Why spend money entertaining the family this weekend when there are so many free activities going on?
Here are a few of my favorites:
Friday6-10pm - First Fridays Self Guided Art Walk, Downtown Phoenix
The best way to get to know downtown Phoenix and experience its diverse culture is to hoof it -- take Artlink's monthly self-guided tour and visit the art galleries, shops, restaurants and bars that make downtown Phoenix a unique destination. From urban contemporary to high-end fine art, the eclectic mix of artwork has made this a must-attend event for more than a decade. Free shuttles get you from 'hood to 'hood and begin at the Phoenix Art Museum.
6pm - Movie in the Park - "Up", Kiwanis Park, Tempe
Watch "Up," an animated feature about a man who ties balloons to his house so that he can fulfill his lifelong dream of exploration. Once he is in the air, he discovers that he has a stowaway - an 8-year-old wilderness explorer. Bring blankets and a picnic dinner.
Saturday
9am-1pm - Butterfly Bash, Veterans Oasis Park, Chandler
Come and watch as Monarch butterflies migrate for the fall and pass through Veterans Oasis Park. The Monarch butterfly is celebrated with games, crafts, guided walks, presentations and information for participants to take home.
2pm - Volcom Stone Wild in the Park Championship, Peoria
Watch pre-qualified competitors skateboard in the park. The ultimate winner walks away with a $25,000 cash prize.
All Weekend
Tempe Oktoberfest, Tempe Beach Park
Celebrate the 38th anniversary of this three-day festival featuring polka dancing, multiple entertainment stages and a Kinderfest area with activities focused on children. Get a taste of the German culture with strudel, bratwurst and of course, beer. The beer garden is not only stocked with brews from Germany, but with beers from Ireland, France, China and the United States.
