Easter events, brunches, egg hunts and more in Phoenix
With the eggstravaganza of Easter events happening throughout Phoenix, you will have an egg-citing time hunting colorful eggs and candy or finding the perfect Easter brunch to enjoy with friends and family. Many of the hotels and resorts will host Easter Brunch events to please each bunny in your household.
Photos with the Easter Bunny
3/30/2012-4/1/2012; 4/6/2012-4/7/2012
Free Photo with the Easter Bunny at Desert Ridge Marketplace
Take the kids to the Barnes and Noble Fountain at Desert Ridge Marketplace for a free professional downloadable photo with the Easter Bunny.
Details: Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd, Phoenix. Admission: Free, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, March 30th, 31st, April 1st, 6th and 7th. Friday and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
3/30/2012-4/1/2012; 4/6/2012-4/7/2012
Photo with the Easter Bunny at Westgate City Center
Take the children to Fountain Park at Westgate City Center to get a free downloadable photo with the Easter Bunny on the weekend before Easter and Easter weekend. The Easter Bunny will not be available Easter Sunday.
Fountain Park is located across from AMC, 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 North Sunset Boulevard, Glendale. Admission: Free, March 30th, 31st, April 1st, 6th and 7th. Friday’s, Saturdays 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. and Sunday, 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Easter Egg Hunt/ Festivals
3/31/2012
Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt in Fountain Hills
Watch as hundreds of children scramble to pick up over 15,000 eggs stuffed with candy and other prizes. Held on the ball fields, this event is a sure way to begin the spring season. Hoppy Bunny will serve as Master of Ceremonies and Clucky the Chicken will join again this year to hang out with kids and take photos.
The event is open to children up to seven years old who must be accompanied by an adult. Arrive early as the "main event" starts promptly at 9:00 a.m. The Kiwanis will be at the park again this year for their popular "Pancake Breakfast". Get to the park early and have a hearty breakfast before the main event. You can also visit with the Fountain Hills Fire Department, which will have trucks to climb on and firefighters to show the kids their gear. No event would be complete without inflatable bouncers to play on and lots of egg-citement.
Details: Golden Eagle Park, 15900 East Golden Eagle Blvd., Fountain Hills, AZ. 85268, Admission: Free, Saturday March 31st, 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
3/30/2012-4/1/2012
Culinary Festival of Chocolates, Confections and Fine Art
A culinary marketplace, fine art sale and Easter festivities including an Easter Egg Hunt for the children will be found at the Culinary Festival of Chocolates, Confections and Fine Art.
Creative confections, decadent chocolate creations and a variety of delicious delectable's will be woven throughout the four acre botanical park located in the heart of downtown Carefree, with a large variety of fine art and crafts also available for purchase, directly from the artist. Musical and other entertainment will take place on the Carefree Amphitheater stage throughout the event.
Easter Egg Hunt for the kids will take place at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday with an Easter Bunny Kid's Craft and Play Zone.
Details: Carefree Desert Gardens, 101 Easy Street, Carefree. Admission: Free, Friday – Sunday, March 30th to April 1st, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (480) 488-2014
4/7/2012
Peoria Sports Complex Easter Egg Hunts
Dolly Sanchez Memorial Annual Easter Egg Hunts at the Peoria Sports Complex featuring inflatable activities, carnival games, arts and crafts, magic show, petting zoo, a pony ride, the Great Arizona Puppet Theatre and much more.
Bring your Easter Basket for the Annual Easter Egg Hunt, starting at 8:20 a.m. from ages 1-10 years with a 15 minute window per age group.
Details: Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria. Admission: Free with canned food donation, Saturday, March 7th, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
4/7/2012
Easter Egg-Citement at Schnepf Farms
Easter Egg Hunt for children at Schnepf Farm starting at 11:00 a.m. will be divided per age groups. Admission includes a wristband for unlimited rides including train and carousel, entrance to the petting zoo and honeybee ride also an Easter cookie and hot dog lunch per child admission.
Details: Schnepf Farms, 24810 South Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek. Admission: $25.00 per child, adults free, Saturday, April 7th, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Reservations recommended (480) 987-3100
4/7/2012
Ahwatukee's 36th Annual Easter Parade and Spring Fling
The Ahwatukee's Annual Easter Parade will start at 10:00 a.m. and begin at 48th Street and Warner Road in Ahwatukee and end at Cheyenne and Warner Road. The Spring Fling will begin at after the Easter Parade and will include entertainment, rides, kids Easter activities.
Details: Ahwatukee Community Park, 4700 E. Warner Road, Phoenix. Admission: Free, Saturday, April 7th, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (480) 893-1942
The Easter Celebration in south Chandler provides some of the most enthusiastic Easter Egg Scrambles in the Valley for kids up to 9 years of age. In addition to the egg hunts there will be information booths, displays, and interactive amusements. There will be a Family Easter Basket Give-Away.
Details: Snedigar Sportsplex, 4500 South Basha Road,Chandler. Admission: Free, Saturday, April 7th, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
4/8/2012
Easter Egg Hunt at Tumbleweed Park
Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt where the hunts will be grouped by age. Children ages 2 to 12 are invited to participate in the egg hunts starting at 9:00 a.m... There will be fantastic door prizes as well as many activities for the children. Free breakfast will be provided for all parents and children who attend. There will also be additional children's activities after the egg hunt.
Details: Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Road, Chandler. Admission: Free, Sunday, April 8th, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
4/8/2012
Easter Egg Hunt at Encanto Park
Take the children out for one of the largest Easter egg hunts in the Valley. With age groups starting every 15 minutes your little ones to the oldest have a chance to collect as many colored Easter eggs as they can. Filled with prizes and 20 golden egg prizes, everyone will have a fantastic time. Bring your own basket and ready to hunt. The Easter Bunny will also be available all day for pictures.
Details: Enchanted Island Amusement Park at Encanto Park, 1202 West Encanto Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ. 85007, Admission: Free, Sunday, April 8th, 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., (602) 254-1200
Easter Brunch
The Westin Kierland has long been known to host one of the best Easter egg hunts in town, but now guests can enjoy an innovative Easter brunch experience inside the resort’s prestigious Trailblazer’s Ballroom. Featuring sweeping floor-to-ceiling views of the Kierland Golf Course and McDowell Mountains, the 2012 Easter champagne brunch offers delectable dishes from a carving station, seafood, sushi and nigiri station, risotto station and more. The Marshall’s Pavilion will have a petting zoo, hot air balloon rides, bounce house, face painting, and games with the Easter Egg Hunts at 9:00 am for ages 2 to 12.
