Things to do in Phoenix this weekend – May 18 – 20
Peaches ready to be picked at Schnepf Farms
Looking for something to do in Phoenix this weekend? We took a look at our events calendar this week and noticed a TON of fun things going on, so to make it easy for you we put this list together of things to do for you. You're welcome.
Friday, May 18
Enjoy the spirit and culture of Greater Downtown Phoenix as you mingle with thousands of other residents and visitors. Tour more than 70 art galleries, venues, and related spaces. Print a map from the Art Link website, and guide yourself. Maps are also available at the Phoenix Art Museum.
Third Friday Concert in the Park
Bring your friends along with a chair or blanket and enjoy the sights and sounds of a local band in the Downtown Civic Space Park.
Friday, May 18 - Sunday, May 20
Van Gogh Alive: The Experience
In the heat of the afternoon, nothing feels better than the air conditioning on full blast, so why not head indoors to the Arizona Science Center to view a ground breaking exploration of the work of Vincent Van Gogh. Immersing the visitor in light, sound, movement and color, Van Gogh Alive is a unique exhibition that combines traditional art, multi-media display technology and cinematic direction to create an unparalleled experience that engrosses, educates and entertains.
Saturday, May 19
Downtown Phoenix Spring Fling Pub Crawl
Explore downtown Phoenix's nightlife with the Downtown Phoenix Spring Fling Pub Crawl. Eighteen downtown Phoenix bars and restaurants are part of this fun-filled night of entertainment, food and drink specials only available to Spring Fling participants. Collect Spring Fling beads at participating bars and end the night at the after-hours breakfast.
Short Shorts with Short Leash Dogs
Come down to the second annual summer block party featuring great food, music, and short films. The event is FREE and open to all ages. Patrons should bring their own seat or a blanket.
Short Leash Hot Dogs will be acting as the gourmet concession stand, serving up their top-notch best hot dogs.
AmeriCAN Canned Craft Beer Festival
The 2nd year AmeriCAN Canned Craft Beer Festival celebrates the craft beer movement during the recognized American Craft Beer Week. This festival includes a craft can award ceremony, live entertainment, craft food, VIP quarters, beer science garden, beer Olympics and over 60 local and national breweries celebrating the canned craft beer revolution.
The 5K Foam Fest is a one of a kind event. A fun and exciting challenge for experienced and beginner runners packed with obstacles of all types. The "5K Foam Fest" makes exercising an absolute party.
Saturday, May 19 - Sunday, May 20
Celebrate peach season with the Schnepf Farms annual Peach Festival. Start the day with a pancake breakfast followed by celebrity chef cooking demos. Head to the peach sampling tent or take one of the train rides out to the orchard for peach picking. There will be plenty of activities for the kids with hay rides, train rides and a pie-eating contest.
Between 40 and 60 barbecue teams will be cooking and competing at the Arizona Barbecue Festival. Come out and enjoy a day filled with food, fun and hot competition. The highlight of the Arizona Barbecue Festival is Pit Row, where the cooking teams will be grilling, smoking and braising in their best effort to be named the champion in their barbeque category. The main performance stage will feature live music as well as fun contests and announcements.
Sunday, May 20
Centre for Well-Being Open House at The Phoenician
Discover the latest spa offerings at The Centre for Well-Bring and Salon Mila during this kickoff to summer open house. Enjoy complimentary mini-treatments, vendor product displays, and giveaways all complemented by an exquisite presentation from The Phoenician's award-winning culinary team. RSVP (480) 423-2452.
Luncha Libre Food Truck
It's pretty easy to spot the Luncha Libre food truck.
Luncha Libre is one of the newer local food trucks on the scene and specializes in Arizona inspired food, using local ingredients. After following them on Facebook and Twitter, I was really looking forward to trying their food. Their posts on social media taunted me:
"Here is the Special we are running all day today: ground beef, pork chorizo, pico de gallo, chile con queso, and jalapenos. Served on a locally made talera and served with "truckmade" chips and salsa."
"NEW MENU ITEM : Alejandro "The Great" Quesadilla- Gyro, pico de gallo, feta, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, kalamata olives served with "truckmade" chips and spicy tzatziki."
"We will have 3 NEW MENU ITEMS: Chilled Gazpacho with chilled citrus shrimp, Black bean hummus wrap with marinated vegetables and cotija cheese, and Oven Roasted Turkey breast, bacon, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, and cranberry mayo served in a local "fresh" talera."
I had to try food from this Luncha Libre.
Papa Verde Quesadilla
Finally, I made it. I ordered the Papa Verde quesadilla, made with potatoes, green chiles and jack cheese. The quesadillas from Luncha Libre are huge, when I got my order I thought there was no way I could finish it, but I did. It was filling, but I was not uncomfortably full. You could tell that the ingredients were all very fresh. I also had to restrain myself from licking the last bit of salsa from the cup that they provided. I'll be back again, Luncha Libre.
