With the suspension of large events and many of our favorite venues shut down until further notice, it’s time to get creative when it comes to things to do. From a socially distant music festival to a fall-centric celebration, here are five safe ways to welcome the weekend in the Valley.
1. Dance Like You Haven’t Danced in Six Months
Enjoy a socially distanced experience in your own pod as Relentless Beats – Arizona’s leading dance music and EDM promoter – takes over Rawhide Events Center with Kayzo’s Doghouse. The lineup includes Sullivan King and Tynan opening Oct. 9 and Yultron and Calcium on Oct. 10. The pods are clearly marked 8-by-10-foot spaces throughout the arena, each 6 feet apart. In addition to social distancing, organizers are requiring face masks and temperature checks upon entry into the venue. Doors open at 7 p.m. for the 18-and-older event, with the concert from 8 p.m. to midnight. Pods, which are meant for parties of five, start at $195 each. Rawhide Event Center, 5700 W. North Loop Rd., Chandler, relentlessbeats.com.
2. See a Movie and Picnic Under the Stars
Bring a blanket or snag a socially distanced seat under the stars to enjoy Classics in the Courtyard. This week’s film is the timeless Hollywood thriller Jaws, an epic battle of man vs. nature. Grab some takeout eats from Barrio Queen, Islands, Slices, Smashburger, Tikka Shack, Thirsty Lion or Flower Child for only $10 before or during the show by mentioning “Classics in the Courtyard Movie Meal” when ordering. Movie begins at 6 p.m. Oct. 11, Barnes & Noble courtyard at Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix, shopdesertridge.com.
3. Immerse Yourself in Live Theater with Curiouser & Curiouser
Theater Works presents this multisensory experience, which hosts only 10 audience members per performance to explore the fantastical world of Wonderland, where every room, alcove and space in the theater transports guests into a world inspired by Lewis Carroll. The Alice-like encounter allows audience members to investigate rooms, discover scenes, meet the inhabitants of Wonderland, solve puzzles, have a drink, enjoy performances and immerse themselves in a new way to experience theater. Shows continue through Nov. 1, call for times, $36-$48, Peoria Center for the Performing Arts, 10580 N. 83rd Dr., Peoria, curiousertheater.org, 623-815-7930.
4. Pedal for a Purpose in Cycling Fundraiser
Taking place Oct. 12-18, the annual Tour de Scottsdale to support the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy converts to a virtual format this year. Participants can ride miles on their own on the official Tour de Scottsdale course, log miles around their own city or pedal at home on a stationary bike. In addition to the traditional 30-mile and 70-mile rides, the weeklong event introduces a 15-mile course and 5-mile family ride. Visit tourdescottsdale.net for registration details.
5. Celebrate Fall at the Not-so-Spooky Pumpkin Nights
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess marks the spookiest time of year with this inaugural event. Highlights include a pumpkin patch; a multiacre labyrinth hay maze; glowing lanterns to share messages of hope, strength and gratitude; and a bounty of German beers and seasonal foods at the resort’s Plaza Bar and restaurants. Festivities crank up Fridays and Saturdays with drive-in movies and fireworks. 6-10 p.m. through Oct. 31. $10-$60. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, 7575 E. Princess Dr., Scottsdale, scottsdaleprincess.com, 480-585-4848.
