THE BIG EVENT OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2026
GVREC.ORG
The Big Event isn’t just one event. It’s seven weeks of arts, culture, music and community happenings throughout October and November 2026. GVR is bringing together many of the events we regularly enjoy—showcases, arts and craft sales, concerts, dances, tours and more—along with some exciting new offerings. There’s simply more to discover, all in one festive season. Check out the calendar and event listings inside, and join us for as many as you can!
FIRST ANNUAL GVR OPEN! A fun-filled scramble where birdies are plentiful and breaking 80 is practically a given! Saturday, November 7 • Haven Golf Course 110 N. Abrego, just behind GVR’s East Center Registration Fee: $95
Your registration includes 18 holes of golf, a shared cart, a swag bag (golf balls, tees, towel, and more), plus a post-tournament barbecue burger lunch with all the trimmings at East Center.
How to Register: Stop by or call GVR Customer Service at 520-625-3440 to register. Sign up as an individual or register your entire foursome. GVR members may register themselves and up to three additional players. At least two players on each team must be GVR members. Pick up a registration form for full details. Questions? Email us at scramble@GVRec.org, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. We hope to see you on the course!
BIG EVENT CLUB ACTIVITIES GVR Volleyball Club
GVR Line Dancers Club
Did you know that GVR’s Volleyball Club plays indoors, outdoors, and in the water?
Do you enjoy line dancing, or want to learn how to line dance? Join GVR’s Line Dancers Club on the West Center Auditorium dance floor Tuesday, October 20th (11am–1pm), Friday, October 30th (2–4pm), or Friday, November 6th (2–4pm).
Here’s your chance to experience all three games by participating, learn about the club, explore the possibility of a volleyball league, and have some top-shelf baked goods. From 10am to 3pm on Saturday, October 10th, and 11am to 3pm on Sunday, October 11th, the Club will be demonstrating their talents—and inviting visitors into games—at Las Campanas (indoor volleyball at the Racquetball Courts), Abrego South (Sand Volleyball) and Casa Paloma II (water volleyball). Las Campanas will feature a bake sale! No registration needed—just come, prepared to participate and have fun. It’ll be something like a Volleyball Triathlon—with baked goods! Hope to see you there. Look for more information on posters around centers, and in the weekly eBlast.
Attendees will learn line dances, taught by the experts of the Club, and then dance with members. This is a free event, open to all GVR members, with no partner needed. Simply get in line and dance. Light snacks and water will be provided. Hope to see you there!
GVR Pickleball Club
GVR Billiards Club
The GVR Pickleball Club is featuring a Halloween Pickleball Bash & BBQ at the Pickleball Center on Saturday, October 31, from 9am–12pm.
GVR’s Billiards Club, an extremely active and talented group, is hosting tournaments on Thursday and Friday, November 12th and 13th, at the downstairs billiards room at the Del Sol Clubhouse. There is a $10 fee for the tournament.
This event welcomes Big Event visitors, Green Valley residents, GVR, and GVR Pickleball Club members. The morning includes fun, social, costume-optional pickleball activities showcasing the many ways to enjoy the sport and the club. Bring your paddle and join concurrent court activities, including the club’s traditional Halloween All-Skill-Level Paddle Up, Halloween-themed court games, and pickleball agility challenges. A Halloween costume contest offers fun awards for the most spirited costumes. A 50/50 raffle will be held at 11:45am, with proceeds supporting club-identified projects. The event showcases health, fitness, and social benefits of pickleball while giving visitors an opportunity to experience the welcoming spirit of the GVR Pickleball Club. Registration is not required.
GVR Computer Club
This event is open to GVR members and non-members alike. Thursday’s play will be for all ladies’ groups, 50 years old and above, grouped in ten-year age increments. Additionally, senior men’s groups, aged 75 years and above, will have a Thursday competition. Friday’s play will be for men 50 years of age or more, grouped into ten-year age increments. If there are a low number of participants in a single age group, the group will be included in an adjoining age group. Practice will begin at 7am each day, check-in at 8am, play begins at 9am. Participation is limited, best to be there early! And remember, you can find beverages, food, and unparalleled service at GVR’s Clubhouse Café, upstairs from the billiards room! See you there!
