Arizona September Events Day By Day

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

ANTHEM: 8^th Annual Red Rocks Music Festival – Classical Meets Jazz, Part II - featuring the Russell Schmidt Trio and Festival musicians including Nancy Buck, presented by Arts Council of the North Valley, $10-25, 7 pm, 877-733-7257 or www.redrocksmusicfestival.com

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

2-7 WHITERIVER: 84th Annual White Mountain Apache Tribal Fair & Rodeo – “Celebrate the Apache Children” - Hon-Dah, all Indian rodeos, fry bread contest, Native American arts and crafts, fireworks, car show, concerts, parade, carnival, $3-5, 928-338-4346 ext. 316 or www.canyondayrodeo.com/home

2 PHOENIX: 8^th Annual Red Rocks Music Festival – Phoenix Art Museum, (1625 N. Central Ave.), Classical Meets Jazz, Part II - featuring the Russell Schmidt Trio and Festival musicians, $10-25, 7 pm, 877-733-7257 or www.redrocksmusicfestival.com

2 PHOENIX: Film Festival at PVCC "Films of the Middle East" – Paradise Valley Community College Center for the Performing Arts, (18401 N. 32^nd St. 85032), featuring Palestine, 2005; PG-13, 6:30 pm, 602-787-7738 or www.paradisevalley.edu/cpa

2 TUCSON: Primavera Cooks! – gourmet dining event series supporting the community, some of Tucson’s finest chefs and adventurous donors create and prepare an elaborate wine-paired dinner with proceeds benefiting the Primavera Foundation, this week’s venue is Maynard’s, $125, 520-623-5111 ext. 101 or www.primaveracooks.org

Thursday, September 3, 2009

2-7 WHITERIVER: 84th Annual White Mountain Apache Tribal Fair & Rodeo – “Celebrate the Apache Children” - Hon-Dah, all Indian rodeos, fry bread contest, Native American arts and crafts, fireworks, car show, concerts, parade, carnival, $3-5, 928-338-4346 ext. 316 or www.canyondayrodeo.com/home

3 PARADISE VALLEY: 8^th Annual Red Rocks Music Festival – Mendelssohn Birthday Celebration – Valley Presbyterian Church, (6947 E. McDonald Dr. 85253), featuring Nokuthula Ngwenyama, $10-35, 7 pm, 877-733-7257 or www.redrocksmusicfestival.com

Friday, September 4, 2009

4 CLARKDALE: Grape Train Escapes - Verde Canyon Railroad, wine tasting trains, wine tasting trains, with unique wines and food from around the world, 928-639-0010 or 800-293-7245 or www.verdecanyonrr.com

4 FLAGSTAFF: First Friday Art Walk - The Artists Gallery, stroll through the art galleries of historic downtown while talking with the artists, free, 6:30 pm, 928-773-0958 or www.theartistsgallery.net

4 PHOENIX: Artlink First Fridays - self-guided art tour of central Phoenix, galleries, art spaces, studios, first Friday of each month, free shuttle rides, free, 6-10 pm, 602-256-7539 or www.artlinkphoenix.com H

Saturday, September 5, 2009

5 ANTHEM: Anthem Sprint Triathlon – Sprint Distance Triathlon in reverse order, adults run 3.1 miles, bike 14 miles, swim 400m, kids run 1.5 miles, bike 4 miles and swim 150m pool swim, 7:30 am, 623-330-0913 or www.dcbadventures.com or www.getsetaz.com

5 BISBEE: 34th Annual Brewery Gulch Daze - chili cook-off, horseshoe tournament, waterball tournament, kiddie carnival, live music, dunk tank, pet parade, Miz Ol' Biz contest, mining games, cake walk, free, 11 am - 5 pm, 520-432-3554 or 866-2BISBEE or www.discoverbisbee.com H *

5 CHINO VALLEY: Saturday Picnic and Music Series – Granite Creek Vineyards, tastes of award-winning wines, live music featuring The Denise Allen Band, $8, 11 am – 5 pm, 928-636-2003 or www.granitecreekvineyards.com

5 FLAGSTAFF: Summer Concert Series – The Arboretum at Flagstaff, local and regional performers of world music, bring a picnic dinner and lawn chair, this week is, $6-8, 5:30 pm, 928-774-1442 or www.thearb.org

5 JEROME: Jerome Art Walk – visit more than 30 of the unique art studios and galleries, meet the artists and see handcrafted art including jewelry, pottery, glass, leatherwork, clothing, paintings and sculpture and more made both locally and internationally, free, 5-8 pm, www.jeromeartwalk.com

5 PHOENIX: Phoenix Mercury vs. Atlanta – US Airways Center, $10, 7 pm, 602-252-WNBA or www.phoenixmercury.com

5 PHOENIX: 5th Annual Phoenix Cooks! – Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, for food and wine aficionados, indulge in a weekend of culinary adventures, a welcome reception and parade of chefs, marketplace & food/wine tasting from chefs from many resorts, chef competitions on stage, cooking classes, winemaker dinner, 602-381-7632 or www.phoenixcooks.com

5 SCOTTSDALE: Show Circuit All Breed Horse Show - WestWorld, 480-488-5711 or www.sundustaz.com www.scottsdaleaz.gov/westworld/events.asp

5 SHONTO: Rock the Canyon Festival 2009 – featuring Shonto Begay & The Hopi Clansmen, a farmers’ market, music, comedy, poetry, performance artists, free, 9 am - midnight, 928-672-2910

5 SUPERIOR: Dragonfly Walk – Boyce Thompson Arboretum, parents and kids can learn to identify colorful dragonfly species during a one-hour walk, $3-7.50, 9:30 am, 520-689-2811 or http://arboretum.ag.arizona.edu

5 TAYLOR: Sweet Corn Festival – firemen’s muster competition, junior rodeo, car show, children's & adult rodeos, parade, arts & crafts, BBQ, dance, 928-536-7366 or www.snowflaketaylorchamber.org H *

5 TUCSON: La Encantada Summer Concert Series – Lower level courtyard, featuring Calypso Night with the award winning Jovert! Steel Drum Band, $10, 7:30 pm, www.govac.org

5 WICKENBURG: 21st Annual Fiesta Septiembre – Community Center, Hispanic families’ photography exhibit, entertainment includes Barrio Latino, folklorico dancers and Mariachi bands, arts/crafts and food Mercado & Cantina, Kids Zona, salsa making and Viva Margarita contests, free, 11 am – 7 pm, 928-684-5479 or 800-942-5242 or www.outwickenburgway.com

5 WILLCOX: Magic Circle Bike Ride – ride 66 or 33-miles around the Magic Circle of Cochise, $25, reservations required, 520-384-2272 or www.willcoxchamber.com

5-6 ALPINE: Bush Valley Craft Club Christmas Bazaar – Alpine Community Center, also the Alpine Community Theater melodrama at 7 pm, 928-339-4828 or www.alpinearizona.com

5-6 CHINO VALLEY: 23rd Annual First Territorial Days – Memory Park, (1020 W. Palomino Rd. 86323), pancake breakfast, community parade, 10K fun run, corn dinner and more, 7 am – 6 pm, 928-636-9780 or www.chinovalley.org

5-6 PINE: 28th Annual Pine-Strawberry Arts & Crafts Festival - Community Center, 85+ arts & crafts booths, food, free, Sat 8 am - 5 pm, Sun 8 am - 3 pm, 928-476-4480 or www.pinestrawhs.org or www.paysonrimcountry.com H x

5-6 SCOTTSDALE: American Saddlebred Association of Arizona 2009 All Breed Horse Show – WestWorld, www.scottsdaleaz.gov/westworld/events.asp or www.americansaddlebredassociationofarizona.com

5-6 SEDONA: 8^th Annual Red Rocks Music Festival – Mendelssohn Birthday Celebration – Sedona & Verde Valley Jewish Community Center, (100 Meadow Lark Dr., 86336), featuring Shmuel Ashkenasi, $10-35, 7 & 3 pm, 877-733-7257 or www.redrocksmusicfestival.com