• $79.00 per adult, $25.00 per child age 5-12, children under 5 eat free
• Event and Brunch from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
• Reservations: (480) 624-1000480 624-1000
Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa
If your family is all about fun, then Ko'Sin Restaurant at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa in Chandler may be just what you're looking for. This non-traditional meal will feature a circus like atmosphere, with various different food stations set up throughout the lower lobby. In the Ko'Sin Marketplace you will be able to create customized gnocchi, ceviche, and omelets, or simply stop by the tamale or meat carving station. If you have a sweet tooth, you can enjoy traditional French toast, or hot and freshly made doughnuts. Ko'Sin knows you can't have a circus without cotton candy, and they will be serving it up with a twist. Paying homage to the Pima cotton fields on the Gila River Indian Community they will be serving an 'Orange-Guajillo' version.
• $70.00 adults, $63.00 seniors, $35.00 children 4-12, Children under 4 free
• Serving: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (602) 225-0100
Enjoy valley views while dining at the Wrigley Mansion Club on Easter Sunday. It is a champagne brunch with all-you-can-drink champagne or mimosas.
• $75.00 for adults, $37.50 for kids 6-12, 5 and under eat for free
• Seatings at 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., or 3:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (602) 553-7395
District American Kitchen and Wine Bar
A full breakfast bar with honey glazed ham and pastries, oysters, seafood, and both omelet and mac and cheese stations where you can customize your creations. The kids can enjoy green eggs and ham and a complimentary craft, where they can decorate their own Easter basket. For the adults, there will be a bottomless Bloody Mary Bar and bottomless mimosas to enjoy.
• $29.00 adults, $14.50 for children
• Brunch: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (602) 817-5400
Celebrate Easter with a champagne brunch at the Golf Club S. Menu highlights include, Scrambled eggs and eggs Benedict, assorted breakfast meats, breakfast potatoes, fresh fruits, baskets of fresh-baked pastries, signature salads, slow-roasted prime rib, chicken piccata, baked ham, baked salmon hollandaise, decadent dessert table, sparkling wine and mimosas.
• Brunch will be served 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• $39.95 for adults, $18.95 for children 6-12
• Reservations: (480) 948-0260
JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort
The Easter brunch at Blue Sage includes a festive Easter grand buffet featuring fresh fruit and berries station, variety of salads, seafood items like shrimp and oysters. Hot buffet with Belgian waffles, blue corn pancakes, omelet station. Lunch include a pasta station, with Alfredo, penne pasta with mushrooms, a carving station of maple glazed ham, herb rubbed New York strip steak and salmon wellington and sushi roll station. Desserts include a chocolate fountain and Cold Stone ice cream with waffle cones.
• Brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; Lunch 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• $65.00 per adult, $32.50 per child under 12
• Reservations: (480) 293-3988
Special Easter entrees will be served including lobster and crab salad sandwich and smoked salmon Quiche. Diners may also enjoy the Bloody Mary Bar, where they can make their own cocktail. Special Easter entrees with slow-roasted herb-crusted prime rib with Yukon gold mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, creamy horseradish and au jus.
• The annual Easter Egg Hunt will start at 9:00 a.m. on the ZuZu patio; participants should meet under the pink and purple balloons. Prizes will be awarded to those who collect the most eggs, and to the lucky child that finds the golden egg.
• A la carte menu
• Brunch from 6:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Dinner 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (480) 421-7997
Attend an elegant Easter brunch in the Camelback Ballroom at The Phoenician with a classic menu of enticing favorites and artisan specialties including garlic-rubbed leg of lamb, mesquite-rubbed prime rib of beef, glazed ham, pasta, a breakfast favorites like omelets, waffles, pancakes, crepes and other breakfast fare, Seafood, including a sushi, raw bar, antipasti and an assortment of imported and domestic cheeses; all complemented by a variety of house-made pastries and desserts.
• Brunch served 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• $89.00 per person, $44.50 for children 3-12 years of age
• Reservations: (480) 423-2449
Make this Easter holiday special and dine at the Café at the Heard Museum. Enjoy a special prix-fixe brunch menu, music and performances. Celebrate Easter with friends or family without cooking a thing. Soda, coffee and iced teas are included; beer, wine, champagne and cocktails are additional.
• $30.00 for adults, $25.00 for Heard Museum members, $15.00 for children age 12 and under
• Brunch served 10:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (602) 252-8840
Easter brunch at Aunt Chilada’s will include a Mexican and Southwestern style Easter brunch will be served with classic favorites like pancakes, fresh fruit, omelet's, and Latin flavors like El Pollo Fundido, Red Chile con Carne with Gordita's and much more. You'll find plenty to eat for Easter Brunch.
• $24.95 Adults and $10.95 Children 10 years and under
• Brunch: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; Regular Menu after 2:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (602) 944-1286
Enjoy Easter brunch at Compass Arizona Grill with a view of the city in this rotating restaurant. The menu includes herb roasted prime rib, roasted garlic leg of lamb, pan seared fresh fish and achiote chicken with grilled pineapple and al pastor sauce to name just a few. Favorites you won't want to miss include the Danish style pancakes and eggs benedict, cocktail shrimp, crab claws, assorted sushi, salads, artisan breads and handcrafted cheeses. Final temptations include assorted bread puddings, cakes, pies and tortes, ice cream sundae bar and chocolate fondue with peeps, sweets and treats. There will be a children's activity and a visit from the Easter Bunny.
• $69.00 for adults, $30.00 for children ages 5 - 12, and free for children 4 and under
• Reservations: (602) 252-1234 ext 4510
The Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort
Enjoy a panoramic view of the Valley for Easter brunch featuring a menu of fresh waffle and frittata stations, and carving and grill stations with slow-roasted prime rib, grill baby lamb chops, Kurobuta pork loin and grilled oysters on the half shell. A medley of seafood including snow crab claws, marinated green lip mussels, little neck clams, lemon tea poached shrimp, and smoked and poached wild salmon. The restaurant also will feature its signature lobster bisque, roasted game hens, braised short ribs and an assortment of desserts.
• $59.95 per adult; $29.95 per child
• 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (602) 866-7500
In addition to El Chorro's legendary Eggs Benedict, the menu highlights will include a host of entrees including honey baked ham with dried cherry glaze, green chile chicken enchiladas, a carving station with slow roasted turkey with cranberry mayonnaise, and New York strip loin with au jus and horseradish cream. El Chorro's Easter Brunch will include a dessert station with seven different indulgences including lavender chocolate-dipped strawberries, strawberry shortcake, and Easter cupcakes.
• $49.00 for adults and $16.00 for children ages 4 to 12
• Brunch at 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (480) 948-5170
La Hacienda, The Grill at the TPC Scottsdale, Bourbon Steak and LV Bistro collaborate for one Easter Brunch at La Hacienda Plaza. The Easter Brunch features Latin and traditional American favorites to give guest the best Easter Brunch in town. Don't forget their pastry team will have Easter Egg Cookies, a chocolate fountain and a kid's dessert station. The resort will have a Bunnyland Easter Egg Hunt at 11:30 a.m., a petting zoo and a live band.
• $70.00 for adults, $29.00 for children ages 6 - 12 and children 5 and younger for free
• Services 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (480) 585-4848
There’s no place like the celebrated ambiance of the Arizona Biltmore, with its historic architecture and beautiful flowering gardens, to celebrate a traditional Easter. Choose from lavish brunches or special lunch and dinner menus, while the resort’s colorful annual Easter Egg Hunt will put a beaming smile on your kids’ faces.
