Arizona: Calendar of Events Listings: 2009: April

Arizona Events April 2009 Calendar

This calendar of events for Arizona communities has been produced to assist you in making travel and activity arrangements.

Since there are so many events and activities being held throughout Arizona communities this March, the calendar guide is split into two pages.

The Arizona Office of Tourism will release a 2009 Summer Calendar of Events, which includes information for events held between Memorial Day, May 28 through Labor Day, September 3, 2009.

This calendar has been produced to assist with travel arrangements or local activities. It is an information guide only and does not constitute a recommendation. Dates for these Arizona events were correct at time of publication. Since dates are occasionally changed, please confirm them in advance. Updates, additions and corrections to any Arizona events are made at www.ArizonaGuide.com.

Catalina State Park, just north of Tucson in Oro Valley, is a popular hiking nd camping spot. The park is located across the street from the new Oro Valley Marketplace on Oracle Road. Watch a video clip of the area, Google map nd park information.

April 2009 Arizona Events

Events throughout April

Through May 24 SCOTTSDALE: Seriously Funny – Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, ten artists celebrate its 10th year anniversary, this exhibition has been cultivated around the belief that some of the sharpest seers have been those whose job it is to make us laugh, explores the ways artists use humor today as a basic means of human connection, artists who utilize humor to get to the truth of the matter, www.Smoca.org.

Through April 4: 2009 Spring Training baseball. The Arizona Diamondbacks play the division rival Colorado Rockies for a 1:05 p.m. contest at Hi Corbett Field in Tucson on Feb. 25, 2009, followed by the team’s home opener at Tucson Electric Park two days later against the Chicago White Sox at 1:05 p.m. on Feb. 27. The games are part of a 36-game Cactus League schedule. Read more about Tucson 2009 Spring Training.

Through April 18: The Tucson Rodeo Museum. Hours: 9:30 am - 3:30 pm.

YouTube Video of Arizona Road Trip

A little mini-vacation to NE Arizona, on the Navajo/Hopi reservation. The trip started at the invitation of Navajo people near Chinle, then blossomed from there. Visits included Canyon de Chelly, Arizona. Video courtesy to YouTube and Arizona Office of Tourism. Watch more Arizona Travel videos.

For additional tourism information and brochures, contact:

The Arizona Office of Tourism
2702 N. Third St., Suite 4015
Phoenix, Arizona 85004

April 2009 Day by Day Events

April 1-14, 2009

Through May 3, 2009: SCOTTSDALE: Girls Night: The Musical – Theater 4301, a touching and hilarious ‘tell-it-like-it-is’ look at life, $32-38, 7:30, 8 & 2 pm, 480-994-2787 or www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org

April 15 SCOTTSDALE: Chef Tribute Dinner – J&G Steakhouse – The Phoenician, dine with some of Arizona’s best known chefs as they raise tribute to world famous chef Jean-George Vongerichten, cocktail attire, $150, 6:30 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

15 SCOTTSDALE: On the Rocks – Hotel Valley Ho, exclusive cocktail tasting, unique and creative cocktails will be featured, created by local mixologists, casual cocktail attire, $40, 6:30-9:30 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

15 TEMPE: ASU Jazz Combos – Recital Hall, Mike Kocour directs, free, 7:30 pm, www.herbergercollege.asu.edu

15-18 PAYSON: FLW Outdoors Stren Series Big Bass Tournament – more than 200 top fishermen compete in this series, festival setting, food, fun, www.paysonrimcountry.com

15-19 PHOENIX: 34th Annual Maricopa County Fair – Totally Ag-Citing - State Fairgrounds, an annual occasion to celebrate & pursue the traditional values of educational opportunity, agricultural prosperity & love of family, midway, commercial exhibits, hobbies, agriculture & youth exhibits, motorized events, horse show, art walk of chalk art, $4-7, 602-252-0717 or www.maricopacountyfair.org

15-19 YUMA: 9th Annual Yuma Birding & Nature Festival – Yuma Visitors Bureau, bat watch, dunes ecology, desert bighorn sheep, nature photography, Mexico adventures, Yuma East Wetlands, and many other trips around the Southwest, $25 and includes free admittance to all seminars, 928-376-0100 or www.yumabirding.com

16 AVONDALE: Jimmie Johnson Foundation Phoenix 150 - Phoenix International Raceway, NASCAR AutoZone West Series race, 866-408-7223 or www.phoenixraceway.com

16 GLENDALE: That Thursday Thing – live music and entertainment, free horse drawn carriage rides, this month’s theme is “Spurs and Spendin’!” – western experience, 5-8 pm, 623-930-4500 or www.visitGlendale.com

16 SCOTTSDALE: Culinary Hall of Fame Awards Dinner – Wrigley Mansion, three culinary professionals, chosen by their peers on a basis of five criteria, will be inducted, $150, 6:30 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

16 SCOTTSDALE: On the Rocks – Mondrian Hotel, exclusive cocktail tasting, unique and creative cocktails will be featured, created by local mixologists, casual cocktail attire, $40, 7-11 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

16 TEMPE: Party Mix – ASU Gammage, ASU wind orchestras conducted by Gary W Hill, Wayne Bailey and guests perform an eclectic mix of music for wind bands, free, 7:30 pm, www.herbergercollege.asu.edu

16-18 PHOENIX: 8th Annual Phoenix Improv Festival – Herberger Theatre Center, comedy teams from around the country, as well as local improvisational comedy troupes, $10-15, 602-252-8497 or 480-251-3697or www.phoeniximprovfestival.com

