Arizona MLK Celebration
JANUARY 4 TO JANUARY 16
The Arizona Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee is celebrating 37 years with more than a week dedicated to the legacy of its namesake. Activities include performer auditions at the Eastlake Park Community Center on January 4, January 5 and January 7; a youth celebration at Phoenix College on January 7; the MLK Basketball Classic at the Eastlake Park Community Center from January 9 to January 14; an awards celebration on January 13; a candlelight service at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church on January 15; and a celebration march and festival from Pilgrim Rest to Margaret T. Hance Park on January 16. National MLK Day of Service volunteer opportunities are also available at various locations on January 16.
Various locations, dates and times, 602-513-8311, azmlk.org
“M3GAN”
OPENS JANUARY 6
Universal Pictures and Blumhouse are kicking off the new year film slate with this horror release. In it, 8-year-old Cady (Violet McGraw) is suddenly orphaned and placed in the care of her aunt, Gemma (Allison Williams), who gives her a prototype of the lifelike AI doll she’s designing as a companion — a decision that proves fateful. Produced by modern horror icons Jason Blum and James Wan, the film is directed by Gerard Johnstone (“Housebound”) and written by Akela Cooper (“Malignant”). Rated PG-13.
In theaters, universalpictures.com/movies/m3gan
“Misery”
JANUARY 6 TO JANUARY 23
Written by screenwriter and playwright William Goldman and based on the novel by Stephen King, this suspense thriller sees successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon rescued from a car crash by No. 1 fan Annie Wilkes — but held captive and forced to write a new ending to his next novel when she finds out he plans to kill off her favorite character.
Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N. Saguaro Boulevard, Fountain Hills, 480-837-9661 x3, fhtaz.org, 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, $18-$35
“Women Talking”
OPENS JANUARY 6
Inspired by true events, this film is an adaptation of a Miriam Toews novel by writer-director Sarah Polley. Here’s the logline: “In 2010, the women of an isolated religious community grapple with reconciling their reality with their faith.” Featuring an all-star ensemble cast including Rooney Mara, Claire Foy, Jessie Buckley, Judith Ivey, Ben Whishaw and Frances McDormand, it has already been garnering heavy awards notice. Rated PG-13.
In theaters, unitedartistsreleasing.com/women-talking
Barker’s Market Pet Festival
JANUARY 8
The Thumb general manager Joe Berman told The Entertainer! Magazine last year that his business is continuing to rebound from the pandemic with community events — and this outdoor pet festival is part of those efforts by the hybrid barbecue bistro, bakery, gas station, gift market and car wash. This is the inaugural one, and moving forward the monthly event will feature dozens of local vendors showcasing pet products and services. Attendees can purchase Frisbees-turned-“Barkuterie Boards” and even adopt dogs with P.A.W.S. (Pound Animals Worth Saving). Friendly dogs are welcome.
The Thumb, 9393 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, 480-513-8186, thethumb.com, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., free admission
Gold Palette ArtWalk: “Demonstrate!”
JANUARY 12
The Scottsdale Gallery Association is back with a slew of live artist demonstrations at participating galleries along Main Street from Scottsdale Road to Goldwater Boulevard and north of Indian School Road on Marshall Way to Fifth Avenue. There will even be live bagpipe performances. Funds benefit the 100 Club of Arizona and Tunnels to Towers.
Scottsdale Arts District, scottsdalegalleries.com, 6:30 to 9 p.m., free admission
“EO”
OPENS JANUARY 13
Directed by Polish filmmaker Jerzy Skolimowski and loosely inspired by the 1966 Robert Bresson film “Au hasard Balthazar,” this acclaimed drama follows former traveling circus donkey EO as he wanders the Polish and Italian countryside exploring both the good and bad of the world. Sandra Drzymalska, Lorenzo Zurzolo, Mateusz Kościukiewicz and Isabelle Huppert star. The film won the Jury Prize at Cannes and is Poland’s official submission for Best International Feature at the upcoming Academy Awards. Not rated.
Harkins Camelview at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, 480-947-8778, eo.official.film, various dates and times, ticket prices TBA
Gabriel Iglesias
JANUARY 13 TO JANUARY 15
It’s the return of Fluffy — and tickets are going fast! Otherwise known as Gabriel Iglesias, the beloved comedian has garnered a strong following through his stand-up gigs and both film and television roles, including the aptly named Netflix series “Mr. Iglesias,” over the past more than two decades. But be warned, several of his Stand Up Live slots are already sold out, so fans best get in on the fun before it’s too late! The Friday late and Sunday shows are for ages 18 and older; all other shows are for ages 21 and older unless otherwise stated.