5-7 GRAND CANYON: Labor Day Weekend Festivities – featuring Jaye Begay, Grammy nominee artist on Saturday and Hoop Dance contest on Sunday, cowboy and Indian Musician Day and frybread making contest on Monday, 928-856-0717

5-7 MORENCI: Blue Loop Tour - bike 55, 60 & 90 miles in central mountains of Arizona and New Mexico, lots of hills and scenic vistas, Morenci to Glenwood to Alpine and down the Coronado Trail, www.bikegaba.org

5-7 PINETOP-LAKESIDE: 14^th Annual Art Barn Arts & Crafts Festival – Art Barn on Buck Springs Rd. juried fine arts, vendors, free, www.runningbearproductions.net

5-7 PRESCOTT: Faire on the Square - Courthouse Plaza, 150+ talented artists, also food and entertainment, 9 am – 5 pm, 928-445-2000 or www.prescott.org H

5-7 SEDONA: 23rd Annual Moonlight Madness Street Festival & Sidewalk Sales - Main Street, music and entertainment at various locations with music and children’s activities, community activities, food, free, 928-204-2390 or www.sedonamainstreet.com H *

5-7 SONOITA: 94th Annual Labor Day Rodeo - Fairgrounds, bulls, saddle broncs, steer wrestling, barrel racing, bareback, calf roping, team roping, team penning, & muttons, dinner, dance, $5-10, 1 pm performances, 520-455-5553 or www.sonoitafairgrounds.com

5-7 WILLCOX: 9^th Annual Apple Harvest Celebration – Apple Annie’s Orchard, a celebration of the delicious apples grown in Willcox, u-pick apples from the orchard, free wagon rides to orchard for picking, all-you-can-eat apples and pancake breakfast, apple-smoked burger lunches, homemade ice cream and pies, 11:30 am – 4 pm, 520-384-2084 or www.appleannies.com

Sunday, September 6, 2009

6 FLAGSTAFF: Labor Day Star Fest - Lowell Observatory, features numerous telescopes set up for viewing throughout the Lowell campus, 5:30-9:30 pm, 928-233-3211 or www.lowell.edu

6 JEROME: 39th Annual Jerome Hill Climb - begins at the old Jerome High School, a 4.6 mile run uphill on paved and dirt roads, aid stations, finish line refreshments, 8 am, 602-954-8341 or www.arizonaroadracers.com or www.getsetaz.com

6 PARKER: Sunrise Rotary Golf Tournament – benefits scholarship program, http://parkertourism.com

6 SHUNGOPAVI: 36^th Annual Louis Tewanima Memorial Footrace – Second Mesa, in honor of the late U.S. Hopi Olympian, Louis Tewanima, who won a Silver medal in the 10,000 meter race at the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden, 6 am, www.tewanimafootrace.org

6 SUPERIOR: Learn Your Lizards – Boyce Thompson Arboretum, educates participants how to identify common species such as Western whiptails, Tree Lizards, Side-blotched and Greater Earless, family-friendly walk, meet at the visitor center, $3-7.50, 8:30 am, 520-689-2811 or http://arboretum.ag.arizona.edu

6 TUCSON: Jeff Kashiwa concert – Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, (7000 N. Resort Dr.), jazz saxophonist, part of the Tucson Jazz Society’s Jazz in Style summer concert series, $35, 7 pm, 520-903-1265 or www.tucsonjazz.org

6 VAIL: Sunday in the Park – Colossal Cave Mountain Park, Geology Rocks with Bill Peachey, 2:15, 3 & 4 pm bug hunts, free, 520-647-7275 or 520-647-7121 or www.colossalcave.com

Monday, September 7, 2009 Labor Day

7 SUPERIOR: Opuntia Punch – How-to-Juice-Prickly-Pear – Boyce Thompson Arboretum, learn how to harvest opuntia cactus fruits and extract their juice without turning your hands into a “porcupine” with author Jean Groen, included in admission, $3-7.50, 10:30 am 520-689-2811 or http://ag.arizona.edu/bta

7 TUCSON: 39th Annual National Monument 8 Mile Run & 2-Mile Run/Walk – Saguaro National Park East, paved road, rolling hills, $17-35, 6:30 am, 520-991-0733 or www.azroadrunners.org H

6-13 WINDOW ROCK: 63rd Annual Navajo Nation Fair - arts & crafts, baby contest, free BBQ, exhibits, concerts, horse racing, parade, Pow Wow, rodeo, traditional song & dance, fry bread contest, carnival, $2-4, 928-871-6703 or 928-871-6478 www.navajonationfair.com or www.navajonationparks.org H * z

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

6-13 WINDOW ROCK: 63rd Annual Navajo Nation Fair - arts & crafts, baby contest, free BBQ, exhibits, concerts, horse racing, parade, Pow Wow, rodeo, traditional song & dance, fry bread contest, carnival, $2-4, 928-871-6703 or 928-871-6478 www.navajonationfair.com or www.navajonationparks.org H * z

8-12 EAGAR: Annual Arizona ATV Outlaw Trail Jamboree - Apache County Rodeo Grounds, ATV parade, wild-west shootout, entertainment by cowboy poets, a western dance with live band, guided ATV rides throughout the White Mountains with an occasional holdup or two on the trail, 866-409-9378 or www.azatvoutlawtrail.com

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

6-13 WINDOW ROCK: 63rd Annual Navajo Nation Fair - arts & crafts, baby contest, free BBQ, exhibits, concerts, horse racing, parade, Pow Wow, rodeo, traditional song & dance, fry bread contest, carnival, $2-4, 928-871-6703 or 928-871-6478 www.navajonationfair.com or www.navajonationparks.org H * z

9 PHOENIX: Film Festival at PVCC "Films of the Middle East" – Paradise Valley Community College Center for the Performing Arts, (18401 N. 32^nd St. 85032), featuring The Band’s Visit (Israel, 2007; PG-13), 6:30 pm, 602-787-7738 or www.paradisevalley.edu/cpa

Thursday, September 10, 2009

6-13 WINDOW ROCK: 63rd Annual Navajo Nation Fair - arts & crafts, baby contest, free BBQ, exhibits, concerts, horse racing, parade, Pow Wow, rodeo, traditional song & dance, fry bread contest, carnival, $2-4, 928-871-6703 or 928-871-6478 www.navajonationfair.com or www.navajonationparks.org H * z

10 TEMPE: 5th Annual Remember 911 5K Run/Walk – Kiwanis Park, 5K run, www.arizonarunningeventsco.com or www.getsetaz.com

10-13 KINGMAN: Mohave County Fair - Mohave County Fairgrounds, carnival, 4-H competition & FFA livestock auction, rides, booths, shows, contests, $, 928-753-2636 or www.mcfafairgrounds.org or http://arizonafairs.com H

10-20 MESA: Fools, Friends, Farce and Fables – Mesa Arts Center, (1 E. Main, 85211), by Mesa Encore Theatre, English Shakespearean actors, Jack and Leo, find themselves so down on their luck that they are performing "Scenes from Shakespeare" on the Moose Lodge circuit in the Amish country of Pennsylvania, then Jack and Leo hatch a plot to pass themselves off as two English women to “relieve” an elderly woman of her fortune, $20-25, 7 & 2 pm, www.mesaencoretheatre.com

10-10/3 TUCSON: The Kite Runner – Temple of Music and Art, (330 S. Scott), a cry for help from an old friend in a distant land lies at the heart of this powerful story of friendship, betrayal and redemption newly adapted from the international best-selling novel, told through the lives of two boys, Amir and Hassan, growing up in Afghanistan in the same household, but in two starkly different worlds, premiere, 520-622-2823 or www.aztheatreco.org Continue reading about ATC's 2009-2010 season.

