To start off your 2020, this Happenings List includes 20 arts, craft, food, and cultural events worth taking note of.
They come from different corners of the globe – Arizona and Argentina, Australia and Astoria, Massachusetts and Milan, Wellington and Wisconsin, Southwest Ireland and the San Francisco Bay – and there’s at least one you can join in wherever you happen to find yourself at this dawn of a new decade!
I’ve listed events by date and added a few comments marked with “SN” for Steph’s Note.
Happy New Year!
Artwork by Patricia Pittman via East Gippsland Art Gallery.
Now – Feb 23 / Museum of the Moving Image, Astoria, NY / $15 adults, $9 youth (ages 3-17)
Exhibit exploring the character design process for The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance, a new Netflix series, which is a prequel to the 1982 Jim Henson and Frank Oz film (The Dark Crystal). The exhibit features a selection of concept art, models, puppets, and behind-the-scenes images.
SN: I remember being absolutley riveted by The Dark Crystal when I was a kid. I haven’t started the new series yet. I think I’m due for a re-watch of the original before I dive in.
Now – May 10 / Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, AZ / Included with admission.
Installation of hundreds of brightly colored animal sculptures along desert garden paths by Italian artist group Cracking Art. Their work is meant to bring attention to environmental sustainability, the problem of plastic in oceans, and the importance of recycling.
SN: I’ve been following Cracking Art’s worldwide installations ever since I spotted their striking red penguins at the 21c Museum Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky several years ago. So I was really excited to hear that their day-glo art has arrived in Arizona!
Jan 4, 10 am – 1:30 pm / Handcraft Studio School, El Cerrito, CA / $110
Workshop in Hungarian Written Embroidery, a folk style that originated in Transylvania, Romania in the late 18th century. Instructor Sarah Pedlow demonstrates how to stitch a heart or tulip design, as well as sharing her knowledge of the culture and history of Transylvanian textiles and her travel experience in Hungary and Romania.
Includes take-home materials to create another embroidery project, along with resources on Hungarian needlework and patterns.
Jan 4 – Apr 4, Saturdays 10 am – 2 pm / Cambridge Community Center gymnasium, Cambridge, MA
The Cambridge Winter Farmers Market is a program of the Cambridge Community Center, a nonprofit that has been serving the Coast community for over 89 years. The Market strives to promote vibrant local economy, create access to fresh, healthy food, and provide a gathering space for community throughout the winter months with local food, craftspeople, and live music.
Jan 4, 5 – 9 pm / Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center, Las Vegas, NV / All ages.
Presentation by the Las Vegas Astronomical Society followed by an outdoor star tracking lecture. No registration necessary – just be sure to arrive before the park gates close at 5pm.
Jan 9, 6:00 – 7:30 pm / The ARTery at the Kohler Arts Center, Sheboygan, WI / Ages 14+ / free
Monthly book club with a hands-on component. For January, read The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern, and then engage with the book further by joining in the art making and discussion at The ARTery. Art supplies are provided.
Jan 9 – Apr 23, 6 – 8 pm, Thursdays / Yuma Palms Regional Center, Yuma, AZ / free
Outdoor jazz concert series hosted by Yuma Jazz Company Quartet, featuring local performers, as well as student ensembles and bands traveling in from Los Angeles, San Diego, and Phoenix.
SN: We saw duo Jason + Elle in a Village Jazz Series concert during a visit to Yuma and thoroughly enjoyed our evening!
Jan 11, 5 pm – 12:30 am / Asociación Japonesa de La Plata – Colonia Urquiza, La Plata, Argentina
Traditional festival of Japanese dance that has been celebrated annually in La Plata since 1999, as a way to share the culture, food, and customs of Japan with the local community.
One-day workshop offering makers from every background a step-by-step process for incorporating metal leaf into mixed media collages and compositions on paper, wood, stone, and other materials. Advance registration required.
Jan 16 – 19 / Fort Mason Center for Arts + Culture, San Francisco, CA / General admission tickets (advance) $25
Design and art fair featuring 48 leading international galleries and a series of panel discussions with notable figures working in art, design, and technology. All programs are included with admission.
SN: Fort Mason Center is where I went to Re:Make. It’s a really cool combination of historic, museum, and art spaces right on the edge of the Bay.
Monthlong celebration of local art around the world. Join in by posting photos of your favorite murals and other art from your community on Instagram or Twitter using the hashtag #localartloves!
Feb 7 – 9 / Hance Park, Phoenix, AZ / Free admission.
Annual festival that features the arts, food, dance, entertainment, history and heritage of China. It will ring in the Year of the Rat with performances of folk and traditional dances, music, and martial arts demonstrations. There will also be children’s pavilion activities, a Chinese culture and history booth, arts and crafts booths, and vendors offering a taste of authentic Chinese cuisines.
Feb 7 – 9 / Superstudio Più , Milan, Italy / Tickets €10.50 – €33
The Milan edition of the Affordable Art Fair will showcase thousands of original contemporary artworks priced between €100 – €7,500 from over 85 local, national and international galleries. Besides shopping a curated selection of paintings, prints, photographs and sculptures, you can enjoy hands-on workshops, live performances, guided tours, talks, kids’ activities, and a café.
Feb 8 – 9 / Arizona State Fairgrounds, Ag Center Building, Phoenix, AZ / Free admission, parking fee set by State Fairgrounds.
Annual sale that makes used books available to the general public at reasonable prices, while raising money for charities in Maricopa County.
SN: It seems like I was always hearing about everyone’s great finds at this book sale after the fact and never knew when it was coming. So here’s your heads up!
New Zealand’s leading arts festival, featuring cutting-edge theatre, dance, music and “art for everyone”.
Talanoa Mau: Feb 24 – 25 at Soundings Theatre, Te Papa. Historic two-day gathering of artists, public thinkers, culture makers and visionaries from around the world and Aotearoa to stimulate critical conversations for our time.
Tour of Ireland that combines seeing the countryside with knitting workshops and meeting local craftspeople. Includes knitting workshops (with yarn and patterns), accommodations, Irish breakfast daily, sightseeing (accredited guide, transportation, and entrance fees included), and activities like a traditional music show and whisky and chocolate tasting.
SN: This sounds like an amazing way to see Ireland – especially if you love knitting!
Zwartable Ireland sheep farm via KnittingTours.com.
The Happenings List is my seasonal, handpicked list of events for people who love art, craft, and culture. I may use details from event organizers and edit descriptions for length and clarity. While I do my best to check that information is accurate, there could be typos or changes, so I can’t make any guarantees.
If you go to anything on The List, let me know how it goes!
Enjoy this handpicked list of good stuff going on around the globe! Since we’re approaching the end of the year, this Happenings List is especially packed with holiday craft fairs and concerts, good causes and causes for celebration.
What festivities are you looking forward to this season?
Oct 30 – Nov 2, 11am-5pm
Tlaquepaque Arts + Craft Village, Sedona
26-foot long community mural in the tradition of Dia de los Muertos, which honors friends and family who have passed on. Everyone is encouraged to paint their own tributes and remembrances. Paints and brushes are provided.
Nov 1, 9am- 1pm + Nov 2, 9am- 1pm Smitholator Cookie Shop, Mesa
4-hour class on the fundamentals of baking and decorating sugar cookies with royal icing. (Ages 18+. Teens ages 12-17 may register and participate only if accompanied by a registered adult.) You will go home with sugar cookie and royal icing recipes and 6 seasonal themed cookies you’ve decorated. 6 attendees max. Fee $148
Nov 1-3
Tucson Convention Center, Downtown Tucson
Community-based pop culture convention with a mission statement of “Pop Culture For All!” Full weekend passes: adult (ages 14+) $45 / child (ages 9-13) $10
Nov 2, 10am – 3pm Tempe Plaza Library, Tempe
Annual event to celebrate reading, writing, and a love for books. The festival brings together local authors, publishers, booksellers, panel discussions, youth story times and more!
6. Desert Botanical Garden events
Nov 2-3, 10am – 5pm:Día de los Muertos Celebration. Two-day festival with music, dance, storytelling, Mercado with local and international artists and vendors, and kids’ crafts and face painting. At the end of each day, everyone can participate in a procession through the Garden, concluding with a traditional burning of troubles. Included with admission.
Nov 8-10, 10am – 5pm: Chiles + Chocolate Festival. Showcase for handcrafted Arizona chile and chocolate products with live music and dance performances. Included with admission.
Nov 14, 7-10pm:Garden Mixtape. New event series with local acts and danceable tunes. Tickets $30.