The warm and gracious Frank Lloyd Wright Ballroom will be the setting for the most extravagant Easter Champagne Brunch - stations include breakfast, omelet & frittata, antipasti, salad, entrée, seafood, carving and dessert stations, plus the “Kid’s Korral” offering the gamut of favorite children’s foods. Prepared by Executive Chef Todd Sicolo. Each guest will receive a take-home present of an Easter cookie.
• $75 for adults, $36 for children 12 and under, infants free, plus tax and gratuity.
• Served 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Last seating time is 3:00pm).
• Reservations: (602) 381-7632
Easter brunch at Wright's features a cornucopia of buffet and plated stations including breakfast, farm fresh eggs, omelets and frittatas, carving boards, iced seafood bar, entrees, small plates, salads, pastas and from the bakery with an array of breads and desserts.
• Adults are $95, children 12 and under $40, not including tax and gratuity. Infants are free.
• served 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m
• Reservations: (602) 381-7632
• Served 6:00 to 9:30 p.m., Executive Sous Chef Conor Favre is preparing a three-course tasting menu for this special occasion.
The menu is $80. Reservations required.
The Biltmore’s newly opened restaurant, Frank & Albert's features Arizona comfort foods and American classics prepared with the freshest indigenous ingredients, is offering breakfast, lunch and dinner options on Easter.
• $19 for adults, $10 children under 12, free for infants (buffet); $55 for adults, $29 children under 12, free for infants (lunch and dinner)
• Buffet Breakfast served 7:00 - 11:00am; Three-course, pre-fixe Easter menu for lunch (11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) or dinner (5:00 to 11:00 p.m.)
• Reservations: (602) 381-7632
The Market Cafe provides diners with views of the relaxing, lush resort while they enjoy a delicious Easter Brunch. Favorite brunch items include Belgian waffles, an omelet station, and variety of meat and fish entrees, domestic and imported cheeses, salads, vegetables and never forget the desserts.
• $48.95 for adults and $29.95 for children 5 - 12
• Service: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Reservations (602) 225-9000
Easter Brunch at Top of the Rock featuring a carving station, made-to-order omelets and frittatas, a selection of seafood and sushi, farm greens, entrees and desserts. Menu items also include: Smoked Prime Rib with Jalapeno Horseradish Cream, made to order crepes with cinnamon, traditional pancakes and masa corn cakes with triple berry compote and goat cheese, assorted sushi and nigiri. Top of the rock salad with apple, pecan, grilled zucchini, pepper feta, and maple lime vinaigrette, pastrami, smoked, and cured salmon with citrus aioli, cream cheese and mini bagels.
• $64.95 per person
• Service: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (602) 431-2370
The Boulders: A Waldorf Astoria Resort
An Easter Brunch featuring an assortment of salads, a chilled seafood station, Chef Tables with carved meat and omelets, specialty entrees and house made desserts. Easter Brunch includes: Orange Infused Ricotta Cheese Stuffed Crepes Topped with Savory Fruit Salsa; Jumbo Prawns, Crab Claws, Clams on the Half Shell, Cocktail Sauce, Tabasco, and Minuet Sauce; Carved Strip Loin of Beef with Creamed Horseradish Sauce, Organic Garden Rosemary Au Jus, with Artisan Rolls; Pan Seared Sea Bass with a Truffle Beurre Blanc served with Wild Rice and Mushrooms; Basil Infused Broccolini with Baby Carrots; Petit Pastries; Danishes; Muffins.
• $62.00 per person; $25.00 per child age 6-12; children 5 and under free
• Services: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
• Reservations: (480) 488-9009
Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort
On Easter Sunday Rico's American Grill will feature made-to order omelets, made-to-order pancakes and French toast, a "Little Italy" pasta station, salad bar, carving station and specialty items including Southwestern eggs Benedict, three chili marinated pork loin, and slow-roasted top sirloin with roasted onion au jus.
• $49.00 for adults, $29.00 for children and free for children age 8 and under
• Dining hours: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (602) 997-2626
Easter Dinners
Enjoy a scenic view while celebrating Easter at J and G Steakhouse. In addition to the a la carte menu, there will be the following three course prix fixe meal: Sweet Pea Soup, Vegetable and Croutons or Spicy Tuna Tartare with Black Olive and Cucumber or asparagus risotto, lemon, Parmesan and herbs; Salmon truffle vinaigrette Sugar snap peas or Grilled lamb porterhouse, caramelized Brussels sprouts and pistachio pesto or Parmesan crusted chicken, artichoke, basil and lemon butter. Desert will be a warm chocolate cake or Pavlova passion fruit or Raspberry soup with mixed berries and from age blanc sorbet.
• $58.00 per person
• Served: 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (480) 941-8200
JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort
Enjoy Easter Dinner at Meritage Steakhouse with a choice of Easter carrot soup, Caesar salad or spring greens salad with Easter egg radish, roasted corn, cucumber and pistachios in citrus vinaigrette. Entrees include a choice of roasted lamb chops served with mint chimichurri, house-smoked prime rib, and northern halibut in a lemon caper butter sauce with blood orange slaw. Family-style side dishes include a spring vegetable assortment of peas, yellow beans, carrots, zucchini, squash, wild mushrooms and smoked shallot mashed potatoes. Desserts include a duo of triple chocolate Napoleon with wild strawberry, peach and Sicilian pistachio gelato.
• $55.00 per adult; $27.50 per child under 12
• Service: 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Reservations: (480) 293-3988
Toast the holiday with the Cider Bellini or Bitter Grapefruit Martini while dining on specialty menu items by Executive Chef, Brian Feirstein including: carved, whole roasted leg of lamb; BBQ pork flatbread with pepperjack cheese, Scottish king salmon with green peppercorn and smoked sea salt, barbecued lentils and sweet corn demi. Desserts include key lime chevre cheesecake with vanilla red wine reduction, flourless chocolate cake with warm chocolate Ganache, vanilla bean ice cream and cherry chutney.
• Serving from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• A la carte pricing
• Reservations: (480) 922-5666
Phoenix Music Events – March
Our marketing intern, Marcos, has a passion for all the fun events that happen around Phoenix. He put together the blog post below that features musical events happening in March in Phoenix. Thanks, Marcos!
Greater Phoenix has a number of concerts for all to enjoy, from famous award-winning musicians to local artists. Take a listen to what Phoenix has to offer, dance and smile to the wonderful sounds of music and musical theater!