GVR is proud to have a very large, talented and generous GVR Computer Club. The Club will be taking over the Anza Room at Santa Rita Springs on Tuesday, November 3rd from 1pm to 4pm. There will be tables set up around the room (it’s pretty big) and each table will specialize in cell phone and computer help. PCs and Macs, Androids and iPhones included! While you’re there, take some time to get acquainted with what the Computer Club does—you just might find yourself joining!
GVR Photography Club GVR’s Photography Club is holding two enthusing contests as part of The Big Event. All GVR members are invited to enter the GVR Photo Contest 2026 and/or the GVR Green Valley Film Festival 2026. Both contests are open to photographers and filmmakers of every level, from first-time creators to seasoned pros. For more information and entry guidelines, contact gvphotocontest2026@gmail.com for the photo contest, or gvrgreenvalleyfilmfestival2026@gmail.com for the film festival. Entries into either contest are due September 15, 2026. Exhibitions of both photos and film will be held in November: photos will be displayed at the Las Campanas Center from November 9–15; videos will be shown on the big screen at Desert Hills Auditorium on Thursday, November 5 at 2pm.
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GVR Lapidary & Silversmith Club The 2026 Artisan’s Festival, one of GVR’s biggest annual events, will take place on Friday and Saturday, November 13 and 14, from 9am to 3pm at the West Center. This is your chance to meet some extremely talented crafters, purchase some holiday presents, and learn more about the GVR Lapidary & Silversmith Club. The club offers classes at every level from beginner to master.
GVR Tennis Club The Big Event will close with two days of fun hosted by GVR’s Tennis Club, at the West Center. Friday, November 20th will feature tennis clinics starting at 9am. Saturday, November 21st will be devoted to tournaments, also starting at 9am. The Tennis Club is known for its skill at holding first-class events. We advise that those interested register sooner rather than later! For detailed information, and to register for one or both days, check the Club’s website: gvtennis.com.
ENTERTAINMENT, TRIPS, AND ACTIVITIES LIVE MUSIC David K’s Tribute Weekend Experience an unforgettable weekend of legendary music as acclaimed vocalist, pianist, and guitarist David K brings three iconic performers to life. Known for his powerful vocals, musical versatility, and engaging stage presence, David K delivers authentic tribute performances celebrating the timeless hits of Elton John, Roy Orbison, and Buddy Holly. Elton John Tribute – Friday, October 2 at 7pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 12056 Roy Orbison Tribute – Saturday, October 3 at 7pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 12057 Buddy Holly Tribute – Sunday, October 4 at 2pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 12058 Bundle Deal (all 3 Tributes): GVR Members/Guests: $75; General Public: $125 Individual Pricing (per show): GVR Members/Guests: $30; General Public: $50
The Music of the Carpenters Every Era Entertainment presents a tribute to The Carpenters, featuring Chelsee Hicks and Josh Lamoreaux performing beloved favorites like Close to You, We’ve Only Just Begun, and Rainy Days and Mondays. Backed by an all-star band, they bring the timeless music of Karen and Richard Carpenter to life in an unforgettable concert experience. Their last GVR appearance nearly sold out, so don’t wait to get your tickets! Tuesday, October 6 at 6pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 15224 GVR Members/Guests: $35; General Public: $55
OKTOBERFEST! Get ready to PROST, party, and celebrate Oktoberfest with live music from The Bouncing Czechs, delicious German food, and frosty beer and wine sold by the Rotary Club of Green Valley! Saturday, October 17 at 12:30pm West Center Auditorium Lederhosen Contest · Table Trivia · Beer Stein-Holding Contest
Power of Love: The Best of Huey Lewis & The News Every Era Entertainment presents a high-energy tribute to Huey Lewis & The News! Sing along to iconic hits like The Power of Love, Hip to Be Square, and If This Is It as this electrifying show recreates the infectious sound, fun, and feel-good spirit of one of the most beloved bands of the ‘80s. With Every Era’s signature production style and crowdpleasing energy, this is a concert guaranteed to have you smiling, singing, and dancing all night long! Tuesday, October 20 at 7pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 12201 GVR Members/Guests: $30; General Public: $50
