Game night with family or friends: I’ll be heading over to a friend’s house where we’ll play board games till the break of dawn, well, probably not that late–I’ll be lucky to make it to midnight–but you get the picture. Find some friends, gather your favorite games, sport some food and drinks on the kitchen island or countertop, and play the night away. If you’re into video games or Wii, do that, instead. But make it a fun night for all by just spending time together doing something you all really enjoy. Anyone up for some Trivial Pursuit? How about this new game called Partini? I gave a copy away to friends for Christmas. You have to hum, mold clay figures, act out a scene or a word, and make up sentences. Fun stuff.

A movie marathon: Two years ago, my boyfriend and I decided we’d spend the evening at the movie theater catching up on the new releases we never seem to see before they get released on video. It was a quiet blast. We enjoyed an early dinner out before the crowds shuffled in. And then we headed over to a Harkins Theatre to watch a few movies on which we both agreed. We amazed ourselves that we made it to midnight. It was a fun way to say hello to the new year. I’d do it again if asked. Heck, I’d even suggest it again.

The theatre awaits: If tickets are still available, “Let the Sunshine In” with a 40th anniversary production of Hair by Arizona Theatre Company. It shows at the Herberger Theatre in downtown Phoenix on New Year’s Eve. The special production includes dinner. Tickets are priced between $64 and $99. There’s also a special Broadway Tribute show being conducted at The Phoenix Symphony. Tickets for that range from $26 to $76.

Got any other ideas? Post them here.

Post from: The Phoenix Traveler

At first he resisted–it was pretty cold outside this morning, 50 degrees, probably less, and he was still in his running clothes. But he relented, and we headed off to what used to be called the Christown Mall at Montebello and 19th Avenue. It’s now known as Spectrum Mall and is home to Stop #1 of the new Metro Light Rail in Phoenix.

My boyfriend predicted crowds, but I didn’t think it would be that bad. He was right. It was too cold to wait in line for too long, and the parking lot was packed–with people, portapotties and even ATM machines. 

Hundreds and hundreds of people were already there by 10 a.m., waiting for their turn to get a free ride on the first day. Luckily for us, all Metro rides are free till the end of 2009, so we opted not to ride today after all.

I did, however, snap several photos so you can get a taste of what we experienced on grand opening day, even without a ride on the rail car…

We first picked up the handouts. The city of Phoenix handed out free posters, a ride guide, the program, and a Passport booklet to discounts and savings at restaurants, shops and businesses located on the rail line.

The Passport includes offers from 144 Downtown Phoenix destinations, so you might want to pick a copy up at one of the venues listed. You can save on the cost of theater seats, meals, museum admission, and other purchases from participating vendors, including Chez Nous, Melrose Pharmacy and Curves.

The APS volunteer clown troupe was on hand to entertain the kids and distribute literature about environmental programs and new technologies being used by the utility company.

Live music entertained the adults.

The city of Phoenix had the bike patrol in place on their Cannondales to police the area and help keep everyone safe.

The food booths were a hit. Apparently, cheese steak tastes good even way before noon.

This was part of the line–You can see the rail cars behind the people–but I couldn’t tell which way it was going. We opted, as I said, not to get in it. There will be less crowded days ahead, and the ride won’t be any less exciting that first time out.

Each of the stops that I’ve seen so far in Phoenix are shaded with these triangular shaped canopies. All 28 stations include some kind of art installation, including sculpture, mosaics, photographs, tiles and paintings created by 31 artists from all over the country.

And here’s what all the fuss is about–the rail car. It takes an hour for each of the cars to travel the 20-mile route, from Phoenix to Mesa.

If you want to brave the excitement yourself, there’s still time today. Festivities, centering around different themes, take place not only at Station #1 but also at these stops as well:

Thomas & Central Avenue (Station #8)–Just outside Park Central Mall, north of the light rail stop, entertainment and venues highlight health and wellness.

Encanto & Central Avenue (Station #9)–The arts help celebrate grand opening day at this location near the Heard Museum.

