Family-friendly fun abounds this weekend of Jan. 12 through Jan. 14 as the Valley welcomes ACE Comic Con Arizona and the Chandler International Film Festival (which even features animated films).
FRIDAY
Second Annual Chandler International Film Festival
Have an aspiring filmmaker in the family? More than 150 films will be screened over the course of the four-day Chandler International Film Festival, Jan. 12 through Jan. 15, at Crowne Plaza San Marcos Resort in Chandler, with categories ranging from comedy to horror to animation. Other highlights include red carpet opening ceremonies, educational workshops, a film auction, film market, after parties, an awards ceremony and more. Daily passes include general admission and VIP options, ranging from $35 to $115 per day. VIP access for all four days is $330.
Tween/Teen Night at AZ Air Time
From 8 to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, all tweens and teens, ages 12 and up, are invited to AZ Air Time trampoline park to enjoy exciting dodgeball tournaments, dancing contests, and jumping on the indoor trampolines and into foam pits. This supervised nighttime play is perfect for parents who are looking for a safe, indoor place for their older kids to spend time on the weekend evenings. Cost is $15 for three hours.
ZooLights at Phoenix Zoo
Each year, the Phoenix Zoo puts up an amazing holiday display of lights that is fun for the entire family. ZooLights is open in the evenings for about six weeks during the holiday season, beginning late November, from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m., and continuing through Jan. 14. Purchase your tickets here.
SATURDAY
ACE Comic Con Arizona
Chris Evans, of “Captain America,” and Tom Holland, of “Spider-Man: Homecoming” and “Captain America: Civil War,” along with a few other superstar pals and guests from the World Wrestling Entertainment, are sure to get a superhero's welcome as they headline the new ACE Comic Con Arizona at Gila River Arena, taking place Jan. 13 through Jan. 15. In addition to event tickets, VIP admission and photo op and autograph opportunities are for sale.
Movies in the Desert: “Secret Life of Pets”
Movies in the Desert, presented by Cox Communications and Johnny Rockets, continues featuring an outdoor movie for families the second Saturday of every month at OdySea on the Desert. On Saturday, Jan. 13, guests will enjoy a live screening of “Secret Life of Pets,” beginning at 6:30 p.m. under the stars. The 90-minute pre-movie entertainment show will begin at 5 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs/blankets while food and drinks will be available for purchase at the surrounding restaurants including El Encanto, Humble Pie, Johnny Rockets, Frozen Penguin Ice Cream, Nektar Juice Bar, Opa Life Greek Café, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, The Kakery, Modern Grove Views an MG Fresh Concept as well as Docktails Beach Café. The event is free to the public. (Food/drinks are offered for an additional price.)
Illumination: Symphony of Light
Illumination: Symphony of Light is Arizona’s largest holiday drive-thru light show and available to enjoy through Jan. 14. During the mile-long drive, you will experience millions of holiday lights synchronized to your favorite holiday music. End your journey by entering Holiday Boulevard by parking your car; this park/eat/play area features bounce houses, food trucks, selfie stations and other holiday, memory-making experiences. The attraction is located off of the service road at I-17 and Jomax Road, just minutes north of the Loop 101. Cost is $29.50-plus per car.
Jake’s Unlimited
Formerly Amazing Jake’s, Jake’s Unlimited is now open in Mesa after completing a $5-million renovation that makes it a super-fun destination for every member of the family. Pop in to enjoy a dual-level laser tag arena featuring hand-painted murals; VIP bowling suites; bumper cars; more than 170 arcade and midway games; and an expanded kids’ zone with a carousel, thrill rides and much more.
SUNDAY
Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs
Pangaea Land of the Dinosaurs made its debut at OdySea in the Desert in Scottsdale. Time at Land of the Dinos starts with a walk through the colorful, lifelike habitats that are filled with 50 robotic dinosaurs, as well as bugs, birds and more, which move and make noise. A helpful tour guide teaches guests about each dinosaur along the way. (Kids adore the giant T-Rex!)
credit: David Slatin
The Art of Ice Cream Experience
An Instagrammer's dream, The Art of Ice Cream Experience pop-up exhibit is found on Craftsman Court, just north of 3rd Avenue, in Scottsdale. Ice cream lovers are invited to enjoy themed rooms and tasty samples during this delicious voyage for all five senses. The Art of Ice Cream Experience is around through the end of February and will run daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Guests can choose their arrival time and will have approximately 60 minutes to explore.) Ticket prices vary.
Bee Talks with the Curator at Butterfly Wonderland
Entomologist and horticulturist Dayna Cooper informs guests of Scottsdale’s Butterfly Wonderland on the important topics surrounding bees, at the Honey Bee Extravaganza exhibit within the Conservatory at 2:30 p.m. Free with admission.
