Arts, crafts, food and booze; the Valley is brimming with things to do. November is in full swing as outdoor festivals dominate the scene. Check out your favorites this weekend, Nov. 8 to Nov. 10.
Friday
Chiles and Chocolate Festival
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., sink your teeth into something spicy and something sweet at the Chiles and Chocolate Festival. Guests will be able to sample Arizona’s finest chocolatey treats and fiery snacks at Desert Botanical Garden. Enjoy your local goodies while listening to festive live music. Tickets to the festival are included in garden admission.
Phoenix Rising Dance Festival
The largest belly dancing festival in the Valley is back this Friday, Nov. 8, starting at 6:30 p.m. The Phoenix Rising Dance Festival presents an array of activities from community performances to dance couture vendors; this is a belly dancer’s paradise. The festival will be held at El Zaribah Shrine Auditorium & Conference Center. Admission pricing starts at $5.
The Phoenix Pancakes & Booze Art Show
From 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., head over to The Duce for an art show like you’ve never experienced before. The Pancakes & Booze Art Show is featuring over 75 local artists at this 21-plus event where pancakes and booze will be served all night long. Did we mention that the all-you-can-eat pancakes are free? The makers of this unique and immersive art concept invites you to celebrate their 10th annual art show for just $10 at the door.
Saturday
NovemBEER Festival
Cheers to beer this Saturday at the sixth-annual NovemBEER Festival in Phoenix. From 1 to 5 p.m., the Arizona Center will be serving 100-plus beer options to choose from. Guests who purchase a general admission ticket will be able to sip on 30 samples of beer. Last pour is at 4:30 p.m. and tickets start at $25.
Downtown Meatball Festival
Calling all meat lovers; the Unexpected Art Gallery will be hosting this year’s Downtown Meatball Festival. Starting at 6 p.m., sample from the finest local meatball selections while listening to live music with friends. Rock the Fork encourages fellow foodies to come out and join in on the fun starting at $25 per person.
Arizona Pupusas Festival
Never heard of a pupusa? Try the savory, meat stuffed El Salvadoran specialty for yourself this weekend at the Arizona Pupusas Festival this Saturday, Nov. 9. From 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., attendees can sit back and enjoy the many musical performances while eating endless amounts of pupusas. Presale general admission tickets are $10 on the Web site.
Grand Avenue Festival
For the 11th year, the Grand Avenue Festival is featuring numerous free activities and art viewings for the public to enjoy. From 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., check out the Kaleidoscope Sculpture Gardens, mini communal parades or the silent auction. Food offerings range from vegan fare to ice cream. Come out and cherish the Grand Canyon State through art, sustainability, and entertainment.
Sunday
Ocotillo Open Air Festival
The Ocotillo Terrace is hosting a groovy get-together this Sunday, Nov. 10, for the Ocotillo Open Air Festival. This 21-plus event will have everyone moving to the beats of some funky underground tunes from 12 to 9 p.m. There will also be food, yoga and shaded areas to stand or dance under. Tickets range from $25 to $40, and you’ll want to buy them quickly as the festival is expected to sell out. For more information, click here.
Grilled Cheese Festival
Your favorite comfort food is back and just in time for the cooler weather. You’ll be up to your knees in grilled cheese at the Grilled Cheese Festival this Sunday, Nov. 10. At 6 p.m., enjoy the many variations of grilled cheese, as well as drinks, and music. You won’t want to miss this delicious event at Unexpected Art Gallery in Phoenix. Tickets start at $25.
Fountain Festival of Arts and Crafts
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 10, take part in the largest arts and crafts festival in the southwest. Over 20,000 guests attend the Fountain Festival of Arts and Crafts each year to relax in the beer garden, check out the art and delight in food truck offerings. The free festival is located at Avenue of the Fountains/Saguaro Blvd. in Fountain Hills.
