Jennifer Goldberg
Audio By Carbonatix
It’s going to be a rainy week in the Valley, but you shouldn’t let that stop you from going out and having a bit of free fun.
Over the next several days, you can finally start running like you said you would, stay late at a museum or hear some music by ASU grad students.
This week
Musical Theatre and Opera Fall Showcase
Tuesday, Nov. 18
Tempe Center for the Arts, 730 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe
Fill your morning with music at this free program. Attendees will hear a selection of songs and arias, featuring students from the Arizona State University graduate opera and musical theater program. The event runs from 10 to 11 a.m.
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Phoenix Run Club
Wednesday, Nov. 19
Biltmore Fashion Park, 2502 E. Camelback Road
Did all those New York City Marathon TikToks make you want to start running? The Phoenix Run Club is here to help. Its free weekly community run welcomes runners of all levels and paces for an all-ages trek through Biltmore Fashion Park’s outdoor setting. The event gets going at 6:30 p.m. at the Biltmore Fashion Park center lawn by Williams Sonoma,
Art After Dark
Thursday, Nov. 20
Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum, 1 E. Main St., Mesa
The Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum is always free to check out, but on the third Thursday of the month, it stays open extra late for visitors. This Thursday, you can see the museum’s current exhibits until 8 p.m. and enjoy extra programming and activities.
New Destiny
Thursday, Nov. 20
Centennial Pavilion, 13001 N. La Montana Drive, Fountain Hills
The town of Fountain Hills kicks off its new outdoor concert series with a performance by Phoenix music group New Destiny, who deliver a mix of old-school funk, soulful R&B and dance-floor energy. Bring chairs and blankets to sit on. The show runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Plan ahead
Family Astronomy Day
Saturday, Nov. 22
Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St.
The Arizona Science Center will host a free evening of stargazing, discovery and cosmic fun outside the building in Heritage Square later this month. Explore how astronomers unlock the secrets of the universe using different types of telescopes and enjoy hands-on activities and out-of-this-world demonstrations. Hours are 6 to 10 p.m.
‘Wicked’ Sing Along at Movies on the Field
Saturday, Nov. 22
Mountain America Stadium, 500 E. Veterans Way, Tempe
Celebrate the upcoming release of “Wicked: For Good” with a special screening of the original “Wicked.” Bring a blanket to sit on while you enjoy pre-show activities on the football field, special food and drinks at the concession stand and a sing-along version of the movie. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the movie starts at 6. Register on the ASU website.
Ongoing
Free Museums and Museum Free Days
Days, times and locations vary
There a number of institutions around the Valley that are either free all the time or offer no-cost admission on certain days. The ASU Art Museum and its cool architecture are free to visit any time it’s open, and Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum is always free as well. Phoenix Art Museum is pay-what-you-wish on Wednesdays from 3 to 8 p.m., and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is pay-what-you-wish on Thursdays and every second Saturday of the month.
Estrella Star Tower
Daily until 8:15 p.m.
8614 Estrella Parkway, Goodyear
The entrance to a far-West Valley housing development is also home to a charming, unique landmark. The Estrella Star Tower has a spiral staircase that leads visitors up to sprawling views and shines with tiny lights beginning at dusk. The tower’s design was created by local astronomy personality Steven Kates. The tower is really a feature of the neighborhood, so be respectful, stayed on marked paths and remember that it closes at 8:15 p.m.
Dobbins Lookout
Days and times vary
10919 S. Central Ave.
One of the most beautiful views of Phoenix is just a short car ride (or, if you’re in better shape than we are, a bike ride) up South Mountain. Dobbins Lookout stands at 2,330 feet, allowing for unobstructed views of the Valley from one side to another. Check the Phoenix Parks & Rec website for hours and closures.
Scottsdale Art Walk
Every Thursday, 7 to 9 p.m.
Old Town Scottsdale
Every Thursday, the many art galleries in Old Town Scottsdale open their doors for an art walk that has been going on for 50 years. Some even offer wine and small bites. Check the Scottsdale Galleries website for information on the Gold Palette Art Walks, which usually happen one Thursday a month and can include live music and other entertainment.
Do you know of a great free event? We update this list throughout the week; send information to editorial@phoenixnewtimes.com.