Stand Up Live, 50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 480-719-6100, phoenix.standuplive.com, 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday, 10 p.m. Saturday, $60
Sonoran Fine Art Festival
JANUARY 13 TO JANUARY 15
Art. Wine. Music. Food. At Stagecoach Village this January, it’s all there! With live musicians setting the tone, 100 fine artists and craftsmen will exhibit their works while patrons taste wines and gourmet chocolates and grab bites from food trucks — or any number of the open-air plaza’s restaurants.
Stagecoach Village, 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 623-734-6526, vermillionpromotions.com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, free admission
Chandler Multicultural Festival
JANUARY 14
Part of Chandler’s Celebration of Unity series, this 28th annual festival aims to do exactly that. With a focus on cultural diversity, organizers spotlight music, dance, art, storytelling and more. There will be activities specifically for youngsters, plus food vendors and trucks ranging from steamed buns and dumplings to tacos, hot dogs, ice cream and more. Don’t miss out on the informational booths and unique vendors either, ranging from jewelry to candles, crafts, accessories and other gifts. Find other Celebration of Unity events online.
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park, 178 E. Commonwealth Avenue, Chandler, 480-782-2218, chandleraz.gov, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., free admission
HoriZen Music & Arts Festival
JANUARY 14 AND JANUARY 15
Described as “an immersive playground featuring a sonorous audio nirvana,” this event is where music and art meet yoga. In addition to various forms of yoga, there will be live music, art installations, live painters, food trucks, craft cocktails, local art vendors and more. Edamame and Koresma headline. This event is for ages 18 and older.
Pemberton PHX, 1121 N. Second Street, Phoenix, idgafnk.com, 2:30 to 11 p.m. Saturday, 1:30 to 10 p.m. Sunday, $75
Litchfield Park Gathering
JANUARY 14 AND JANUARY 15
With an award-winning reputation, this West Valley art festival will feature the works of more than 100 Native American artists, from traditional and contemporary jewelry and beadwork to kachinas and pueblo carvings, paintings and prints, pottery, sculptures and more. Attendees can also see artist demonstrations and live musical performances.
Center of Town, 101 W. Wigwam Boulevard, Litchfield Park, 623-935-9040, litchfieldpark.gov, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, free admission
Winter Art on the Boardwalk
JANUARY 20 TO JANUARY 22
This winter event is sure to be fun for the whole family. Attendees can browse gifts and partake in arts and crafts, all while enjoying live music from the Chacons from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The little ones will also have a coloring contest to try their hands at.
Arizona Boardwalk, 9500 E. Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, 480-297-1179, sundancecreekpromotions.com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, free admission
Winter Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival
JANUARY 20 TO JANUARY 22
This festival is the town of Carefree’s signature event. Occurring seasonally, the 30th annual winter iteration returns to the corner of Easy and Ho Hum streets Downtown this January — bringing with it 150 juried fine artisans from around the country. Displayed works will vary in medium, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography and more. Wood burl sculptor John Hoyt is the featured artist. There will also be food, wine and spirits, and live music from Bob Culbertson and Soul Groove.
101 Easy Street, Carefree, 480-837-5637, thunderbirdartists.com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, $5 for adults or $15 for admission, wine-tasting ticket and souvenir glass
Barrett-Jackson
JANUARY 21 TO JANUARY 29
They’re “The World’s Greatest Car Collector Auctions” for a reason. More than 50 years in, this nine-day festival features an array of spectacular cars, exhibitors, live music, food and all sorts of other experiences. Don’t miss out on this year’s event, which is always a major draw to Scottsdale for auto enthusiasts.
WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480-421-6694, barrett-jackson.com, various dates and times, $15-$215 or free for kids 12 and younger with an accompanying paying adult on Family Day, Saturday, January 21
Chandler International Film Festival
JANUARY 21 TO JANUARY 29
Now in its seventh year, this East Valley film festival plans to spotlight more than 120 films and 35 countries across an array of genres. Workshops, Q&As, panel discussions, an award ceremony, and parties throughout Chandler complement the screenings. Each day will include a different theme, from Faith & Family on January 22 to the Chinese New Year on January 24, and the festival will also celebrate 110 years of Indian cinema. Anti-trafficking nonprofit Night of Hope will receive proceeds from a select film.