10-11/16 TUCSON: 2^nd Annual Wish You Were Here: Fiber Art Postcards – Tohono Chul Park, (7366 N. non-juried exhibit of artist-made postcards by those working with fiber-based media, documenting real or imagined places, trips, experiences or events in the state of Arizona, 520-742-6455 or www.tohonochulpark.org

Friday, September 11, 2009

6-13 WINDOW ROCK: 63rd Annual Navajo Nation Fair - arts & crafts, baby contest, free BBQ, exhibits, concerts, horse racing, parade, Pow Wow, rodeo, traditional song & dance, fry bread contest, carnival, $2-4, 928-871-6703 or 928-871-6478 www.navajonationfair.com or www.navajonationparks.org H * z

11 CHANDLER: The Lamplighters – Chorus And Quartet – Chandler Center for the Arts, enjoy barbershop harmony a uniquely American musical art form, free, 7:30 pm, http://chandlercenter.org

11 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

11-12 BISBEE: Plein Air Weekend – various visual artists will be creating their own style of art in and around Old Bisbee in competition, 10 am – 4 pm, 520-432-3554 or 866-2BISBEE

11-12 ELOY: 8^th Annual Fiestas Patrias Celebration – Main Street Park, (601 N. C Street, 85231) includes Mexican food, merchandise, music, mariachi music, folklorico dancing and other cultural traditions, a parade on Saturday, Fri noon – 10 pm, Sat. 9 am – 11:30 am, www.eloyaz.org

11-12 LAKE HAVSAU CITY: Playcraft Boats Regatta – 573-765-3265 or www.playcraftboats.com

11-12 SIERRA VISTA: Oktoberfest – Veterans’ Memorial Park, German and ethnic cuisine, a Beer Garden, activities for the kids, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, Fri 5-11 pm, Sat 11 am – 11 pm, 520-458-7922 or www.visitSierraVista.com

11-13 FLAGSTAFF: 5th Annual Route 66 Days – Downtown, presented by the Route 66 Car Club, dash plaques, goodie bags, door prizes, 50/50, limited to 400 vehicles, 928-856-2816 or www.route66carclub.com or www.flagstaffroute66days.com

11-13 FLAGSTAFF: Summer Madness Grand American – smokin’ hot runs and fun, Cowboy Mounted Shooters, www.acmsa.com

11-13 PAYSON: 55th Annual Northern Gila County Fair – Payson Event Center, old-fashioned country fair, open horse show, livestock, small animals, handicrafts, lapidary, fine arts, photography and other exhibits, 928-474-5242 or www.ci.payson.az.us

11-13 WILLIAMS: Arizona State Mounted Posse Roping – Bob Dean Rodeo Grounds, www.williamsfestivals.com

11-27 GRAND CANYON: 26th Annual Grand Canyon Music Festival - Shrine of the Ages Auditorium, annual series of evening concerts, musicians from around the country, from jazz to classical, $, 7:30 pm, 928-638-9215 or 800-997-8285 or www.grandcanyonmusicfest.org H

Saturday, September 12, 2009

6-13 WINDOW ROCK: 63rd Annual Navajo Nation Fair - arts & crafts, baby contest, free BBQ, exhibits, concerts, horse racing, parade, Pow Wow, rodeo, traditional song & dance, fry bread contest, carnival, $2-4, 928-871-6703 or 928-871-6478 www.navajonationfair.com or www.navajonationparks.org H * z

12 BISBEE: 9th Annual Bisbee Bloomer Garden Tour – Bisbee residents open their yards to the public, a shuttle buss will be available, the Bisbee Art’s Commission will have a “Plein Air” painting event in conjunction with the tour, artists will be featured in the 10 gardens, local musicians will play at various locations, $10, 10 am – 4 pm, 520-432-3554 or 866-2BISBEE or www.discoverbisbee.com

12 CLARKDALE: Saturday Night Starlight Train - Verde Canyon Railroad, the canyon comes alive with nocturnal beauty and wildlife, 928-639-0010 or 800-293-7245 or www.verdecanyonrr.com

12 COTTONWOOD: 2^nd Saturday Art & Antique Walk – Old Town District, art galleries, special exhibits, shopping, music, 1– 8 pm, www.oldtown.org

12 CORDES JUNCTION: Colly Concert – Arcosanti, featuring Sonya Lee, piano classics commemorate the life of Corolyn Woods Soleri, 928-632-7135 or www.arcosanti.org

12 FLAGSTAFF: Family Fun Run – Buffalo Park, 1 mile fun run, 5K and 10K, www.flagstaff.az.gov/index.aspx?NID=1501

12 FLAGSTAFF: Rock the House – Foxglenn Park, (4200 E. Butler Ave. 86004), day-long concert benefiting Habitat for Humanity, with food, drinks, craft vendors, and live music, bands include The Buzzard Brothers, Sweet Nasty, South of Somewhere, Telescope, The Morning Light, and special guest Thriving Ivory, $20, 11 am – 8 pm, 928-606-7600 or www.flagstaffrockthehouse.com/index.html H

12 GILBERT: Harvest Boutique – Trilogy Power Ranch Sierra Ballroom, (4369 E. Village Parkway, Gilbert, AZ 85298), Proceeds benefit the programs at the House of Refuge, one-of-a-kind items and accessories, hosted by: Creative Designers, 10 am-2 pm, 480-634-4633 or www.creative-designers.org

12 GILBERT: 18^th Annual So Long to Summer Fest – Freestone Park Softball Complex, celebrate the end of summer with two live bands, a choreographed grand finale fireworks show, midway with interactive inflatable slides and rides, face painting, climbing wall, $3, 6-10 pm, 480-503-6200 or www.ci.gilbert.az.us/parks H *

12 NOGALES: Fiestas Patrias – Fleischer Park, (1500 N. Hohokam Dr. 85621), learn more about the rich heritage of Mexico, the festival cultivates friendship and promotes understanding of diverse cultures, American and Mexican heritage will be showcased through entertainment, food, cultural and educational exhibits, children’s games, face painting, dancing, clowns, etc., Los Apsons will perform, free, 5 pm – midnight, 520-287-3685 or www.thenogaleschamber.com

12 PAGE: 4th Annual Blair Family Rug and Native Art Auction and Indian Market – Gunsmoke Saloon, 250-300 items to auction, includes baskets, kachinas, pottery, rugs and selections from the Elijah Blair Family collection, pre show noon – 2 pm, auction begins at 2 pm, 928-645-3008 or www.blairstradingpost.com

12 PAYSON: Payson Heritage Festival – Green Valley Park, a celebration of Payson’s Western, Native American and Pioneer heritage, with music, actors, hay and buggy rides, Native American dancers, old fashioned gun fight reenactments, a western melodrama, period games, activities and demonstrations, quilting displays, antique tractor display, tours, music, food, free, 9 am – 5 pm, 928-468-6074 or www.paysonrimcountry.com

12 PINE: Second Saturday “Shop Hop” – visit your favorite shops and galleries and discover some new ones, meet the merchants, artists and craftsmen of Pine, local art, antiques, free, 2-6 pm, 928-476-2219 or 928-476-3655 or www.pinestrawhs.org

12 POLACCA: Hopi Water is Life Run – open to anyone interested in running for the cause of water and life, includes Ultra Run and Ultra Run 3-person and 6-person relays, covers the various types of high desert terrain, from open sand, hard rock surfaces to high mesa tops and riparian habitat, www.waterisliferun.org/theRun/default.aspx

12 PRESCOTT: 5th Annual Fall Gathering: Barbeque and Branding – Phippen Museum, a celebration of ranch life and a reenactment of the grand opening of the Phippen Museum in 1984, includes a BBQ, auction and branding ceremony, 928-778-1385 or www.phippenartmuseum.org

12 PRESCOTT: Rough Stock Explosion – Prescott Rodeo Grounds, get a taste of the Old West Rodeo with this display of bucking stock, 928-445-3103 or www.worldsoldestrodeo.com