Gerry Cullity’s – Alice in Wonderland
Enjoy Gerry Cullity's original music and lyrics of this original adaptation. Join the adventures of young Alice as she explores a zany wonderland in this children's classic by Lewis Carroll. On an idle afternoon, by chance, following a White Rabbit who disappears into its burrow, Alice herself stumbles into the rabbit hole and soon is immersed in a colorfully and exciting Wonderland. Whimsical songs and discoveries surround her as she encounters a crew of madcap characters including the Queen of Hearts and, yes, an army of playing cards
Details: Desert Stages Theatre, 4720 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. Admission: $15.00 adults, $12.00 children, March 23rd, 24th, 25th, Hours: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Matinee on Saturdays, Sundays at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. (480) 483-1664
Afternoon Concert 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. Every Wednesday on the parks outside amphitheater stage, the concerts are free to the public and will feature outstanding performing and visual arts.
Details: Civic Space Park in Downtown Phoenix, 424 N. Central Ave, Phoenix. Admission: Free, Wednesday’s, March 21st and 28th, 11:45 a.m. to 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.
Details: Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix. Admission: Free, Friday’s and Saturday’s, March 23rd - 24th, and March 30th - 31st,. 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
World Celebration – Avant Garden
Join DJ Miguel Ivery in celebrating world cultures through dance followed by the dynamic world music of traveler. Dubbed the “Valley’s mixmaster maestro of bossa nova baselines and jazzy globetrotting jams” by the Phoenix New Times, DJ Miguel Ivery lays down unique world beats enhanced by traditional dance performances from around the world. Traveler returns to the Desert Botanical Garden with their captivating multi-ethnic fusion of music. Featuring unique instruments from around the globe and entrancing gypsy violin,
Details: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. Admission: Members: $12.00; General Public: $18.00, Thursday, March 22nd, Hours: 6:00 p.m - 9:00 p.m., (480) 941-1225
Cubano Be, Cobano Bop: Poncho Sanchez and Latin Jazz Band featuring Terence Blanchard
Two Grammy Award-winning jazz legends share the stage in one sizzling concert. Trumpeter Terence Blanchard joins with percussionist Poncho Sanchez and his Latin Jazz Band in a red-hot tribute to the Afro-Cuban jazz pioneered by the Original Conga King Chano Pozo and Dizzy Gillespie, whose 1947 concert at Carnegie Hall forever changed the face of American music.
Details: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 East Second Street, Scottsdale. Admission: $29.00 - $39.00, Friday, March 23rd, 8:00 p.m. (480) 499-8587
Music in the Garden Spring Concert Series - Pete Pancrazi
Pete Pancrazi blends original compositions and Latin Jazz to create a unique and inviting atmosphere. One of the most notable artists in Phoenix, this master of Bossa Nova will create the perfect ambiance for a relaxing evening
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, March 23rd, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (480) 481-8124
Native Trails, presented by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and produced by the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, will debut its tenth season of free noontime festivals dedicated to exploring the rich and varied cultures of Native America. There sensory journey to the First Nations of Arizona and North America. Musical performances using traditional instruments such as flutes, gourds and drums will delight your ears. A variety of colorful dances ranging from inter-tribal pow wow dances to the excitement and energy of the hoop dance will amaze your eyes. And the rhythmic drumbeat in your chest as you join the performers for a traditional round dance will energize your spirit.
Details: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts - Outdoors at the Scottsdale Civic Center Park 7380 East Second Street, Scottsdale. Admission: Free, Thursday’s and Sundays, March 22nd, 24th, 29th, 31st, 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., (480) 499-8587
Glendale Folk and Heritage Festival
A celebration of folk music, history and culture; from over 150 performers featuring everything from folk and bluegrass music to cowboy poetry and storytelling on six performance venues, including an Arizona Centennial venue. Workshop’s by accomplished musician that will teach you to play Saws and Spoons to Finger-style guitar. The park will have the Blacksmith on site to give demonstrations and there will be tours of the main house. In this park setting there are live chickens and peacocks on the grounds, so plan to bring the family and make a day of it.
Details: Sahuaro Ranch Historical Area, 9802 N 59th Avenue, Glendale. Admission: Free, Saturday and Sunday, March 24th – 25th, 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Highland High School and Arizona State University will present its 3rd Annual Highland Jazz Festival. Grammy Award winning saxophonist Joe Lovano and world renowned trombone performer John Fedchock will headline the weekend of Jazz education. The Jazz Festival will span the entire southwest reaching over 1,800 students, music educators, and general public throughout Arizona, Southern California, Texas, Nevada and New Mexico.
Details: Highland High School Auditorium, 4301 East Guadalupe Road. Admission: $20.00, Thursday – Saturday, March 29th – 31st. (480) 813-0051 ext. 4421
St. Patrick’s Day in Phoenix
Get out your best green outfit and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Phoenix! Since St. Patrick's Day falls on a Saturday this year there are plenty of events to get your fill of traditional Irish favorites. May the Luck of the Irish be with you!
St. Patrick's Day Parade: Arizona Irish 100 Years and Going Strong
The 27th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade will celebrate the Irish tradition, included in the parade are Irish step dancers, bagpipers, marching bands, police and fire vehicles, government dignitaries, floats, the 2011 Arizona Irish Colleen with her Court and more.
The Parade starts at 3rd Street and Virginia, and proceeds south to Margaret T. Hance Deck Park
Details: St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 300 East Virginia Avenue, Phoenix. Admission: Free Saturday, March 17th 10:00 a.m., (623) 939-1183
Celebrate the 29th annual St. Patrick’s Day Faire in Phoenix; where you will feel a little Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Families of all ages can enjoy the Irish Family Faire that features two stages of live Irish music, Irish Step dancing and Bagpipers; research your Irish ancestry, visit the Irish crafts and merchandise, children’s area for the wee lads and lassies, and don’t forget the food court with many Irish foods favorites for anyone’s appetite.
Details: The Irish Cultural Center, 1106 North Central Avenue Phoenix. Admission: $10.00 per person, $8.00 for seniors 55+ and military, children 12 years and under free. , Saturday, March 17th 10:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (602) 258-0109
St. Patrick's Day Celebration in Fountain Hills
The famous fountain turns green on St. Patrick's Day!
Fountain Park is a perfect place to celebrate an enjoyable and relaxing St. Patrick's Day with the family and friends. Irish music and fun games for all ages, traditional Irish food and green beer will be available. The famous fountain will transform into the world's tallest emerald fountain at noon.
Details: Fountain Park, 17166 East El Lago Drive, Phoenix. Admission: Free, Saturday, March 17th 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
St. Patrick's Day Festival - Downtown Chandler
With bountiful Irish games including cabbage bowling, beer pong, bean bag toss, and drunk the leprechaun tank, you will find the Irish Luck. Live entertainment includes “Take Cover, Kung Fu Grip, Insomniacs, Mike Mercier and DJ Hanzerelli.
Details: AJ Chandler Park West, 3 South San Marcos Place, Chandler. Admission $10.00, Children 12 and under Free, Saturday, March 17th, 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.; 21 years of age and older after 5:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m. (480) 812-1588
The Kiss Me I’m Irish Run at Westgate City Center has something for every one of all ages, a 17K or 8K run/walk, a 4K “Four Leaf Clover Run/Walk” for kids and pets. Special gifts and medals for the fastest runner’s and prizes for best St. Patty’s-themed running outfit, a long the race if you find a lucky shamrock on the race course, return it to the Luck of the Irish Prize Table!