Make sure to follow Luncha Libre on Facebook and Twitter to find out where they'll be next.
The food truck craze has exploded in Phoenix with many opportunities to eat from these rolling gourmet “restaurants." We’ve eaten from many of the food trucks throughout Phoenix and wanted to highlight them individually for you. You can find the food trucks on a regular basis at the Downtown Phoenix Public Market on Wednesday evenings from 4-8pm, Fridays from 11am – 1:30pm and on Saturdays from 8am – 1pm. At the North Central Farmers’ Market on Saturdays from 9am – 2pm, Fridays at The Phoenix New Times building at 12th Street/Jefferson from 11am – 2pm, Tuesdays at District Mobile in downtown Phoenix at 411 S. 2nd Street from 11am - 2pm, the Third Thursday of the Month at the Whole Foods Raintree location from 11:30am – 1pm. There are always many more opportunities that you can find by following your favorite truck individually or by following the Phoenix Street Coalition. Bon Appétit!
Lux Central
This explains why the orange juice is so fresh.
Lux Central is that place, the neighborhood go-to spot where you can get breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and drinks in a place that feels like home - a really fun home where all the cool kids hang out. I recently visited for the first time and loved it! The place was buzzing with activity. People were typing away on computers (ironically, good ol' fashioned typewriters are central to the decor), chatting it up with friends and listening to music.
We were on a mission to get a late breakfast, so we jumped right into the order line. They serve such fresh food that two of the breakfast items had already been marked off the day's menu. Luckily for us, they still had the Eggs with Veggie Hash and the Egg Sandwich. Yum on both counts. And the orange juice is f-r-e-s-h.
Eggs with Veggie Hash
Egg Sandwich with Bacon, Tomato & Cheddar
View from the bar
So, the next time you want to get out and about and really feel like you're a part of the community, head to Lux Central. It's highly likely that you'll run into someone you know. We did.
Check our more Lux Central photos on Flickr.
Lux Central
4402 N. Central Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85016
602.696.9976
SummerScapes – Win a Resort Getaway!
It's that time of year again - our SummerScapes Sweepstakes is back! You can win one of seven fabulous packages to some of Phoenix's most luxurious resorts. All you have to do is enter by June 30th.
Packages
Enjoy a 2-night getaway amid the summer of blockbuster festivities that is “Hollywood & Wine.” The two of you will retreat to Ocatilla, Arizona Biltmore’s exclusive hotel-within-a-hotel, and enjoy signature fine dining at Wright’s. Ocatilla offers a private concierge and pool, plus complimentary continental breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, right in the middle of show-stopping food, drink and entertainment, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The spotlight is on Arizona Biltmore!
This summer, spark a new family tradition at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Every Saturday (from Memorial Day to Labor Day), we’ll light up the night sky with a spectacular fireworks show -- sure to delight both children and inner kids alike. Book our Sip, Savor & Splash package from $159 per night and enjoy fireworks, as well as a $50 resort credit that can be used towards dining, spa, tennis and Bobcat Billy’s Clubhouse programs for kids.
Four Season Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
Bask in Serenity at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North. Your private desert hideaway awaits! Enjoy a two-night stay for two in sumptuous one-bedroom suite accommodations, equipped with a private plunge pool, outdoor garden shower and telescope for stargazing. Enjoy two complimentary appetizers and two signature Troon Traditional Margaritas in Onyx Bar & Lounge, followed by dinner for two in Talavera restaurant, showcasing modern steakhouse cuisine and highlighting dramatic Valley and desert views.
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch
Set amidst flowering cactus, breathtaking sunsets and framed against the majestic McDowell Mountains, you will enjoy a 2 Night/3 Day Couples Getaway. Included are Deluxe Guest Room Accommodations, a Couples Massage in the Avania Suite at Spa Avania, named the #1 Hotel Spa in Arizona by Travel + Leisure magazine’s “World’s Best” Readers Survey Awards and dinner for 2 at SWB’s “Wine Me Dine Me”, an up-close and personal experience with Chef and his culinary team.
JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
It's your fling. Do your thing. Your summer escape starts here. The entire family wins! Play in the pools including the popular Lazy River, kids eat free, internet is free and even a round of golf is in your future, yes also free. And best of all – a daily $50 resort credit and no resort fee.
Renowned Chef Michael Cairns, one of the valleys most prominent culinary figures, has joined the Montelucia family and set about turning the resort into a true dining destination. The “Taste of Montelucia” Package, is offering a Andalusian styled guest room, and dining credits to both ROQ and Prado Restaurants. Montelucia is a destination for a palette with the taste for luxury and exquisite cuisine.