Shemer Art Center, Phoenix Nov 2-3, 10am–4pm
Two-day holiday shopping event to benefit Shemer Art Center, a not-for-profit art education and community center. One-of-a-kind works and demonstrations from 40 Arizona artists, as well as live music, food and beverage vendors, a silent auction, and a sculpture garden tour. Free festival admission / $5 Kids Zone.
Nov 3
Downtown Tucson
Two-mile long procession to both celebrate and mourn of the lives of our loved ones and ancestors. Leading up to the procession are art exhibits, performances, and workshops. Free. (Donations accepted.)
Nov 7-9 Tucson Expo Center, Tucson
Expo with sewing, quilting, needlework, and craft supply vendors (both local and national), as well as workshops and presentations. Free admission and parking.
Nov 7-14 The Loft Cinema, Tucson
Eight-day showcase of independent, foreign and classic cinema. Film fans can experience hand-selected festival favorites from Cannes, Sundance, SXSW, etc. and meet internationally-renowned artists from the world of independent cinema. Festival pass (for admission to all film screenings) $150.
Nov 9 + 30, Dec 7 + 14 Heritage Marketplace, Downtown Gilbert
70 vendors with items either handmade, baked, brewed, or designed by them personally. As well as local food, coffee, and hands-on activities for kids. Free admission.
Nov 17, 12-3pm Kierland Commons, Scottsdale
Food truck battle to see who makes the best slider with a silent auction and music by Lane Change. The event raises money for the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation (AFFCF). $35 admission includes samples of all sliders and 3 non-alcoholic drink tickets.
Nov 22 – 24, Nov 29 – Dec 1
Cave Creek, Arizona
Self-guided tour of open artist studios in the Cave Creek and Scottsdale area with demonstrations and art for sale. Free admission.
Nov 29 – Dec 21 Downtown Mesa
Mesa’s holiday celebration with the City’s official Christmas tree, outdoor ice skating rink, Christmas Market with handcrafted gifts, visits from Santa, and food trucks.
Nov 29, 5-10pm Kick-off and Tree Lighting.
Free parking in all open lots and on-street parking areas in Downtown Mesa.
Dec 7, 14, + 21 from 7-8:30pm: Canal Concert Series at Soleri Bridge Plaza. Free holiday concerts by local talent, such as the Phoenix Girls Choir, Campanillas del Sol Handbell Ensemble, and The Scottsdale Chorus.
Dec 7, 3-7pm: Sugar Plum Avenue on 5th Avenue. Fairytale village with aerial performances, carriage rides, candy land bounce houses, and a tea party in the street.
Dec 12, 6:30-9pm:Gold Palette Artwalk in the Old Town Arts District. Meet local artists in their own studios and at local galleries, while enjoying strolling carolers and refreshments.
Dec 6-8 Rosson House, Phoenix
See the 1895 Victorian Rosson House, decorated for the holidays. Then have Afternoon Tea in The Bungalow at Heritage Square – includes tea, tea sandwiches, scones, and clotted cream served on vintage china.
Dec 6, 6-10pm Medlock Plaza parking lot (behind Frances), Phoenix
Award-winning independent craft fair with local handmade original work, as well as live music and food vendors. Free.
Dec 7, 5-9pm Besh Ba Gowah Archeological Park, Globe
Ruins decorated with more than 3000 glowing luminaries, food and craft vendors, and cultural entertainment by the Yellow Bird Dance Group and Robert Wilson (Apache Flutist). Free admission.
Donations of non-perishable food will be accepted for the Gila Community Food Bank.
Dec 12 + 19, 5-10pm Phoenix Public Market, Phoenix
Inspired by Christmas markets in Germany and Seinfeld’s secular parody holiday (“a Festivus for the rest of us”), Phoenix’s Phoestivus aims to be an all-inclusive December celebration. Free admission.
Holiday market featuring local food and handcrafted gifts from over 200 vendors.
The event also includes a Phoestivus Pole, Pheats of Strength, the Airing of Grievances, Phoestivus Ale (brewed by Phoenix Ale Brewery), a hipster Santa, and baby goats dressed as reindeer.
Dec 31, 6:30pm Symphony Hall, Phoenix
Special performance featuring Strauss waltzes, seasonal classics, and Broadway and contemporary favorites. Includes a complimentary glass of champagne. Tickets $25-$93
Nov 3, 3:30-7pm
Marbella Country Club, San Juan Capistrano
Fundraiser for kitten rescue in Southern California (The Ark of San Juan Companion Animal Rescue). There will be hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, photo booth, wine and cocktail tasting, cash bar, and holiday boutique. You can even adopt a kitten at the event! All ages welcome. Advance tickets: adults $50 / kids $35
Nov 3, 10am – 5pm Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), Long Beach
Learn about the cultural traditions of Día de los Muertos through art workshops, live performances, gallery tours, an interactive community altar, face painting, storytelling, an art exhibition (De Generación a Generación: A Subconscious Lineage), and food and craft vendors. All ages. Free admission. Parking $10.
Oct 24, 7-9pm:Día de ls Muertos Exhibition reception in the MOLAA Lobby. Meet the artists and get personal insight on the altars and artwork on display!
Oct 30, 3:30-5:30pm:Community Workshop: Virtual Altar Project in the MOLAA Lobby. Drop-in workshop constructing a Día de los Muertos altar with Los Angeles based artist Rosalie López. Bring a photo of a loved one. Ages 10+.
Nov 1, 3:30-5:30pm:Community Workshop and Performance in the MOLAA Lobby. Hands-on art making activities followed by a Folklorico performance. All art supplies will be provided.
Mission San Juan Capistrano, downtown San Juan Capistrano
Dec 8 – Jan 6, 2020
Holiday celebration with 30 days of festive programming and a nightly tree lighting. Tickets $10
Nov 1, 9am: Tickets go on sale.
Nov 18 – Jan 6, 9am-5pm: Serra’s Pantry Food Drive. Drop off a donation of food or hygiene items (toothpaste, soap, etc.), to the Mission Gate House or upon entry for Capistrano Lights.
Dec 7: Capistrano Lights Opening Night. Tickets $13
There will be no Capistrano Lights Program on December 24, 25, or 31.
Dec 19, 2019 – May 3, 2020 Museum of Craft and Design, San Francisco
An exhibition exploring housing that is adaptable and sustainable to withstand climate change. It will showcase visionary architects and artists who have created artistically interpretive solutions and prototypes for emergency shelters.
Nov 2, 9am – 3pm Denver Botanic Gardens
Observance of Día de los Muertos with indoor screenings of Disney’s Pixar film Coco. Included with admission to the Gardens.
Dec 6, 6:30pm Foothills Art Center, Golden
Community caroling walk from Foothills Art Center to the Golden Visitors Center. Hot beverages and cookies will be served at the top and bottom of the hill. Free to join the walk. Candles and glow sticks available for purchase for $1 each.
Dec 7-8, 11am-5pm The Cable Center, Denver
Celebration of art and cats that raises funds for non-profits. There will be art, music, presentations by vets and other speakers, kitty yoga, workshops, comedy, a cat cafe and lounge, and a new Snowcats After Dark festival. One-day general admission tickets: humans $20 / cats $10.
Nov 17 Jacksonville
Self-guided tour of artist studios and personal work spaces in 8 buildings with over 70 artists in the CoRK District (Corner of Rosselle + King) participating. See artist demonstrations and purchase original artwork.
Dec 4-8
Ocean Drive and 12th Street, South Beach, Miami
International, curated art fair that focuses on balance and integrity across all disciplines of contemporary art.
Now – Nov 16 Lyndon House Arts Center, Athens
Celebration of Athens-area artists who earn wages working in the service industry when not producing in their studios. Artists in the exhibit include Lucy Calhoun, Toby Cole, Chris Collins, Kayla Cox, Jess Dunlap, Alexei Gural, Anna LeBar, Maximos Salzman, Elinor Saragoussi, Jessica Smith, Vernon Thornsberry, and Robyn Waserman.
Three-course communal dinner along with 3 different wine pairings chosen by the resident sommelier. Learn the origin, history, and flavor profile of each one. To make a reservation, call the Restaurant Coordinator at 706.467.7059.
Nov 13 at 6pm: dinner featuring Flowers Vineyard and Winery.
Dec 11 at 6pm: dinner featuring Champagne Laurent-Perrier.
