Great Upcoming Events
By Elizabeth Liberatore
Art Walk at Biltmore Fashion Park
March 1-15, Biltmore Fashion Park
This month, an exciting new Sunday event series will arrive at one of the Valley’s premier shopping destinations. Biltmore Fashion Park will set the scene for the art-focused experience, hosted in partnership with Axiom Gallery and Artlink Inc. Shoppers, art lovers and visitors alike will encounter curated gallery walls showcasing the works of 20 artists throughout the shopping center’s open-air spaces. Guests can enjoy drinks and light bites while exploring the beautiful installations at a relaxed pace. Artists will also be on-site to engage with attendees. Sundays, 1-5 p.m. Free. www.reddevelopment.com/biltmore-fashion-park.
Mecum Auctions
March 17-21, State Farm Stadium
Following a record-setting auction in Kissimmee, Florida, Mecum will drive into Glendale this month with bidders and consignors from across the country. Road art, vehicles of all types and price points, and an Adventure Zone with a Power Wheels course, slot car racing, car decorating, and photo ops will all be part of the experience. Daily, 8 a.m. until one hour after the final vehicle crosses the block. One-day ticket, $30; three-day ticket, $75. www.mecum.com.
Big Night Out Gala
March 20, The Westin Kierland
Searching for a big night out that makes a big difference? Look no further than this annual gala, hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona. Play, possibility and promise set the tone for the evening, which will feature a cocktail reception, dinner and program celebrating mentorship and the lives it transforms, followed by an after-party filled with music, dancing and more. Through these meaningful connections, young people across the Valley will gain guidance, confidence and opportunity, creating a lasting impact that extends throughout the community. Proceeds will directly benefit the nonprofit’s mission to match more youth with caring adult mentors. 5:30 p.m. $250. www.bbbsaz.org.
Block Party: Back to the 80’s
March 26, Desert Ridge Marketplace
Desert Ridge Marketplace’s Block Party series will return with a Back to the 80’s theme, transforming The District Stage into a high-energy throwback celebration. Guests can expect a lively throwback DJ, an 80’s Costume Contest, an “80’s Prom” backdrop and photo ops, old-school games and nostalgic decor, giveaways and more. Plus, guests 21 and older can enjoy Sip & Stroll’s pop-up bar! 7-9 p.m. Free. www.shopdesertridge.com.
Blueprints and Blue Jeans
March 27, Arizona Biltmore
Join Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona for its signature fundraising event, raising critical funds for affordable housing. Leave the penguin suits at home: This gathering is less formal than most galas, without sacrificing any of the fun. Attendees will enjoy a cocktail reception and silent auction, followed by an impactful program and awards ceremony, games, and more. Housing is health care, and this gala helps turn the dream of owning a place to call home into a reality for countless Valley families. 6-10 p.m. $350. www.habitatcaz.org.
Wish Ball
March 28, JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Resort & Spa
Ready to jet set (sans the actual travel) on a global journey of hope? This month, Make-A-Wish Arizona will welcome guests to its annual gala, themed Passport to Wishes. The signature event celebrates the magic of the organization’s most popular wish — “I wish to go…” — sending children with critical illnesses on life-changing journeys filled with joy, hope and happiness. Attendees will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, followed by a three-course gourmet dinner with wine service, a program featuring stories of Wish Kids, live entertainment and more. Proceeds help continue making Valley children’s wishes a reality. 5:30 p.m. $1,000. www.wish.org.