This weekend, May 25 to May 27, marks the last weekend in May and the unofficial start of summer. To help you live it up to the fullest, this list contains enough laughter, wine, art and games to make it a weekend to remember.
Thursday:
Flavors of Phoenix
Flavors of Phoenix is celebrating its 27th anniversary this weekend and guests can expect all things extravagant. The event features the combined culinary talents of 30 of the Valley's best chefs, a cocktail reception and a silent auction. Proceeds from every ticket will go directly to help fund the research, education, and advocacy efforts of the American Liver Foundation. To purchase a ticket, click here.
Friday:
Phoenix Comic Fest at the Phoenix Convention Center
Start exercising your cheeks for the ultimate photo op with your favorite comic characters this weekend, May 24 to May 27. The Phoenix Comic Fest is the signature pop culture experience of the Southwest. Fans will have the opportunity to meet, greet and snap pics with their favorite comic characters. From family to adult events, this festival has something in store for everyone. For more information, click here.
Juan Siddi Arte Flamenco Society and Belen Maya at Tempe Center for the Arts
This Friday and Saturday, get ready to be transported to Spain as you feast your eyes on the incredible performance by the Juan Siddi Arte Flamenco Society and flamenco icon, Belen Maya. This remarkable ensemble delivers a bold theatrical flamenco experience with authentic and contemporary flair directly from Spain. Ticket prices range from $25 to $55, and you can purchase tickets here.
Saturday:
Image by Grace Stufkosky
National Drink Wine Day at Sorso Wine Room
We finally put the rumor to rest…National Drink Wine Day is actually a thing! And in true fashion, Sorso Wine Room will be hosting an all-day wine extravaganza. Starting at 11 a.m., there will be tastings, bottle specials and more surprises throughout the day. To take a peek at the menu, click here.
Plein Air Festival at Desert Ridge Marketplace
Desert Ridge Marketplace and the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) will host the inaugural Plein Air Painting Festival this Saturday, May 26, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Desert Ridge Marketplace’s The District. This festival will include the opportunity to watch 20 artists paint a piece inspired by their surroundings at Desert Ridge, complimentary group painting classes and the chance to vote for their favorite pieces from the artists. For directions and more information, click here.
Happy Hour History Tour at the Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria
Enjoy happy hour with a side of culture this weekend as you enjoy the Biltmore’s newest addition, Happy Hour History Tours, beginning May 25 at 6 p.m. Walk the halls in remembrance of worldly celebrities including U.S. presidents and Old Hollywood stars, like Marilyn Monroe, and prepare to be captivated by the amazing architecture. The 45-minute tour will run every Friday evening, is priced at $20 per person and includes two of the resort’s most iconic libations, the Catalina Spritz and the Tequila Sunrise. For advance reservations, click here.
Cave Creek Balloon Festival at Rancho Manana Golf Course
Make your Saturday evening extra lit as you watch hundreds of hot air balloons take over the twilight sky. Cave Creek's biggest single-day event features a Civil Air Patrol color guard presentation, a flyover by Deer Valley Composite Squadron 302, the chance to hear the National Anthem be performed by Madison Holmes, free face painting, free balloon twisting, and a fun-filled kids' zone. For more information, click here.
Refik Anadol: Infinity Room at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Get wavy this weekend at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art with this immersive installation by Turkish-born, Los Angeles-based artist Refik Anadol. This exhibit will be featured daily from May 26 to Sept. 30. Guests can expect to be transported into a mirrored room that uses light, sound and technology to create a three-dimensional kinetic and architectonic space. To purchase tickets, click here.
Cooking Classes at Marcellino Ristorante
This spring and summer, Chef Marcellino of Marcellino Ristorante will be offering cooking classes during which participants will learn a few of the chef’s top secrets to making his handcrafted cuisine. This Saturday, May 26, will be the kick-off class and it will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost of the experience is $40 per person, and it includes a delectable lunch of pollo involtino (breast of chicken rolled with gorgonzola, asparagus spear and sautéed in brown butter sauce), a fresh green salad, and a surprise sweet treat.
Sunday:
Cornhole Tournament in Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row
This Sunday, show your support by participating in a cornhole tournament to benefit the American Legion Gilbert Chapter in honor of Memorial Day. The tournament begins at 1 p.m. and everyone is welcome to sign up and attend. Teams will also have the chance to win a Dierks Bentley’s branded cornhole set, a $250 gift card and/or Whiskey Row merchandise.