Now – Jan 12, 2020 The Art Institute of Chicago
The transformative impact of six visionary artists and designers who lived or worked in Mexico between the 1940s and 1970s. The work of Clara Porset, Lola Álvarez Bravo, Anni Albers, Ruth Asawa, Cynthia Sargent, and Sheila Hicks has never been shown together before. Included with museum admission.
Now – Jan 5, 2020 Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago
The largest architecture and design exhibition in North America. The theme of the 2019 edition is #AndOtherSuchStories.
Oct 25 – Dec 1 Heaven Gallery, Chicago
Exhibition of objects that attempt to bridge the space between the world as it is and as we desire it to be and that allow for alternative ways of interpreting our environment.
Nov 12, 2019 – Mar 1, 2020 The Commons (2nd floor of the Museum of Contemporary Art), Chicago
Chicago-based, socially-focused design studio blkHaUS studios brings together Chicago community members and local museums to assess patterns of collecting and take part in dialogues around collecting, archives, and museum practice. At the end of the project, the artists share their findings with representatives from the MCA and other local museums to provide tools for museums to better reflect their communities.
Nov 21 + Dec 19:Adler After Dark. Themed evening event for adults (21+) offering full access to museum exhibits, unlimited sky shows, special guests, hands-on programs, and live entertainment every third Thursday of the month from 6–10pm. $20 advance / $25 at the door.
Nov 22, 7pm + Dec 20, 7pm: Doane at Dusk. Monthly telescope viewings and discussions with Adler Astronomers after museum hours. Free and open to the public on a first come, first served basis, weather permitting. No tickets are needed.
Nov 22 + 23 Magnificent Mile, Chicago
Two days of free, family-friendly activities lead up to our famous tree-lighting parade to kick off the holiday season – plus special offers from businesses around The Magnificent Mile!
Nov 23: Tree lighting parade on North Michigan Avenue, from Oak Street to Wacker Drive.
Outside Chicago: If you can’t be at the festival, check if it’ll be on t.v. where you are. It typically airs in 90% of the U.S.
Makimasa Imai, ceramic, Crane shaped container via Society of Arts and Crafts
Now – Nov 10 Society of Arts + Crafts’ Seaport gallery, Boston
To commemorate the 60-year Sister City pairing of Boston and Kyoto, Japan, more than two dozen artists from Kyoto’s revered Kogei crafts collective Kogei-Kyoto bring exquisite items to the Society of Arts + Crafts’ Seaport gallery. Featuring both traditional pieces, and innovative new works made with traditional methods, this wide-ranging exhibition marks the first Kogei group show in the US. Pieces from multiple mediums including ceramics, lacquer, woodworking, and fabric dyeing will be on view in this stunning exhibition. Free admission.
44. Griffin Museum of Photography Events
Nov 3, 4-6pm:Yoga, The Secret of Life: Yoga Class with Beryl Bender Birch and Book Talk with Francesco Mastalia. $10 – $50
Nov 17, 1-3pm:Allowed to Grow Old: Unity Farm Sanctuary Tour and Book Reading with Isa Leshko. Join photographer Isa Leshko at Unity Farm Sanctuary in Sherborn, MA for a reading of stories from Isa’s newly released book, Allowed to Grow Old, and a tour of a very special farm sanctuary. $10 – $40
Nov 15, 7-9pm The New Art Center, Newton
Enjoy a relaxed evening creating art in a maker space guided by a local artist. All materials provided. Tuition includes one drink with beer and wine available for purchase. Registration required. Event is for ages 21+. $40.
Nov 30 + Dec 1, 10am-5pm Old Town Hall, Salem
Organized by the Salem Arts Association, this festive artists’ market in downtown Salem will feature artwork, artisan products, and live music.
Dec 7 + 8, 11am-7pm Industry City Factory Floor, Brooklyn
Two-day celebration of DIY culture, featuring over 150 purveyors of handmade goods, including a wide array of eclectic handmade and vintage vendors from all over the United States, as well as amazing DJs, delicious food, creative cocktails, fantastic prizes, and DIY activities for all ages.
Dec 16, 6:30-8:30pm Brooklyn Museum
Tasting event celebrating the best and most creative potato pancakes to raise funds for The Sylvia Center, a nonprofit organization that focuses on teaching cooking in underserved communities. Tickets $75
Nov 9-10, 10am-5pm Charlottesville
Central Virginia artisans open their studios to the public for self-guided tours for one weekend every November. For this 25th anniversary, 25 studios will show the work of 46 Virginia artisans. Crafts on display and for sale include pottery, furniture, weaving, fabric design, jewelry, stained glass, wood turning, and quilting. There will also be artisan demonstrations, opportunities to learn about the working processes in each studio, hands-on experiences, and locally-sourced refreshments. Free.
Nov 22-24 Main Street Station, Richmond
Museum-quality show that aims to showcase the finest in contemporary craft. See work in the categories of ceramics, precious metals, glass, wood and recycled materials, contemporary design, innovative use of traditional craft materials, and fiber from over 150 artists from across the country. The event will take place at Main Street Station’s newly renovated train shed. $10 general admission / $90 weekend pass
Nov 22-23 Wirrina Cove Holiday Park, Wirrina Cove, SA
Festival for hearing, playing, and sharing acoustic music from the Bluegrass, “Old Timey,” and other related traditions, including workshops and performances by world-class musicians. Weekend passes: Adults $85 / Youth (ages 13–17) $30
Nov 8-10 Conexus Arts Centre, Regina, SK
Thousands of skillfully hand-crafted works by new and returning local artists. Saskatchewan-made food products available for purchase. Adult (ages 12+) admission $5.
Nov 16-17 The Pipe Shop Venue, North Vancouver, BC
Market showcasing independent businesses and seeking to connect the community and grow the local economy.
Oct 31 – Nov 2 Meath and Louth counties
A new festival celebrating Ireland as the birthplace of Halloween with music, film, storytelling, and light installations.
Hoveringham Village Centre, Hoveringham
One-day workshops in Jane Lightfoot’s home studio or nearby locations. Includes instruction and a homemade lunch. Workshop fee: £58 + materials.
Nov 15, 9:45am-4pm: Heirloom Christmas decorations.
Dec 12, 9:45am-4pm: Christmas Table Runner.
Event descriptions are based on information provided by the organizers. I fact check as much as I can and edit them for length and clarity. Of course, things can change and typos can happen, so be safe out there!
See captions for photo credits / sources. Uncredited photos are by Phillip Liebold or Stephanie Liebold.
The Happenings List is my handpicked list of events for people who love art, craft, and culture. I can’t go to everything (no matter how much I’d like to), so I’d love your feedback on any Happenings you’ve participated in!
What would you go to if you could go to any event on this list?
Sep 20
Everywhere
Free citizen art project that encourages people reflect on the beauty and importance of the sky. Participate by taking a photo that’s just the sky as you see it that day and post it to the SkyDay Project website or tweet it using #skydayproject.
Now – Sep 29: Quilts in the Gardens. Nature-themed quilts on display and for sale in the gift shop. The event is in partnership with Quilts for a Cause, an organization that sells handmade quilts and quilt patterns to support breast and gynecological cancer research.
Now – Sep 30: Dog Days. Dogs are allowed in the Gardens! Dog admission $3 + human admission.
Sep 21, 9am-2pm: Plant Geek Festival + Sale. Over a dozen of Tucson’s growers and nurseries, local food vendors, and live music. Free admission.
Opera about the life of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Arizona Opera will present the World Premiere of the “Taliesin West Version” of Shining Brow.
Sep 27-29: Phoenix performances.
Oct 5-6: Tucson performances.
Curators at Taliesin West have installed an exhibit in the Arizona Opera Center in Phoenix detailing Wright’s most significant work in Arizona.
Sep 28, Oct 12 + 26, Nov 9 + 30, Dec 7 + 14 Heritage Marketplace, Downtown Gilbert
70 vendors with items either handmade, baked, brewed, or designed by them personally. As well as local food, coffee, and hands-on activities for kids. Free admission.
Eagle sculpture at Fort Yuma Quechan tribal administration building
Quechan Tribe Stomping Grounds (460 Quechan Road) near Yuma Oct 10-13
Weekend of games, competitions, booths, and traditional Quechan performances. Events include 5k and 1 mile Walk/Run, bird singing and dancing, a parade honoring murdered indigenous women, and tournaments in softball, boxing and senior chair volleyball.
Oct 18-20 Railroad Avenue Park, Willcox
Festival with 15 Arizona wineries, along with live music, and fine arts, artisan foods, and vintage vendors. 6 tasting tickets + commemorative wine glass: $20 advance / $25 at the door. Free admission for designated drivers and other non-drinkers.