16-19 TEMPE: Festival 2009 – Tempe Center for the Arts, A Ludwig Dance Theatre presents Glass Blocks/Steel Bars and from COLLECTION of small works for few dancers, premiering is The Cheese Stands Alone, a whimsical mixture of dance, music, food and politics, $15-20, 7:30, 8 & 2 pm, 480-350-2822 or www.tca.ticketforce.com

16-19 TUCSON: Mahler’s “Resurrection” - Classic Series – Tucson Music Hall, Tucson Symphony Orchestra features conductor George Hanson, Margarita de Arellano, soprano; Cynthia Jansen, mezzo-soprano; and the TSO Chorus, 8 & 2 pm, 520-882-8585 or www.tucsonsymphony.org

16-26 TUCSON: 99th Annual Pima County Fair – Pima County Fairgrounds, 4-H animals, home arts & fine arts, entertainment, horse shows, concerts, games & rides, educational exhibits including a gem and mineral show, $2-7, info line: 520-762-3247 or 520-762-9100 or www.swfair.com or http://arizonafairs.com

16-26 TUCSON: 2009 Annual Arizona International Film Festival - 150+ new works by independent producers from around the world, premiere screenings, filmmaker presentations, workshops, $6-150, noon - midnight, www.filmfestivalarizona.com

16-5/30 MESA: Ring of Fire – Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, a celebration of the songs of the legendary Johnny Cash, a unique musical show about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, home and family, 480-325-6700 or www.broadwaypalmwest.com

17 AVONDALE: Bashas Supermarkets 200 - Phoenix International Raceway, NASCAR Busch Series Race, 602-252-3833 or 602-252-2227 or www.phoenixraceway.com

17 GILBERT: 22nd Annual Gilbert Gold Golf Classic - Trilogy Golf Club, fundraiser for the chamber, $90, 6:30 am, 480-897-0056 or 480-926-6003 or www.gilbertaz.com

17 PHOENIX: Annual Jazz in the Garden Spring Concert Series – Desert Botanical Gardens, premier musicians, this week features Big Nick and the Gila Monsters, $14-20, Fridays, 7 pm, 480-481-8188 or www.dbg.org

17 PRESCOTT: Three Mo’ Tenors – Yavapai College Performance Hall, classically trained, multi-talented operatic tenors, starts with classical opera and includes 7 more musical styles (jazz, gospel, soul, spirituals, New School, Broadway and blues) that span four hundred years of music, $40-44, 7:30 am, 928-776-2000 or 877-928-4253 or www.yc.edu/communityevents

April 17 SCOTTSDALE: Eat, Drink & Be Pretty Party – Scottsdale Center of the Performing Arts, food and wine tasting featuring music, live entertainment, dancing and fashion, casual cocktail attire, $60-70, 7-11 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

17-18 EAGAR: 7th Annual Chrome in the Dome Classic Car & Truck Show - Round Valley Dome, car show, vendors, sock hop, ice cream social, BBQ, 928-333-2123 or 866-733-2123 or www.cruisinarizona.com

17-18 TEMPE: 10th Annual Rotary River Rally - Tempe Town Lake, featuring the Great Cardboard Boat Regatta with teams of up to 8 people paddling a 200-yard race course in home-made boats of cardboard, teams compete for best dressed, most spirited, best design, most sought-after, and Titanic award for the most spectacular sinking, benefits the Rotary Clubs of Tempe, free, Fri. preview 4-8 pm, Sat. 9 am - 3 pm, 480-905-5944 or www.rotaryriverrally.com

17-18 TUCSON: One More Victory, Ara! – Celebrity Golf and Gala Weekend – Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa, presented by University Medical Center, 520-577-5106 or www.parseghian.org

17-19 KINGMAN: Home & Garden Expo & Carnival – Mohave County Fairgrounds, featuring home & garden products and services, carnival for the kids, 928-753-2636 or www.mcfafairgrounds.org

17-19 MIAMI: 18th Annual Mining Country Boom Town Spree - Sullivan Street, Copper Crawl 5K run, Keystone stair climb race, old fashioned mining competitions such as drilling & mucking, arts & crafts, www.globemiamichamber.com

17-19 PEORIA: 7th Annual Peoria Stadium Spring Arts & Crafts Festival - Peoria Stadium, features 80-100 exhibits of arts and crafts including paintings, prints, jewelry, apparel, pottery, metal work, photography, food court, kids fun zone, free, Fri-Sat 10 am – 7 pm, Sun 10 am – 4 pm, 480-488-2014 or www.magicbirdfestivals.com

17-19 PHOENIX: Pops Goes Vegas! – Pops Concert No. 6 – Symphony Hall, JaJack Everly conducts, 2 & 8 pm, 602-495-1999 or www.phoenixsymphony.org

17-19 SALOME: Arizona Outback Spring Fiddlefest - Lion's Club, fiddling, bluegrass and country music, free, 928-859-3466 or www.azoutback.com or www.arizonaoldtimefiddlers.org

17-19 TEMPE: 23rd Annual ASU Spring Competition Pow Wow - ASU Band Practice Field, dancing in 23 categories, Native American arts & crafts, Indian fry bread, intertribal dancing, $3-5, Fri 5:30 pm, Sat 11:30 am, Sun 11:30 am, 480-965-5224 or http://powwow.asu.edu

17-25 FLAGSTAFF: The Bald Soprano & The Lesson – Clifford E. White Theatre, presented by NAU Theatre, two hysterical, tragic and profound plays by the father of Theater of the Absurd, Eugene Ionesco, $7-12, 2 & 8 pm, 928-535-5661

