Every weekend brings a new lineup of rocking events around the Valley, and does this weekend rock. Lace up for an Arbor Day 5K, catch some live music and BBQ or prep some questions for a Q-and-A with Anderson Cooper in Phoenix.
Arbor Day Run
The Arbor Day 5K is in its fifth year. Proceeds from the run go to Trees for Tempe. The event allows runners, residents, and businesses to get involved with making the city greener. The route winds around Kiwanis Park. Runners will be timed via chip. Day of activities start at 4:30 pm with the run starting around 6 p.m. Kids can run for free in the Kids Dash.
Kiwanis Park, 5500 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, April 24, $20 in advance, $25 day of event
Anderson Cooper
CNN personality Anderson Cooper will be at the ASU Center for the Study of Race and Democracy. This Delivery Democracy Lecture will discuss the meaning of the word democracy. The lecture is a yearly event that brings in a guest speaker. Cooper is a social justice advocate. This Emmy-winning media icon will present his ideas on participatory democracy. The event is free, but you’ll need to reserve a ticket in advance.
Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 1401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, April 25, Free
Grooves, Hooves, BBQ and Blues
This second annual event mixes scenic views and BBQ for the all day event. The BBQ includes Western BBQ and a pig roast. There will also be a chicken wing-eating contest with cash prizes for the top four finishers. If food contests aren’t your strong suit, there will also be a corn hole tournament with cash prizes for the first and second place teams. Essence Groove Factory will provide live music alongside Lady Jai. The event runs from 11 am until 3 pm.
Rustler’s Rooste, 8383 S. 48th St., Phoenix, April 26, $25
MIM celebrates five years
Since 2010, the Musical Instrument Museum has provided engaging experiences for the community. The MIM opened as the first and largest global musical instrument museum. The community is invited to come and celebrate their five-year milestone. Events will feature performances by some of the museums favorites. While you’re there, be sure to check out their current featured exhibition Beyond the Beat: Drums of the World.
Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, April 25-26, $20
Rock n’ Roll by the Pool
Talking Stick Resort will be hosting their summer Pool concert series. This week’s star lineups include Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers in addition to ZZ Top. Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers is a band from Tempe that have been rocking across the country since the ’90’s. They will be at the resort’s pool Friday night. ZZ Top will take the stage Sunday night. Formed in 1969, this classic American rock band is still at it today. Both take the stage at 8 p.m.
Talking Stick Resort, 9800 E. Indian Bend Rd., Scottsdale, April 26, $30+