A toast to the perfect morning with a Royal Sunrise! Create lasting memories this summer with an indulgent weekend getaway. Enjoy a “Royal Sunrise” with one night of luxury accommodations and breakfast for two at T. Cook’s, where you can choose to enjoy banana-pecan French toast, baked oatmeal brûlée, a Spanish egg-white frittata, or any other of T. Cook's scrumptious breakfast entrées at a table on the terrace or in the cozy dining room.
RED Opens at the Herberger Theater
The Arizona Theatre Company will wrap its 2011-2012 season with the production of RED, a show that explores the world of expressionist painter Mark Rothko. To add to the excitement of the much-anticipated Tony Award-winning Broadway hit, Arizona Theatre Company has partnered with local businesses and fellow arts organizations to offer RED-themed discounts and promotions during the show’s run.
RED is scheduled to run May 3 – May 20, 2012, at the Herberger Theater Center. ‘Paint the Town RED’ promotions include:
Phoenix Art Museum – Mark Rothko is on display at PAM. FREE viewing of documentary Rothko’s Rooms May 20, 2012 at 1p.m. ATC offers discounted tickets to PAM members; PAM offers RED patrons “Buy One, Get One Free” admission to Museum.
Clarendon Hotel/Gallo Blanco –will “paint” its exterior in red light during RED’s run at Herberger Theater. Gallo Blanco offers happy hour pricing anytime during business hours (through May 20, 2102) to patrons with ATC ticket stub. Clarendon Hotel offers 20% room rate using promo code “ATC” (year-round).
District American Kitchen & Wine Bar – will offer Rosenblum Red Zinfindel by the glass for $5 and Red American Sangria for $4 (May 3-20, 2012). District offers special pre-theatre dinner menu during run of RED (May 3-20, 2012).
Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel – will offer red-hot rates starting from $99 for theatergoers from now through May 21, 2012. The offer: http://www.sheratonphoenixdowntown.com/theater.
Coronado Café – Will offer half off a bottle of red wine with purchase of an entrée when theatergoer shows RED ticket stub. Offer is valid through May 20, 2012.
Phoenix Music Events – May
Our marketing intern, Marcos, has a passion for all the fun events that happen around Phoenix. He put together another great blog post that features musical events happening in Phoenix. Thanks, Marcos!
Afternoon Concert and Food Trucks Series at Civic Space Park
The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is bringing live music to the downtown lunch scene with the Civic Space Lunchtime Concert Series at Civic Space Park. A concert every Wednesday in May from 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the park's outside amphitheater stage. The concerts are free to the public and will feature outstanding performing and visual arts. Food trucks will offer fantastic foods to eat while listening to local musicians.
Details: Civic Space Park in Downtown Phoenix, 424 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix. Admission: Free, Every Wednesday in May, May 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th. 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Live Music at Desert Ridge Marketplace
Come out to the Desert Ridge Marketplace and enjoy live performances from local musicians every Friday and Saturday night near the District Stage and AMC Fountain Area; each week different performers will showcase their music for you to enjoy. Visit website for a list of performers.
Details: Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix. Admission: Free, Every Friday and Saturday, May 4-5th, 11-12th, 18-19th, 25-26th, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Live Music Entertainment at Westgate City Center
Live entertainment every Friday and Saturday evening across from AMC Theater, set in a perfect square and made of lush gardens, picturesque Fountain Park provides a serene environment in a true paradise setting. Centered by an interactive fountain (splash pad), families and friends alike can share in laughter and fun as they pop into the streaming shots of water and enjoy a sunny afternoon.
Details: Fountain Park at Westgate City Center, 6770 N. Sunset Boulevard, Glendale. Admission: Free, Every Friday and Saturday, May 4-5th, 11-12th, 18-19th, 25-26th, 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Live Music at the Arizona Center feat. Michael Villanueva Duo
Live Music Series featuring Michael Villanueva Duo will bring live bands to the Grand Staircase located on the southwest corner of the property to hear these great acts. Live Music series will include classic rock-n-roll, country, contemporary cover music, and jazz. Feel free to stop by and enjoy the live music while also taking advantage of one of the many restaurant Happy Hours. Don't forget, the Arizona Center offers two hours of free parking with restaurant or retail validation.
