Benjamin Leatherman
Audio By Carbonatix
We’ve discovered that a case of the Mondays has a simple cure: a week full of fun to look forward to, preferably the kind that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
We’re deep into the holiday season now, so there are plenty of Christmasy free things to do as well as regular old no-cost fun.
Our guide to Phoenix Christmas lights has dozens of places to look at displays for free. And if you’re looking for free activities that are holiday-themed, check out our comprehensive guide to holiday events around the Valley.
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Stitch N Bitch
Monday, Dec. 8
Pip Coffee + Clay, 2617 N. 24th St.
Bring yourself and whatever crafting project you’re working on to creative hub Pip Coffee + Clay on Monday night. There’s no cost to sit with your fellow makers and work on your art, and if you feel like getting a beverage, you’ll get $2 off the regular price. Hours are 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Community Day at the Garden
Tuesday, Dec. 9
Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway
The garden’s monthly free day happens again on Tuesday. Stroll through the many trails and see ongoing multimedia exhibit “Desert Pulse.” Hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free but registering for an entry time is strongly recommended.
Merry Main Street
Wednesday, Dec. 10
Downtown Mesa
Downtown Mesa lights up during the holiday season. Over the next several weeks, that part of the city will play host to things such as visits from Santa, food truck events and ice-skating. Check the website for the schedule and costs, but it’s absolutely free to stroll around the area and get some holiday cheer.
Jazz Happy Hour
Thursday, Dec. 11
The Nash, 110 E. Roosevelt St.
What better way to celebrate almost making it through the week than with some smooth sounds? Downtown Jazz mecca The Nash hosts a weekly happy hour show with Delphine Cortez, Joel Robin and other musicians. Drinks are available for purchase. The show starts at 5 p.m.
Sex Trivia
Thursday, Dec. 11
Gracie’s Tax Bar, 711 N. Seventh Ave.
Sure, you may be a master at … technique, but how much general knowledge do you have about the birds and bees? Show off your huge brain at Sex Trivia at Gracie’s Tax Bar. Drag artists Felicia Minor and Freddy Prinze Charming will host the evening, which includes “shocking prizes.” Order a Sex on the Beach and some of the proceeds will benefit LGBTQ+ nonprofit Trans Queer Pueblo. The 21-and-over fun starts at 8 p.m.
Plan ahead
Ongoing
Free Museums and Museum Free Days
Days, times and locations vary
There a number of institutions around the Valley that are either free all the time or offer no-cost admission on certain days. The ASU Art Museum and its cool architecture are free to visit any time it’s open, and Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum is always free as well. Phoenix Art Museum is pay-what-you-wish on Wednesdays from 3 to 8 p.m., and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is pay-what-you-wish on Thursdays and every second Saturday of the month.
Estrella Star Tower
Daily until 8:15 p.m.
8614 Estrella Parkway, Goodyear
The entrance to a far-West Valley housing development is also home to a charming, unique landmark. The Estrella Star Tower has a spiral staircase that leads visitors up to sprawling views and shines with tiny lights beginning at dusk. The tower’s design was created by local astronomy personality Steven Kates. The tower is really a feature of the neighborhood, so be respectful, stayed on marked paths and remember that it closes at 8:15 p.m.
Dobbins Lookout
Days and times vary
10919 S. Central Ave.
One of the most beautiful views of Phoenix is just a short car ride (or, if you’re in better shape than we are, a bike ride) up South Mountain. Dobbins Lookout stands at 2,330 feet, allowing for unobstructed views of the Valley from one side to another. Check the Phoenix Parks & Rec website for hours and closures.
Scottsdale Art Walk
Every Thursday, 7 to 9 p.m.
Old Town Scottsdale
Every Thursday, the many art galleries in Old Town Scottsdale open their doors for an art walk that has been going on for 50 years. Some even offer wine and small bites. Check the Scottsdale Galleries website for information on the Gold Palette Art Walks, which usually happen one Thursday a month and can include live music and other entertainment. (Note: The art walk is not happening on Thanksgiving.)
Do you know of a great free event? We update this list throughout the week; send information to editorial@phoenixnewtimes.com.