Details: Westgate City Center, 6770 North Sunrise Boulevard Glendale. Saturday, March 17th, Starts at 7:00 a.m. (480) 609-3978
St. Patrick's Day at D'Arcy McGees
Join the 4th Annual D'Arcy McGee's St. Patrick's Day Celebration with many Irish specials, Doors open at 6:00 a.m. for an Irish Breakfast, Irish Coffee and a "make your own Bloody Mary Bar!" Drink Specials, Green Beer and a special St. Patrick's Day Menu is served from 11:00 a.m. till midnight with Live Music and bagpipes to celebrate the Irish Holiday.
Details: D'Arcy McGee's, 2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy # 1220 Tempe. Admission Free, Saturday, March 17th, 6:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. (480) 557-9087
St. Patrick's Day at British Open Pub
British Open Pub celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with the Glendale Pipe and Drum Corps that will play two sets of their traditional Irish music at 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Drink specials include $1 off all well, wine and domestic beers and $4 Bushmills "Irish Car Bombs". An Irish traditional menu for the day will include homemade corned beef and cabbage with colcannon, Stovies, Scotch eggs and chicken with whiskey sauce.
Details: British Open Pub, 1334 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale.
Hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m. Admission: Free Saturday, March 17th, (480) 941-4915
5th Annual St. Patrick's Day Bash - Temple Bar Sports Grill
Head to Temple Bar Sports Grill for their 5th Annual St. Patrick's Day Bash! With cold green beer, a special traditional Irish Menu and American favorites. A Live DJ from 9:00 p.m. till close, plus corn hole (bean bags) and a Jenga Competition, you will enjoy the Irish spirit.
Details: Temple Bar Sports Grill, 17050 North Thompson Peak Parkway Scottsdale. Admission: Free, Saturday, March 17th, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m., (480) 429-4520
St. Patrick's Day Celebration - Rosie McCaffrey's Irish Pub
Start your St. Patrick's Day Celebration early at Rosie McCaffrey's Irish Pub and Restaurant, open at 6:00 a.m. on St. Patrick’s Day and serving Irish specials with Irish coffee, Irish food specials and live bands all day makes Rosie's a hot spot on St. Patrick's Day.
Music includes Bagpipe Players from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Aaron Ricker 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. and The Sullivan's from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Details: Rosie McCaffrey's Irish Pub and Restaurant, 906 East Camelback Road Phoenix. Admission: $10.00, Saturday, March 17th, 6:00 a.m. – 3:00 a.m., (602) 241-1916
St. Patrick's Day Celebration - Turf Irish Pub
Enjoy live music on St. Patty's Day with a traditional Irish Breakfast in the morning, live music starting at 2:00 p.m. till 1:00 a.m., drink specials, and Guinness. Wear green!
Details: Turf Irish Pub, 705 N. 1st Street Phoenix. Admission: TBD, Saturday, March 17th, 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m. (602) 296-5043
St. Patrick's Day Street Party Celebration - Seamus McCaffrey's
Seamus McCaffrey's will host the St. Patrick’s Day Street Party in downtown Phoenix. The street party starts at 9:00 a.m. and won’t stop till closing time. The day will be filed with giveaways, promotions, great bands that include; Tartanic, the Waters, the Aaron Ricker band, and Dan McGuinness that start at 11:00 a.m. and play until 1:00 a.m. Lots of drink specials, and traditional Irish dishes.
Details: Seamus McCaffrey's Irish Pub and Restaurant, 18 West Monroe Phoenix. Admission $10.00, Saturday, March 17th, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m. (602) 253-6081
The Tilted Kilt - 1st Year St. Patrick's Day Street Party
The Tilted Kilt will celebrate its 1st year St. Patrick's Day Street Party. Hop on the light rail, to CityScape where the street party will feature live music, food, drinks and green beer! Live bands include Keltic Kowboys, The Walken's, The Persuaders, and Chuck E Baby. Serving Breakfast from 8:00 a.m. til noon.
Details: Tilted Kilt at CityScape, 2 E. Jefferson St. Phoenix. Admission $20.00, Saturday, March 17th, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m., (602) 293-3888
Flogging Molly's St. Patrick's Day Bash
Flogging Molly's St. Patrick's Day Bash will celebrate its 8th Annual Green 17 Tour 2012 with special guests Roger Clyne And The Peacemakers , Suedehead , Sean Wheeler and Zander Schloss , Inept Hero, Halocene, Black Bottom Lighters, Westcott Avenue.
Serving up a fun filled day of Irish flavors and green beer, take the light rail to Tempe Beach Park for this annual celebration!
Details: Tempe Beach Park, 54 West Rio Salado Parkway Tempe. Admission: $40.00 Saturday, March 17th, 1:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. (480) 350-8625
The Food Truck Round-up at Superstition Farm
Superstition Farm will host over 20 local food trucks for a round-up of great food, fellowship and fun. Bring the whole herd for a moo-velous time! Admission must be purchased ahead of time. This family-friendly event also includes hayrides, a petting zoo, live music, cooking demonstrations and more! Beer will be available for purchase as well.
Details: Superstition Farm, 3440 South Hawes Road Mesa. Admission $20-25. Saturday, March 17, 1:00pm - 5:00pm.
Cactus League Spring Training Guide
Batter up! Cactus League Spring Training is here. We’ve put together the ultimate spring training guide of where to eat and drink before or after the game, where to park, what you can bring in to each ballpark and more below.
Don’t forget to check out our Cactus League Spring Training page on our website for places to stay, a map of all the ballparks, and special spring training packages.
General Information
• Wear sunscreen! This is the first time in months that our skin has seen the daylight. Put on your sunscreen before you head out and bring more to apply during the game.
• Lawn seats can get hot, fast. Make sure to drink plenty of water and bring a hat and lightweight clothing to protect yourself from the sun.
• Bring cash. Many of the concession stands will take a credit card, but you’ll pay extra. There are ATMs at most stadiums, but you’ll get charged a fee to use them.
• Get your tickets early. Popular teams will sell out fast so plan ahead.
• Rules about outside food and drink vary by stadium. Check the stadium website or call before you go to see what is/is not allowed.
Phoenix Municipal Stadium (5999 East Van Buren Street, Phoenix)
Team: Oakland A’s
Places to Eat Nearby
America’s Taco Shop (735 E. University Drive, Tempe)
Bison Witches Bar & Deli (21 E. 6th Street #146, Tempe)
Cornish Pasty Co. (960 W. University Suite 103, Tempe )
Draw 10 Bar & Grill (5444 E. Washington Street, Phoenix)
Essence Bakery Café (825 W. University Drive, Tempe)
Four Peaks Brewing Company (1340 E. 8th Street, Tempe)
Green Restaurant (2240 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe)
Monti’s La Casa Vieja Restaurant (1 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe)
Pete’s Fish & Chips (1017 E. Apache Boulevard, Tempe)
Spinato’s Pizza (227 S. Smith Road, Tempe)
The Stockyards, Arizona’s Original Steakhouse (5009 E. Washington, Phoenix)
Additional Info
• You can bring small soft coolers (no bigger than a backpack) and non-alcoholic beverages in a plastic, factory-sealed bottle. No glass bottles or alcohol is allowed.
