The Leaf Connection
Through Aug. 24, Desert Botanical Garden

This exhibition showcases the Phoenix area’s plant diversity through a display of intricate, handmade ceramic leaves at Desert Botanical Garden’s Webster Center. More than 1,000 pieces are influenced by observations community scientists record on iNaturalist, an online platform where nature lovers share information. As more people contribute observations through iNaturalist, local artist Mary Meyer will add more leaves to the exhibit. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Tickets included with garden admission or membership. www.dbg.org.

Wild West Summer at The Princess
Through Sept. 8, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Summer gallops on at The Princess, which has been transformed into an adventure-filled frontier with the spirit of the Old West. The Great Frontier Firework Show lights up the sky every Saturday, and guests can lounge in the pool at twilight dive-in movies Fridays and Saturdays. Take your best shot at the range mini-golf course, try your hand at rodeo games or gather round the campfire for twilight tales. Times vary. www.scottsdaleprincess.com.

The World of Anna Sui
Through Sept. 28, Phoenix Art Museum

The rock ’n’ roll-inspired fashions of Anna Sui from her personal archive represent 12 archetypes that are staples of her aesthetic. This exhibition features more than 80 ensembles from her collection. Sui is a self-taught historian of art, culture and art movements, and incorporates elements from each into her designs. She has launched over 80 collections of ready-to-wear garments, accessories, cosmetics, and fragrances through her independent brand. Museum hours vary. Exhibition is included with admission. www.phxart.org.

Chris Stapleton’s All-American Road Show
Aug. 8-9, Desert Diamond Arena

This month, Chris Stapleton’s All-American Road Shop will make a stop in Glendale for two-nights with special guest Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives. Ten years after his debut album, Traveller caught the attention of music fans worldwide with the hit single, Tennessee Whiskey, Stapleton brings his signature blend of country, Southern rock, blues, and soul to the stage. 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices vary. www.desertdiamondarena.com.

I Want My ’80s Tour
Aug. 9, Talking Stick Resort

1980s heartthrob and icon Rick Springfield headlines this throwback concert with John Waite, Wang Chung, and Paul Young. Springfield is a Grammy-winning singer who has sold more than 25 million albums and has had 17 Top 40 hits, including Jessie’s Girl, Love Somebody, Don’t Talk to Strangers, and Human Touch. His new album, Automatic, is his first record of new original material in 15 years. Each artist will perform a full set, so put on your best retro styles and get ready to rock out. This is a 21-and-older event. 8 p.m. Tickets start at $53.50. www.talkingstickresort.com.

Women’s Health and Beauty Expo
Aug. 9, Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas

Enjoy a day of inspiration and rejuvenation featuring over 80 exhibit booths with the latest in skincare, health, cosmetics, and self-care essentials. Be inspired by live demonstrations from top beauty and wellness professionals, discover cutting-edge products firsthand, and connect with like-minded women who share a passion for self-care and empowerment. Whether seeking education, or simply a chance to be pampered, this expo has it all. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. www.womenshealthandbeautyexpo.com.

Spotlight on Mariachi
Aug. 9, Musical Instrument Museum

Learn the foundations of baile folklórico and incorporate the dance moves with mariachi music in a dance workshop with Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ. Then, join the conversation with Grammy-winning Mariachi Los Camperos, led by Daniel Piper, MIM’s curator for Latin America. The group will discuss their influence on the modern mariachi tradition over the course of their 64-year history. 1-3 p.m. Included with museum general admission and membership. www.mim.org.

Sonoran Sippin’
Aug. 15, Desert Botanical Garden

Every second Friday, visit the garden for an evening of welcome drinks, live music, pop-up activities, garden strolls, and food. This is a 21-and-older event, a perfect occasion to gather friends to unwind and celebrate summer. 6:30-9:30 p.m. $16.95. www.dbg.org.

UMB Bank Fiesta Sports Foundation Football Kickoff
Aug. 15, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

College Football Hall of Fame quarterback and two-time Super Bowl champion Jim McMahon will be the keynote speaker at this annual event that celebrates the start of the college football season. The event starts with a meet and greet, followed by an immersive college football experience with interactive games and photo ops. During the event, the Fiesta Sports Foundation will recognize boys tackle and girls flag football All-State high school teams. 11 a.m. Single tickets, $325; tables, starting at $3,150. www.fiestasportsfoundation.org.