12 PRESCOTT VALLEY: 7^th Annual World Arts Festival - Civic Center, (7501 E. Civic Circle 86314), ‘take part in art,’ family entertainment, world record attempt for the largest single piece of art created by the most number of artists, music, art, culture and food festival, arts and crafts, fine art, vendors, community groups, demonstrations, exhibitions and kids activities, 10 am - 7 pm, 928-759-3027 or 928-759-3090 or www.pvaz.net

12 SCOTTSDALE: Show Circuit All Breed Horse Show - WestWorld, 480-488-5711 or 480-312-6802 or www.scottsdaleaz.gov/westworld/events.asp or www.sundustaz.com

12 SCOTTSDALE: Ponies of the Americas Horse Show - WestWorld, 480-312-6802 or www.poac.org or www.scottsdaleaz.gov/westworld/events.asp

12 SEDONA: 37th Annual Fiesta Del Tlaquepaque - Mexican style celebration; headlining the Fiesta is mosaico flamenco, one of the most innovative & inspiring new acoustic flamenco groups in the USA, piñatas, strolling mariachi bands, folklorico dance groups, Flamenco/classical guitarists, artists, food, free, 10 am - 5 pm, 928-282-4838 or www.tlaq.com H *

12 SIERRA VISTA: 7^th Annual Dine Under the Stars – Patterson Observatory, dining entertainment with the Big Band Sound of the Desert Swing Band, dance contest, view the summer Milky Way, $50, 6 pm, 520-458-8278 ext 2129 or www.uas.arizona.edu

12-13 KINGMAN: Kingman Street Drags VI – Beale Street, Historic Downtown, street drags (from street cars to funny cars) & burnout contests, 928-727-7866 or www.kingmanstreetdrags.com

12-13 PHOENIX: 18th Annual Arizona Home & Building Expo – Phoenix Convention Center, 700+ exhibits, encompasses remodeling, home improvement and home building industries, find what you need in building products and services, Fri noon – 6 pm, Sat 10 am - 6 pm, Sun 10 am - 5 pm, 602-277-6045 or www.azbusinessmagazine.com

12-13 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

12-13 WILLCOX: Grandparents Weekend and Antique Tractor Show - Apple Annie's Orchard, members of Power from the Past Antique Tractors and Engines Club share their collection, old-fashioned games for grandparents & their grandchildren, grandparents accompanied by a grandchild will receive a complimentary bowl of homemade ice cream, free, 8 am - 5:30 pm, 520-384-2084 or www.appleannies.com *

Sunday, September 13, 2009

13 CLARKDALE: Grandparents Day - Verde Canyon Railroad, 928-639-0010 or 800-293-7245 or www.verdecanyonrr.com

13 GLENDALE: 4^th Annual GCC F-1 Triathlon & Relay & Youth Triathlon - Glendale Community College, swim 150 yeards, bike 4 miles, run ¾ mile, repeat, youth triathlon is swim 100 yards, bike 2 miles, run ¾ mile, 6:30 a.m, www.trifamilyracing.com

13 PATAGONIA: Evening Serenades – Summer Series – Spirit Tree Inn’s pre-Civil-War Amish barn, presented by the Santa Cruz Foundation for the Performing Arts, this week features The Redhouse Family Dancers performing traditional Navajo dances, $12, 3 pm, 888-202-1942

13 PHOENIX: Phoenix Mercury vs. Los Angeles – US Airways Center, $10, 12 pm, 602-252-WNBA or www.phoenixmercury.com

13 TUCSON: Primavera Cooks! – gourmet dining event series supporting the community, some of Tucson’s finest chefs and adventurous donors create and prepare an elaborate wine-paired dinner with proceeds benefiting the Primavera Foundation, this week’s venue is Kingfisher, $125, 520-623-5111 ext. 101 or www.primaveracooks.org

13 TUCSON: Jazz Under the Stars – St. Philip’s Plaza, this evening features Latin jazz with a spicy Cuban flavor, presented by the Tucson Jazz Society, $15-20, 6:30 pm, 520-903-1265 or www.tucsonjazz.org

Monday, September 14, 2009

14-11/1 GRAND CANYON: Grand Canyon Celebration of Art – Kolb Studio, a unique opportunity to view and purchase high-quality Grand Canyon art, the event features the Grand Canyon Modern Masters invitational, a juried art competition and show; Plein Air artists painting on the rim 9/14-17; and a Quick Draw event 9/18, www.grandcanyon.org

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

15 STATEWIDE: 5^th Annual Massage for the Cure Event –all 29 statewide Massage Envy locations, clinics offer $35 massages, with $10 donated to the Phoenix and Southern Arizona affiliates of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, requires appointments, 8 am – 10 pm, www.massageenvy.com

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

16 PHOENIX: Film Festival at PVCC "Films of the Middle East" – Paradise Valley Community College Center for the Performing Arts, (18401 N. 32^nd St. 85032), featuring Wedding in Galilee (Palestine, 1987; R), 6:30 pm, 602-787-7738 or www.paradisevalley.edu/cpa

16-19 ST. JOHNS: Apache County Fair – 928-337-0377 or www.stjohnschamber.com

16-20 HOLBROOK: 78th Annual Navajo County Fair Rodeo and Little Buckaroo Rodeo - Navajo County Fairgrounds, 404E. Hopi Dr. rodeo, arts, crafts, food, entertainment, 4-H competition, carnival, demo derby, $1-3, noon - 10 pm, 928-524-6407 or 928-524-4757 or 800-524-2459 or www.navajocountyfair.org or www.gotouraz.com H *

16-20 SIERRA VISTA: 24th Annual Sierra Vista Open - Pueblo del Sol Country Club, annual golfing event with up to 80 professional golfers from all around the country competing with up to 100 amateur golfers, 520-458-1542 or www.visitsierravista.com or www.sierravistaopen.com

Thursday, September 17, 2009

17 TUCSON: Primavera Cooks! – gourmet dining event series supporting the community, some of Tucson’s finest chefs and adventurous donors create and prepare an elaborate wine-paired dinner with proceeds benefiting the Primavera Foundation, this week’s venue is Jonathan’s, $125, 520-623-5111 ext. 101 or www.primaveracooks.org

17-20 DUNCAN: Greenlee County Fair - Fairgrounds, carnival, rides, live stock auction, Mule Days, ranch rodeo, parade, $2, 8 am, 928-359-2032 or http://arizonafairs.com H * x

17-20 GLOBE: 40th Annual Gila County Fair - Gila County Fairgrounds, 4-H activities, hobbies, crafts, stage entertainment, games, go-kart racing, motorized sporting events, livestock auction, ranch rodeo, midway, All-American Beef Cook-out, championship bull riding, $2, 9 am - 10 pm, 928-425-9549 or www.globemiamichamber.com or www.gilafair.net H

Friday, September 18, 2009

18 TUCSON: Sports Compact and Street Legal - Southwestern International Raceway, 8 pm, 520-762-9700 or www.Sirace.com

18-19 SONOITA: 94^th Annual Santa Cruz County Fair & Rodeo – Sonoita Fairgrounds, (3142 S. Highway 83, 85637), activities include a carnival, 4-H exhibits and auction, several hundred open division exhibits, ranch rodeo, barrel racing, team roping, all-day entertainment, food, premium and sweepstakes awards, BBQ lunch on Sunday prior to 4-H auction, $3-5, gates open at 8 am, 520-455-5553 or www.sonoitafairgrounds.com or www.thenogaleschamber.com

18-20 DOUGLAS: Mexican Fiestas – Veterans Park, parade, China poblanas, food booths, carnival, entertainment, free, 520-364-3485 or www.douglasfiestas.com

18-20 FLAGSTAFF: 4th Annual Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass and Acoustic Music Festival – Pine Mountain Amphitheater, a band contest with more than $2000 in prizes, Saturday night barn dance, kids activities, jamming, and on-site camping, 928-525-1695 or www.pickininthepines.org

18-20 SCOTTSDALE: Shrine Circus - WestWorld, 602-231-0300 or www.scottsdaleaz.gov/westworld/events.asp

