors come from many states and will camp at the park with their authentic Civil War camping gear. Food and beverage concessions are also available, including the popular Kettle corn vendor.
Vehicle Entrance Fee: $10 up to 4 persons. Each additional person is $3. Individual Entrance Fee is $3 for walk-in or bike. Gate Hours are from 9:30 am – 3 pm and entry to park is permitted only during Gate Hours. Event hours are from 10 am – 4 pm. No Dogs are permitted in Event Area. Event schedule can be downloaded closer to the event date at AZStateParks.com/Parks/PIPE.
Wednesday 14th Mar to Sunday 18th Mar: Casa Grande: Pinal County Fair - "Family Fun For Everyone"
Pinal Fairgrounds & Event Center – Concerts & great family entertainment, headline Hispanic concert, arts & crafts, 4H & FFA livestock show / auction, carnival, great shopping. Wed & Thurs 4p-10p, Fri & Sat 10a-11p, Sun 10a -10p. $8 adults, $4 kids. 520-723-7881, www.pinalfairgrounds.com
Friday 16th Mar to Sunday 18th Mar: Cave Creek: 12th Annual Sonoran Festival of Fine Art
StageCoach Village, 7100 E. Cave Creek Rd – 150 local & nationally-acclaimed painters, sculptors, jewelers, photographers, wood, glass and mixed media artists. Live entertainment, food, wine bar. 10a-5p, free adm. 480-575-6624
Friday 16th Mar to Sunday 18th Mar: Cave Creek: Fine Art & Craft Show
Frontier Town, 6245 E. Cave Creek Rd. – Fri. & Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Free admission & parking. 602-789-7222
Friday 16th Mar to Sunday 18th Mar: Sacaton: Mul-Chu-Tha Fair & Rodeo
Gila River Indian Community, I-10 exit 175 (from Phx) – All Indian Rodeo, Junior Rodeo, parade, carnival, arts & crafts, games & sports, Battle of the Bands, Fri noon-10, Sat 10-10, Sun noon-9, adults $6, 55+ & ages 6-12 $4, 5 & under free. 520-562-6087
Friday 16th Mar to Sunday 18th Mar: Tucson: Spring Artisans Market
Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave in Historic Downtown – 150 of the finest artisans in the Southwest offering a wide variety of exquisite, handmade works, 10a-6p, free adm. 520-624-2333
Saturday 17th Mar: Mesa: A Night in the 40's
Falcon Field Airport – AZ Wing CAF: Live Big Band, WWII Musical Show, jitterbug & costume contests. Dance in the shadow of a vintage B-17 WWII bomber, fundraiser for museum, $35/adv, $40/door. Meal extra. 480-924-1940, www.bigbanddance.com
Saturday 17th Mar to Sunday 18th Mar: Sedona: Bell Rock Plaza Art & Craft Show
Bell Rock Plaza – 35 to 50 artists showing fine art paintings, sculpture, jewelry, hats, leather, wood furniture, clothing, pottery, much more, 10a-5p. 928-284-9627
Saturday 17th Mar: A Night in the 40s
Big Band Hangar Dance and WWII Musical Show
The Commemorative Air Force Aircraft Museum (CAF) and presenting sponsor Hensley and Company invite you to take a Sentimental Journey back to 1943 with “A Night in the 40s” Big Band Dance. This glamorous event features a WW II 1940′s musical show followed by a big band orchestra playing sounds of the era to dancing men and women dressed in period styles – all in the shadow of the vintage B-17 WW II Flying Fortress bomber “Sentimental Journey”!
“A Night in the 40′s” benefits a worthwhile cause – a fund raiser for the non-profit volunteer CAF Aircraft Museum, 2017 N. Greenfield Rd at Mesa’s Falcon Field, a organization dedicated to keeping aviation history alive for current and future generations.
“A Night in the 40′s” will be held Saturday, March 17. Entertainment begins at 5:30 pm with The Kathy Donald Jazz Ensemble. At 7:30 pm, the Sonoran Swing Big Band Orchestra plays favorite music from the war years. There will be a costume contest for the best-dressed 1940′s costume and a swing dance contest.
Tickets for “A Night in the 40′s” are $35 per person purchased in advance and $40 the day of. Tickets can be purchased at the museum or online at www.bigbanddance.com. All admission fees and donations are fully tax deductible.