17-5/3 MESA: The Emperor’s New Clothes – Mesa Arts Center, by Stageworks Youth Theater, a Caribbean musical adaptation of the classic Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale, www.mesaartscenter.com

17-5/24 MESA: Miss Saigon – Arizona Broadway Theatre, epic, daring pop opera with a classic love story, amidst the turmoil of the Vietnam War, an American soldier and a Vietnamese girl fall in love only to be separated during the fall of Saigon, dinner theatre, 623-776-8400 or www.azbroadwaytheatre.com

April 18 AVONDALE: Subway Fresh 500 - Phoenix International Raceway, the stars of the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series and NASCAR Busch Series will race, 866-408-7223 or www.phoenixraceway.com

18 CHANDLER: Gaelic Storm - Chandler Center for the Arts, compelling originals and fresh arrangements steeped in Irish traditional melody and acoustic instrumentation combined with unique blend of world rhythms, $24-32, 8 pm, http://chandlercenter.org

18 COTTONWOOD: Brian Mickelsen Memorial Half-Marathon, 10K, 2 mile run/walk – Cottonwood Riverfront Park, 7:30 am, 928-639-3200 or www.getsetaz.com

18 ELGIN: 31st Annual Blessing of the Vine Festival - Sonoita Vineyards, ministers and priests bless the grape vines to foster a bountiful crop at harvest time, free wine glass and samples, live music, dancing, $10, horseback riding also available throughout the day, 11 am - 4 pm, 520-455-5893 or www.sonoitavineyards.com

18 ELGIN: 3rd Annual Wine and Farm Festival – Canelo Hills Vineyard & Winery, sample and buy wines from 5 different Southern Arizona winemakers, all wines are made by hand from Arizona-grown fruit, local farmers with wares from goat cheese to herbs to alpaca fiber products, admission is free, $10 for wine tasting, 11 am – 4 pm, 520-455-5499, www.canelohillswinery.com

18 FLAGSTAFF: Duo46 - Coconino Center for the Arts, violinist Beth Ilan Schneider and guitarist Matt Gould embrace music by living composers, advocates of contemporary art music, their recording celebrate chamber music for guitar, often music composed specifically for them, part of the Grand Canyon Guitar Society concert season in partnership with Flagstaff Cultural Partners and Arizona Music Pro, $12-15, 8 pm, 928-779-2300 or www.culturalpartners.org

18 GILBERT: 5th Annual Gilbert Global Village Festival - Gilbert North Civic Center, a multi-cultural celebration, features music, dance, arts & crafts, food and sports of a variety of cultures, two stages of performances, hands on activities & demonstrations, free, 10 am - 4 pm, 480-503-6895 or www.ci.gilbert.az.us/calendar

18 HEREFORD: Huachuca Astronomy Club Public Star Party - Junk Bond Observatory, view through member's telescopes (large & small) or bring your own, excellent outing for families and school age children welcome, 7 pm weather permitting, 520-366-5788 or www.hacastronomy.com

18 LAKE HAVASU CITY: Plein Air Artist “Paint Outs – Lake Havasu State Park, a series of friendly, four-hour competitions open to all artists, amateur and professional to paint and capture scenes inside Arizona State Parks, finished pieces are submitted for judging by fellow artists, top three paintings are entered in an public gallery exhibit in February 2010, 8 am – noon, 602-542-4174 or www.azstateparks.com

18 MESA: Three Mo’ Tenors – Mesa Arts Center, spans four hundred years of music in one evening, $25-45, 8 pm, 480-644-6500 or www.mesaartscenter.com

18 MORRISTOWN: Grand Desert Days Festival – classic car & Corvette displays, parade, arts and crafts, CASI Chili Cookoff, live music, old fashioned games for all ages, Arizona authors, reading and book signings, free, 9 am – 4 pm, www.WesternTrailsRanch.com

18 PAGE: 8th Cuddle Scramble Golf Tournament – Lake Powell National Golf Course, 928-645-2023 or www.golflakepowell.com or www.pagelakepowellchamber.org

18 PHOENIX: I Want to be a Bach Star! – Family Concert No. 4 – Symphony Hall, The Phoenix Symphony shines the spotlight on several of today’s up-and-coming young musicians, 2:30 pm, 602-495-1999 or www.phoenixsymphony.org

18 PHOENIX: 10th Annual Opera Ball – Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa, gourmet dinner, dancing, silent auction, raffle, $450, black tie, 6:30 pm, by the Phoenix League of Arizona Opera, 602-218-7334 or www.azopera.com

18 QUEEN CREEK: Annie – Queen Creek Performing Arts Center, the popular comic strip heroine takes center stage in one of the world’s best-loved musicals, 2 pm, 480-987-7469 or http://qcpac.com

18 SCOTTSDALE: 15th Annual Beaux Arts 09 - Scottsdale Artists' School, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the school, guest Dr. Ginger Renner, featuring a silent auction and live auction of original art donated by more than 200 of the country’s leading artists, benefit, includes music and food, $150-175, 5:30 pm, 480-990-1422 or www.ScottsdaleArtSchool.org

18 SCOTTSDALE: Chef Wine Dinners – various restaurants, award winning chefs at some of the Valley’s top restaurants offer a four-course meal with rich vintage wines, 6:30 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

18 TEMPE: 13th Annual ASU Art Museum Short Film and Video Festival - Nelson Fine Arts Plaza, celebrates the artistic & creative endeavors of individuals with different visions & levels of experience, bring lawn chair or blanket, free, 8 pm, 480-965-2787 or http://asuartmuseum.asu.edu/filmfest