Details: Grand Staircase at Arizona Center, 400 E. Van Buren Street, Phoenix. Admission: Free, Friday, May 4th, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Blues, Bruise and BBQs Cinco de Mayo Festival
The Westside Sports Complex or better known as Fear Farm will be transformed into a huge backyard playground with the sweet aroma of barbeque and amazing blues tunes wafting through the air. The 2012 Blues, Bruise and BBQs will showcase the best that BBQ has to offer, with mouth-watering pork ribs, pulled pork, brisket and chicken, paired with a full lineup of blues bands, body-painting competition and beer gardens. Live music by renowned national festival acts the Delgado Brothers a popular Latin blues band from Los Angeles, Leon J & Juke Joint, and eight regional and local blues bands.
Details: Westside Sports Complex, 2149 N. 99th Avenue, Phoenix. Admission: $10.00 - $65.00, Saturday, May 5th, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. (623) 308-2860.
Desert Fiesta with Freddie Duran Live Music at El Pedregal
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with longtime Phoenix favorite Freddie Duran. He'll play a mix of Latin Jazz, Tejano, and American hits. Located at The Boulders, el Pedregal a outdoor location and expansive amphitheater with professional raised stage and first-class lighting to host concerts, cultural and charity events.
Details: El Pedregal at the Boulders Resort, 34505 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Admission: Free, Sunday, May 6th, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., (480) 488-1072
Music in the Garden Spring Concert Series - Chele'
The Desert Botanical Garden is proud to bring another season of stellar talent to the Music in the Garden Spring Concert Series. Enjoy the music of beloved favorites and new performers in the most breathtaking venue in town. Featuring Chele' a Jazz and Soul artist, combining interests from an extensive arts and entertainment background, Chele’ brings another seasoned and sultry performance to Music in the Garden.
Details: Desert Botanical Garden in the Ullman Terrace, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Admission: Admission: Member: $15.00; General Public: $21.00; Children: $8.00 and all children under 3 are free, Friday, May 11th, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Shining Star Live Music at El Pedregal
Carefree Sunday's with Live Music at El Pedregal featuring Shining Star, with frontrunner Jodi Light on vocals and keyboard; Kenny Cross and Cliff Porter on lead vocals; Mario Mendivil on Bass; Anthony Kinchion on lead and rhythm guitar; Rich Reed on drums; Dave Baradic on keys and Ted Belledin on saxophone and keys, the Shining Star band performs dance, contemporary, oldies, Latin, ballads, duets, jazz and traditional sounds.
Details: El Pedregal at the Boulders Resort, 34505 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Admission: Free, Sunday, May 13th, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (480) 488-1072
The Arizona Winds Concludes 2011-2012 Season with Movie Magic
The Arizona Winds concludes its 2011-2012 concert season with a very special concert presentation called "Movie Magic-Hollywood's Musical Legacy". These programs explore the wonderful music of some of America's iconic film composers including John Williams, Harold Arlin, Henry Mancini, Hans Zimmer, James Horner, Jerry Goldsmith and Leonard Bernstein.
Details: Mountain Ridge High School Auditorium, 22800 N. 67th Avenue, Glendale. Admission: Free, Sunday, May 13th, 3:00 p.m. (623) 931-4434
Music in the Garden Spring Concert Series - Pick and Holler
Making their Music in the Garden debut, Pick & Holler reincarnates their influences of “old dead fiddlers and banjo pickers” to create a unique and enchanting old time string band performance. Enjoy the music of beloved favorites and new performers in the most breathtaking venue in town.
Details: Desert Botanical Garden in the Ullman Terrace, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Admission: Member: $15.00; General Public: $21.00; Children: $8.00 and all children under 3 are free, Friday, May 18th, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (480) 481-8188
The Arizona Winds Concludes 2011-2012 Season with Movie Magic
The Arizona Winds concludes its 2011-2012 concert season with a very special concert presentation called "Movie Magic-Hollywood's Musical Legacy" will explore the wonderful music of some of America's iconic film composers including John Williams, Harold Arlin, Henry Mancini, Hans Zimmer, James Horner, Jerry Goldsmith and Leonard Bernstein.
Details: Sonoran Plaza in Sun City Grand, 19753 N. Remington Drive, Surprise. Admission: Free, Sunday, May 20th, 3:00 p.m. (623) 931-4434
Music in the Garden Spring Concert Series - Chris Burton Jacome
The Desert Botanical Garden is proud to bring another season of stellar talent to the Music in the Garden Spring Concert Series. Enjoy the music of beloved favorites and new performers in the most breathtaking venue in town. Featuring Chris Burton Jacome a Flamenco Guitar/ Latin musician, he studied flamenco guitar in Spain with some of the greatest performers of the era, Chris Burton Jácome returns with his ensemble to the Garden with a flawless and captivating flamenco performance.
Details: Desert Botanical Garden in the Ullman Terrace, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Admission: Admission: Member: $15.00; General Public: $21.00; Children: $8.00 and all children under 3 are free, Friday, May 25th, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (480) 481-8188