Oct 18, 6-9pm: Railroad Park Fundraiser at Railroad Park. Ticket price includes dinner catered by Big Tex (pig roast, smoked brisket, hot buttered corn on the cob, etc.), wine tasting with a commemorative glass + 8 tastings, and live music. Tickets $35
Oct 20: Cellar Selection Sunday. Special tasting of reserve and library wines from Willcox Wine Country Partners’ cellars. Tickets $45
Nov 1-3 Tucson Convention Center, Downtown Tucson
Community-based pop culture convention with a mission statement of “Pop Culture For All!” Full weekend passes $35 through Sep 29 (early bird pricing).
Nov 2-3 Downtown Tucson
Two-mile long procession to both celebrate and mourn of the lives of our loved ones and ancestors. Leading up to the procession are art exhibits, performances, and other Dia de los Muertos events. Free. (Donations accepted.)
Nov 7-14 The Loft Cinema, Tucson
Eight-day showcase of independent, foreign and classic cinema. Film fans can experience hand-selected festival favorites from Cannes, Sundance, SXSW, etc. and meet internationally-renowned artists from the world of independent cinema. Festival pass (for admission to all film screenings) $150.
Now – Sep 30 Huntington Art Gallery, San Marino (Pasadena)
Watch the process of conservation work on the iconic painting The Blue Boy (ca. 1770) by Thomas Gainsborough each Thursday and Friday, 10am – noon + 2-4pm and 2-4pm on the first Sunday of the month. This is the last segment of the yearlong Project Blue Boy.
Oct 19-26 San Francisco School of Needlework + Design, San Francisco
Individualized retreat to focus on further developing and enhancing your embroidery skills and knowledge with guidance from School of Needlework + Design instructors. Registration $1200
Oct 25-26 The Oasis at Furnace Creek, Death Valley
Two evenings of stargazing under the largest International Dark Sky Site in the United States. After sunset, there will be Astronomy in the Park and a Laser-guided tour of the Night Sky. On Saturday, there will also be Solar Observing during the day.
Lodging: Reservations can be made at The Oasis Resort or at Furnace Creek Campground (http://www.recreation.gov). Other nearby National Park Service Campgrounds will be open with campsites available on a first come, first served basis.
To participate as an Astronomer on the Observing Field, you must have a telescope and be willing to work with the public during public viewing hours.
Registration is only required for astronomers bringing telescopes to the Observing Field. The general public does not need to register.
Sep 21-22 Ouray County 4H Events Center (on Hwy 550), Ridgway
Fundraising event for Weehawken Creative Arts, a non-profit arts education center in Ouray County. The festival features fiber vendors, food, workshops, classes, and demonstrations.
Sep 27-28, 9am-5pm: York Street Fall Plant + Bulb Sale. Hundreds of bulbs, perennials and Grown at the Gardens plants for sale and expert advice from our horticulturists. Free admission to the sale and to the Gardens both days.
Oct. 11-13, 9am – 5pm: Pumpkin Festival at Chatfield Farms. Tickets $8.
Oct 21-25, 5:30-9:30pm: Glow at the Gardens. Display of larger-than-life sculptures made with real pumpkins harvested from local farms. Tickets $21
Nov 2, 9am – 3pm: Día de los Muertos Celebration. Observance of Día de los Muertos with indoor screenings of Disney’s Pixar film “Coco.” Included with admission to the Gardens.
Wednesdays, Thursdays, + Fridays through September, 5:30-9pm ENO Wine Room, Chicago (inside the InterContinental Chicago Hotel)
Live music series of singer-songwriters performing in a restaurant with 180-degree views of the Magnificent Mile, seasonal wines by the bottle and glass, chocolates and cheese.
Now – Jan 12, 2020 The Art Institute of Chicago
The transformative impact of six visionary artists and designers who lived or worked in Mexico between the 1940s and 1970s. The work of Clara Porset, Lola Álvarez Bravo, Anni Albers, Ruth Asawa, Cynthia Sargent, and Sheila Hicks has never been shown together before. Included with museum admission.
Sep 6 – Oct 13
The Elmhurst History Museum, Elmhurst
A special immersive exhibit about three children whose lives teach us about overcoming obstacles to make a positive difference in the world: Anne Frank, Ruby Bridges, and Ryan White.
September 12 + 27, 6-10pm Shedd Aquarium, Chicago
After Hours events for adults (21+). Admission includes all aquarium exhibits, touch experiences, and entertainment. Food, beverages, and 4-D Experiences are available for purchase. $25 admission.
Sep 19 – Jan 5, 2020 Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago
The largest architecture and design exhibition in North America. The theme of the 2019 edition is #AndOtherSuchStories.
Doane at Dusk: Monthly telescope viewings and discussions with Adler Astronomers after museum hours. Free and open to the public on a first come, first served basis, weather permitting. No tickets are needed. Upcoming dates: Sep 27, 7:30pm / Nov 22, 7pm / Dec 20, 7pm
Adler After Dark: Themed evening event for adults (21+) offering full access to museum exhibits, unlimited sky shows, special guests, hands-on programs, access to Doane Observatory, and live entertainment every third Thursday of the month from 6:00–10:00 pm. $20 advance / $25 at the door.
Oct 6, 2–3:30pm
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago
Celebrating work by composers and artists who lived and created in Mexico in the mid-twentieth century, this immersive afternoon showcases the marriage between modern thinking and indigenous tradition. Mexican composer Manual Ponce’s Petite suite dans le style ancien and String Trio are featured alongside Brahms’ Piano Quartet No. 2 in A Major. Presented with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Tickets $35
Sep 27-28 Cathedral Gorge State Park, near Panaca
All astronomers and visitors are welcome to join the Las Vegas Astronomical Society at one of our Cathedral Gorge Campout and Star Parties. Camping and Day Use fees are covered for current LVAS members. Non-members are responsible for their own park entry and camping fees. Register online.
September 13, 14, 15 Lyndhurst mansion grounds, Tarrytown
Festival of fine craft and food with 300 modern American artists on the grounds of the Neo-Gothic Lyndhurst mansion. Artwork for sale will include fine art painting, printmaking, drawing and photography, as well as fashion and accessories, and functional and sculptural works in ceramics, glass, metal, fiber, wood and mixed media. There will also be gourmet foods, concessions, and tastings from local distilleries, wineries and cider houses. Admission (cash or check only): adults $12 / kids, age 6-11 $4
Demos of wheel thrown pottery and silk scarf painting.
Oct 17-30
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck
Fiber festival with a fleece show and sale, a wide variety of workshops, livestock displays, shepherd talks, competitions, and used equipment auctions. Some workshop fees include show admission. Day passes $9 advance / $12 at the gate
Sep 27 (12-7pm), Sep 28 (10am-7pm), Sep 29 (10am-6pm) 20th – 31st Street, VIrginia Beach Oceanfront
Show featuring over 250 artisans displaying handmade work including paintings, sculptures, photography, and glasswork.
Sep 22-29 Venues across Washington, D.C.
Festival that uses film screenings and panel discussions as a platform for uplifting the untold stories of the Civil Rights era to inspire renewed passion for activism.
Oct 31 – Nov 2 Meath and Louth counties
A new festival celebrating Ireland as the birthplace of Halloween with music, film, storytelling, and light installations.
La Tavola Marche inn and cooking school in Piobicco, Italy.
+Italy
35. La Tavola Marche Classes
Piobicco, Le Marche
Oct 15-20:Made in Le Marche: D.O.C. Wine Tour, Artisan Meat and Cheese Market Trip, Craft Beer Tasting + 3 Cooking Classes. Includes 5 nights’ accommodations, welcome dinner, 3 half-day cooking classes with meals, wine + handmade apron gift, 1-day wine tour with lunch and transportation, Pizza Night Dinner, Apecchio market tour and tasting, breakfast daily. €1025/person (Price based on double occupancy.)
EN: This is the place where we stayed, hiked, and took a cooking class in the countryside. I highly recommend it!
Sep 28 – Oct 6 Shetland Islands
Annual nine-day festival of of Shetland’s textile heritage with classes, knitting, spinning, dyeing, weaving, tours, exhibitions, open studios, teas, talks and tours.
Oct 1-31
across London
Festival celebrating London’s diverse range of restaurants with restaurant-hopping tours, tasting menus, master classes, chef-hosted events, and gastronomic weekends.