ABBA FAB: The Premier ABBA Experience From TAD Management, ABBAFAB: The Premier ABBA Experience brings the music, energy, and excitement of ABBA to life. Sing and dance along to beloved hits like Dancing Queen, Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!, Fernando, and Waterloo as dazzling costumes, powerful vocals, and nonstop fun transform the evening into a celebration of one of pop music’s most iconic groups. Feel free to add a little disco flair to your outfit—dress-up is encouraged, but completely optional! Thursday, October 22 at 6pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 15097 GVR Members/Guests:$35; General Public: $55
GVR Live! Dance with Hardscrabble Road (Halloween Dance) Grab your costume—or don’t—and join us for a frightfully fun Halloween Dance with Hardscrabble Road Band! Dance the night away to great music, enjoy spooky decorations, and celebrate the season with friends, laughter, and plenty of Halloween spirit. BYOB; we’ll provide the snacks, set-ups, and a howling good time! Saturday, October 31 at 6pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 14059 GVR Members/Guests: $15; General Public: $25
Tickets are $25 and include bratwurst (vegetarian available), sauerkraut, potato salad, pretzel bites & cheese, and dessert! Don’t wait—only a LIMITED number of tickets will be available at the door, so grab yours early and come hungry! THE BIG EVENT
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THE BIG EVENT(S) OCTOBER 2026 SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
1
4
5 Buddy Holly Tribute 2pm, $30 # 12058
11
12
Volleyball Event LC, ABS and CPII 11am FREE
18
Laughlin Trip* 6:30am
19
7
Carpenters Tribute 6pm, $35 # 15224
Lunch and Movie The Senior 1pm, $2 # 15993
13
14
Laughlin Trip
20
Laughlin Trip
21
Huey Lewis Tribute 7pm, $30 # 12201
NASCAR Trip* 6am
25
6
NFL Game Trip 7:15am
2
Leisure Ed Showcase LC, 1pm FREE
27
28
Lunch and Movie Solo Mio 1pm, $2 # 15594
Whipple Lecture 9am FREE
SATURDAY
3
Astronomy Festival and Juried Art Show FREE
Astronomy Festival and Juried Art Show FREE
Elton John Tribute 7pm, $30 # 12056
8
9
Astronomy Festival and Juried Art Show FREE Roy Orbison Tribute 7pm, $30 # 12057
10 Volleyball Event LC, ABS and CPII 10am FREE
Rocky Horror Picture Show 6pm, $10 # 15225
15
16
17 Oktoberfest Event 12:30pm, $25 # 12059
Laughlin Trip returns 6pm
22
23
24
John Shyrock Magic Show 7pm, $25 # 11798
ABBA Tribute 6pm, $35 # 15097
Line Dance Event WC, 11am FREE
26
FRIDAY
29
30
NASCAR Pace Car & Car Show WC, 11am
American Graffiti / Lunch 1pm, FREE # 13056
31
Hardscrabble Halloween Dance 6pm, $15 Line Dance Event # 14059 WC, 2pm FREE Pickleball Club Event PBC, 9am FREE
*varying fees depending on package purchased
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THE BIG EVENT
NOVEMBER 2026 SUNDAY
1
MONDAY
TUESDAY
2
8
3
9
Johnny Cash Tribute 7pm, $35 # 12121
23
5
Disco Inferno Tribute 7pm, $35 # 12122
SATURDAY
6
7
10
11
12
17
18
24
13 Billiards Tournament DSC, 7am $10
Manhattan Dolls Veteran’s Day 2pm, $30 # 11796
19
25
26
Jimmy Buffett Tribute 7pm, $30 # 13058 GVR Scramble Haven GC 7am, $95 # 15694
14
Artisans’ Festival 9am Billiards Tournament DSC, 7am, $10
20 Janis Joplin Tribute 6pm, $35 # 15223
Lunch and Movie Elvis Concert 1pm, $2 # 15596
Cher Tribute 2pm, $35 # 14913
22
Queen Creek Olive Mill Tour 8am, $102, # 15320
FRIDAY
Computer Club Event Anza, 1pm FREE
Photography Contest Exhibits LC thru 11/15
16
4
THURSDAY
Line Dance Event WC, 2pm Lunch and Movie Photography Club FREE Last Rodeo Videos 1pm, $2 DH, 2pm # 15595 FREE
The Laugh Lounge Comedy 6pm, $20 # 15481
15
WEDNESDAY
Artisans’ Festival 9am
21
Mesa Marketplace Trip 6:30am, $45 Tennis Club Event # 12636 WC, 9am FREE Tennis Club Event WC, 9am FREE
27
28
We all rest up and give thanks! 29
30
Lunch available at movie events at an extra cost
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Almost Folsom: A Tribute to JOHNNY CASH
Manhattan Dolls: Salute to America