18 TEMPE: Annual Pat’s Run – Sun Devil Stadium, 4.2 miles run, 4.2 miles walk, .42 free kids fun run/walk, all events finish on the 42 yard line of Sun Devil Stadium, includes free entertainment, live local music, food, drinks and a carnival-like kid’s area, $30-35, 7 am, 480-507-6754 or www.patsrun.com

18-19 GLOBE: Annual Harry Winn Memorial Archery Shoot – Apache Bow Hunters Home Range, 3 rounds of 15 targets, 1 arrow per target, free, 928-425-6174 or 928-425-8245 or www.globemiamichamber.com

18-19 PARKER: SCSC Spring Power Boat Classic – Blue Water Resort & Casino, GN boats, tunnel boats, mini boats compete for points & cash prizes, 7 am - 7 pm, 928 669-6511 or http://parkerareatourism.com

18-19 PHOENIX: 10th Annual Wild Eagle Railroad Open House - a model train landscape show to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Arizona, 15 layouts at homes throughout the Valley, including the home of Eaglewings Iron Craft train owner, includes G-scale garden railroad demonstrations, free, donations accepted, Sat 10 am - 4 pm, Sun 10 am - 3 pm, 602-276-8101 or www.eaglewingsironcraft.com

18-19 PHOENIX: 15th Annual Arizona Asian Festival – Heritage & Science Park, features ethnic cuisine, arts and crafts, and entertainment, martial arts demonstrations, cultural dances and music from nearly a dozen Asian countries, include Japanese Taiko drums and a fashion show with traditional Asian costumes, Children’s Wonderland, crafts for kids, free, Sat 10 am – 7, Sun 10 am - 6 pm, 602-712-8889 or www.aaaa-az.org or www.phoenix.gov/PARKS/heritage.html

18-19 PRESCOTT: Chalk It Up! Prescott – Summit Bank, individual or group artists, live entertainment, free, 10 am – 4 pm, www.mountainartistsguild.org/links.htm

18-19 SCOTTSDALE: Cooks & Corks - Center for the Arts, food and wine tastings with cooking demos from some of the Valley’s top chefs hosted by Food & Wine expert Anthony Gigilo, $75, noon - 5 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

18-19 SCOTTSDALE: Great Arizona Picnic - Center for the Arts, food sampling from 50+ of the finest restaurants in the Valley, continuous musical entertainment & Sat "Concert Under the Stars," $10 entry, & $ tasting coupons, Sat noon - 10 pm, Sun noon - 6 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

18-19 SCOTTSDALE: Southwest Festival of Beers – Civic Center Plaza, a Beer Garden featuring more than 200 specialty beers and, fun & musical entertainment, $5, Sat noon - 7 pm, Sun noon-6:30 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

18-19 SEDONA: Art & Craft Show - Bell Rock Plaza, between 35-55 artists with paintings, leather, jewelry, wood, metal, fountains, carvings and many Native American artists too, 928-284-9627 or www.bellrockartshows.150m.com

18-19 SIERRA VISTA: The Arizona Folklore Preserve Presents Michael Grande – singer and musician, reservations required, $6-15, 2 pm, 520-378-6165 or www.arizonafolklore.com

18-19 TUCSON: Page by Page – Berger Performing Arts Center, Broadway musical legend Ken Page featuring songs from The Wiz, Guys and Dolls and his signature Fats Waller tunes, 520-882-9721 or www.invisibletheatre.com

18-10/15 SCOTTSDALE: Beyond Face Value – Hear Museum North, see how portraits and sculpture created by 20th century artists convey more than just pictures; these works also delve to explore many levels of information and perspective, www.heard.org

19 CHANDLER: Jungle Jack Hanna - Chandler Center for the Arts, features many of his favorite animal friends as well as fascinating and humorous stories and footage from his adventures around the world, $28, 3 pm, http://chandlercenter.org

April 19 CHANDLER: Tri for the Cure Arizona – Chandler High School, Sprint duathlon (run 1 mile, bike 8 miles, run 2 miles); Adult Sprint triathlon (swim 400 meters, bike 8 miles, run 2 miles), 7 am, www.triforthecureaz.com/

19 GLENDALE: Glendale Family Bike Ride – Sahuaro Ranch Park, a 6- or 12-mile bicycle ride through Glendale, food, entertainment and a kids entertainment zone, environmental groups, riders must wear a helmet, www.glendaleaz.com

19 LITCHFIELD PARK: Arts in the Park – Wigwam Resort, outdoor concert series, featuring The Aaron Nelson Project, free, 4-6 pm, www.litchfield-park.org

19 SCOTTSDALE: Best of the Fest - Hyatt Regency Scottsdale, featuring prominent Valley chefs each creating a five-course dinner for their two tables of ten, each course is paired with quality wines, $175, 6:30 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

19 SCOTTSDALE: Wine Country Brunch - Montelucia, highlights eight wineries, meet winemakers & experience award-winning food & wine combinations, also a silent auction, cocktail attire, $60, 11 am - 2 pm, 480-945-7193 or www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org

19 TUCSON: 11th Annual Komen Southern Arizona Race for the Cure - Reid Park, 5K run, 7 am, 520-325-7223 or www.komensaz.org

19-25 SCOTTSDALE: 18th Annual USTA National Men's 35 Hardcourt Tennis Championships - Scottsdale Resort & Athletic Club, competition in singles and doubles for men age 35 and over, prize money, 480-991-1571 or www.northern.usta.com/Northern/Global/News/News/2009_03/Mens%20Hard%20Courts%20IN%20Arizona.aspx

20 TEMPE: Percussion Jazz Ensemble – Katzin Concert Hall, led by Professor Mark Sunkett, the ensemble plays music arranged by the director, members of the ensemble and other percussionists, free, 7:30 pm, www.herbergercollege.asu.edu