Event descriptions are based on information provided by the organizers. I fact check as much as I can and edit them for length and clarity. Of course, things can change and typos can happen, so be safe out there!
See captions for photo credits / sources. Uncredited photos are by Phillip or Stephanie Liebold.
Given the limits of space and time, I can’t go to every event that catches my eye when I walk by a poster in a shop window or see a message from an artist I follow or get sidetracked online while I’m looking for something else.
So I share them with you.
Because maybe you’ll just happen to be in central Indiana during the Elwood Glass Festival (see #17). Or D.C. for the Art Book Fair (#21). Or maybe you’ll decide to take a detour for a wood oven workshop in Italy (#37). Maybe one of these 44 things is right in your neighborhood.
But, even if I can’t be there, it makes me smile to know that all around the world people are making things and enjoying community festivals and finding new meaning in old traditions and eating good food.
June 23-25 or July 5-7 Sterling and Lake Clark National Park (Meet at Homewood Suites in Anchorage)
3-day photography tour in bear country, where you can view about 20-40 bears each day with Lisa Langell plus an additional photography instructor. Includes all meals, transportation (including round trip sea plane flights to/from lodge) and lodging (1 night in Sterling and 2 nights in a lodge adjacent to Lake Clark National Park.) $2695 per person
July 13, 14, 20 + 21 from 10am – 4pm Alaska Blooms Peony Farm, Wasilla
Visit peony fields an hour outside of Anchorage during peak bloom time to wander garden paths and take photos. Admission: adults $10 / free for children under 12
Editor’s Note: An Instagram post with big bunches of peonies caught my eye just as the season was wrapping up last year. Alaska isn’t the first place that comes to mind when I think of flower farms, but those long summer days produce some striking results!
Now – Jun 27
McClelland Library (Exhibit Hall), Phoenix
Traveling exhibit of twenty-three informative panels on the history of Irish immigrants and their descendants across Latin America from 1611- 1968. Tickets $10 (free for ages 6 and under).
Now – Jan 29, 2020 DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, Tucson
The exhibit will commemorate artwork by Ted DeGrazia that was featured in Arizona Highways magazine. Museum admission: adults $8
May 31, Jun 28, Jul 26, Aug 30, Sep 27 from 6-10pm MSA Annex, Tucson
A market under the stars the last Friday of the month (May through September) with local vendors and MSA Annex shops open late.
EN: MSA Annex is a newer sister property to one of Phillip and my favorite Tucson hangouts, Mercado San Agustin. The Annex is about a block away and features local businesses in repurposed shipping containers. A night market is great for avoiding the Arizona sun in the heat of the day – and shop local!
Jun 6 + 13, Jul 11 + 18 at 11am Washington Activity Center, Phoenix
View and discuss a series of films on a theme over 4 sessions. Ages 16+. Fee $4 + Recreation Pass.
EN: I don’t think I’ve seen a cinema appreciation class at a city rec center before. We’re not always aware of all the great resources that exist in our own cities!
Jun 15, 6–9pm JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort + Spa, Tucson
Mexican food festival featuring food demonstrations and education, live music, and weekend stay-cation packages. A 23-mile area that includes the City of South Tucson, downtown and lower midtown Tucson is home to a high concentration of diverse Mexican restaurants, many of which are family-owned and decades old. It’s known as the “Best 23 Miles of Mexican food in America.” Festival admission $65
Jun 30 – Jul 8 statewide
Week-long celebration of local Arizona businesses. Shop local and save 20% with a Golden Coupon, which you can download from Local First Arizona’s site or pick up at one of the hundreds of participating businesses.
EN: “Independents” Week! The week of July 4th! Get it?!
Aug 3-4 Museum of Northern Arizona (MNA), Flagstaff
Traditional and contemporary art for sale, artist demonstrations, authentic food, musical performances, heritage programs, and hoop and social dances. Daily admission (2018) $12
Now – Sep (estimated) Huntington Art Gallery, San Marino (Pasadena)
Watch the process of conservation work on the iconic painting The Blue Boy (ca. 1770) by Thomas Gainsborough each Thursday and Friday, 10am – noon + 2-4pm and 2-4pm on the first Sunday of the month. This is one segment of Project Blue Boy, which is ongoing from September 22, 2018 to September 30, 2019.
Free admission with advance reservation 1st Thursday of every month, 10am–5pm.
EN: Usually art conservation work happens in some museum back room or secret basement, so it’s really awesome that much of this yearlong project is open for public viewing – especially since it’s such an iconic painting!
Jun 1 – Oct 5 (Saturdays), 8am-1pm Golden Library, Golden
Held every Saturday, except for July 27 (Buffalo Bill Days) in the parking lot just west of the Golden Library.
August 2, 9, 16 + 23 Parfet Park, Golden
Friday night music and a family-friendly movie on a giant inflatable screen under the stars at Parfet Park at 10th Street and Washington Avenue in downtown Golden.
7pm: Bands
8:30pm: Movie
Food will be available to purchase food from local vendors and food trucks, or you can bring a picnic. (No alcohol.)
Seating: Bring blankets or low-slung chairs.
Leashed dogs are welcome.
EN: I like the idea of having local bands play before an outdoor movie night!
Aug 16-18 Elwood
Festival celebrating the town’s heritage of hand-blown art-glass produced at The House of Glass and Carol’s Legacy Glass. Activities include factory tours, a parade, carnival rides, arts and crafts, food, collectibles, bus tours, demonstrations, photography, a quilt show, contests, and the Vintage Rollers Car Show. Free admission.
Live bands and other entertainment at the Jim Knoop Amphitheater at Callaway Park. Friday 7-9pm: Helpling, a singer/songwriter from Elwood. Saturday 7-9pm: Magnolia Soul, a group based out of Anderson, Indiana.
Free bus tours available daily 12-4pm with stops at Carol’s Legacy Glass and the Historic Elwood Opera House.
Crafts + Commercial Market tents open Friday 12-10pm, Saturday 10am-10pm, and Sunday 10am-4pm.
EN: Although we weren’t there during the Glass Festival, we got to see pieces being made at The House of Glass and tour the Historic Opera House when we visited Madison County, Indiana.
Now – June 23
Nevada Museum of Art, Reno
94 works by contemporary Aboriginal artists from Arnhem Land. Traditionally, these poles (named lorrkkon or larrakitj) marked the final point in Aboriginal mortuary rites. Today, they are made as works of art. Museum admission: $10 (free for children under 5)
Now – Aug 17 Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, Las Vegas
Exhibition exploring form and function through ceramic vessels from West Mexico. Suggested voluntary contribution: $5
Now – Sep 20, 2020 New York Avenue (east of the White House)
Public art space featuring changing installations of contemporary works by women artists. Currently on display is Huellas y cicatricez (Traces and scars), four totemic sculptures by Mexico City-based Betsabeé Romero that speak to themes of human migration and the natural environment. The structures are constructed from carved tires with gleaming metallic paint and interior lighting.
Jul 7, 12-5pm National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA), D.C.
40+ artists will sell art books, zines, comics, and other work. Free admission to both the Fair and Museum.
Jul 9-28 Southwest D.C.
Showcase of both unjuried and curated shows. 94 productions in seven venues with 13 stages — all within walking distance of each other in SW DC. 60% of the participating artists reside in the DC Metro area. Single ticket $20
Now – Jun 9 Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA), Bainbridge Island
Installation of Artist’s Books, a lesser-known art form, which may combine drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, gluing and binding, sculpture, photography, textiles, creative writing, and storytelling. While many university libraries have artists’ books in their Special Collections, BIMA seeks to make the art form more visible to the public. Free.
24. Pigment-Making Workshops with Heidi Gustafson
Jun 1, 10am-3pm: Island Pigment Foraging Workshop on Whidbey Island. Gather natural mineral colors from sandstone, glacial clay, green earth, and sea-weathered minerals on various coastal and forest walks. Fee $200
Aug 10-11, 10am-3pm: 2-Day Intensive Earth Pigments at Heidi’s rural studio north of Bellingham. Learn to make pigment from ethically foraged mineral materials, like ochre, soil, clay, dirt, and rock. Includes one day of field work in a Cascade mountain landscape, one day of learning to process minerals according to their particular properties, and your own set of personal earth pigments. Does not include transportation or lodging. Fee $460.
Jun 22-23, 11am-5pm Seattle Center Exhibition Hall, Seattle
Urban Craft Uprising aims to build a local community of artists, crafters and designers through events where indie crafters and artists can connect with their fans. Free admission.