Third Street between Jefferson & Washington (Station #14)–Find out what’s new in Downtown Phoenix at the various booths, listen to live bands, watch street performers and celebrate the grand opening also of the new convention center at this location.

44th Street & Washington (Station #18)–Take a shuttle ride to the airport and learn how Metro Rail can connect you easily with Sky Harbor.

Priest & Washington (Station #19)–SRP hosts the celebration here where you’ll learn about water and electric safety via interesting and fun exhibits.

Mill Avenue & Third Street (Station #21)–This is the gateway to Hayden Ferry and the Mill Avenue District where you’ll find theaters, restaurants and the urban shopping experience.

Veteran’s Way & College Avenue (Station #22)–Fireworks, festival booths, a farmer’s market, eco-minded education, archaeology displays and live music make this one of the more diverse places to celebrate light rail today.

Sycamore & Main Street (Station #28)–The last stop on the rail line includes a full day of music, food and fun for the whole family in Mesa, which includes a classic car show and live music from the 70s rock band, Grand Funk Railroad.

Several communities also have planned celebrations, including Central Avenue & Campbell in Phoenix, Dorsey & Apache boulevards in Tempe.

If you get a chance to go to any of these celebrations, be sure to come back and leave a comment about your experience.

For more information about Phoenix Metro Light Rail:

Visit the web site: www.MetroLightRail.org. Or call 602-254-RAIL.

(Photos used with permission by Jackie Dishner.)

Post from: The Phoenix Traveler

I wanted to talk to Bitler about her travels during the research of her book, because if there was ever a time to think about escape, it’s now. I met up with Bitler at a recent art fair, where I purchased her book, and she agreed to e-mail me with a few suggestions on where you might want to take your next Arizona escape.

Rather than run the whole series of questions I asked, along with her answers, here are the highlights.

In bullet format, you can quickly scan them for ideas:

• Her favorite place: Kitt Peak National Observatory.
• A place she loves: Grand Canyon.
• The place where she’d love to return: Canyon de Chelly.
• Her favorite Arizona activity: Horseback or trail ride at one of

Arizona’s dude ranches.

• Two things she finally get around to doing because of the book: See fireworks over Lake Havasu and the Civil War re-enactments at Picacho Peak.
• Three places she writes about in her book that she thinks you shouldn’t miss: Gallery in the Sun (the late Ted DeGrazia’s art studio/gallery in Tucson); Cochise Stronghold (pictured above); and the Olive Mill and Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek
• Trips she’d like to take now because of what she learned during her research: Take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon; and spend a week on a houseboat at Lake Powell.
• If you want to experience the diversity Arizona offers, she suggests an “escape” to the White Mountains.

To learn more from other Arizona authors who specialize in travel, click on the names below:

_Christine Bailey.

_Michael Engelhard.

_Sam Lowe.

If you’ve visited any of the above named places and would like to share your experiences, good or bad, please post a comment.

(Photo of Cochise Stronghold used with permission by the Cochise County Tourism Council.)

Post from: The Phoenix Traveler

• The Arizona Republic reports bonuses for US Airways‘ employees for on-time travel.
• Tempe, Tucson and Prescott get top votes for quality of life, according to this poll.
• It’s the economy, stupid. That’s why Ohio State fans may not fly to Arizona for the Fiesta Bowl next year (January 5).
• Here’s a good reason that using a travel agent makes sense–a live connection with someone if something goes wrong with your travel arrangements.

Post from: The Phoenix Traveler

It’s all lit up in Prescott for the holidays. The Yavapai County Courthouse (pictured above), Whiskey Row behind it, the gift shops, boutiques and restaurants downtown–they all take part in the holiday festivities that have helped turn this former territorial town into Arizona’s official “Christmas City.”

With a heritage dating back to Victorian times and earlier, they know how to do Christmas here. Phoenicians drive the 90 miles north to see what’s been billed as the world’s largest Gingerbread Village. This year, more than 100 gingerbread structures decorate the lobby of the Prescott Resort now through December 28. The resort is open 24 hours a day.