20-24 WICKENBURG: 63rd Annual Desert Caballeros Ride - men's week long trail ride in the surrounding scenic Bradshaw Mountains, 928-684-5479 or 928-684-3618 or www.outwickenburgway.com

April 21 TEMPE: ASU Chamber Orchestra and ASU Sinfonietta – ASU Gammage, free, 7:30 pm, www.herbergercollege.asu.edu

21-25 TUCSON: Student Workshops - TCC, students of all ages are invited to sign up for traditional classes taught by professional mariachi musicians and baile folklorico instructors, part of the International Mariachi Conference, $, 520-838-3908 or www.tucsonmariachi.org

21-25 TUCSON: 27th Annual La Frontera International Mariachi Conference - TCC & Reid Park, Tucson’s largest cultural event with educational workshops in mariachi & folklorico dancing, Participant Showcase, Espectacular Concert, and Garibaldi Fiesta, $, 520-838-3908 or www.tucsonmariachi.org

21-26 TUCSON: Mama Mia! – Tucson Music Hall, Broadway in Tucson presents the anticipated return of this musical based on the songbook of ABBA, 520-903-2929 or www.broadwayintucson.com

April 22 TUCSON: Australian Chamber Orchestra – Fox Tucson Theatre, by Arizona Friends Chamber Music, 520-577-3769 or www.foxtucsontheatre.org

23 KINGMAN: Kingman Hawg Daze Poker Run – highlighting the scenic rides around Kingman, www.kingmantourism.org

23 SCOTTSDALE: Jeffrey Siegel’s Keyboard Conversations – Concerts with Commentary – Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, featuring a program on Musical Pictures, $32-38, 7:30 pm, 480-994-2787 or www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org

23 TEMPE: Benny and Basie – Katzin Concert Hall, Sam Pilafian and the ASU Jazz Repertory Band, $7-18, 7:30 pm, www.herbergercollege.asu.edu

23 TUCSON: Participant Showcase - TCC Music Hall, students that take part in the mariachi and baile folklorico workshops have the opportunity to strut their stuff, glimpse into the future of mariachi and baile folklorico, part of the International Mariachi Conference, $10, 7 pm, 520-838-3908 or www.tucsonmariachi.org

23-25 LAKE HAVSU CITY: 11th Annual Desert Storm Poker Run – Nautical Inn, on the water poker run, www.lakeracerllc.com or www.golakehavasu.com

23-25 PHOENIX: Carmina Burna – Symphony Classics Concert No. 13 – Symphony Hall, Michael Christie conducts, Nancy Allen Lundy, soprano, Seven Stolen, tenor, Stephen Powell, baritone, Phoenix Symphony Chorus and Phoenix Boys Choir, 7:30 & 8 pm, 602-495-1999 or www.phoenixsymphony.org

23-26 COTTONWOOD: Verde Valley Nature & Birding Festival - Dead Horse Ranch State Park, field trips, local tours, workshops & seminars, educational activities for kids, exhibits, key-note speaker, entertainment, $10+, 5:30 am – 9 pm, 928-282-2202 or www.birdyverde.org

23-26 SCOTTSDALE: Region VII All-Arabian Horse Show - WestWorld, 700 Arabian horses from across the Southwest compete in English & Western events, free, 8 am - 9 pm, 702-435-6694 or 480-312-6802 ext. 3 or www.aha7.org or www.scottsdaleaz.gov/westworld/events.asp

23-26 WINSLOW: 4th Annual Railroad Days – Winslow-Lindbergh Regional Airport, includes a model railroad exhibit, vendors, railroad documentary, http://home.comcast.net/~tucsonntrak/ASWMRR/ASWMRR_Info_Overflow.html

April 24 FLAGSTAFF: 7th Annual Palette to Palate – Lone Tree Campus of Coconino Community College, an evening of art, and silent auctions, entertainment and food, $35, 5-8 pm, 928-226-4322 or www.coconino.edu

24 LAKE HAVASU CITY: Test & Tune – Havasu 95 Speedway, free, 6-9 pm, 928-716-6634 or www.havasu95speedway.com

24 PHOENIX: 9th Annual ZooBrew - Phoenix Zoo, casual event at lakeside lawn, brews from local breweries, & BBQ, featuring the original Go-Gos, must be 21 years-old to attend, $65-75, 7-11 pm, 602-273-1341 or www.phoenixzoo.org

24 PHOENIX: 4th Annual Swing Fore Kids Golf Classic – Wildfire Golf Club, 8 am shotgun start, benefits Phoenix Children’s Hospital’s Animal Assisted Therapy Program, live & silent auctions, 602-469-5666 or cbre.com/swingforekidsgolfclassic

24 TEMPE: Pan Devils Steel Band – Katzin Concert Hall, under the direction of Elizabthe DeLamater, free, 7:30 pm, www.herbergercollege.asu.edu

24 TEMPE: Astronomy Open House - roof of the Bateman Physical Sciences Bldg. H Wing, learn about the moon & planets, free, 8-10 pm, 480-727-7010 or http://homepage.mac.com/agfuentes/openhouse.html

24 TUCSON: Serenta y Cena – TCC, enjoy mariachi music during this pre-Espectacular concert dinner, part of the International Mariachi Conference, 5 pm, 520-838-3908 or www.tucsonmariachi.org

24 TUCSON: The Espectacular Concert - TCC Arena, the best mariachi musicians performing before standing room crowds, this year’s performers are Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan, Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano, Mariachi Cobre and Pedro Fernandez, $46-86, 7:30 pm, 520-838-3908 or www.tucsonmariachi.org