Jul 11-14 Bellingen, NSW
4-day boutique music festival in a historic riverside town in New South Wales with over 60 acts in multiple venues. Adult single-day passes $60-80 (+ processing fee).
Jul 19, 20, 21 from 10am-5pm
Manitoulin Island
Self-guided tour of diverse artist studios, which includes photographers, painters, sculptors, and potters from across Manitoulin Island. The route is a scenic drive across the largest freshwater island in the world.
Jul 20, 9am-4pm: Felted Landscape Workshop. Make a large felted wool “painting” of a landscape scene. Learn different techniques for various trees, moons, sunsets, northern lights, flowers, etc. and then how to mount your artwork when you take it home. Students must bring small sharp scissors, 2-3 large bath towels, and a piece of cushion foam (at least 2” thick and 24” x 16”). Other materials provided. Beginners and experienced felters welcomed. Fee CA$110
Jul 21, 10-2 pm: Needle felted Hummingbird Workshop. Learn the art of needle felting and make two or three 4” hummingbirds with clay beaks. Includes a felting kit (felting foam and felting needles), wool, clay, and glass eyes for 4” hummingbirds. Students must bring small sharp scissors and a multi-felting needle holder. If you do not have one, you can purchase one at the class for $15-$20 each. Beginners and experienced felters welcomed. Fee CA$70
EN: I follow Tuckamoor Wildcrafts on Instagram, and they make the cutest little felted animals! Those little hummingbirds are so adorable, I just had to share the workshop info with you!
August 1-4 Whitehorse (+ surrounding areas), Yukon Territory
Festival showcasing the Yukon’s culture, local food, and culinary experts. EN: I’m so fascinated with far northern places – such different climates and cultures than the hot desert I call home. I think I actually spotted this event last year, but they didn’t have the dates up in time for last summer’s happenings list.
Aug 9-11 Victoria Park, Downtown Regina, Saskatchewan
Celebration of music and community that seeks to be a forum for positive artistic, social and cultural development in Regina and Saskatchewan. Tickets: single night CA$70 / general admission CA$148 / free for children under 12
Aug 7-13 Kakslauttanen
Sculptors, painters and other artists from around the world seek inspiration in northern nature and create works of art that will stay at Kakslauttanen on view for future visitors.
Grande Galerie de l’Évolution in the Cabinet de Réalité Virtuelle (Virtual Reality Room), Paris
30-minute immersive virtual reality journey into the time of the giant animals that populated the earth after the extinction of the dinosaurs. Ages 12+. Advance registration is highly recommended. Tickets may be purchased on site if available. €5 + Galerie admission
The titanoboa snake, the giant rhinoceros (baluchithère), the megalodon shark, and the giant sloth (megathère) are modeled in 3D with realistic 360° scenery.
A paleontologist explains the reasons for each animal’s size and discusses the mystery of their disappearance.
EN: I happened to see this right after reading an article about these huge caves in Brazil that were most likely carved by giant sloths or other now-extinct animals. I’d love to be able to see them – even if it is through virtual reality goggles.
34. Les Bals des Pompiers (Fire Brigade Balls)
Paris
Bastille Day parties hosted at a dozen fire stations throughout Paris as fundraisers.
EN: I shared this last year, because I think the idea of an annual dance held in a firehouse was pretty cool. I’m sharing it again because I think Paris firefighters deserve an extra shoutout for fighting the Notre Dame blaze, while saving so much of its art.
Aug 2-5 Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford
Food and music festival with over 80 local and artisan vendors, outdoor concerts with an international line-up of rock ‘n’ roll artists, food and drink workshops, events and classes.
La Tavola Marche inn and cooking school in Piobicco, Italy.
Jun 21 – Sep 7 Verona amphitheatre, Verona
Festival with five opera performances, one concert, one gala night, and a ballet in the spectacular setting of the Verona amphitheater.
37. La Tavola Marche Classes
Piobicco, Le Marche
Jul 3-6 or Sep 4-7: Wood Oven Workshop. Includes 3 nights’ accommodations, welcome dinner, Wood Oven class with snacks, wine + handmade apron gift. 3 dinners, 1 lunch, breakfast daily. €1080/couple or €864/single
Oct 15-20:Made in Le Marche: D.O.C. Wine Tour, Artisan Meat and Cheese Market Trip, Craft Beer Tasting + 3 Cooking Classes. Includes 5 nights’ accommodations, welcome dinner, 3 half-day cooking classes with meals, wine + handmade apron gift, 1-day wine tour with lunch and transportation, Pizza Night Dinner, Apecchio market tour and tasting, breakfast daily. €1025/person (Price based on double occupancy.)
EN: This is the place where we stayed, hiked, and took a cooking class in the countryside. I highly recommend it!
July 20-28 Recanati, Le Marche
An immersive program for both new and experienced authors with the purpose of fostering community. Conference consists of writing workshops, readings, panel discussions, and craft talks in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Tuition $875 (does not include airfare or lodging)
There will be a free day to explore the City of Recanati and the surrounding Region of Le Marche.
The Gallery Hotel has discounted rates for writers attending the conference.
Jul 31 – Aug 4 Marrakech + Ait Bouguemez (“El Valle Feliz”)
5-day expedition to experience the art and craft of Marrakech and artisan villages in the Atlas Mountains, organized by Duduá (which is dedicated to teaching traditional craft techniques in Barcelona) and local guide Hafida. €1100 (including IVA). Includes transportation within Morocco, room and board (except Sunday lunch and dinner), excursions, workshops, and tours. Does not include airfare.
Activities: Visit rural artisan towns, attend a tapestry workshop with local artisans, visit textile and agricultural cooperatives, take a cooking class with a Berber family, and tour a rose distillery.
Lodging in a historic restored kasbah.
Once-a-year trip with a group limited to 9 people.
Jul 10-14 Northern Troms, Norway
28-year-old international festival focused on fostering pride in the art and culture of the Sámi and other indigenous peoples through music, film, seminars, workshops, art, literature, and theatre. Adult day pass 800 NOK / weekend pass 1,400 NOK
Camping is free.
Takes place annually in the coastal Sami Gáivuotna – Kåfjord municipality in Northern Troms.
Riddu Riđđu means “little storm on the coast” in Sami language.
July 7-29 Águeda
Music and street art festival with a mission to showcase both established artists and new musical projects. There are local handicraft vendors, concerts, performance art, DJs Public art in the city of Águeda includes the Umbrella Sky Project, an installation with thousands of umbrellas over the city’s streets.
Sep 28 – Oct 6 Shetland Islands
Annual nine-day festival of of Shetland’s textile heritage with classes, knitting, spinning, dyeing, weaving, tours, exhibitions, open studios, teas, talks and tours.
By @foulawool via Shetland Wool Week
The Happenings List is my handpicked list of events for people who love art, craft, and culture. I edit event descriptions for length and clarity and do my best to make sure everything is accurate at the time I’m writing it. (Of course, it’s possible that it’s not.)
Let me know if you go to anything on this list!
See captions for photo credits. Uncaptioned photos by Phillip or Stephanie Liebold.
Spring is just around the corner and not only are wildflowers popping up in the desert, so are a ton of festivals, workshops, exhibitions, and other intriguing events.
In fact, I’ve picked out 55 of them from Australia, Italy, New Zealand, South Korea, and across the U.S. to share with you.
I thought you might like to attend a traditional pottery festival in South Korea (#54) or hunt for mushrooms in Australia (#46), wander amongst tulip fields (#37) or cherry blossoms (#40), go to a Star Wars Day screening at a cultural center (#5) or an office party that’s actually a dance performance (#23 + #30), see contemporary Aboriginal Australian art in Reno (#32) or ancient terra cotta warriors in Wellington (#50), attend Arizona’s longest-running film festival (#15) or its festival with the shortest films (#7). I’m also including a few summer and fall events that require advance booking, in case you’d like to learn wood oven cooking in an Italian farmhouse (#49) or photograph brown bears in Alaska (#2), for example.
If you could go anywhere on the list, where would it be?
AND SHE BORROWED HER HUSBAND’S EAGLE FEATHER CAPE by Gertrude Svarny via Anchorage Museum
Now – Apr 14 Anchorage Museum, Anchorage
Exhibition of work by Unangan artist, carver, and weaver Gertrude Svarny, who interprets her history and culture using traditional materials, such as local mineral pigments, seal intestine, and sea lion whiskers.
