Food festivals and art fairs? Yawn. Here are three local niche gatherings to put on your calendar this spring and summer.
Southwest Wings Birding and Nature Festival
May 7-10
For most, the word “festival” might evoke strobe lights and electronic dance music. This mellow festival in Sierra Vista focuses on curve-billed thrashers and black-throated sparrows. The 34th annual Southwest Wings Birding and Nature Festival allows attendees to explore remote birdwatching regions and connect with other enthusiasts. Don’t forget your binoculars! swwings.org
SoulSearch Scottsdale Enlightenment Expo
June 14-15
If you’ve been meaning to balance your chakras, charge your crystals or tune your biofield, mark your calendar for this two-day celebration of all things woo-woo. More than 50 readers, healers, guides and artisans who specialize in astrology, Akashic Records, intuitive guidance, tarot and more will be in attendance. soulsearch.io/scottsdaleexpo
Mad Monster Party
July 11-13
It’s Halloween in July at this fright-themed festival geared toward fans of true crime, horror flicks and all things gruesome and gory. Attendees can enjoy movie screenings, panels and meet-and-greets with classic horror legends like Robert Englund (A Nightmare on Elm Street) and Brad Dourif (Child’s Play) in Downtown Phoenix. madmonster.com