24-25 LAKE HAVASU CITY: Pacific Offshore Powerboat Racing Associations 2nd Annual Lake Havasu Grand Prix – events include a show and shine on Main Street on Thursday, see the boats up close and take a look a the massive motors, talk to the drivers, www.pacificoffshore.com

24-25 SCOTTSDALE: 6th Annual McDowell Mountain Music Festival - WestWorld, eclectic music festival promoting a community gathering and a charity benefit amidst RV & tent camping, a host of great acts with several Grammy winners among them, delectable food, A Kid's Zone, a marketplace, silent auction, benefits The Golden Gate Community Center and Phoenix Day Child and Family Learning Center, $, Fri gates open at noon, Sat. 10 am, 602-343-0453 or www.mmmf.net

24-26 BENSON: 4th Annual Benson Bluegrass in the Park – Lion’s Park, workshops, jams, vendors, $15-25, 520-586-2842 or www.arizonaoldtimefiddlers.org or www.bensonvisitorcenter.com or www.bensonchamberaz.com

24-26 CHANDLER: IHBA Lakefest 2009 - Firebird International Raceway, biggest & fastest boats on water, unlimited Hydroplanes return to Firebird, $, 8 am - 4 pm, 602-268-0200 or www.firebirdraceway.com

24-26 FLAGSTAFF: Northern Arizona Book Festival – Orpheum Theatre and other locations, includes readings, workshops, panel discussions, literary events, www.nazbookfest.com

24-26 PARKER: 13th Annual Open Golf Tournament – Emerald Canyon Golf Course, sponsored by Blue Water Resort & Casino, http://parkerareatourism.com

24-26 PHOENIX: Jane Doe – Central Community Theatre, staged reading of an original play by Jane Fendelman, 602-357-3247 or www.cctstage.org

24-26 PHOENIX: 26th Annual Answer to the Challenge - 3-day bike ride to Strawberry via Payson, Camp Verde to Jerome & Mingus Mountain to Prescott, 480-948-9280 or www.sportsfun.com/gaba or www.azbikeclub.com

24-26 SCOTTSDALE: 6th Annual Desert Ice Bonspiel – Alltel Ice Den, 24 curling teams from Canada and the U.S. will participate in the tournament, www.coyotescurling.com

24-26 WILLCOX: 26th Annual South East Arizona Fine Art & Photography Show – Willcox Community Center, artists show and sell their works, judged event, free, 520-384-2658

24-5/3 TEMPE: Sunday in the Park with George – Evelyn Smith Music Theatre, one of the most acclaimed musicals of our time examines the life of the enigmatic painter, Georges Seurat, $7-22, 7:30 & 2 pm, www.herbergercollege.asu.edu

April 25 BISBEE: 20th Annual Celebration of Earth Day - City Park, environmental booths, arts & crafts, solar demonstrations, live entertainment, children's activities, natural foods, traditional Maypole and Earth Day parade, 11 am - 5 pm, 520-432-3554 or 866-224-7233 or www.discoverbisbee.com

April 25 CAVE CREEK: 14th Annual Desert Foothills Land Trust Sonoran Symphony – Rancho Manana Golf Resort, symphonic Cowboy Western music, featuring Cody Bryant’s Riders of the Purple Sage and the Symphony of the Southwest, silent auction, gourmet dinner, $250, 480-488-6131 or www.dflt.org

25 CHANDLER: KC and the Sunshine Band - Chandler Center for the Arts, pioneered an original funk style that continues to delight old fans and attracts new ones, $46-64, 8 pm, http://chandlercenter.org

25 DEWEY: Prescott Valley Pronghorn Golf Classic - Prescott Country Club, 7:30 am, 928-772-8857 or www.pvchamber.org

25 FLAGSTAFF: Arbor Day Celebration – The Arboretum at Flagstaff, guided tour of the gardens at 11 am and 1 pm, learn about the trees and shrubs that are native to northern Arizona, live birds of prey demonstrations at noon and 2 pm, learn about tree planting techniques, free, 928-774-1442 or www.thearb.org

25 GOLDEN VALLEY: 3rd Annual Hwy 68 Classic/Custom Car & Bike Show – cars & bikes, free entry swap meet, vendors, food, music & prizes, kid’s corner, 9 am – 4 pm, 928-565-3311 or www.goldenvalleychamber.com

25 LAKE HAVASU CITY: Havasu 95 Speedway Race – SARA Park, ASA Speed Trucks, Modifieds, ASA Street Stocks, Bandolero Championship & Factory Stocks, 928-716-6634 or www.havasu95speedway.com

25 MARICOPA: 5th Annual Salsa Festival - Pacana Park, salsa, guacamole and bean dip competition, live music, a beer and margarita garden, free tortilla chips, kids zone, junior salsa bar and salsa lessons for everyone, $1,000 for the best overall salsa, also an artists alley, 5-9 pm, 520-568-9098 or www.maricopasalsafestival.com

25 ORO VALLEY: Calypso Night with Jovert Steel Drum Band – part of the Riverfront Park Concert Series, food available, free, 6:30 pm, www.govac.org

25 PAGE: Annual Page Attacks Trash/Earth Day - clean up Page, Lake Powell and the Navajo Nation, entertainment and BBQ for those who volunteer, free, 928-645-6224 or 928-645-2741 or www.pagelakepowelltourism.com

25 PAYSON: 19th Annual 2009 Zane Grey Highline 50 Mile Trail Race – beautiful, challenging and unique trail run, the trail lies entirely in the Tonto National Forest and runs from just south of Pine to several miles east of the town of Christopher Creek, designated a National Recreation Trail in 1979, a scenic and historic trail, 5 am, www.zanegrey50.com