Bassrush and Night Trip Festival
Aug. 15-16, WestWorld of Scottsdale

Not just a music festival, this two-night journey through the world of electronic dance music promises an immersive audio-visual experience under the stars. Friday night features dubstep and bass music from Black Tiger Sex Machine, Barely Alive, Midnight Tyrannosaurus, Ray Volpe, Jon Casey, Jessica Audifred, Jack-Lo, Pyke, and Witching Hour. House and tech-house music from Dombresky, Matroda, Walker & Royce, Cloonee, Jackie Hollander, Cade Solito, and Kieran San Jose feature in the Saturday lineup. 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Prices vary. www.insomniacarizona.frontgatetickets.com.

Sip + Shop Summer Market
Aug. 15-16, Hotel Valley Ho

Local legends is the theme this ongoing summer market series. Try six tastings of beer, wine and spirits, and enjoy live music. Local purveyors, house-baked goods, and bites from local chefs are all part of the foodie festivities in the Sands Event Venue. On Friday, enjoy a three-course menu from executive chef Russell LaCasce and a guest chef, which includes a meet-and-greet reception and live demos. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Ronald McDonald House. The free market takes place Saturday. Celebrity chef dinner (Friday), 6 p.m., $159. Saturday market, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., free. www.hotelvalleyho.com.

Sippin’ Series: Craftsman Spirits
Aug. 16, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts

At Sippin’ Series events, participants explore spirits and beverages with professionals from local distributors in a fun, intimate and educational setting. This month, sample specialty cocktails made with small-batch, locally hand-crafted spirits from Craftsman Distillers. This is a 21-and-older event. 7 p.m. $59. www.scottsdaleperformingarts.org.

Summer Block Party
Aug. 21, Desert Ridge Marketplace

It’s the ’90s vs. Y2K at the Thursday night block party. Bring the family to boogie at the silent disco and play some retro games. Capture the moment at the Polaroid photo booth and take home a souvenir DIY bracelet. Guests 21 and older can enjoy the Sip & Stroll mobile bar, and everyone will have a night to remember. 7-9:30 p.m. Free. www.shopdesertridge.com.

Big Time Rush: In Real Life Worldwide
Aug. 23, Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre

Big Time Rush is bringing its high-energy performance under the Arizona sky. Fans can expect an unforgettable night as the iconic boy band performs a mix of its biggest hits from the Nickelodeon days alongside new music from the band’s latest album, Another Life. The show will feature special guests Katelyn Tarver and Stephen Kramer Glickman. 7 p.m. Starting at $30. www.talkingstickresortamphitheatre.com.

Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival
Aug. 28-30, WestWorld of Scottsdale

Needle artists will find a shopper’s paradise – complete with tools, machines, templates, patterns, and fabrics – at this annual festival. There will also be free demonstrations, daily door prize drawings, and make-and-take activities. Classes and seminars will help elevate craftsmanship to the next level and offer tips and tricks that are both fun and informative. It’s a crafters dream and a one-stop-shop for everything quilting, embroidery and needlework. Thurs.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Three-day admission, $12. www.quiltcraftsew.com.

Arizona Black Rodeo
Aug. 29-30, WestWorld of Scottsdale

A grand entry parade and a presentation featuring Black cowboy and cowgirl history opens an action-packed two days of bull riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, ranch bronc, ladies steer undecorating, ladies barrel racing, team roping, pony express, junior barrels, and mutton bustin’ for the kids. A live DJ will provide entertainment during “The Hottest Show on Dirt!” Ticket sales for Black Rodeo USA shows support the work of Black Rodeo USA Foundation to empower youth and the community at large through experiential and educational opportunities. Friday, 7 p.m.; Satuday, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Prices vary. www.blackrodeousa.com.

Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms
Aug. 30, Talking Stick Resort

Tempe’s own Gin Blossoms will join forces with Blues Traveler for a concert at the Talking Stick Resort Pool. The band exploded in popularity following the 1992 release of its debut album, New Miserable Experience, which went quadruple platinum, with hits like Hey Jealousy and Allison Road. Blues Traveler followed a similar trajectory, having played more than 2,000 live shows and releasing 14 studio albums. Sing along to the hits and revisit the past through this show. 6 p.m. Starting at $36. www.talkingstickresort.com.