From TAD Management, Almost Folsom delivers an authentic tribute to Johnny Cash, bringing classics like Folsom Prison Blues, Ring of Fire, I Walk the Line, and Hurt to life with the grit, storytelling, and spirit of the Man in Black. What makes this show truly special is its celebration of Cash’s enduring love story with June Carter Cash, featuring many of the beloved songs and moments they shared together. It’s more than a concert—it’s a heartfelt tribute to one of music’s most iconic couples.
Featuring Armen Dirtadian and The Manhattan Dolls, Salute to America is an uplifting Veterans Day celebration honoring our service members through timeless American classics, patriotic favorites, rich harmonies, and dynamic choreography. Filled with pride, gratitude, and unforgettable music, this inspiring performance invites audiences to sing along, reflect, and celebrate the American spirit.
Tuesday, November 3 at 7pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 12121 GVR Members/Guests: $35; General Public: $55
Disco Inferno: The Best of the Disco Era From TAD Management, Disco Inferno is a high-energy celebration of the greatest disco hits of the ‘70s. Featuring world-class singers and musicians performing favorites from The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, Gloria Gaynor, The Jackson 5, and more, this nonstop party will have you singing, dancing, and reliving the magic of disco. Feel free to dress in your favorite disco-inspired attire—highly encouraged but completely optional—and take advantage of the designated dance area where you can boogie the night away! Thursday, November 5 at 7pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 12122 GVR Members/Guests: $35; General Public: $55
Margaritas In Paradise: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett TAD Management brings Margaritas in Paradise back to GVR for the ultimate Jimmy Buffett experience, filled with great music, island vibes, and plenty of fun. Fronted by Tucson’s own Corey Spector, who tours nationally and internationally as the Official Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band in the USA, this high-energy show features Buffett favorites like Margaritaville and Cheeseburger in Paradise. And shhhh... rumor has it there ‘may or may not’ be a Parrot Head tailgate in the parking lot before the concert, so bring your favorite beverages and snacks and get ready for a little pre-show island fun. Don’t forget to dress in your best tropical attire— think Hawaiian shirts, leis, sunglasses, pink flamingos, and all the island flair you can find! Saturday, November 7 at 7pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 13058 GVR Members/Guests:$30; General Public: $50
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Save $10 with our Patriotic Bundle when you purchase both (1) Salute to America and the (2) December 7 USS Arizona Memorial Garden Tour in the same transaction. Wednesday, November 11 at 2pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 11796 GVR Members/Guests: $30; General Public: $50
Cher: The Beat Goes On, and On, and On… Get ready for the premiere of this Khris Dodge Entertainment production, Cher: The Beat Goes On, and On, and On… Starring the glamorous Erin Helm, this dazzling tribute celebrates Cher’s legendary career with iconic hits including If I Could Turn Back Time, Believe, Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves, I Got You, Babe, and The Beat Goes On. From television and film to Broadway and beyond, enjoy an unforgettable evening honoring one of entertainment’s most enduring superstars. Sunday, November 15 at 2pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 14913 GVR Members/Guests: $35; General Public: $55
Piece of My Heart: Music and Friends of Janis Joplin From Khris Dodge Entertainment, A Piece of My Heart: The Music of Janis Joplin and Friends stars award-winning singer Katherine Byrnes in a powerful tribute to the legendary Janis Joplin and the unforgettable sound of the 1960s. Featuring iconic hits like Me and Bobby McGee, Tell Mama, and Piece of My Heart, along with music from Jefferson Airplane, Jimi Hendrix, Kris Kristofferson, and more, this electrifying concert celebrates a generation that changed music forever. Thursday, November 19 at 6pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 15223 GVR Members/Guests: $35; General Public: $55
TRIPS GVR Overnight Trip: Laughlin Here We Come!