25 PAYSON: 16th Annual Beeline Cruise-In and Car Show – Old Main Street between Meadow and South Mclane, celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Beeline Highway, includes a car cruise, raffles, a 50-50 drawing, judging, music, poker walk, vendors, trophies, 10 am – 4 pm 928-468-6300 or www.paysonrimcountry.com 928-468-9028 or www.rimcountrychamber.com

25 PHOENIX: 20th Annual Dinner on the Desert - Desert Botanical Gardens, an elegant yet casual event along the Garden trails, dinner, silent auction & dancing, $500, 6 pm, 480-941-1225 or 480-481-8147 or www.dbg.org

25 PHOENIX: VinArte Annual Wine Tasting & Sale - Phoenix Art Museum Sculpture Garden, showcases more than 60 vintners, culinary masterpieces by Arcadia Farms, silent auction, $50, 6-9 pm, 602-307-2060 or www.mensartscouncil.com

25 PHOENIX: 5th Annual 2009 Run for the Cheetah 5K - Papago Park, 5K run/walk, 1 mile fun run, kid's 100 yard dash, post run festivities, animal-themed booths, 6:30 am, 480-236-0811 or www.arizonaroadracers.com

25 PHOENIX: Amazing Grace – Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, featuring the Phoenix Chorale, a little bit of Americana through shapenotes, folksongs and hymns, $20-25, 7:30 pm, 602-253-2224 or www.phoenixchorale.org

25 PRESCOTT: Whiskey Off Road Mountain Bike Event - Historic Whiskey Row, endurance mountain bike including technical single track, smooth fire roads and quality climbing with great views, 15-, 25- & 50-mile, www.epicrides.com

25 SAFFORD: Desert Riders Sand Drags and ATV Poker Run – BLM Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area, www.desert-riders.com

25 SCOTTSDALE: 9th Annual Wine, Women & Jazz FUNrasier – Arizona Culinary Institute, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, fine wine and great jazz, benefits Arizona Women’s Partnership, $55-65, 4-6:30 pm, 602-863-9744 or www.azwp.org or www.blacktie-arizona.com/rsvp event code is FUN

April 25: 29th Annual Sonoita Vineyards Blessing of the Vineyards Fesitval

As families and consumers tighten their budgets, luxury industries such as the wine industry have struggled through the economic downturn. However, instead of shrinking back to ride out these lean times, one local winery is pulling out all the stops to make the 29th Annual Blessing of the Vineyards Festival the largest ever. This April 25th, Sonoita Vineyards is introducing a new event called Taste of Sonoita featuring wine pairings and gourmet offerings from local farms, inns and restaurants. Additionally, the annual Blessing of the Vineyards will feature new and affordable family events such as balloon rides, baby goat bottle feeding, horseback rides and book signings in addition to the traditional blessing, live music, dancing and wine tastings and tours. Continue reading about the Sonoita Vineyards Annual Blessing of the Vineyards Festival.

25 SUPERIOR: Butterfly Walk – Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park, learn to identify common species of butterflies and about the insects’ life cycles on a two-hour walk, 9:30 am, 520-689-2811 or www.azstateparks.com

25 TEMPE: 25th Annual My Nana’s Salsa Challenge – Tempe Beach Park, fund-raiser for Hemophilia Assn, 85+ competitors prepare fresh salsa on-site in either the mild or hot category, salsas, featuring restaurants, businesses and individuals, sampling contest, Margarita Mix-Off, live bands, Kids Funzone, music, $10, 12 and under are free, 11 am - 6 pm, 602-955-3947 or www.salsachallenge.com

25 TEMPE: 4th Annual Tempe Town Lake Outrigger Canoe Association Regatta – canoe racing, outrigger canoe competition, music & entertainment, bring lawn chairs and blankets, free, 7 am – 4 pm, www.tempeoutrigger.net/

25 TEMPE: 5th Annual 5K for JA Run Walk for Education – Tempe Town Lake, 5K run and 5K fun walk, 7 am, www.capitolbancorp5K.com or www.arizonarunningeventsco.com

25 TUCSON: The Fiesta de Garibaldi - DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center, a traditional re-creation of the sights and sounds of the Garibaldi Plaza in Mexico City, features daylong party on two stages, with live mariachi music and baile folklorico acts from all over the Southwest, Mexican food and arts-and-crafts vendors, $5, 10 am - 10 pm, 520-838-3908 or www.tucsonmariachi.org

25 TUCSON: 24th Annual Chevy Showdown – Reid Park, presented by the Classic Chevy Club of Tucson, includes show and shine, T-shirt, goody bags and award, benefits Community Food Bank of Tucson, open to all pre1973 Chevrolet cars and trucks, 520-721-9541 or www.classicchevycluboftucson.com

25 TUCSON: Spring Cross Country Classic - Lincoln Park, 5K, separate races for open and masters divisions, 7:30 am, 520-326-9383 or www.azroadrunners.org

25 TUCSON: 27th Annual Festival of the Sun, Solar Potluck and Exhibition - Catalina State Park, exhibits & demonstrations of all types of solar energy devices including ovens, cookers, water heaters, photo-voltaics, solar-powered music, children's activities, promotes the development & use of solar energy, 9 am, 520-328-5798 or www.azstateparks.com

25-26 BISBEE: 31st Annual La Vuelta de Bisbee - three day staged cycling event for all age groups, includes time trials, a circuit race and a road race through Bisbee and nearby towns of Hereford and Tombstone, 520-432-5795 or www.discoverbisbee.com or www.lvdb.info/