18-20 TEMPE: Arizona Fall Frenzy – Tempe Beach Park, some of today’s hottest musical acts, including Rob Thomas, Fall Out Boy, Blink 182, Social Distortion and Jason Mraz, www.arizonafallfrenzy.com

18-10/1 TEMPE: Two by Two (musical) – Tempe Center for the Arts, (700 W. Rio Salado Parkway), a fresh retelling of the Biblical story of Noah and the Ark, based on the play The Flowering Peach by Clifford Odets, by Tempe Little Theatre, 2, 8 & 7 pm, 480-350-2822 or www.tempe.gov/TCA or www.tempelittletheatre.org

18-10/4 PEORIA: Proof – Theater Works McMillin Black Box Theater, (8355 W. Peoria, 85345), a riveting exploration of the link between genius and insanity, combining elements of mystery and surprise with old-fashioned storytelling, 623-815-7930 or www.theaterworks.org

Saturday, September 19, 2009

19 BISBEE: 5^th Annual Bisbee Blues Festival – Historic Warren Ballpark, live blues from a variety of bands, a looping shuttle service will run throughout the town to and from the ballpark, bring your lawn chairs, umbrellas and shade canopies, $20-25, 11 am – 8 pm, 520-432-3554 or 866-2BISBEE or www.discoverbisbee.com or www.bisbeebluesfest.com

19 CHLORIDE: 6th Annual Antique Truck Show –Yesterdays Restaurant, open to trucks 25 years old or older, free, 10 am – 4 pm, sponsored by the Northern Arizona Chapter of the ATHS,928-565-3049 or www.chlorideaz.com

19 GANADO: Native American Arts Auction - Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site, more than 400 items including Hopi pottery, katsina dolls, baskets and sash belts, Navajo baskets, rugs, pottery and paintings, 9 am preview, noon auction, daylight savings time, free, vendors also offer food and arts and crafts, 928-755-3475 or www.friendsofhubbell.org or www.nps.gov/hutr H

19 PHOENIX: 3^rd Annual Phoenix Fear Film Festival – featuring short films, features films, student and professional horror film makers, 602-953-2728 or www.phxfearfilmfestival.com or www.trashcityentertainment.com

19 PHOENIX: Arizona Open Water Swim Series #3 – Saguaro Lake, events are officially sanctioned by USAS and USMS and are open to both registered age group and masters swimmers, with choice of 2K and 4K distances (1.2 or 2.4 miles), www.dcbadventures.com

19 PHOENIX: Faculty Jazz Concert – Paradise Valley Community College Center for the Performing Arts, (18401 N. 32^nd St. 85032), 7:30 pm, 602-787-7738 or www.paradisevalley.edu/cpa

19 PRESCOTT VALLEY: 56^th Annual Tour de Pee Vee – Town Center, half marathon, 10K run 5K run, 2 mile fun run/walk, 7 am, 928-759-3205 or www.tourdepeevee.com

19 SEDONA: Plein Air Artist “Paint Outs – Slide Rock State Park, in conjunction with the Apple Festival, 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

19 SIERRA VISTA: 5th Annual Fiddle Contest – Veterans’ Memorial Park, (3105 E. Fry Blvd.), fiddlers in various age groups, in additional to the musical performances and competition, there will be food and raffle drawings, featuring the “Pot O’Gold Playoff” Celtic music competition and a solar-powered sound system, free, 10 am – 5 pm, 520-417-6960 or www.visitSierraVista.com or www.dkmusicstudio.com/fiddlecontest

19 SPRINGERVILLE: Casa Malpais Archaeology Day – Main Street, (418 E. Main), learn of the history and archaeology of the this site, listen to experts discuss the tools, astronomy and life of the ancient people, guest speakers, vendors, Southwest craft items, and tours of the Casa Malpais Pueblo site, at 9 and 11 am and 2 pm, $5-8, 8 am – 4 pm, for tour reservations, 928-333-5375

19 TUCSON: 23rd Annual Sun Sounds Great Beer Fest - Hi Corbett Field, (3400 E. Camino Campestre, 85716), taste a wide variety and styles of beer by brewers and breweries from around the Southwest, also hors d’oeuvres to sample, games such as horseshoes and steer roping, music and wine garden, must be 21, benefits Sun Sounds of Arizona, $25-90, 6-10 pm, 520-296-2400 or www.azbeer.com or www.sunsounds.org

19 WILLIAMS: Benefit Golf Tournament – Elephant Rocks Golf Course, benefits Habitat for Humanity, 928-635-4393 or www.williamschamber.com

19-20 FLAGSTAFF: 12th Annual Flagstaff Open Studios – featuring more than 60 studios, the self-guided studio tour spotlights a variety of art media, meet local art stars, including painters, sculptors, fiber arts, glass works, jewelers, photographers, stained glass, weavers and hands-on art projects for children, 10 am - 5 pm, 928-779-2300 or www.Flagstaff-Arts.org

19-20 HEBER/OVERGAARD: 22nd Annual Oktoberfest – Bison Ranch Resort, arts & crafts booths, Auto Show presented by the “Pack Car Club” 8 am – 2 pm, variety of food, kids play area, beer garden for the adults, live entertainment, $5 parking donation, Sat 10 am – 6 pm, Sun 10 am – 3 pm, 928-535-5777 or www.heberovergaard.org H x

19-20 MT. LEMMON SKI VALLEY: Oktoberfest on Mt. Lemmon - German bands & dancers, German food & beer, free, $3 parking, Sat-Sun, 520-576-1400 or www.visitTucson.org

19-20 PAYSON: Jim Barrett Memorial Rodeo – Payson Event Center, more than 400 high-school age cowboys and cowgirls converge, 9 am, www.paysonrimcountry.com

19-20 SEDONA: 5th Annual Slide Rock Apple Festival – Slide Rock State Park, fall apple harvest, historic Pendley apple sheds, features “all things apple” and the use of natural, renewable resources through demonstrations, arts & crafts, food, entertainment, games and activities for kids, a bird walking tour, history walk, dessert auction, a Apple Fest cookbook and giveaways, free, 9 am – 3 pm, 928-282-3034 or www.azstateparks.com

19-20 TUCSON: SAQHA/SAILA Fall Circuit Horse Show - Pima County Fairgrounds, Quarter Horse show, free, 8 am - 6 pm, 520-792-1060 or www.azqha.org

19-20 WILLCOX: My-Oh-My Apple Pie Weekend & Country Craft Fair - Apple Annie's Orchard, a celebration of all things Apple Piec, free wagon rides to u-pick tree ripened apples, Apple Pie Baking contest, all-you-can eat pancake breakfast apple-smoked burger lunches available, crafts, free, 7 am - 5:30 pm, 520-384-2084 or www.appleannies.com *

19-21 CHANDLER: Bluegrass Festival – Kokopelli Winery & Bistro, (935 W. Boston Street, 852250), live music, unique foods and fun games, Elmer Fudd look-alike contest, “Husband-Calling” contest, free admission, $10 wine tasting package with 6 tickets, Fri. & Sat. 11:30 am – 10 pm, Sun 11:30 am – 5 pm, 480-792-6927 or www.kokopelliwinery.com

19-26 PHOENIX: 2^nd Annual Arizona Restaurant Week – gives local food-lovers a taste of the state’s finest fare, more than 125 restaurants from Phoenix & Tucson participate, showcasing some of the state’s most celebrated chefs, enjoy a three-course prix-fixe meal for $29 (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity), www.ArizonaRestaurantWeek.com

19-11/1 GRAND CANYON: Grand Canyon Celebration of Art – major art show, see works of some of the best master artists in the nation as they seek to capture the beauty of the timeless Grand Canyon landscape on canvas, free, www.nps.gov/grca

Sunday, September 20, 2009

20 MARANA: 12th Annual Diamond Ventures El Tour 10K & 5K Walk/Run - through Tucson Mountain Preserve, by Perimeter Bicycling Association of America, 520-745-2033 or www.perimeterbicycling.com