• Parking is $5 per car.
• Make a day of it and go hiking in Papago Park, visit the Desert Botanical Garden or the Phoenix Zoo.
Maryvale Baseball Park (3600 N. 51st Avenue, Phoenix)
Team: Milwaukee Brewers
Places to Eat Nearby
Coffee and Tea Express (5835 W. Palmaire Avenue, Glendale)
Durants (2611 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix)
El New Yorican (2714 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix)
Fu-Fu Cuisine (3633 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix)
Kiss the Cook (4915 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale)
Original Hamburger Works (2801 N. 15th Avenue, Phoenix)
Papa Ed’s Ice Cream (7146-B N. 58th Avenue, Glendale)
Pete’s Fish & Chips (5516 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale)
Pizza a Metro (2336 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix)
Additional Info
• The Brewers are the only Cactus League team to give away player bobbleheads before games. Dolls will be giving out on March 5, 8, 21, and 26.
• Get an autograph during batting practive along the right field line or when players exit the game.
• You can get a grilled Klement’s hot dog from Milwaukee.
• Parking is $6.
Salt River Fields (7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale)
Teams: Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies
Places to Eat Nearby
America’s Taco Shop (9261 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale)
Andreoli Italian Grocer & Deli (8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale)
Blue Burrito Grille ( 7318 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale)
Buzzberry Coffee ‘n Smoothies (5959 N. Granite Reef Road, Scottsdale)
Café ZuZu (6850 E. Main Street, Scottsdale)
El Chorro ( 5550 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley)
Four Peaks Brewing Company (15745 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale)
Lox Stock and Bagel (7353 N. Via Paseo Del Sur, Scottsdale )
Rancho Pinot Grill (6208 N. Scottsdale Road, Paradise Valley)
Rita’s Kitchen (5402 E. Lincoln Drive)
Spinato’s Pizzeria (11108 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, Scottsdale)
Sweet Republic Ice Cream (9160 E. Shea Boulevard, Scottsdale)
Terroir Wine Pub (7001 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Uncorked Wine Bar (16427 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Village Coffee Roastery (8120 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale)
Wildflower Bread Company (15640 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale OR 7001 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Additional Info
• Best places for autographs are on the front-row seats at either left or right field near the bull pens. Go 40 minutes prior to a game or until the end of batting practice to catch your favorite players.
• A Wiffle Ball court for children is on the right field of the main stadium.
• Check out a bird’s eye view of the games or the McDowell Mountains from observation towers throughout the campus.
Peoria Sports Complex (16101 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria)
Teams: Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres
Places to Eat Nearby
3rd Place Neighborhood Grill ( 15814 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria) *Local gourmet food trucks will be in the parking lot of 3rd Place Neighborhood Grill for spring training! Check the schedule here.
Blu Burger Grille (9828 W. Northern Avenue, Peoria)
Carolina’s (9030 W. Peoria Avenue, Peoria)
Cucina Tagliani Italian Kitchen (8349 W. Bell Road, Peoria)
Kabuski Sushi & Grill (8378 W. Thunderbird Road, Peoria)
Mercer’s (9720 W. Peoria Avenue, Peoria)
The Moon Saloon ( 16554 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria)
Yogurtime (16055 N. Arrowhead Fountain Circle, Peoria)
Additional Info
• Factory sealed, plastic water bottles with non-carbonated, colorless water, juice boxes, baby food, formula, and small bags with food are allowed.
• Parking is $5 for cars $10 for RVs.
• Every Monday families can take advantage of the Family Four Pack deal that includes four seats, hot dogs and sodas for $30 (four lawn tickets are $24).
• Hot dogs are $2 on Wednesdays and Sundays games have activities for kids.
• Scout your favorite player at Autograph Alley, a tunnel that leads players into the field near the right-field corner.
Camelback Ranch Stadium (10710 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix)
Teams: Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers
Places to Eat Nearby
Baja Loco Mesquite Grill & Cantina (5134 N. 95th Avenue, Glendale)
G’s Food (103 W. Indian School Road, Phoenix)
Ground Control Coffee & Wine Bar (14140 W. Indian School Road, Goodyear)
Mama Gina’s (9380 W. Westgate Boulevard, Glendale)
Saddle Ranch Chop House ( 9375 W. Coyotes Boulevard, Glendale)
Tailgaters Sports Grill & Il Primo Pizza (5110 N. Dystart Road, Litchfield Park)
Thai Orchid Garden (12725 W. Indian School Road, Avondale)
Additional Information
• Players’ autographs may be obtained before the game on the outfield side of both dugouts. Autograph seekers must return to their seats 30 minutes before gametime.
• Lawn chairs and lawn umbrellas are not permitted.
• Small, soft-sided coolers are permitted as well as one unopened bottle of water per person and food items in small, clear plastic bags.
• On March 10, 17 and 23, Camelback Ranch will feature fireworks and $1 hot dogs. Postgame on those dates, kids can run the bases.
Goodyear Ballpark (1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear)
Teams: Cleveland Indians and the Cincinnati Reds
Places to Eat Nearby
Augie’s Sports Grill (15605 W. Roosevelt Street, Suite 101, Goodyear)
Flavors of Louisiana (13025 W. Ranch Santa Fe Boulevard, Avondale)
Ivy League Dogs (15605 W. Roosevelt Street, Goodyear)
Native New Yorker (530 N. Estrella Parkway, Goodyear)
Majerle’s Sports Grill (13375 W. McDowell Road, Goodyear)
Taste of Italy Pizza ( 3810 South Estrella Parkway, Goodyear)
TJ’s Homestyle Restaurant (310 N. Dysart Road, Avondale)
Wildflower Bread Company (1360 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear)
Additional Information
• Collect autographs from Indians or Reds players before the game on March 3, 7, 12, 14 (1:05pm game only), 19, 26 and 28. Tickets for the autograph session will be distributed prior to gates opening, for the session shortly after the gates open.
• March 12 and 18 bring your gloves to play catch in the outfield after the game. Soft toss baseballs will be provided.
• Fan Appreciation Day is March 30th. Autographed team memorabilia and other items will be given away each inning.
• Factory sealed, plastic water bottles with non-carbonated, colorless water, juice boxes, baby food, formula, and small bags with food are allowed.
• Parking is $5.
• This ballpark features Midwest-specialty fried-bologna sandwiches, and Cleveland and Cincinnati-style hot dogs.
