This is a curated list of weekly events around the Phoenix area for January 2-7.
Calendar listings include public events and attractions from around the Valley and state. Confirm information before making plans by calling the listed phone number, or check each website for last minute confirmation or cancellations. E-mail calendar.events@citieswestmedia.com to submit events for consideration.
SPECIAL EVENTS
51st Annual Flagg Gem & Mineral Show
January 5-7
Both beginner and seasoned rock and mineral collectors have been venturing to this family-friendly event for half a century. There will be more than 100 vendors selling fossils, gems, beads, jewelry and lapidary materials. Additionally, educational organizations will be on hand to show attendees the science behind this enduring hobby. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mesa Community College, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa, flaggmineralfoundation.org
Funbox
Through January 21
Are you looking for something to get the kids away from the screen? Enter Funbox, the world’s largest bounce park spanning 25,000 square feet. There are inflatable play zones throughout, including the new Marshmallow Mountain. F, 3-6 p.m., Sa-Su, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., $19, Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, funbox.com
ZooLights
Through January 14
The Valley’s favorite holiday event will dazzle the eyes with millions of LED lights, a three-story-tall Christmas tree, a sparkling music-in-motion show and life-size animal lanterns ranging from a herd of elephants to a purple people eater. 5:30-10:30 p.m. daily. $25-$35, Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix, 602-286-3800, phoenixzoo.org
Mesa Contemporary Arts Center
January 1-February 29
Local and international artists, along with emerging creatives, are displayed in the five curated galleries of this beautiful space. Swoon: Gift in the Rupture, through Jan. 14; and Shepard Fairey – Facing the Giant: 3 Decades of Dissent, through Jan. 21. Mesa Arts Center,1 E. Main St., Mesa, 480-644-6500, mesaartscenter.com
SPORTS
Phoenix Suns
January 3-7
Bradley Beal is back and the Big 3 look to continue the winning streak against the L.A. Clippers on Wednesday, January 3; Miami Heat on Friday, January 5; and the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday, January 7. Call for times and ticket prices. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 602-379-7800, suns.com
Arizona Coyotes
January 2-7
The ’Yotes return to Tempe with games against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday, January 2; New York Islanders on Thursday, January 4; and the Winnipeg Jets on Sunday, January 7. Check website for times and ticket prices. Mullett Arena, 411 S. Packard Dr., Tempe, 480-563-PUCK, coyotes.nhl.com
ASU Men’s Basketball
January 5-February 18
Cheer on the Arizona State University Sun Devils as the team battles Utah, Jan. 4; Colorado, Jan. 6; Colorado, Jan 15; University of California – Los Angeles, Jan. 17; University of Southern California, Jan. 20; Stanford, Feb. 1; California, Feb. 3; Oregon State, Feb. 14; Washington, Feb. 22; Washington State, Feb. 24; and University of Arizona, Feb. 28. Call for times and ticket prices. Desert Financial Arena, 600 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, 480-727-0000, thesundevils.com
CONCERTS
THEATRE & DRAMA
See How They Run
Through February 10
Not to be confused with the cinematic whodunit starring Sam Rockwell, this hilarious play about religion and mistaken identity proves that even clergy have a sense of humor. Check website for days and times. $30-$65. Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Ave., Gilbert, 480-497-0277, haletheatrearizona.com
The Wiz
January 2-7
The Wizard of Oz gets a soulful reboot as Dorothy follows the yellow brick road with The Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion. Check website for times and ticket prices. Gammage Auditorium, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe, 480-965-3434, asugammage.com
Cinderella
Through January 23
Chances are you’ve seen this oft-told tale of fairy godmothers, glass slippers and wicked stepmothers. But have you caught this beloved local version, seen by generations of young Valley residents? Call for times. $12, adults; $8, children 12 and younger. Great Arizona Puppet Theater, 302 W. Latham St., Phoenix, 602-262-2050, azpuppets.org
THINGS TO DO LOOK AHEAD
Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction
January 20-28
Casual fans and major car collectors from around the world will converge in Scotts-dale for the greatest automobile auction in the nation. Attendees will have the chance to bid on rare and historic vehicles. Doors open at 8 a.m. $15-$28. VIP packages available. Westworld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, 844-528-3598, barrett-jackson.com
Waste Management Phoenix Open
February 5-11
Get ready to cheer on your favorite PGA golfer from the famous 16th hole when the “greenest show on grass” returns. Visit website for tee times and ticket prices. Tournament Players Club, 17020 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale, wmphoenixopen.com
Arizona Strong Beer Festival
February 17
It’s time to tap into some of the best craft brews the Grand Canyon State has to offer, along with some delicious bar food (including an edible pretzel necklace), music and games that will keep the party going all day long. 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $50; $20 for designated driver. VIP access, 11:30 a.m., $70. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, strongbeerfest.com
Bluey’s Big Play
February 17-18
Your children’s favorite cartoon dog and his family come to life in a whole new (and three-dimensional) way that is certain to spark their imagination. Check website for times and ticket prices. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, 602-514-2919, livenation.com
Cactus League Baseball Spring Training
February 22
The tradition continues in Arizona. Fifteen Major League Baseball teams will start their training here in the Valley as they prepare for the 2024 season, giving fans a unique opportunity to see their favorite players up close and personal, including the 2023 National League Champion Arizona Diamondbacks. Ticket prices and locations vary. cactusleague.com
