Brace yourself for a weekend of magic with soaring hot-air balloons, musical performances of beloved classic films and a local festival completely dedicated to the art of creating tacos. Take a look at some of the best (and tastiest) things to do around the Valley this weekend, Jan. 25 through Jan. 27.
Friday
Allelujah – Live Screening
Filmed live at the London Bridge Theatre, Alan Bennett’s remarkably witty and refreshing play is a vibrant addition to Mesa Community College’s show lineup for the year. The live screening begins at 7:30 p.m.; admission tickets are $15 for the general public. For more information, click here.
Arizona Wine Growers Association Grand Gala & Awards
This reception, gala and awards dinner honor the best of Arizona wines and wine growers. With such an eclectic group of vineyards and wineries located across the state, this event awards Arizona’s very best – and serves some of the Southwest’s best wine in the process. The event begins at 6 p.m., and tickets are $125. For more information, click here.
An American in Paris
This musical adaptation of the Academy Award-winning film still encompasses all of the magic and allure of the cinematic masterpiece: love, joy and hope. The play will be shown weekly through March 1 at the Arizona Broadway Theatre; tickets vary in price. For more information, click here.
Saturday
Brunch Bash at CityScape Phoenix
Brunch Bash celebrates the Valley’s most glorious breakfast creations in an open and airy environment. With the event being held at Patriots Park in Phoenix, attendees can bask in the beautiful winter weather while indulging in flavorful morning favorites. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; tickets range from $8 to $150. For more information, click here.
Elton John’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour
The unparalleled tunes and vibrant essence of Elton John will take the stage at Gila River Arena, as the musical icon performs his career hits at this critically-acclaimed tour. The show begins at 7 p.m.; ticket prices vary. For more information, click here.
Tacolandia
Tacolandia is set to feature authentic Mexican cuisine, live entertainment, cash bars, awards and oh – did we mention tacos? Foodie dreams take on a new life as some of the Valley’s greatest cuisine curators gather at Margaret T. Hance Park this weekend to share their flavorful creations with attendees. The event is from 1 to 5 p.m.; tickets range from $25 to $45. For more information on this event, click here.
A Hamilton Music Revue at the Van Buren
Missed Hamilton: The Musical and the likes of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s genius score when the tour stopped at ASU Gammage? No worries, because musical masterminds at the Van Buren are serving up a showcase of amazing music and hip hop recordings from the original cast. The show will be held at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; admission tickets range from $17 to $25. For more information on this event, click here.
Sunday
Arizona Balloon Classic
Goodyear Ballpark plays host to this dreamy festival once again – as dozens of vibrant and colorful hot-air balloons take flight into the Arizona skies. The festival runs all weekend; tickets are $15 per day. For more information on this family-friendly event, click here.
Legally Blonde: The Musical
Harvard’s beloved blonde has officially transitioned from the big screen to the theatre stage. What – like it’s hard? The classic film turned musical offers a refreshing take on an already-favored film. The show begins at 8 p.m. at the Orpheum Theatre; tickets start at $35. For more information, click here.
The 9th Annual Ikebana Exhibit
The 9th Annual Ikebana Exhibit returns to the Japanese Friendship Garden this weekend for a vibrant and unforgettable display that exudes the beauty and charm of Japanese culture like never before. Ikebana is the art of Japanese arrangements – this exhibit helps to promote the unparalleled creativity and artistic expression of Japanese artists. Admission tickets start at $6. For more information on this event, click here.