20 PARKER: Mike Keevey Golf Tournament – benefits the community pool, http://parkertourism.com

20 SEDONA: Aldo Leopold Centennial Event – Red Rock State Park, Kim Stone will portray Aldo Leopold, as the speaker in their First Sunday Speaker series, part of a yearlong celebration of Aldo Leopold – ecologist, forester and environmentalist - arrival in the southwest, (in Springerville, AZ in 1909), reservations required, 2 pm, www.azstateparks.com

20 TUCSON: Kitt Peak Time Trial – AZ-386, 11.6 miles cycling, $15 registration, 7:30 am, 520-398-7368 or www.saguarovelo.org/

20 TUCSON: Jazz Under the Stars – St. Philip’s Plaza, this evening features The Original Wildcat Jazz Band, celebrating the early years of America’s only original art form, presented by the Tucson Jazz Society, $15-20, 6:30 pm, 520-903-1265 or www.tucsonjazz.org

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

22-27 TEMPE: Legally Blonde – The Musical – Gammage, the MGM film is now a smash hit musical, Elle Woods, an underestimated blonde who doesn’t take “no” for an answer proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style, part of the Broadway Across America series, $20-68, 7:30 & 2 pm, www.asugammage.com

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

23 PHOENIX: Film Festival at PVCC "Films of the Middle East" – Paradise Valley Community College Center for the Performing Arts, (18401 N. 32^nd St. 85032), featuring West Bank Story (US, short film, 2005, PG) and Jellyfish (Israel, 2007; PG-13), 6:30 pm, 602-787-7738 or www.paradisevalley.edu/cpa

Thursday, September 24, 2009

24 PHOENIX: Roosevelt Historic District TourFest - walking tour of architecturally unique historic homes in the Valley's first residential neighborhood, also arts & crafts, food & antique booths, free for event, $15 for tours, 11 am - 9 pm, 602-799-7720 or www.roosevelthistorictourfest.com not H w

24 SCOTTSDALE: Annual Hispanic Heritage ArtWalk - Scottsdale Arts District, helps kick off the Scottsdale Hipanic Heritage Celebration, sponsored by Scottsdale Gallery Association, free, 7-9 pm, 480-990-3939 or www.scottsdalegalleries.com H

24-27 DOUGLAS: 84th Annual Cochise County Fair - County Fairgrounds, carnival rides, collegiate rodeo, 4-H demonstrations, livestock auction, live entertainment, exhibits, $3-6, 520-364-3819 or www.cochisefair.org or http://arizonafairs.com y *

24-27 PRESCOTT VALLEY: 35th Annual Yavapai County Fair - Yavapai County Fairgrounds, exhibits, carnival, pig racing, entertainment, food, $4-6, 928-775-8009 or http://arizonafairs.com or www.yavapaidownsatpv.com H z

24-27 TUCSON: Tucson Greek Festival – St. Demetrios Orthodox Church, a Greek cultural experience with homemade Greek food, music, dancing and imports, $3, under 12 free, 520-888-0505 or www.stdemetriostucson.org

Friday, September 25, 2009

Sept 25-26: SAFFORD: Arizona's Salsa Trail celebrates its 3rd Annual SalsaFest in Safford, Arizona September 25 & 26.  The SalsaFest is a celebration of everything salsa and features fun and affordable activities for the whole family.  Children will enjoy the free corner, complete with face painting, piñata busts and a bounce house. Other activities will include a Balloon Salsa Glow and Balloon lift-off, a salsa making contest, Festival Marketplace, Salsa music and dancing, food demonstrations, chile roasting, and Jalapeño and Salsa Eating Competitions, and a Salsa Walk to benefit the Gila Valley Boys and Girls Club. The Sisters on the Fly will be attending SalsaFest 2009! Sisters on the Fly are a unique sisterhood focused on seeking adventure and having fun.  Visitors can check out their Cowgirl Caravan, an encampment on the Sister's vintage trailers. Details at:  www.SalsaTrail.com or 1-888-837-1841
When:   Friday, September 25, 2009 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Saturday, September 26, 2009 6:15 am - 4:00pm. Most activities FREE ($4 per person for Chips in the Salsa Trail Tent). Safford Lion's Club & Gila Valley Rotary Club
Safford, Arizona, Safford Town Square. 1-888-837-1841 for information - Graham County Chamber of Commerce. Arizona's Salsa Trail® is all about terrific Mexican food and down-home friendliness.  Sprinkled through the small Southern Arizona communities of Safford, Pima, Thatcher, Solomon, Clifton, Willcox, and York are a dozen Mexican restaurants, a family owned tortilla factory and a lady who grows chiles, who have all joined together to make up the Salsa Trail.  Once a year members of the Salsa Trail, along with the Graham County Chamber of Commerce, come together to celebrate the SalsaFest. For additional information about the Salsa Trail or the Balloon Festival and to watch the SalsaFest video visit www.SalsaTrail.com or by call the Graham County Chamber of Commerce at 1.888.837.1841 or 928.428.2511.

PHOENIX: Desert Botanical Garden presents BIERGARTEN, A New Beer Tasting Event. The Desert Botanical Garden is please to present Biergarten, a new beer tasting event that fuses old world charm with a modern flair in a spectacular outdoor setting. For the refined beer connoisseur, this event offers craft and domestic brews to sample and authentic German fare prepared by Atlasta Catering & Event Concepts. All beer sampled will be available for purchase that evening to take home and enjoy. Purchase 12 or more bottles and receive a 10% discount on the total purchase prices. Enjoy a meal of authentic German fare including: German Grill Station: Grilled Bratwurst served with grilled onions, sauerkraut and German potato salad. German Pasta Station: Peppercorn Spaetzel served with basil and pistachio pesto; Herbed Spaetzel served with olive oil, tomatoes and bacon; and butternut squash served with Jaeger schnitzel and creamy mushroom sauce. German Griddle Stations: Griddle Potato Pancakes served with applesauce, chive sour cream, marinated red cabbage, corn relish, smoked salmon and dressed greens. The evening will showcase the musical talents of Big Willie and the Polka Masters, Dry River Yacht Club, Bad Cactus Brass Band and Hot Club Phoenix. All proceeds from ticket sales and beer purchased at Biergarten directly benefit the Desert Botanical Garden. Friday, September 25, 2009, 7 – 10 p.m. Desert Botanical Garden (in Papago Park), 1201 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008. Tickets are $70 per person for members and $75 for the general public and must be purchased in advance. Purchase tickets prior to September 11, 2009 and receive a $10 discount. Tickets will not be sold at the door. You must be 21 years of age or older to attend, and must show proper identification to be admitted in to the event. Tickets are limited. To Purchase Tickets: Order tickets online at www.dbg.org. Visit the Admissions Box Office (8 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily). Call 480-481-8188 (9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday – Friday).