25-26 CHANDLER: 11th Annual Napa Auto Parts Monster Truck Nationals - Firebird International Raceway, monster trucks, drag racing, jet cars, show and shine, 602-268-0200 or www.firebirdraceway.com H

25-26 PHOENIX: American Voices – Herberger’s Performance Outreach Theater, Center Dance Ensemble, inspired by National Poetry Month, this new choreography honors America’s great poets, including Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson and Edgar Allan Poe, as well as today’s modern voices, $9-15, 7:30 & 2 pm, 602-252-8497 or www.centerdance.com or www.herbergertheater.org

25-26 PHOENIX: 7th Annual Parade of Ponds - 40 public & private ponds and water gardens open, talk to owners about their experiences, learn about low maintenance, organic water gardening, self-guided, some with artists, music, $15, 9 am - 4 pm, 623-572-5607 or www.schoolyardhabitatfoundation.org

25-26 SIERRA VISTA: The Arizona Folklore Preserve Presents Tim Weed – guitar virtuoso, reservations required, $6-15, 2 pm, 520-378-6165 or www.arizonafolklore.com

25-26 SONOITA: Santa Cruz County Horse Races – Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, live Quarter Horse and thoroughbred races with simulcast wagering from Turf Paradise and the Kentucky Derby, , $3, gates open at 10:30 am, post time is 1 pm, 520-455-5553 or www.sonoitafairgrounds.com

25-26 TUCSON: Josefina Javelina – Tucson Convention Center’s Leo Rich Theatre, performed with a collection of unique and original contemporary and classical ballets, by Tucson Regional Ballet, $13-18, 2 & 7:30 pm, www.tucsonregionalballet.org

25-26 WILLCOX: Annual Junior Rodeo –Rodeo Grounds, see the future rodeo champions, www.arizonajuniorrodeo.com

25-5/17 TEMPE The Neverending Story – Tempe Center for the Arts, tale of imagination and hope based on the original book, running from bullies, Bastian cracks open a mystical book, the story of the race to save Fantastica from the dark destruction of The Nothing, recommended for ages five and older, by Childsplay, $15-25, 480-350-2822 or www.childsplayaz.org

April 26 CHANDLER: Ballet Folklorico “Quetzalli” - Chandler Center for the Arts, one of the most popular folklorico companies touring out of Mexico, $26-36, 3 pm, http://chandlercenter.org

26 ORACLE: Music in the Park – Oracle State Park, $10, 2-4 pm, 520-896-2425 or www.azstateparks.com

26 PARADISE VALLEY: Amazing Grace – Camelback Bible Church, featuring the Phoenix Chorale, a little bit of Americana through shapenotes, folksongs and hymns, $20-25, 7:30 pm, 602-253-2224 or www.phoenixchorale.org

26 SCOTTSDALE: 35th Annual Taste 2009 – Kierland Commons, more than 300 domestic and imported wines, wining, dining and dancing, more than 50 of Phoenix’s best restaurants, $150, 6-9 pm, 602-954-8182 or www.bgcmp.org

26 TUCSON: 23rd Holualoa Annual Tour of the Tucson Mountains - 100K or 50K bicycle tour around perimeter of the Tucson Mountains, 4- mile & 1/4 mile kids fun rides, traffic control, support stations, medallions to all finishers, $55 registration, 7 am, 520-745-2033 or www.perimeterbicycling.com

26 TUCSON: Musical Moveable Feast – Hacienda del Sol, a multi-course signature creation by the head chef, fine music, dining and dancing with Tucson Symphony Orchestra, $110, 5:30 pm, www.tucsonsymphony.org

29-5/3 COTTONWOOD: 43rd Annual Verde Valley Fair - Fairgrounds, old time fair, free entertainment, carnival, livestock show & sale, fine art, homemaking arts, crafts, horticulture & floriculture, $4-10, 928-634-3290 or http://verdevalleyfair.com

April 30 TEMPE: ASU Choirs and ASU Symphony Orchestra present Mendelssohn’s Elijah – ASU Gammage, with faculty artist and soprano, Carole FitzPatrick, Judy May, mezzo-soprano, David Britton, tenor, Robert Barefield, baritone, free, 7:30 pm, www.herbergercollege.asu.edu

30-5/2 PHOENIX: Saint-Saëns: Organ Symphony – Symphony Classics Concert No. 14 – Symphony Hall, Michael Christie conducts, Paul Jacobs, organ, 7:30 & 8 pm, 602-495-1999 or www.phoenixsymphony.org

30-5/2 TUCSON: 9th Annual AZ Hog (Harley Owners Group) Rally – Downtown, motorcycle-themed happenings, live bands, street dances, poker runs, 602-955-2658 or www.azstatehogrally.com

30-5/2 TUCSON: 35th Annual Rodders Days – Arizona’s Oldest Rod Run - 4th Avenue, includes a run to Kitt Peak, limited to 1963 and older vehicles, includes a burger burn, dinner and auction, car show, awards, www.tucsonstreetrodassociation.com

30-5/25 PRESCOTT: Miniature Masterpieces Art Show & Sale – Phippen Museum, included are works of art that range from 5x7 to 11x14 and are often studies of larger works, prices range from $500-5,000, 928-778-1385 or www.phippenartmuseum.org

This calendar has been produced to assist you in making travel arrangements. It is for information only and does not constitute a recommendation. Dates for events were correct at time of publication. Since dates are occasionally changed, please confirm them in advance.

April 1-14, 2009 Events | Calendar of Events | Arizona Index

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