This weekend is the perfect opportunity to get out on the town and indulge in all of the things that you love – well, that is if you love food and craft cocktails. From the Devour Bartending Competition to the Sweets Festival, there’s something for every foodie and cocktail connoisseur to obsess over this weekend, Feb. 15 through Feb. 17.

 

Friday

 

 

SMoCA’s 20th Anniversary Opening Celebration

This party is the perfect excuse to celebrate the glory of contemporary, modern art and all of the creative joy that the SMoCA has brought to the Valley in its 20 years since the museums’ doors opened. Live music, drinks and a preview of the museum’s newest exhibits will comprise this evening; admission is free. For more information, click here.

 

Verde Canyon Railroad’s Chocolate Lovers’ Special

Decadent chocolate, romantic tunes and breathtaking views of Arizona wildlife all aboard an intimate train ride – what more could you ask for? This memorable excursion is perfect for lovers who are looking to get outside of their comfort zones this Valentine’s Day. Admission tickets are $129. For more information on this romantic event, click here.

 

Saturday

 

Arizona Coyotes vs. Toronto Maple Leafs

The Arizona Coyotes battle our Northern neighbors in the hopes of nabbing another win on their home ice. Admission ticket prices vary. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Chili Bourbon Festival

The second-annual Chili Bourbon Festival returns to Dr. AJ Chandler Park this weekend. Attendees can anticipate flavorful chili creations, eating competitions, country music and dozens of interactive lawn games. Admission tickets range from $10 to $15. For more information, click here.

 

Laveen BBQ Festival

Hundreds gather in the heart of downtown Phoenix at Cesar Chavez Park each year to taste delicious barbecue plates and enjoy live entertainment at the Laveen BBQ Festival. This is the 67th annual Laveen BBQ Festival, which is graciously hosted by the Laveen Community Council. Admission tickets are $7. For more information, click here.

 

Southwest Maker Fest

The Southwest Maker Fest is a family-oriented, one-day festival that celebrates the art of creation. Attendees are invited to learn alongside Arizona’s growing community of makers, including scientists, inventors, artists and so many more. For more information on this free event, click here.

 

Sunday

 

Devour Bartending Competition

Local cocktail takes the stage this weekend as Devour Week begins. Attendees can cheer on their favorite bartenders while also getting the chance to sip on the competition’s creations. Admission tickets are $40. For more information on this event, click here.

 

Ballet Arizona Presents The Firebird and La Sylphide

Talk about a memorable date night. The past and future collide in one spectacular production for Ballet Arizona’s performances of The Firebird, a completely new production from Artistic Director Ib Andersen, and La Sylphide, one of the world’s oldest ballets. This juxtaposition of old and new comes to Symphony Hall Valentine’s Day weekend, Feb. 14 to Feb. 17, with live music by The Phoenix Symphony. Ticket prices start at $25, with discounts offered for seniors, college students, military, individuals aged 18-29, and groups of 10 or more. (To ensure lowest ticket prices, buy exclusively through Ballet Arizona.) Tickets and packages can be purchased by calling 602.381.1096 or visiting balletaz.org.

 

 

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show

The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show has graced the Valley and captivated the Arabian horse world since 1955. The first show was even held at the grounds of the Arizona Biltmore Hotel. The show has grown from 50 horses to nearly 2400. This beautiful show exhibits not only the magic of this sport, but also of a majestic creature. Ticket prices vary. For more information, click here.

 

Top Bars

This weekend, The Croft Downtown will host an international cocktail experience that will boast unique, craft creations from both local and internationally-renowned bars as part of Arizona Cocktail Weekend. Attendees can enjoy over 30 samples of cocktails, as well as lively entertainment, all in the heart of Downtown Phoenix. Admission tickets start at $40. For more information, click here.