June 23-25 or July 5-7 Sterling and Lake Clark National Park (Meet at Homewood Suites in Anchorage)
3-day photography tour in bear country, where you can view about 20-40 bears each day with Lisa Langell plus an additional photography instructor. Includes all meals, transportation (including round trip sea plane flights to/from lodge) and lodging (1 night in Sterling and 2 nights in a lodge adjacent to Lake Clark National Park.) $2695 per person
Now – Mar 14, Thursdays at 12:30pm Wells Fargo Garden performance area at Mesa Arts Center, Mesa
Weekly outdoor concerts featuring a variety of music. Bring a folding chair or blanket. Pack a picnic lunch or purchase food on-site. Free.
Now – Apr 30, Tuesdays at 7pm
Cline Library at Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff
Film series on youth in the movies with films about coming of age. A local film expert introduces each film and puts it in context. Each film is followed by a discussion. Free. Donations accepted.
The CAL film series blends well-known audience favorites along with lesser-known movies, as well as a mix of genres, artists, and decades, moving chronologically from past to present so that audiences can see the evolution of the art form.
Free parking behind Cline Library in lot P13 with permit. Create a Guest Account at nau.edu/guest. Then contact NAU Parking by calling 928-523-6623 or emailing ask.parking@nau.edu. Print an evening parking permit for each film and display it on your vehicle dashboard.
Now – Jun 27:The Irish in Latin America exhibition in the McClelland Library’s Exhibit Hall. Traveling exhibit of twenty-three informative panels on the history of Irish immigrants and their descendants across Latin America from 1611- 1968. Tickets $10 (free for ages 6 and under).
Mar 16:St. Patrick’s Day Faire at Hance Park, following the Parade. Irish music and dance performances, food, crafts, Irish clubs, vendors, and children’s area. Tickets $12 (free for ages 12 and under). Free parking at 1850 North Central Avenue garage and round-trip event shuttle (9am-6pm) with purchase of St. Patrick’s Day Faire Ticket.
May 4, 1pm: “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” screening in the Great Hall. Part of the Irish Family Film Series held on International Star Wars Day, this is a celebration of modern cinema in Ireland, where parts of the movie were filmed. Costumes encouraged. Free.
Feb 23 – Mar 3
Sedona
25th anniversary celebration of this festival with over 160 independent films from around the world, including features, shorts, documentaries, animation, foreign films, and student films. 10-ticket pack $130.
7. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Tucson Events
Mar 2, 11am-2pm:Soundwalk with MOCA. Urban hike through downtown Tucson’s streets, washes, gardens, and parks led by local field recordist David Dearmore, who will help you discern the distinct sounds of the city using a combination of “naked-ear” and amplified listening. Participants are encouraged to bring their own recording gear, though some will be provided. Not wheelchair accessible. Registration recommended. Fee $30.
Mar 29, 2:30-9:30pm:Echo Chamber: a day of experimental music performances in The Great Hall. Admission $5.
Apr 27: New Histories: AZ Juried Youth Art Exhibition. MOCA Tucson’s inaugural juried statewide youth art exhibition for painting, sculpture, photography, video, performance, and all 2D/3D and time-based mediums.
May 24:5 Minute Film Festival on Cox Plaza. Festival of documentary, short films, animation, and experimental video that are 5 minutes in length or shorter by filmmakers living or working in Southern Arizona. Free.
March 2, 10am–2pm Amerind Museum, Dragoon
Prepare three traditional Oaxacan Molés — Molé Negro (which uses over 20 ingredients, including bittersweet chocolate), Molé Rojo (which adds dried fruit), and Molé Manchamantales (the “tablecloth stainer” with vibrant red chiles and tomatoes, fresh pineapple, plantain, and honey, and no chocolate). The feast will be rounded out with roasted chicken, rice, tortillas, and a spicy hot chocolate pudding for dessert. To register, call Amerind at 520-586-3666 or email Debbie@amerind.org. Cost: $85 for non-members (feast included!)
March 6, 8am-1:30pm
Visitor Information Center, Yuma (201 N. 4th Ave.)
Half-day farm tour. Hands-on harvesting instruction from a local grower followed by lunch made from the produce you picked. Includes transportation, some veggies to take home, and a healthy, field-fresh lunch. Tickets $55.
March 7 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
The Bungalow@Heritage Square
Learn how to upgrade your handwritten projects with modern calligraphy. You will receive attentive instruction, time to make a few projects, and a goodie bag of supplies to take home, including an instruction booklet. Fee $20 – $22
Mar 14-18
Downtown Phoenix
Five-day, multi-faceted exploration of Phoenix arts and culture at approximately 100 artist studios, galleries, pop-up spaces and other venues, open to the community. Meet artists, see and shop for art, and enjoy live performances.
Mar 14: Opening night Art D’Core Gala at Warehouse215 at Bentley Projects to benefit Artlink Inc. Advance tickets: $20/person, $35/pair. At the door: $25/person, $45/pair. Creative cocktail attire encouraged.
Mar 15-17: Self-guided art space tours, performances, and events.
Mar 16, 11am:Guided tour of the art and architecture of Burton Barr Central Library.
Mar 16- 17 Community Field, Camp Verde
Wine tasting and all-ages festival with a pie baking contest, archaelogy fair, canoe and kayak racing, 40 vendors, and activities for kids.
Mar 17, 11am: Pecan Pie Contest. Competition for the best pecan pie made with local ingredients.
March 21-23 Mesa Convention Center, Mesa
Non-juried show that gives quilt makers the opportunity to share their work with the community. There will be quilts on display, lectures, vendors, quilt appraisals ($75), and a live auction. One-day pass $15 / two-day pass $20.
Mar 23 + April 25
Garden at Bar Bianco, Phoenix
Monthly four-course meal with local and seasonal ingredients hosted by Bar Bianco. Each dinner will be paired with wines from a different winery. Reception starts at 6:30pm with dinner to follow. Tickets $150-250. Featured wineries:
Apr 25-28 Cottonwood
4-day event with guided walks, workshops, vendors, and exhibitors focused on the Verde Valley habitat. Register online by April 17 or on-site starting April 24.
Apr 27, 6:30-8pm: Food + Fun: For the Birds at Calavera Mexican Restaurant, (747 S Main St., Cottonwood). Mixer with a taco bar and musical program and storytelling by Still on the Hill. $40 advanced registration required.
May 4, 10am-5pm Gotham City Comics and throughout Downtown Mesa
Participating downtown Mesa businesses will give away over 10,000 comic books (while supplies last) and host meet-and-greets with comic book artists. There will also be live music, a cosplay contest and a scavenger hunt. Free.
Now – Mar 30
Casemore Kirkeby Gallery, San Francisco
Exhibition of new work by artist Todd Hido. It explores the dark topography of the Northern European landscape during his first foray extensively photographing territory outside of the United States.
Now – Sep (estimated) Huntington Art Gallery, San Marino (Pasadena)
Watch the process of conservation work on the iconic painting The Blue Boy (ca. 1770) by Thomas Gainsborough each Thursday and Friday, 10am – noon + 2-4pm and 2-4pm on the first Sunday of the month. This is one segment of Project Blue Boy, which is ongoing from September 22, 2018 to September 30, 2019.
Free admission with advance reservation 1st Thursday of every month, 10am–5pm.
Apr 2, 6–8pm,
San Francisco Center for the Book, San Francisco
Book artist and letterpress printer Brooke Holve reports back on Book Iceland, her 2018 residency project, where she led artist book workshops focused on the process of making and inspired by Iceland’s landscape.
April 6-7, 12-6pm 1890 Bryant Street Studios, San Francisco
Open studios event at a center for fine artists and craftspersons including bakers, ceramicists, designers, jewelers, musicians, painters, photographers, printmakers, sculptors, and vintners.
A weekend of shopping featuring local, hand-selected artisans, crafters, and DIY enthusiasts selling original fashion, jewelry, ceramics, paper goods, housewares, art, and photography. Both locations below are handicap accessible, open to all ages, and allow leashed pets. Free admission.
Apr 27-28, 10am – 5pm: Central Park, Pasadena.
May 18-19, 11am – 7pm: Downtown Burbank Arts Festival (San Fernando Blvd), Burbank.
Photo via Forney Museum of Transportation, Denver.
Now – Mar 30
Forney Museum of Transportation, Denver
Exhibit of vintage camping trailers that looks at the history and various styles of the “Home away from home.” Museum admission $12.
Mar 1-3, 8-10, 16-17, 23-24, 30-31
Denver Union Station
Historic weekend train trip from Denver Union Station to Winter Park, which originated in 1912. Tickets $39, $49, $59, subject to availability.