You have until December 30 to drive through Fain Park and see the mile-long lighted and animated holiday display. We’re talking thousands and thousands of lights.

And this weekend (December 6), Santa arrives. A festive parade welcomes him on a tour around Courthouse Plaza, followed by a lighting ceremony. Afterward, the Governor’s Mansion at the Sharlot Hall Museum hosts an open house with Charles Dickens-era carolers and hot apple cider.

For more information about upcoming holiday events in Arizona’s Christmas City, visit the Prescott Chamber of Commerce or call 800-266-7534.

(Photo courtesy of Prescott Chamber of Commerce.)

Post from: The Phoenix Traveler

Mill Avenue in Tempe hustles and bustles with pedestrian traffic year-round. It’s not the place to go if you want peace and quiet. And though I’d say the majority of the people you’ll see milling around are Arizona State University students, urbanites from all over the Valley of the Sun head over on evenings and weekends to shop, dine at the many restaurants, hang out in the taverns, and walk, ride bikes or rollerblade over to Tempe Town Lake.

This coming weekend, however, pedestrians will flock to Mill Avenue–one of America’s “ten great streets” (American Planning Association, 2008)–for one of the city’s most popular attractions: Fall Tempe Festival of the Arts.

Since the Beatles had its #1 hit, “Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” on the radio 40 years ago, this festival has been the event holiday shoppers love to attend. I’ve been several times and still recall the gift I purchased for my sister the first time I went in 1988 (the 20th anniversary year). It was a hand-crafted Christmas Elf.

I don’t know if that booth’s still around, but here’s a sample of what I know you’ll experience while there this year:

_250,000 visitors, more or less, with lots of them pushing strollers, so watch out.

_more than 400 juried artists’ booths (woodwork, jewelry, paintings, ceramics, fountains, photography, textiles and more), so you know you’ll see quality work.

_food and beverages to purchase at the Food Court on 6th Street near Mill.

_street performers (stilt walkers and mimes, for instance).

_live entertainment (past performers have been local bands, including Gin Blossoms, Margo Reed, Walt Richardson and others).

_hands-on crafts and activities for kids, thank goodness.

_Arizona Wine Festival with tastings from several Arizona wine growers.

If you attend on Friday, stick around after hours for an added treat this year: the Anniversary Beatles Tribute. It takes place at the Arizona Wine Festival Jazz Stage, with Beatles tribute music played by cover band Apple.

IF YOU GO:

WHAT: 40th ANNIVERSARY FALL FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

WHEN: December 5-7, 10 a.m. to Dusk

WHERE: Mill Avenue in Tempe

ADMISSION: Free

PARKING: Free at Rio Salado Parkway & Hardy Drive, just east of Priest Drive on the north side of Rio Salado Parkway. A free shuttle runs every 15 minutes. (map it)

If you don’t want to hassle with that, nine paid parking garages or lots surround the downtown area, closer to the festival. But still, plan for a lot of walking and wear comfortable shoes.

(Photo of Mill Avenue Festival courtesy of Tempe Convention & Visitors Bureau.)

Post from: The Phoenix Traveler

A few travel writers, including Christine K. Bailey, author of Destinations: A Complete Guide to Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sedona and Central Arizona, and Teresa Bitler, whose Great Escapes Arizona was just released are scheduled to appear.

Also plan to see arts & crafts booths, food and live music at the festival on both days.

If you go:

What: ArtFest of Scottsdale                                                               When: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 22 and Sunday, Nov. 23        Where: Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza, 7380 E. 2nd St.                          Cost: Free

Post from: The Phoenix Traveler

If you don’t plan to bring the 20-pounder home with you from the grocery store, if you’ll be in town and away from home on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, Nov. 27) without plans,  or if you just don’t plan on cooking the big meal this year, here’s a short list of local resorts that will serve a gourmet feast for you (Click on the names to see the menus):

Arizona Biltmore  2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix. For dinner reservations, call 602-381-7632. Cost: $85/adults; $45/child (age 12 and under). Dinner is served from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. A brunch buffet is also available, starting at noon.