LOOK Dine-In Cinema, 1 W. Chandler Boulevard, Chandler, 1-866-727-0093, chandlerfilmfestival.com, various dates and times, $220 all-access pass
Chinese Culture & Cuisine Festival
JANUARY 21 AND JANUARY 22
It’s the Year of the Rabbit — and the 33rd year for this event organized by Phoenix Chinese Week! Activities are many, from food vendors and beer and tea gardens to martial arts demonstrations, traditional dances, musical performances, contests and tournaments, souvenir and craft vendors, a culture and history booth, games like mahjong, children’s activities and more. There will also be a Chinese New Year banquet at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, January 28, at Great Wall Cuisine in Phoenix.
Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, free admission
Jason Alexander
JANUARY 23
Though he’s perhaps best known for his portrayal of George Costanza on “Seinfeld,” this Tony Award-winning Broadway performer is returning to the stage to tell his story through both music and comedy. Alexander is known for interacting with audiences, who will experience both his sense of humor and his musical theater showmanship.
Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale, 480-422-8449, azmusicfest.org, 7:30 p.m., $51-$86
Ali Wong
JANUARY 24 TO JANUARY 25
Known for her popular comedy specials as well as movies like “Always Be My Maybe” and the New York Times bestselling book “Dear Girls,” comedian, writer, actress and director extraordinaire Ali Wong is coming to Stand Up Live. Plus, look out for her A24/Netflix series “Beef” this spring. A couple of her sets are already sold out. These shows are for ages 21 and older.
Stand Up Live, 50 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 480-719-6100, phoenix.standuplive.com, 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, $60
Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival
JANUARY 26 TO JANUARY 28
The needle arts are the focus at this recurring festival, with spotlights sewing, quilting and crafting. Attendees can participate in make-n-takes and free demos, plus there will be daily door prize drawings. The show program will be available online 10 days prior. (Hint: Be sure to print out the $2 discount coupon.)
Arizona Exposition & State Fair, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix, 801-463-1200, quiltcraftsew.com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, $12
The Arizona Wine Festival
JANUARY 27 TO JANUARY 29
This three-day event in Downtown Phoenix includes a winemakers’ dinner to benefit Horses Help Foundation followed by two days of wine and entertainment. More than 20 local wineries have joined up with Willcox Wine Country Partnership for the event, which will also feature live music, food trucks, artists and vendors.
Heritage Square Park, 113 N. Sixth Street, Phoenix, 480-516-8848, willcoxwinecountry.org, $30-$35
Asian Festival’s Culture Night celebrating Lunar New Year
JANUARY 28
Celebrate the Chinese New Year with this celebration of culture, of course featuring food and a beer garden but also lion dance, live jazz music, cultural performances, arts and crafts, kids face painting and lanterns, and more.
Mesa Community College, 1833 W. Southern Avenue, Mesa, asianfestivalaz.com, 4 to 10 p.m., free admission
Doggie Street Festival
JANUARY 28
Billed as the West’s largest adopt-a-thon and pet celebration, the sixth annual Phoenix version of this event offers vet tips, pet products and services, special guests and speakers, not to mention music, food, a kids art area, auction prizes, contests, a VIP lounge and more. Friendly dogs are, of course, welcome.
Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, 323-445-5087, doggiestreetfestival.org/phoenix, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., free admission
Scottsdale Western Week
JANUARY 28 TO FEBRUARY 5
Like other Old Town events such as Scottsdazzle, Western Week fills the streets with all manner of things to do. Paying tribute to the heritage and legacy of the Old West, this event includes such activities as parades, Native American festivals, museum exhibits, gold mining, live music, the Hashknife Pony Express and more. Details are forthcoming.
Old Town Scottsdale, 480-312-7177, scottsdalewesternweek.com, various dates and times, see website for updates
Street Eats Food Truck Festival
JANUARY 28 AND JANUARY 29
It’s two days of food trucks and fun! The Street Eats festival will bring with it more than 40 trucks selling all sorts of food, including, but not limited to, Cajun cuisine, pizza, grilled cheese, crepes, lobster rolls, kettle corn, pretzels, lemonade and sweets — plus live music, lawn games, local vendors, a kids zone and more. Every menu will include a $2 sample, and there will even be eating contests.
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 480-270-5000, streeteatsaz.com, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, $9-$50
