Monsoon season is making it’s way toward the desert. Temperatures may be cooling during what’s supposed to be the hottest week of the year, but this weekend’s events are definitely bringing back the heat! Rock out with a hip-hop icon and sample craft beer and wine or journey along the Salt River and celebrate Halloween early this year.
Rakim
Hip-hop veteran and icon from the ‘80s, Rakim is set to take over the Celebrity Theatre. The icon alongside Eric B. debuted the single “Eric B. Is President.” The duo later followed with the hip-hop masterpiece “Paid in Full.” Rakim went onto a produce a solo album in 2009 titled “The Seventh Seal.”
Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix. celebritytheatre.com. Wednesday, July 17. 8:30 p.m. $15-$25.
Russell Peters- Almost Famous Tour
Known for his involvement on “The Last Comic Standing” and the movie “Chef,” comedian Russell Peters is bringing a new variety of side-splitting, laugh-out-loud content for his Almost Famous Tour. He is noted for his improvisational humor on topics ranging from difficult to understand jobs, cellphones, family members, dating and his favorite places.
Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale. talkingstickresort.com. Friday, July 18. 8 p.m. $50-$150.
Motley Crue and Alice Cooper
Experience rock and roll history as Motley Crue and Alice Cooper take the stage! This is perceived as Motley Crue’s last concert tour. The band who signed cessation-of-touring agreement may never perform in Phoenix again. Not to mention, Alice Cooper is expected to deliver one of his infamous theatrical productions while on stage. It is will definitely be a once in a lifetime event!
Ak-Chin Pavilion, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix. livenation.com. Saturday, July 19. 7 p.m. $25-$125.
The Great Indoor Beer and Wine Festival
Looking to escape the heat? The Great Indoor Beer and Wine Festival has got you covered! Sample craft beers and wines from local breweries and wineries while experiencing food and live entertainment. Each ticket includes 10 beer and 10 wine samples. Proceeds benefit the International Athletic Sportsman Accord.
Arizona Event Center, 1300 S. Country Club Road, Mesa. arizonaeventcenter.com. Saturday, July 19. 1-6 p.m. $30.
Halloween Spooktacular on the Salt River
Get ready for some spooky fun on the Salt River. It might only be July, but Halloween is coming early this year! Grab your favorite costume (make sure it’s waterproof!) and adventure alongside the Sonoran scenery with vampires and goblins. Be sure to share your sunscreen with your fellow vampires, so they don’t end up sparkling like Edward Cullen.
Salt River Tubing, 9200 N. Bush Highway, Mesa. saltrivertubing.com. Saturday, July 19. 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. $17 tube rental, includes shuttle ride; $14 shuttle without rental. Cash only.
