Festive Melodies and Cultural Wonders at MIM’s Holiday Event

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM (MIM) IN PHOENIX INVITES YOU TO IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON WITH ‘TIS THE SEASON: HOLIDAYS AT MIM, A FESTIVE EXPLORATION OF WINTER HOLIDAY TRADITIONS FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE, COMPLEMENTED BY AN ARRAY OF MUSICAL PERFORMANCES. This vibrant celebration takes place December 9 and 10, and is included with paid museum admission, free for members.

Located at 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., MIM becomes a bustling hub of holiday cheer, offering a unique opportunity to learn how diverse cultures celebrate their distinctive winter holidays, all through the universal language of music. This program, supported in part by the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture and the Arizona Commission on the Arts, promises an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY ACTIVITIES INCLUDE

• Holiday Craft: Sleigh Bells (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.): Engage in hands-on creativity by making your own sleigh bell, perfect for accompanying the day’s musical performances.

• Photo Booth (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.): Capture the moment in MIM’s hands-free photo booth and share your festive snaps on social media with #MIMphx for a chance to be featured on MIM’s channels.

• Pop-Up Performance: Dickens Carolers (10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.): Experience the joy of traditional carols with the Dickens Carolers as they serenade guests.

• Gallery Mini-Tours (11:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.).: Junior museum guides lead short, informative tours focusing on global holiday celebrations.

• Music-Making Workshop (11:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.).: Learn to play a holiday classic on the luge in a family-friendly session.

Unique Performances

• The Hot Beignets (Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to noon): A New Orleans-style holiday performance that will have you tapping your feet.

• Mariachi Rubor (Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to noon): A vibrant medley by the talented Mariachi Rubor.

• Orchestrion: Holiday Playlist (Noon and 3 p.m.): Enjoy holiday tunes played on MIM’s largest instrument.

• Kwanzaa Storytelling with Súle Greg Wilson (12:45 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.): A participatory exploration of Kwanzaa traditions.

• Las Palomas del Norte Handbell Ensemble (2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.): A melodious handbell performance to ring in the holiday spirit.

• Rural Street Klezmer Band (3:15 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.): Celebrate Hanukkah with this spirited performance.

‘Tis the Season: Holidays at MIM is more than just an event; it’s a heartwarming journey through the sounds and stories of different cultures’ winter celebrations. For more information, visit mim.org.

Holiday Spectacular Lights Up the Night at The Westin Kierland

Photo courtesy of The Westin Kierland

THE WESTIN KIERLAND RESORT & SPA IS GEARING UP TO PRESENT ITS MUCH-ANTICIPATED ANNUAL HOLIDAY DINNER AND SHOW, HEADLINED BY THE CAPTIVATING RAUN ALOSI AND HIS ORCHESTRA. Scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 16, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., this event promises an evening of classic holiday entertainment blended with modern flair.

Guests will be transported to a bygone era of elegance and charm as they enjoy a refined sit-down dinner complemented by wine service. The highlight of the evening is a performance by Raun Alosi and his orchestra, who are set to deliver a riveting old-school classical holiday variety show.

The star-studded lineup includes guest appearances by Diana Lee, Alice Tatum, and the acclaimed Dennis Rowland. They will join forces to bring beloved holiday classics to life, ensuring an evening of delightful sing-alongs and entertainment.

In addition to the musical extravaganza, the event offers many indulgences. Attendees will be welcomed with a cocktail and can capture the evening’s memories with a professional holidaythemed photo by photographer Brian Goddard. The dinner menu features a salad, main entree with sides, and a delectable dessert, accompanied by two glasses of wine.

A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit the Children’s Miracle Network, supporting Phoenix Children’s Hospital’s noble cause. By attending, guests contribute to a movement that brings hope and healing to those in need.

Tickets are available for individuals and corporate groups, with each offering unique perks. Individual tickets include complimentary self-parking and an exclusive option to book a guestroom at a special rate, while corporate tables enjoy a dedicated server and full bar access.

Due to its popularity and limited seating, it is advisable to secure tickets early. This event not only offers an evening of entertainment but also the joy of contributing to a charitable cause, making it a perfect blend of celebration and philanthropy. For more information, visit kierlandafterdark.com/ upcoming-events/holiday-spectacular.