The top 10 things to do in Phoenix the weekend of April 5-7.
Friday
Music in the Garden at Desert Botanical Garden
Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of Desert Botanical Garden with a collection of the most talented and popular musicians in the Valley. Grupo Liberdade will be performing Brazilian-inspired sounds live for listening pleasure. Enjoy a local fine dining experience at the Garden’s new restaurant, Gertrude’s, which features fresh ingredients from farmers around Arizona and the Southwest.
http://www.dbg.org/events-exhibitions/music-in-the-garden
Great Arizona Dog Show
For a day filled with top dogs and furry four-legged-friends, visit the Camelback Ranch Baseball Facility for a premier dog show event. Kachina Kennel Club and Arrowhead Kennel Club have united to bring the Valley the Great Arizona Dog Show. Witness the pups in action in a conformation and best in show challenge. Visit with breeders and professional groomers behind the scenes in the grooming area.
Movies in the Park at Biltmore Fashion Park
Bring blankets and chairs from home and cozy up with the whole family on the Center Lawn of Biltmore Fashion Park for the screening of the 1940’s classic “Citizen Kane.” Mosey into luxury shops like Brooks Brothers and CALYPSO St. Barth to shop for the season’s best up-to-the-minute trends. The Capital Grille and Zin Burger among others will be offering delectable dining specials throughout the spring season.
http://www.shopbiltmore.com/events/Details/166674?startDate=3%2F29%2F2013
Great Arizona Bicycle Festival
Celebrate all things cycling with the return of El Tour de Mesa. Event activities include live music from SXSW hit and local favorite Jared & The Mill, a kid’s zone for the little ones, vendor swag bags, a custom bicycle competition and food and spirits to satisfy your palate. Ride a bike to the event to participate in multiple bike tours and races.
Saturday
Adelson in Wonderland
Angles Supporting Pediatric Neuroscience is presenting the Second Annual Celebration of the Arts and the Five Senses to benefit the Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. VIP admission includes an early entrance to the event and a chance to visit with the whimsical performers, private early access viewing to bid on one of a kind art and the opportunity to chat personally with the featured artist. Guests will enjoy exceptional food and cocktail service on a private viewing deck, a special surprise gift and much more. Ladies are encouraged to dress in garden party attire and gentleman should look dapper in business-casual wear. Admission starts at $125.
Inaugural Night with the Stars Gala
Join keynote speaker and Super Bowl champion, Seth Joyner, and local celebrities and athletes as the Future Stars Global Foundation hosts the first “Night with the Stars” gala to benefit Arizona youth and families. The luxurious event includes a fashion show by local Phoenix fashion designer Mabellachic who has modeled her line on the runway of Phoenix Fashion Week. Guests will also enjoy satisfying hors d’oeuvres, music, dancing and a silent live auction. Proceeds from the gala will provide scholarships and benefit outreach programs for children facing adversity in Phoenix.
http://vistanciafsgf-es2003.eventbrite.com/?rank=1#
Phoenix Film Festival
Named one of The 25 Coolest Film Festivals, the 13th Annual Phoenix Film Festival is a must see. The festival annually screens more than 150 films and holds amazing parties and provides filmmaking seminars to capacity audiences. Witness a variety of innovative artful performances, from belly dancers and cabaret shows to comedians and celebrity appearances. Bring the kiddos early to the Party Pavilion for Kid’s Day where they can learn what it takes to make their own movie.
http://www.phoenixfilmfestival.com
West Valley Premier Food Truck Tour
Attention all foodies! Vistancia’s Second Annual Premier Food Truck Tour will be happening in Peoria. Guests can enjoy 12 gourmet food trucks. Sample tastings of Arizona inspired Mexican cuisine from Luncha Libre and conclude your lunch experience with crème brulee courtesy of Torched Goodness. In addition Blackstone at Vistancia’s private Blackstone Country Club will feature menu tastings in the courtyard of its exquisite hacienda-style clubhouse. Tours of the club will also be offered.
623.933.6233
Sunday
Tempe Spring Festival of the Arts
Join more than 400 artists as they display their original works in the streets of historic downtown Tempe at Mill Avenue. The Mill Avenue District will be transformed into an art hub filled with tents for collectors, artists and art lovers alike. Enjoy local music in the live entertainment areas, traditional and ethnic eats and sample wines courtesy of the Arizona Wine Growers Association. The event is family friendly and children are encouraged to create their own unique crafts and participate in activities.
http://www.tempefestivalofthearts.com
Best of Our Valley Party: Buy Tickets
Join us on April 25 at the hot new Maya Day & Night Club in Scottsdale to celebrate and honor the victors of the fourth-annual Best of Our Valley contest. Join local celebrities and the superstar establishments that have been crowned winners. Event activities include a Lexus VIP area, body painters, three fashion shows, and enticing hors d’oeuvres. Each ticket purchased through AZFoothills.com enters the guest to win $100 in prizes. General admission and VIP tickets are available now. VIP attendees will also receive special swag from Aria. Event guests must be 21 and older.