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

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

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

Not in Arizona? The ANYWHERE section is for you!

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

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

The Happenings List

– Central Arizona –

 

Early Days: Indigenous Art from the McMichael

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

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

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

 

Shemer Honors Ed Mell: Painter of Iconic Southwestern Landscapes

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

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

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

 

Canal Convergence: Public Art Lights Up the Waterfront

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

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

 

Grand Ave Festival PHX: Celebration of Running Against the Grid

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

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

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

 

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

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

Local First’s festival of Arizona businesses!

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

 

Holiday Greeting Cards with Sandy Gatlin: Create Cards on Canvas

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

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

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

 

Early Bird Makers Market

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

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

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

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

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

 

Scottsdazzle Holiday Extravaganza

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

Month-long holiday extravaganza featuring more than 45 events!

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

 

Tempe Festival of the Arts

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

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

 

Discovery Days: Wander Taliesin West

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

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

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

 

Heritage Holidays: Historic Phoenix Plaza Gets Festive

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

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

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

 

Phoestivus: Holiday Shopping for the Rest of Us

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

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

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

 

– Northern Arizona –

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

35th Annual Acker Night: Musicians for Music Ed

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

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

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

 

Christmas Village + ChristkindlMarket

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

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

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

 

Riordan Mansion Christmastime Evening Walks

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

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

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

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

 

– Southern Arizona –

 

Pulse: Weavings and Paintings by Marlowe Katoney: Diné Today

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

• H/T Tucson Film Festival

 

All Souls Procession: “Remembering Together”

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

Parsons Dance: Homecoming Performance

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

Karaoke Night Market: Sing + Shop

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

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

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

 

Fall 2023 Desert Air Market: DAM Good Time!

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

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

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

Sneak preview these vendors’ work on Etsy:

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

 

Fall Artisans Market: Makers at the Museum

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

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

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

 

Oro Valley Riverfront Park Classical Concert Series

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

Old World Holiday Market: Mead + Makers

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

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

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

 

Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

– Anywhere –

Arizona Fall Festival Online Silent Auction

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

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

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

 

Amerind Free Online Artist Talk: The Art of Ryan Singer

November 4, 11am MST / Free.

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

 

All Souls Procession Livestream: Be there in spirit.

November 5, 6pm MST / Free.

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

 

Being Human Festival Online Events

November 9 – November 18 / Free.

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

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

 

Wright Virtual Visits: The Wright Stuff

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

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

Goodies to enjoy anywhere:

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

All the Etsy links from above…

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

Early Bird Makers Market vendors:

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

Desert Air Market vendors:

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

---

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

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.