• Families can take advantage of the McDonald’s Family Fun Pack, which costs $44 and includes four tickets, four Extra Value Meals and access to an exclusive autograph session before the game. The package is offered March 5, 13, 18, 19 and 27.
• In Ohio, chili tops spaghetti, potatoes, salads and fries. Cincinnati fans will be delighted to see Skyline Chili at Goodyear Ballpark and for Cleveland fans there’s Bertman Ballpark Mustard.
• Every game hosts a free kids zone, featuring inflatable bounce houses and a Wiffle Ball field.
• Adults can watch the game in the all-inclusive Right Field Pavillion – a fully shaded area with club seating, a buffet, wait staff and an assortment of non-alcoholic drinks, $30.
HoHoKam Stadium (1235 N. Center Street, Mesa)
Team: Chicago Cubs
Places to Eat Nearby
Contigo Peru (1245 W. Guadalupe Road, Mesa)
Crackers & Co. Café (535 W. Iron Avenue, Mesa)
Diamond’s Sports Grille (161 N. Centennial Way, Mesa)
Inside The Bungalow Café (48 N. Robson, Mesa)
Los Dos Molinos (260 W. Alma School Road, Mesa)
Lo Fi Coffee (105 W. Main Street, Mesa)
Nunthaporn’s Thai Cuisine (17 W. Main Street, Mesa)
Queen’s Pizzeria & Café (125 W. Main Street, Mesa)
Sun Devil Liquors (235 N. Country Club Drive, Mesa)
T.C. Eggington’s Brunchery (1660 S. Alama School Road, Mesa)
Urban Picnic (218 W. Main Street, Mesa)
Additional Info
• This stadium does not allow coolers, umbrellas, food, beverages or large bags. You can bring a blanket, one 32-ounce bottle of water, baby food or a stroller.
• Parking is $6 per car. (Tip: Arrive two hours before game time for best parking.)
• Watch the game in the shade behind first base – it’s also the best place to get autographs after 11am.
Surprise Stadium (15930 N. Bullard Avenue, Phoenix)
Teams: Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers
Places to Eat Nearby
Amuse Bouche (17058 W. Bell Road, Surprise)
Babbo Italian Eatery (15609 W. Bell Road, Surprise)
Big Buddha Restaurant (16572 W. Greenway Road, Surprise)
The Brookside II Bar and Grill (15170 W. Bell Road, Surprise)
Fresh Wasabi Sushi & Grill (13732 W. Bell Road, Surprise)
Hole ‘n One (13573 W. Camino Del Sol, Sun City West)
Irish Wolfhoud Pub (16811 N. Litchfield Road, Surprise)
Lucky’s Pizza (15508 W. Bell Road, Surprise)
Vogue Bistro (15411 W. Waddell Road, Surprise)
Additional Info
• For $30 adults can sit in the Home Run Party Tent in right centerfield. This fully shaded area seats 300 and has cable TVs sets to show NCAA March Madness basketball games. Your ticket also includes your own seat, access to the catered all-you-can-eat buffet and a drink voucher.
• Most of the concessions here are cash only.
• You can bring food in clear, sealed plastic bags and one liter plastic water bottle per person. Juice boxes, baby food and formula are also allowed.
Tempe Diablo Stadium (2200 W. Alameda Drive, Tempe)
Team: Angels
Places to Eat Nearby
The Center Bistro (21 E. 6th Street, Tempe)
Dhaba India Plaza (1874 E. Apache Boulevard, Tempe)
Essence Bakery Café (825 W. University Drive, Tempe)
Four Peaks Brewing Company ( 1340 E. 8th Street, Tempe)
House of Tricks (114 E. 7th Street, Tempe)
Los Dos Molinos (8646 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix)
Morning Glory Café (6016 S. 32nd Street, Phoenix)
Rustler’s Rooste (8383 S. 48th Street, Phoenix)
Spinato’s Pizza (227 S. Smith Road, Tempe)
Texas BBQ House (5037 S. 24th Street, Phoenix)
Yucca Tap Room (29 W. Southern Avenue, Tempe)
Additional Info
• Get autographs from players near the walking fence in the west parking lot between the stadium and practice fields or in the stadium on the right-field line near the team’s locker room.
• For $40 you can sit in the shade in the upper pavilion on right field, which includes an all-you-can-eat food ticket.
• You may bring backpacks, soft-sided coolers, homemade sandwiches, cut fruit, chips and one sealed bottle of water per person.
• Tempe Diablo Stadium is offering a free shuttle from the Tempe Marketplace and Mill Avenue in front of Potions and Lotions on 5th Street/Mill and by the Thirsty Lion at Tempe Marketplace every 20-30 minutes from 11a-6p on game days.
• Parking is $5
Scottsdale Stadium (7408 E. Osborn Road, Scottsdale)
Team: San Francisco Giants
Places to Eat Nearby
5th and Wine (7051 E. 5th Avenue, Scottsdale)
Arcadia Farms (7025 E. 1st Avenue, Scottsdale)
Atlas Bistro (2515 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Baratin (7121 E. 5th Avenue, Scottsdale)
Big Earl’s BBQ (7213 E. First Avenue, Scottsdale)
Bravo Bistro (4327 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Café Forte Bistro (7032 E. Main Street, Scottsdale)
The Cider Mill (7240 E. Main Street, Scottsdale)
Citizen Public House (7111 E. 5th Avenue, Scottsdale)
Cowboy Ciao (7133 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale)
Daily Dose Old Town Bar & Grill (4020 Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Echo Coffee (2902 N. 68th Street, Scottsdale)
Lee’s Cream Liqueur (7137 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale)
Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles (2765 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale)
Orange Table (7373 E. Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale)
Petite Maison (7616 E. Shoeman Lane, Scottsdale)
POSH Improvisational Cuisine ( 7167 E. Rancho Vista Drive, Scottsdale)
Su Vino Winery (7035 E. Main Street, Scottsdale)
Additional Info
• Salty Senorita offers a shuttle to and from its Old Town location to Scottsdale Stadium.
• This stadium carries beer from San Francisco’s Anchor Brewing Company and garlic fries, a fan favorite at the Giant’s home stadium.
• You can bring towels and blankets to sit on in the grass, but lawn chairs are not allowed.
• Get an autograph by getting to the game early and hang out along the rail behind the first-base line near the Giants dugout.
• Parking is free, but very limited. Catch a trolley to the stadium by parking at Loloma Station at Fashion Square Mall (next to Nordstrom), or along Fifth Avenue.
Celebrate Mardi Gras in Phoenix
Mardi Gras is Tuesday, February 21st. Here’s the low down on what to do to celebrate Mardi Gras in Phoenix.
King’s Cake is ubiquitous in celebrating Mardi Gras. Get a King’s Cake in Phoenix at Karsh’s Bakery, La Tolteca, and Flavor’s of Louisiana Restaurant. Although not King’s Cake, Urban Cookies will have Mardi Gras themed cupcakes and the Baker-Wee will have Paczki available for order.