480-924-1940, www.bigbanddance.com, www.azcaf.org
Friday 23rd Mar to Sunday 25th Mar: Fountain Hills: 8th Annual Fountain Hills Fine Art & Wine Affaire
16810 E. Ave of the Fountains – Juried show of 125+ world class artists, wine-tasting ($10 incl’s engraved wine goblet), live entertainment, local food, 10a-5p, adm $3. Free Parking. 480-837-5637
Friday 23rd Mar to Sunday 25th Mar: Lake Havasu City: 30th Annual Home Show
High School, 2675 S. Palo Verde – Find everything for your home, enhance your lifestyle! 2012 theme is “Three Decades of Excellence.” Colorado River Building Industry Assoc. Free admission! Fri 3:30-7p, Sat 9-5, Sun 9-3. 928-453-7755
Friday 23rd Mar to Sunday 25th Mar: Tucson: Fourth Avenue Spring Street Fair
Fourth Ave – One of the top 100 festivals in the US. 400+ arts & crafts artisans, 40 food vendors, 2 big music stages, street performers, kids “Van Grow” hands-on art pavilion, 10a-dusk, free adm. 520-624-5004, www.fourthavenue.org
Saturday 24th Mar to Sunday 25th Mar: Glendale: Glendale Folk & Heritage Festival
Sahuaro Ranch Park Historic Area, 9802 N. 59th Ave – 150+ performers of everything from folk and bluegrass music to cowboy poetry and storytelling, free workshops, jam sessions. Also historic site tours, children’s activities, more. Admission & most activities are free. 10a-5p. 623-930-4200, www.glendaleaz.com/srpha
Saturday 24th Mar to Sunday 25th Mar: Globe: Celebrate Arizona Archaeology Month
Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park – 2 tours Sat, 1 tour Sun, pottery and basket weaving demonstrations, 9a-5p. $4 ages 12-64, $3 for 65+, under 12 free. 928-425-0320
Saturday 24th Mar to Sunday 25th Mar: Parker: Blues Festival
La Paz County Park – Two day music festival benefiting the River Flames Auxiliary for local firefighters. For more info: 928-667-2069
Thursday 29th Mar to Sunday 1st Apr: Kearny: Pioneer Days
Pioneer Park on Veterans Ave – Parade Sat 10a, carnival & food vendors Thurs onwards, live entertainment all weekend. Thurs & Fri 5-10p, Sat 12p-12a, Sun 12-4p, free adm. 520-363-7607
Friday 30th Mar to Sunday 1st Apr: Cave Creek: 34th Annual Cave Creek Fiesta Days Rodeo
Cave Creek Memorial Arena – WPRA Rodeo Fri, PRCA Rodeo performances Fri & Sat evenings, Sun afternoon. Mutton Bustin’, rodeo dances & parade. For times, locations, prices: 480-488-4043, cavecreekprorodeo.com
Friday 30th Mar to Saturday 31st Mar: Chandler: Chandler Jazz Festival
Downtown, A J Chandler Park – An exciting jazz fest featuring various bands, several venues. Free adm. Fri 4:45-9:30p, Sat noon-9p. 480-782-2665
Saturday 31st Mar to Sunday 1st Apr: Phoenix: Arizona Game and Fish Department Outdoor Expo
Ben Avery Shooting Facility, Carefree Hwy, 1 mile west of I-17. Live wildlife, fishing, camping, archery, hunting, shooting sports, OHV & boating displays, workshops, exhibitors, food booths, Sat 9-5, Sun 9-4, free admission & parking. www.azgfd.gov/expo
Saturday 31st Mar: Surprise (Sun City Grand): Art & Craft Show
Palm Court in Village Center, 19753 N. Remington Dr. – Hours: 9a-4p. Free admission & parking. 602-789-7222
Thursday 26th Apr to Sunday 29th Apr: Cottonwood: 12th Annual Verde Valley Birding & Nature Festival
Dead Horse Ranch State Park – Field trips, guided walks, workshops, exhibits, vendors. Keynote speakers: Chuck Bell, ABA world traveler, and his wife, photographer Nancy Bell. Register starting Feb. 1: www.birdyverde.org; Info: 928-282-2202