25 GLOBE: Hamburger Fry – Gila County Historical Museum, 928-425-7385 or www.globemiamichamber.com

25 MESA: 4^th Friday ArtWalk – Mesa Riverview, (1133 N. Dobson Rd. 85201) features original, gallery-quality fine art, exceptional fine crafts, jewelry and live music, family appropriate activities and entertainment, children’s area, this artwalk is a juried event hosted by the East Valley Art Guild, free, 6-9 pm, www.eastvalleyartguild.com or www.mesariverview.com

25 PRESCOTT: 4th Friday Art Walk - 15 galleries stay open late and offer food, musical entertainment, artist receptions and painting demonstrations, www.artthe4th.com

25-26 SAFFORD: Annual SalsaFest – Safford Town Square, a celebration of everything Salsa including an opportunity to win prizes and bragging rights in the Salsa Challenge, also live entertainment, food, salsa making contests, Festival Marketplace, Salsa music and dancing, food demonstrations, chili roasting, kids area, and Jalapeno & Salsa eating competitions, kids’ corner with piñata bust, $4 for entry to the Salsa Tent, 10 am – 6 pm, 928-428-2511 or 888-837-1841 or www.SalsaTrail.com

25-26 SEDONA: 4th Annual State of the Art – Tlaquepaque, immerse yourself in world-class arts and entertainment, for the new art collector and the seasoned connoisseur, art shows, demonstrations, free, Fri 5-8 pm, Sat. 10 am – 8 pm, 928-282-4838 or www.www.tlaq.com

25-26 SIERRA VISTA: 21st Annual Elks Oktoberfest – Elks Lodge, authentic German food and music, games for kids, dancing, free, 4-10 pm, 520-458-2065 or www.VisitSierraVista.com

25-26 WINSLOW: 11th Annual "Standin' on the Corner" Park Festival - headliner Hotel California, A Salute to the Eagles concert, arts & crafts, food, live bands, Just Cruisin' Car Show, free, www.standinonthecorner.com H *

25-26 WINSLOW: The High Desert Piecemakers Quilt Show – Snowdrift, features high quality quilts my more than 20 Winslow artisans, www.winslowarizona.org

25-27 GLENDALE: 2009 AVP Crocs Tour Sanderson Ford Best of the Beach - Beach Volleyball Tour – Westgate City Center, with the best men's and women's pro beach volleyball players in the U.S., Men's and Women's Main Draw Competition, 800-919-6272 or www.avp.com

25-27 PHOENIX: 16^th Annual Maricopa County Home & Landscape Show - State Fairgrounds, displays, free consultations, playhouse auction, interior design and remodeling clinics, outdoor kitchen ideas, pool & spa displays, “Ask the Experts” information area, landscape designers, master gardener seminars, $5, Fri-Sat 9 am - 7 pm, Sun 9 am - 6 pm, www.MaricopaCountyHomeShows.com H

25-27 PINETOP/LAKESIDE: 34th Annual Fall Artisans Festival – Mountain Meadow Recreation Complex, area's largest outdoor arts & crafts show, quilt & antique shows, parade, 10K race, White Mountain Chorale musical performance, special entertainment, food, free, Fri 5-8 pm,; $2, Sat & Sun 9 am - 4 pm, 928-367-4290 or 800-573-4031 or www.pinetoplakesidechamber.com H * y

25-27 PINETOP-LAKESIDE: 26th Annual Run to the Pines Car Show - Country Club, Southwest's largest free to the public open class pre1973 car show, 500 vehicles expected, 50's dance, poker run, games, free, Sat 8 am - 5 pm, Sun. 8 am – 3 pm, 928-368-5325 or 928-524-6407 or www.pinetop-lakeside.com H x

25-27 SIERRA VISTA: Fun Festival - Veterans Memorial Park, large carnival, food, games, live music, trail & pony rides, craft vendors, 520-533-3354 or www.visitsierravista.com or www.mwrhuachuca.com

25-10/4 FLAGSTAFF: Flagstaff Festival of Science – a 10-day family event featuring more than 60 activities for all ages from guided hikes and archaeological digs to hands-on exhibits, www.scifest.org

25-10/10 TEMPE: Blackbird – Tempe Performing Arts Center, (132 E. 6^th St.), by David Harrower, based on a true story, this powerful, volatile piece begins when Una shows up unexpectedly at the office of Ray, forcing Ray to come to terms with the effects of their past relationship, contains strong adult content, $15-20, 8 & 2 pm, 480-820-8022 or www.straycattheatre.org

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Sept 25-26: SAFFORD: Arizona's Salsa Trail celebrates its 3rd Annual SalsaFest in Safford, Arizona September 25 & 26.  The SalsaFest is a celebration of everything salsa and features fun and affordable activities for the whole family.  Children will enjoy the free corner, complete with face painting, piñata busts and a bounce house. Other activities will include a Balloon Salsa Glow and Balloon lift-off, a salsa making contest, Festival Marketplace, Salsa music and dancing, food demonstrations, chile roasting, and Jalapeño and Salsa Eating Competitions, and a Salsa Walk to benefit the Gila Valley Boys and Girls Club. The Sisters on the Fly will be attending SalsaFest 2009! Sisters on the Fly are a unique sisterhood focused on seeking adventure and having fun.  Visitors can check out their Cowgirl Caravan, an encampment on the Sister's vintage trailers. Details at:  www.SalsaTrail.com or 1-888-837-1841
When:   Friday, September 25, 2009 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Saturday, September 26, 2009 6:15 am - 4:00pm. Most activities FREE ($4 per person for Chips in the Salsa Trail Tent). Safford Lion's Club & Gila Valley Rotary Club
Safford, Arizona, Safford Town Square. 1-888-837-1841 for information - Graham County Chamber of Commerce. Arizona's Salsa Trail® is all about terrific Mexican food and down-home friendliness.  Sprinkled through the small Southern Arizona communities of Safford, Pima, Thatcher, Solomon, Clifton, Willcox, and York are a dozen Mexican restaurants, a family owned tortilla factory and a lady who grows chiles, who have all joined together to make up the Salsa Trail.  Once a year members of the Salsa Trail, along with the Graham County Chamber of Commerce, come together to celebrate the SalsaFest. For additional information about the Salsa Trail or the Balloon Festival and to watch the SalsaFest video visit www.SalsaTrail.com or by call the Graham County Chamber of Commerce at 1.888.837.1841 or 928.428.2511.

26 CAMP VERDE: Montezuma Castle 10K & 2 Mile Run - Community Center, 10K run down Camp Verde's Historic Pecan Lane, $12-14, 8 am - noon, 928-567-0535 ext. 135 or www.cvaz.org H w

26 CHANDLER: America's Walk for Diabetes – Rawhide, 2.5 or 5 mile route, walk is stroller & child-friendly, entertainment, refreshments, goodie bags, 8 am, 602-861-4731 ext. 7093 or 888-DIABETES ext. 7093 or www.diabetes.org/walk

26 CORDES JUNCTION: Human Nature Dance Theater – Arcosanti, a performance collaborative, uses dance, music and word to express the deepest elements of the human experience, 928-632-7135 or www.arcosanti.org

26 COTTONWOD: Bootleggin’ Cruiz-In on Historic 89A – Old Town Cottonwood, featuring classic cars, shopping, dining and dancing in a 1920’s atmosphere, 4-9 pm, www.oldtown.org

26 FLAGSTAFF: 4^th Annual Flagstaff Marathon – The “Coolest Marathon” in Arizona - Flagstaff Nordic Center, 10K, half and full-marathon trail runs to benefit North Country Community Health Center, scenic, one of the most scenic and difficult marathons in the Southwest, difficult, off-road trails, $40-80, 6:30 am, 928-220-0550 or www.FlagstaffNordicCenter.com

26 KINGMAN: 38th Annual Andy Devine Days Parade - honoring Kingman and actor Andy Devine of Kingman, parade is 2 miles long, 100+ entries, free, 10 am, 928-757-7919 or www.kingmanchamber.org H *

26 PAGE: Page Elks Club Golf Tournament - Lake Powell National Golf Course, shotgun, 9 am, 928-645-2023 or www.golflakepowell.com

26 PEORIA: Arizona Yacht Club Opening Day Regatta – Pleasant Harbor Marina, the Arizona Yacht Club holds both fall and spring sailing race series on Lake Pleasant, totaling about 20 days per year, free to spectators, 12:30 pm, 602-257-0141 or www.arizonayachtclub.org H

26 PHOENIX: 4th Annual Moon Valley Grasshopper Bridge 5K – St. Paul’s Church, 5K run, 5K walk, 7 am, 602-866-2560 or www.getsetaz.com or www.arizonaroadracers.com

26 PHOENIX: Ensynch 29^th Annual StairClimb and Firefighter Challenge – Arizona Center, (Van Buren & 5^th St.), climb individually or as a team, top fundraisers receive prizes, $25/person or $150/family minimum, 8 am – noon, benefits Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 602-224-0068 or www.azstairclimb.org