October 12–15
Get away for a three-night trip to Laughlin, Nevada, featuring a comfortable stay at the Aquarius Casino Resort along the scenic Colorado Riverwalk. The trip includes a fun excursion to historic Oatman, Arizona, on Route 66, where you can explore Old West shops and meet the town’s famous wild burros. You’ll also have a full free day to enjoy Laughlin your way—whether that’s a river cruise, strolling the Riverwalk, visiting local attractions, or relaxing with friends at the casinos and restaurants. A light breakfast is included daily. Monday, October 12 at 6:30am Depart Desert Hills Lobby at 6:30am to Laughlin, Nevada Double Occupancy: Event # 14354 GVR Member/Guest: $389; General Public: $449 per person Single Occupancy: Event # 14353 GVR Member/Guest: $439; General Public: $499
GVR Day Trip: NASCAR—Phoenix Raceway
Sunday, October 18. Two Exciting Options To Pick From NASCAR Day Trip – Includes round-trip transportation from Del Sol Clubhouse, race admission, reserved seating, infield access, Fan Midway, garage access, Driver Meeting Walk, prerace festivities, Q&A, and access to shaded hospitality areas.
Departure Del Sol Clubhouse at 6am; Event #12885 GVR Members/Guests: $199; General Public: $219 VIP NASCAR Experience – Departure Del Sol Clubhouse at 6am; Event #13715 GVR Members/Guests: $399; General Public: $419
Queen Creek Olive Mill Adventure Enjoy the Olive Oil 101 Tour, learn the secrets of premium extra virgin olive oil, sample incredible flavors, and savor a Mediterranean-inspired lunch with a complimentary glass of prosecco. You’ll also have time to browse the gourmet marketplace, shop for unique treats, and even indulge in an olive oil cupcake. Don’t miss out on this flavorful adventure! Wednesday, November 4 at 8am Del Sol Clubhouise; Event # 15481 GVR Members/Guests: $102; General Public: $122
GVR Day Trip: Mesa Market Place Shop, stroll, and explore Arizona’s favorite open-air marketplace! With hundreds of vendors, unique treasures, holiday gift ideas, tasty food, live entertainment, and plenty of people-watching, there’s something around every corner. Whether you’re hunting for bargains, crossing names off your holiday shopping list, or simply enjoying a fun day out with friends, this trip is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Friday, November 20 at 6:30am Del Sol Clubhouse to Mesa Market Place; Event # 12636 GVR Members/Guests: $45; General Public: $65
SOUTHWEST SKIES ASTRONOMY FESTIVAL OCTOBER 1–3
There’s nowhere in the world quite like the southwestern United States. It’s a place where dozens of cultures come together under one pristine sky to spread and build community, family, and the kind of research that generates awe in wonder about our place in the universe. It’s also home to the northern hemisphere’s largest concentration of ground-based research observatories. Southwest Skies is bringing them to one place—Green Valley, Arizona—where you can enjoy lectures, activities, booths, star parties, and special access to our host: Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory, part of the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian. Calling all artists! Submit your work for Visions of a Southwest Sky, a one-day pop-up juried art show celebrating the first-ever Southwest Skies astronomy and dark skies festival. The art show will be held at the West Center Auditorium on October 1, and the public is invited to enjoy the exhibition from 5–9pm. Sponsored by Whipple Observatory and Green Valley Recreation. For details and the entry form, please go to Southwestskies.cfa.harvard.edu.