CopperWynd Resort and Club  13225 N. Eagle Ridge Dr., Fountain Hills. For reservations, call 480-333-1900. Cost: $57/adult; $26/child (age 5-12).

Hyatt Regency at Gainey Ranch  7500 E. Doubletree Ranch Rd., Scottsdale. For reservations, call 480-444-1234, Ext. 79. Cost (buffet only): $57/adult; $29/child (age 6-12); comlimentary for children ages 5 and under.

The Phoenician  6000 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale. For reservations, call 480-941-8200. Cost: varies from $80/adult; $40/child (age 12 and under). Brunch buffet also available, starting at 10 a.m.

Have a happy harvest holiday!

(Photo above taken by Jackie Dishner and used with permission.)

Post from: The Phoenix Traveler

A few of the original cast members and VIP’s from the iconic TV show, “Happy Days”, will be in the Gammage Theater audience on opening night for the Tempe debut of the musical stage version of the hit TV show.

Producer/writer/director Garry Marshall, Anson Williams (Potsie) and Don Most (Ralph Malph) are among the noted celebrities who will attend the Tuesday, Nov. 18 performance.

Heeeeey, it should be cool. The cast and VIP’s plan to arrive in classic 1950s cars and walk the red carpet.

Gammage, part of Arizona State University, is located on Mill and Apache. 

SHOW DETAIL:

HAPPY DAYS ● NOVEMBER 18-23, 2008
Based on the hit Paramount Pictures’ television series, HAPPY DAYS – A New Musical reintroduces one of America’s best loved families, the Cunninghams, and the days of 1959 Milwaukee complete with varsity sweaters, hula hoops, and jukebox sock-hoppin’. The famed drive-in malt shop and number one- hang-out, Arnold’s, is in danger of demolition, so the gang teams up to save it with a dance contest and TV-worthy wrestling match. Tickets are on sale at Ticketmaster or by calling 480-784-4444.

About ASU Gammage

Located on the Tempe campus of Arizona State University, ASU Gammage is among the largest university-based presenters of performing arts in the world. ASU Gammage is the home theater of M&I Bank Broadway Across America – Arizona and the ASU Gammage Beyond series. Its mission is to connect communities through artistic excellence and educational outreach. ASU Gammage is an historic hall designed by internationally renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright.

Post from: The Phoenix Traveler

Now through October 2009, three museums in Mesa (Mesa Contemporary Arts (pictured above), Arizona Museum of Natural History, and Arizona Museum for Youth), all within walking distance, are open free to the public on the first Sunday of every month, noon to 5 p.m.

Other free events: MACFest, a downtown Mesa art and cultural festival every Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; the October Storytelling Festival; and Day of the Dead and Holiday Art & Music festivals coming in November.

The city of Mesa, Target and the Arizona Republic launched the free museum program, 3 for Free, this month.

Upcoming Exhibitions

Mesa Contemporary Arts, One East Main St.

Low and Slow: The Art of the Lowrider through January 11, 2009
Arizona Wheels and Ink through January 4, 2009
The Parlour through January 11, 2009
Beneath the Skin: Artwork Inspired by Tattoos through December 7, 2008

Arizona Museum for Youth, 35 North Robson Street

Dia de los Muertos through Nov. 30, 2008
Full Circle: Recycled into Art through Feb. 8, 2009
Way to Glow! Scott McNeill through Feb. 8, 2009

Arizona Museum of Natural History, 53 Macdonald St. 

HOHOKAM!  Ancient Monuments of the Salt River Valley through March 29, 2009
MARS!  through June 28, 2009
Dinosaur Mountain on – going
PSI:  Poop Scene Investigation through December 07, 2008

The museums are part of the Mesa Arts Center, said to be Arizona’s largest arts campus. It’s home to four theaters, five art galleries and fourteen art studios. Visit the Web site or call 480-644-6500 for more information. Free guided tours of the campus take place at noon every Wednesday at noon. To book a tour, call 480-644-6626.

(Above photo provided and used with permission by the Mesa Arts Center.)

Post from: The Phoenix Traveler