Saturday, February 18th from 4pm – 2am, celebrate the spirit of Mardi Gras at the Downtown Phoenix Mardi Gras Celebration with hundreds of revelers wearing masks and other occasion-appropriate regalia. Take part in the celebration with a parade, festival and bar crawl.
Phoenix also has several Cajun restaurants to choose from that will have various specials and celebrations for Mardi Gras.
Not a Cajun restaurant, but we can’t make a Mardi Gras list without including New Orleans Sno Ball. Also not a Cajun restaurant, but Switch Wine Restaurant & Wine Bar will have $3 hurricanes all week and voodoo jambalaya gallette for $7.95 all month.
If you don’t want to go out for Mardi Gras, stop by The Meat Shop from 2/16 – 2/22 for Andouille and Cajun Sausage for only $4.99/lb and make your own jambalaya at home.
Laissez les bon temps roulez!
Arizona Best Fest
This weekend the Arizona Centennial Commission and 2012 Foundation hosts its premier Signature Event – Arizona Best Fest Phoenix, Saturday, February 11, noon-10pm; and Sunday, February 12, noon-6pm. There will be a FREE street extravaganza of mainstage headliners, educational traveling museums, cultural villages, a Western town — even the climactic destination of the Arizona Centennial Motorcycle Ride – along with an Arizona storytellers theater, Arizona wines and craft beers, Arizona 100 art show, family fun zone and much more — all brought to residents and visitors alike, by a bevy of proud private sponsors and donors.
The “best of Arizona” celebration overtakes the Arizona State Capitol complex and its streets from 10th Avenue on the east to 17th Avenue on the west, traversing along Washington Street, aka “Centennial Way,” and rounding the bend from 17th Avenue onto Jefferson.
Cooper Dome Main Stage Schedule - A Showcase of Arizona Entertainment
Saturday, February 11th
12:30pm Marshall Trimble
1pm Dolan Ellis
1:45pm Rex Allen Jr.
2:45pm Dennis Rowland & the Extreme Decibel Big Band
5:30pm ‘Salute to Arizona’ with Governor Janice K. Brewer & Dierks Bentley (Celebrate Arizona Centennial Official Mascot Copper Chopper completing its 17-month tour; plus HOME Official Song of the Centennial Commission, plus Premier Cultural Performances from Villages and Western Town)
6:30pm Jerry Riopelle
7:45pm Michelle Branch
9pm Gin Blossoms
10pm Fireworks
10:15pm Arizona Best Fest Phoenix Closes
Sunday, February 12th
Noon Arizona Cultural Performance Showcase
1pm Ronstadt Family Traditions
2pm Rex Allen Jr.
3pm Esteban
4:30pm Copper Chopper Final Drawing- 4:30 pm
4:45pm George Benson
6pm Arizona Best Fest Phoenix Closes- 6 pm
Educational Pavilions, Cultural Villages, Western Town and Sports Zone
Arizona Best Fest attempts to bring the ‘best of Arizona’ through a series of educational pavilions featuring the Stevie & Karl Eller Arizona History Pavilion; a Military History Pavilion; the University of Arizona Science & Future Pavilion; the Resolution Copper Natural Resources Pavilion; an APS Renewable Energy display; the Shamrock Farms Family Fun Zone; the Giant American Indian Village; the ARSARCO Hispanic Village with Zumba and traditional equestrian dancers; the Discount Tire Western Town with gunfights, saloons, cowboy gear, and re-enactments; an Arizona Cardinals/Arizona Diamondbacks/Phoenix Suns Sports Pavilionand even a rich verbal history of the Arizona Experience in The Arizona Republic Arizona Storytellers Theater.
Arizona food, wine, fine art and craft beer
What Arizona event is complete without a showcase of wineries presented by the Arizona Wine Growers Association; craft beers by the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild and the AZ 100 Fine Arts show.
Parking
Guests are encouraged to take the Light Rail and connect with city buses to the east main entrance of Arizona Best Fest Phoenix, at 10th Avenue and Washington. Additional buses are planned from the Light Rail station to the east entrance.
Arizona Centennial Ride and Copper Chopper Drawing
The Signature Event of the Arizona Centennial Commission on Saturday, February 11, 2pm, sponsored by Law Tigers, is a historical motorcycle tour, already pre-registered with 750 enthusiasts and begins at Mesa Riverview where participants are expected to gather for registration 11am – 2pm. Participants must register in advance.
The Ride to the Arizona State Capitol rolls out at 2pm, led by Phoenix native and “Ride” Honorary Chairman Dierks Bentley, along with official mascot of the Arizona Centennial, the Copper Chopper which will ceremonially complete its 18-month tour to every corner of the state raising high levels of awareness and enthusiasm during the Countdown of the Arizona Centennial, and will be driven by its renowned designer and Arizona resident Paul Yaffe.
The Arizona Copper Chopper will be given away in a final drawing Sunday, February 12 at 4:30pm. To enter the bonus drawing at Arizona Best Fest, one must enter at the Arizona Copper Chopper display on Saturday, February 11the from noon until 8pm.
Gov. Janice K. Brewer will greet the top 48 riders in the Arizona Centennial Ride (48 being significant because Arizona is the 48th state admitted to the Union) at 17th Avenue in front of the Capitol itself, welcoming Bentley, and providing official closure to the Arizona Centennial Copper Chopper Tour, which she christened for its maiden statewide outing in October 2010 at the Arizona State Fair. The majority of riders will park their choppers along Jefferson, resulting in massive rows of diverse and colorful motorcycles for Best Fest visitors to review and admire as well.
Surrounding Sites
As Arizona’s Capitol complex becomes the destination for Arizona Centennial weekend, two stops are a must in the surrounding neighborhood:
Pioneer & Military Memorial Park Cemetery
This historic site is open during Best Fest, at 14th Ave. and Jefferson. See the graves of such pioneers as Jacob Waltz of the famed Lost Dutchman mine, Darell “Lord” Duppa, credited with naming the villages of Phoenix and Tempe, Tom Graham, the last man killed in Arizona’s Pleasant Valley War, the first and many of the earliest Maricopa County Sheriffs, and many more of our pioneers. Also tour Smurthwaite House Museum built in 1897 and home to memorabilia and antiques of local Arizona Territory pioneer families. FREE.
Arizona Capitol Museum & Museum Store
Open Arizona Best Fest weekend Saturday & Sunday February 11th and 12th from noon – 3pm, and on 100th Statehood Day, 9am-4pm. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, construction began in 1899 when Arizona was still a territory to serve as the capitol building. It was dedicated in 1901, 11 years before statehood. Today the building serves as the Arizona Capitol Museum and continues as part of a multi-site capitol complex. The stunning USS Arizona silver service is on display; all four floors will be open to the public, including the 3rd floor House Chamber of the museum which was the site of the 1910 Arizona Constitutional Convention. Walk the halls of those who framed the state’s constitution.