Mar 22-24, 10am-10pm
Historic Denver Coliseum, Denver
Performance of historical tribal dances by over 1,000 American Indian Dancers, accompanied by 30+ drum groups. $7/day, elders (60+) $3, children under 6 free
Now – Apr 15 Veterans Memorial Community Center, Las Vegas
A traveling exhibition of items sent to Las Vegas from all over the world expressing love and support in the aftermath of the tragic events of October 1, 2017.
Now – June 23
Nevada Museum of Art, Reno
94 works by contemporary Aboriginal artists from Arnhem Land. Traditionally, these poles (named lorrkkon or larrakitj) marked the final point in Aboriginal mortuary rites. Today, they are made as works of art. Museum admission: $10 (free for children under 5)
Now – Aug 17 Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, Las Vegas
Exhibition exploring form and function through ceramic vessels from West Mexico. Suggested voluntary contribution: $5
Enormous Tiny Art Show via Nahcotta Gallery in Portsmouth, NH.
Nahcotta gallery, Portsmouth, NH
Year-round exhibition both online and in the gallery with hundreds of pieces of original art — each ten by ten inches or smaller — made by artists from all over the globe. The aim is to give art lovers the ability to acquire well-curated, small works of art.
Feb 28, 6:30pm WeWork, New York
Learn how to make your own dumplings with cookbook author Cathy Erway. Workshop is open to the public. Admission $50 (including online ticket fee).
Followed by baked bao demonstration and snacking on dumplings.
Complimentary beer available courtesy of WeWork.
To celebrate the year of the pig, you can take home 1 pack of Local Roots ground pork for making more dumplings.
Mar 23 – Apr 2
Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm, Woodbury
Festival with fresh flowers and food. Stroll through 40 acres of blooming tulip and daffodil bulbs with views of vineyards and distant mountains. All ages and dogs (on leashes) allowed.
Individual admission (one person for one day) $5
Family car day pass (one carload of people for one day) $20
Season pass (one carload of people for the entire festival) $40
Mar 23, 5pm: Opening Ceremony at Warner Theatre. Performance of selections from the new musical “Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon.” Advance tickets required. $5 fee.
Mar 30, 10am-4:30pm: Blossom Kite Festival at Washington Monument Grounds. Kite competitions and demonstrations, public field for flying your own kite, kids’ kite-making activity station, and kite vendors. Free.
Apr 13, 10am-12pm: Parade along Constitution Avenue with floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and entertainment. Standing along the route is free, Grandstand Seating $20.
Now – Sep 20, 2020 New York Avenue (east of the White House)
Public art space featuring changing installations of contemporary works by women artists. Currently on display is Huellas y cicatricez (Traces and scars), four totemic sculptures by Mexico City-based Betsabeé Romero that speak to themes of human migration and the natural environment. The structures are constructed from carved tires with gleaming metallic paint and interior lighting.
Now – Mar 3
Olympic Sculpture Park, Seattle
Installation of suspended glass panes that are, in the words of the artist, “creating a moving abstraction of a sunset.”
Mar 1 – Jun 9 Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA), Bainbridge Island
Installation of Artist’s Books, a lesser-known art form, which may combine drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, gluing and binding, sculpture, photography, textiles, creative writing, and storytelling. While many university libraries have artists’ books in their Special Collections, BIMA seeks to make the art form more visible to the public. Free.
The Garden of St Erth via The Diggers Club Pty Ltd.
Apr 14, 11am:Starting Your Apple Orchard. Learn about the best cider-making fruit varieties and rootstocks, and how to grow and maintain your own fruit trees at home. Afterwards, tour the St Erth orchard and stay for the afternoon cider making session. Fee: $49
Apr 14, 2pm:Cider Making At Home. Learn about the basic equipment you need to brew your own cider. Fee: $49
Apr 28, 11am:Basketry With Natural Fibres. Intimate Masterclass on gathering and drying natural fibres, and weaving with Random weave and Stitching weave methods. Bring your own snips. All other materials supplied. Includes a light lunch and glass of wine. Fee: $99
May 19, 2pm: Organic Pest Control. Learn how to control pests and weeds in your garden the natural way. Fee: $49
Apr 25, 12-4:15pm Gellibrand, Victoria
Introductory workshop on Kingdom Fungi in the Otways region, as well as wider Australian and global contexts. Fungi will be discussed in regard to their ecological roles, edibility, and toxicity. Fee: $50
90-minute interactive session on the basics of fungus identification where participants will get to handle, examine and identify various fungi.
2-hour foray through various local ecosystems to search for species of interest.
La Tavola Marche inn and cooking school in Piobicco, Italy.
Apr 13-14 Fiera Milano, Rho (Milan)
Showcase for Italian furniture and design trends. Admission €25 online / €29 at the door
49. La Tavola Marche Classes
Jul 3-6 or Sep 4-7: Wood Oven Workshop. Includes 3 nights’ accommodations, welcome dinner, Wood Oven class with snacks, wine + handmade apron gift. 3 dinners, 1 lunch, breakfast daily. €1080/couple or €864/single
Oct 15-20:Made in Le Marche: D.O.C. Wine Tour, Artisan Meat and Cheese Market Trip, Craft Beer Tasting + 3 Cooking Classes. Includes 5 nights’ accommodations, welcome dinner, 3 half-day cooking classes with meals, wine + handmade apron gift, 1-day wine tour with lunch and transportation, Pizza Night Dinner, Apecchio market tour and tasting, breakfast daily. €1025/person (Price based on double occupancy.)
Now – Apr 22 Toi Art, Level 4, Wellington
Exhibition featuring eight of the famous 2,300-year-old terra-cotta warriors found at the tomb of China’s First Emperor, two full-size horses, two half-size replica bronze chariots, and over 160 works of ancient Chinese art (from 1046 BCE – 220 CE) crafted from gold, jade and bronze. Admission $9.
Mar 20-24 Ōtaki
New Zealand Film Festival that welcomes Indigenous filmmakers from around the world to celebrate Indigenous creativity and storytelling.
Mar 30-31 Wellington
Festival with a wide range of street performances, including theater, bands, and opera, as well as a parade and interactive art installations. 2019 performers include Cha Wa (New Orleans), Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra (Canada), Electric Fields (Sydney), Hot Potato (Sydney), Alien Weaponry (NZ), Touch Compass (NZ), Tunes of I (Wellington), Phoenix Foundation (Wellington). Free.
Now – May 6 National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Gwacheon
Large-scale international exhibition illuminating the social, political, and cultural changes that occurred throughout Asia from the 1960s to the 1990s and subsequent changes in Asian contemporary art. Includes approximately 170 works by 100 major artists from 13 Asian countries: Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, India, Myanmar, and Cambodia.
Apr 27 – May 5 Mungyeongsaejae Open Set in Gyeongsangbuk-do
Festival of traditional ceramics. Visitors will be able to join in traditional tea ceremony and pottery-making programs, operated by local artisans.
May 3-5 Jongno Street, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Jogyesa Temple, and Bongeunsa Temple, Seoul
Thousand-year-old festival to celebrate Buddha’s birthday and wish the world happiness by lighting lanterns.
May 3-12: Exhibition of Traditional Lanterns.
May 4, 7-9pm: Lantern Parade on Jongno Street (from Dongdaemun Gate to Jogyesa Temple). Thousands of lanterns will create waves of light flowing through the heart of metropolitan Seoul. Anyone can participate.
May 4, 9:30-11pm: Cultural performances at Jonggak Intersection. Lively group dance under a rain of flowers.
May 5, 4-7pm: Traditional Cultural Events in front of Jogyesa Temple. Folk performances including songs, dances and rope walking, along with Buddhist performances, plus a variety of hands-on cultural experiences, such as lantern making and temple food tasting.
May 5, 7-9pm: Yeondeungnori (Final Celebration) from Insa-dong to Jogyesa Temple. Following the performance groups, another lantern parade will be held to express the aspiration for peace and happiness all over the world.
Spring blossoms at Chiricahua National Monument near Willcox, Arizona.
The Happenings List is sourced from a combination of places I’ve visited, Instagram posts, posters I’ve walked by, internet rabbit trails, small-town community bulletin boards, email lists I’m on, and old fashioned hearsay. I fact check as much as I can and edit event descriptions for length and clarity.
I can’t go to everything (no matter how much I’d like to), so I’d love your feedback on any Happenings you’ve participated in!
-S
See captions for photo credits. Uncredited photos by Phillip or Stephanie Liebold.
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