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PERFORMANCES
MATINEE MADNESS
A Night of Comedy with Fred Klett
The Senior # 15593
Spend an evening enjoying sharp, witty comedy with Fred Klett, known as “Cruise Ship Royalty” and a master of observational humor. As the host, he brings relatable stories, quick wit, and a lineup packed with big laughs and top-tier talent. Friday, September 25 at 7pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 11849 GVR Members/Guests $30; General Public $50
Wednesday, October 7 at 2pm – Lunch at 1pm
The Senior is a 2023 American sports drama film starring Michael Chiklis, Mary Stuart Masterson, Brandon Flynn, James Badge Dale, and Rob Corddry. It is based on the true story of Mike Flynt who, at age 59, became a college football linebacker.
Solo Mio # 15594 Tuesday, October 27 at 2pm – Lunch at 1pm This 2026 romantic comedy Matt (Kevin James), an elementary school teacher, is left stranded at the altar in Rome by his fiancée, Heather. Unable to get a refund, he bravely (and hilariously) decides to take the non-refundable honeymoon tour by himself, navigating group activities alongside other married couples.
FREE: American Graffiti AND MORE #13056
A Magical Evening with John Shryock Prepare to be amazed as world-class magician John Shryock brings an unforgettable evening of mind-bending illusions, sleight-of-hand, and interactive magic to the stage. Combining incredible skill, humor, and charm, John creates jaw-dropping moments that will leave you wondering how the impossible just happened. Don’t miss this magical night of wonder, laughter, and astonishment. Friday, October 23 at 7pm West Center Auditorium; Event # 11798 GVR Members/Guests: $25; General Public: $45
The Laugh Lounge at West Center
Thursday, October 29 at 2pm – Lunch at 1pm
American Graffiti is a 1973 coming-of-age comedy-drama. Set in 1962, the film follows a group of teenagers over a single, fateful summer night as they cruise the local strip before heading off to college or facing the realities of adulthood. This will be your opportunity to eat a Double Chubby Chuck or, for the more adventurous, a Mexi-Cali Chili Barb! And don’t miss seeing the NASCAR Pace Car from the Phoenix race at West Center starting at 11am! Get your picture taken with a NASCAR legend! EXTRA BONUS—Take in a classic car show in the West Center parking lot.
The Last Rodeo # 15595
Wednesday, November 4 at 2pm – Lunch at 1pm
Two comedians. One stage. A whole lot of laughter. Get ready for a night of nonstop laughs as the West Center Auditorium transforms into Green Valley’s favorite comedy club! Whether you come with friends or make new ones at your table, you’ll enjoy an evening packed with sharp humor, big laughs, and unforgettable fun.
This 2025 drama is about a retired, over-the-hill bull rider (played by Neal McDonough) who makes a dangerous comeback to compete in a high-stakes Professional Bull Riders (PBR) event. He risks his life to win the $750,000 prize money to pay for his grandson’s life-saving brain tumor surgery.
For table reservations of 8 guests, send an email to reserveatable@GVRec.org—tickets are limited, and won’t last at $20 each!
EPIC: (Elvis Presley in Concert) # 15596
Monday, November 9 at 6pm Comics: Jason Love and Matt Kirshen West Center Auditorium; Event # 15481 GVR Members/Guests: $20; General Public: $40
Tuesday, November 17 at 2pm – Lunch at 1pm
This celebrated 2026 concert documentary directed by Baz Luhrmann. The film focuses on the legendary performer’s stage presence. Utilizing restored, previously unseen archival footage, it offers a highly visual, immersive experience that acts like time travel rather than a traditional biography.