26 PRESCOTT: 5th Annual Groom Creek 5K – 10K and ½ Marathon – Groom Creek Fire Station, www.getsetaz.com or www.arizonarunningeventsco.com

26 PRESCOTT: Taste of Prescott – Frontier Village, sample fare from dozens of restaurants in the Prescott area, benefits the Yavapai Food Bank, noon – 5 pm, www.visit-prescott.com

26 SCOTTSDALE: Cactus Classic Hunter Jumper Horse Show - WestWorld, www.cepshows.com or www.scottsdaleaz.gov/westworld/events.asp

26 SUPERIOR: 18^th Annual “Bye-Bye Buzzards” - Boyce Thompson Arboretum, farewell party celebrating the seasonal departure of the resident flock of turkey vultures, $3-7.50, 7 am - 3 pm, 520-689-2811 or http://arboretum.ag.arizona.edu H

26 SUPERIOR: Butterfly Walk - Boyce Thompson Arboretum, learn to identify them on this guided walk by Education Coordinator Chris Kline and Arizona State Parks volunteer naturalists, a few butterflies are netted for a short while to give kids a close up look, $3-7.50, 9:30 am, 520-689-2811 or http://arboretum.ag.arizona.edu

26 TUCSON: Fall Plant Sale - Botanical Gardens, a wide selection of agaves & yuccas, cacti, succulents, trees, shrubs, herbs and other plants, free, 9 am – 4 pm, 520-326-9686 or www.tucsonbotanical.org H

26-27 COTTONWOOD: 21st Annual Verde River Day - Dead Horse Ranch State Park, to develop the awareness of the importance of the Verde River, rides, gold panning, climbing wall, vintage trailer show, sand castle building, food, live entertainment, canoe rides, fish the lagoon no license needed and poles, bait and tackle provided, exhibits, nature walks, exhibitors, free, 9 am - 4 pm, 928-634-7593 or 928-634-5283 or www.azstateparks.com H * x

26-27 ELGIN: 27th Annual Harvesting of the Vine Festival – Village of Elgin Winery, celebrate the wine grape harvest in the heart of wine country, $15 includes lunch, souvenir wine glass, sample tasting, live music, competition and crowning of Arizona’s King and Queen of Grape Stomping, arts and crafts, Arizona Grown products available, 11 am – 4 pm, 520-455-9309 or www.elginwines.com

26-27 KINGMAN: 39th Annual Andy Devine Days PRCA Rodeo - Mohave County Fairgrounds, cowboys from all over the US compete in 8 events, $, 1 pm, 928-753-4003 or www.kingmanrodeo.com H *

26-27 MT. LEMMON SKI VALLEY: Oktoberfest on Mt. Lemmon - German bands & dancers, German food & beer, free, $3 parking, Sat-Sun, 520-576-1400 or www.visitTucson.org

26-27 PAYSON: 39^th Annual Vertielee Floyd Memorial Old Time Fiddlers Contest Arizona State Championship – Houston Mesa Horse Camp, best fiddling in AZ by contestants aged 6-86, cowboy poets, storytellers, food, country & bluegrass music, Irish step-dancers, 21 Fiddle Salute at high noon both days, children's music workshop, crafts, fiddle makers, leather workers, $4-8, 9 am, 928-474-5882 or www.arizonaoldtimefiddlers.org or www.paysonrimcountry.com or www.paysonfiddlers.com

26-27 PRESCOTT: 6^th Annual Fall Festival & Studio Tour – with artist’s demonstrations, music and dance performances, staged reading and more, also a free self-guided tour of the eclectic variety of visual and performing arts, a behind-the-scenes view of the creative process, 9 am – 5 pm, 928-717-0628 or www.prescottarts.com

26-27 PRESCOTT: 5th Annual Raw Spirit Festival – Granite Dells, celebrates organic raw vegan foods, world class music, spirituality, inspirational education, eco-sustainable solutions, healthy living and peace on Earth, includes vendor booths, outdoor and indoor stages, ongoing workshops, sacred exercise area, food demos, children’s programs, music, dancing, leadership sharing circle, nature trails, food tasting, www.rawspiritfest.com

26-27 SCOTTSDALE: Arizona Appaloosa Association – Arizona Fall Classic & Futurity - WestWorld, 480-312-6802 or 623-214-0988 or www.scottsdaleaz.gov/westworld/events.asp or www.arizonaappaloosa.com

26-27 TONALEA: Tonalea Traditional Pow Wow – Tonalea Day School, (86044)

26-27 TUCSON: 9^th Annual Butterfly Festival and Fall Plant Sale – Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, see some of the 250 varieties of butterflies found in the Sonoran Desert region, also displays and docents lead butterfly-spotting tours, 520-883-2702 or www.desertmuseum.org/visit/events_butterflyfest.php

26-27 WILLCOX: Fall Pumpkin Celebration - Apple Annie's Orchard, pumpkin picking, family activities, corn maze with 3 levels of difficulty, $3 includes hayride to the pumpkin patch and children’s play area, free, 11:30 am - 4 pm, 520-384-2084 or www.appleannies.com *

26-10/3 TUCSON: 29th Annual Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure – Arizona Parks & Monuments Tour - fully supported, 520-241-5556 or 520-349-5932 or www.bikegaba.org

26-10/31CHINO VALLEY: 3^rd Annual Pumpkin Festival – Freeman Farms, a real Pumpkin Patch, hay rides, a mini-corn maze, entertainment, farmer’s market, horse, animal and wildlife and educational presentations, music, free entry, weekends, 9 am – 5 pm, 928-636-5714 or www.azpumpkins.com

26-11/15 PHOENIX: Mariposa Monarca – Desert Botanical Gardens, stroll through the butterfly habitat and be immersed among hundreds of colorful, fluttering monarchs, $3 with paid Garden admission, 9:30 am – 5 pm, 480-941-1225 or www.dbg.org

Sunday, September 27, 2009

27 FLAGSTAFF: Elden Pueblo Public Field Day – Elden Pueblo Heritage Site, experience the science of archaeology through hands-on participation in site excavations, artifact analysis, primitive technologies and hunting games, tours at 10 am, noon and 2 pm, bring water, hat, sunscreen and sense of discovery, free, 10 am – 4 pm, 928-527-3452 or www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/forest-resources/archaeology/elden-pueblo/summer.shtml

27 FLAGSTAFF: Festival of Science Open House - Lowell Observatory, telescope viewing of various celestial objects and access to the Historic Rotunda Library, Jupiter will be the featured object to view, 5:30 pm, 928-233-3211 or www.lowell.edu

27 TEMPE: Nathan’s Triathlon – Tempe Town Lake, Olympic triathlon: swim 1500 meters, bike 27 miles, run 6.2 miles; sprint triathlon: 750 meters swim, bike 12 miles and run 3.1 miles, USAT sanctioned, 6:30 am, 480-226-4729 or www.trifind.net

27 TEMPE: 5th Annual Race Judicata – Kiwanis Park, 5K run, 1 mile fun run/walk, benefits Maricopa County Bar Association Young Lawyers Division and survivors of domestic violence, 6 am, www.arizonarunningeventsco.com

27 TUCSON: Everyone Runs Fleet Feet TMC, Prestige Fitness “Reverse the Course” – Catalina State Park, 4.25 & 8.5 mile trail race, featuring spectacular mountain views and a bit less distance, travels the Canyon Loop (counterclockwise) and Nature Trail (clockwise), mostly moderate climbs and descents, $30-45, 6:30 am, www.everyoneruns.net

29-11/3 FLAGSTAFF: Quaterra – Coconino Center of the Arts, (2300 N. Fort Valley Road) based on the four ancient pillars of science: earth, air, fire and water; Ulrike Arnold shows earth paintings, Geny Dignac presents several collections documenting her fire gestures and drawings; Donald Bendel bridges the points of air and earth with his musical horn instruments; and water artist Basia Irland is a sculptor and activist in water issues, 928-779-2300 or www.culturalpartners.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.