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LIFE, Styled!

S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

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Beautiful Homes Don't Start with Trends. They Start with You. Whether your style leans modern, traditional, organic, or somewhere in between, our job isn't to fit you into a category. It's to create a home that reflects your life, your personality, and the way you want to live. Because great design isn't about following trends. It's about creating spaces that feel like they've always belonged to you.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Your Story Shapes Your Style September has arrived and with it comes our highly anticipated Style Issue. This is always one of our favorite issues to create, simply because style offers so many beautiful avenues to explore. It is a thread that weaves through every corner of our lives, reaching far beyond fashion and home decor. Your unique style influences the books you choose, the music you play, the meals you cook and even the way you plate your food. It guides the hotels you book, the cars you drive and the flowers you choose to gift. The list is truly infinite. Style is so unique to each of us and is tightly woven with our individual story. Where we grew up, our families, our generation—all of these elements shape the choices we make today. Yet, while it is lovely to cherish the pieces of our past that inspire us, the real magic lies in the fact that style is never static. It evolves right along with us, stretching far beyond passing trends. We might love and use our mother's 1960s china, while effortlessly mixing in modern serving pieces. We might pair a timeless wardrobe staple with this season's freshest trend. We can also pivot and choose to completely reinvent our look to match a brandnew chapter in our lives. This constant evolution is the same reason we often refresh our home interiors; as our needs change, we naturally want our surroundings to reflect who we are right now. Our stories are constantly being written, and there is such beauty in allowing our style to grow alongside us. We hope you thoroughly enjoy this issue as we showcase the many unique ways style touches our world. As for me? I’m off to check out one of the incredibly chic staycation spots featured in these pages! Cheers to creating a signature style that you love!

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Sherry York | sherry.york@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Beth Del Ville | beth.delville@citylifestyle.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Stephanie Slezak CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alison Bailin Batz, Kris Ann Valdez, Beth Del Ville C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Stephanie Slezak, Qiana Kelsch, Emmalee Rathsam

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Zach Miller LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

S H E R RY YO R K , P U B L I S H E R @ A H WAT U K E E C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Ahwatukee City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Ahwatukee area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Ahwatukee City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Ahwatukee’s Premier Salon and Spa offering luxury hair and skin services in a welcoming space for all

Call us at 480-744-5371 Follow us on Instagram at @verbenathesalon Check us out online at www.verbenathesalon.com Located at 3145 E. Chandler blvd. Ste.104, Phoenix, Az 85044

Meet Mateo Ahwatukee Local, Young Entrepreneur & Salon Owner “Born and raised in the foothills and a proud graduate of Desert Vista High School; I opened Verbena, The Salon at just 21 years old to create a space where beauty, wellness, and community meet”

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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

22 10

18 Featured

18 22

Departments

Where Design Begins

Lisa Ryan Whyte and her team at Whyte House Interior Design set the mood with boards that elevate your home design

Everyday Curls, Elevated

Lifestyle Letter

Decor Trends HOME + DESIGN

Must See SHOPPING

How To STYLE + BEAUTY

Travel Journal TRAVEL

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Events

Mateo Wood of Verbena, The Salon, gives us a step-by-step guide to effortless curls — plus a quick half-up look to try next.

Stay in Style

The Valley’s chicest stays of the season

On the Cover Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a delicious meal at the gorgeous Tía Carmen during a stay at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa? Check out this resort and more stylish staycations on page 22. Photography: Courtesy of JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa.

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CONFIDENT SMILE NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE

Your smile speaks before you do! Fashion trends may come and go, but a healthy, confident smile never goes out of style. Your smile is one of the first things people notice, and keeping it healthy is one of the best investments you can make in yourself.

A healthy smile is more than just beautiful—it's a reflection of your overall health and confidence. With a little daily care and routine dental visits, you can enjoy a strong, radiant smile for years to come.

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Where Design Begins

Madison Barczak, Angie Caswell, Lisa Ryan Whyte and Courtney Messamore.

Lisa Ryan Whyte and her team at Whyte House Interior Design set the mood with boards that elevate your home design

ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY QIANA KELSCH

D E C OR T R E N D S | HO M E + D E SIGN

The team at Whyte House Interior Design is known for its ability to tell a story through thoughtful, intentional design, and it all starts with a mood board. The process begins with lead designer and owner Lisa Ryan Whyte’s creative direction and selection of anchor materials, while her team gathers the finishes, fabrics, paint colors and hardware that fit the vision. The best boards, Whyte shares, are the ones where every piece makes the others look even better. The team designs spaces to feel timeless, comfortable and considered, introducing depth by mixing woods, stone, textiles, metal finishes and handcrafted details. Here, Whyte and her team have created four boards that showcase their signature eye for design.

GARDEN HOUSE

“This palette was inspired by European gardens and the handmade materials we have seen on our recent travels,” Whyte says. Earthier tones are replacing cooler grays. “It feels feminine without being overly sweet because it’s grounded by natural clay tones and soft green.” CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/A HWAT UKE E

MODERN MEDITERRANEAN RETREAT

“Calm, sun-washed and quietly luxurious, this palette feels like a home that’s been curated over time, rather than decorated all at once,” says Whyte. “The star-and-cross tile is the hero material. It creates character for the space while staying incredibly timeless.” This board was created for a primary bathroom renovation where the goal was a spa-like retreat that felt warm and welcoming.

D E C OR T R E N D S | HO M E + D E SIGN

COASTAL COLLECTED

Whyte shares this board is fresh, relaxed, and classic yet elevated. “I think of breezy mornings, natural light and spaces that feel refined rather than beach-themed.” Natural oak, woven textures like rattan and aged brass hardware add warmth while keeping the palette sophisticated rather than nautical. “I always want coastal design to feel inspired by the coast, not decorated with it,” says Whyte. CONTINUED >

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MODERN & MINIMAL

The rug served as the anchor to this palette, Whyte notes. “Its strong geometric pattern established the movement and color story, then everything else became quieter, like the warm walnut, soft textiles and matte black finishes,” she says. This confident, layered look is perfect for a home office or masculine living room. “This is the board for someone who wants their home to feel tailored and refined while still being comfortable enough to live in every day,” says Whyte.

D E C OR T R E N D S | HO M E + D E SIGN

Life Can Be Uncertain, But Your RETIREMENT PLAN Shouldn't Be Professional Investment Management | Tax Efficient Strategies Estate Planning | Retirement | Insurance Planning

Take Control of Your Financial Future Brian Wiscombe, CFP®, AIF® Wealth Manager 118 S Kyrene, Suite 4 Chandler, AZ 85226 (602) 258-9400 / StoneCrestWealth.com

StoneCrest Wealth Management, Inc. “StoneCrest” is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where StoneCrest and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. Get a second opinion on your portfolio from a trusted and local expert in our community.

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Rent It, Rock It, Return It Use a clothing subscription service to build an elevated, budget-friendly vacation capsule wardrobe. Packing for a vacation or work trip can feel like a monumental undertaking, especially when your wardrobe could use a refresh. For busy travelers with limited time, money and closet space, traditional shopping marathons can be overwhelming and unrealistic. The smart solution? Try renting standout pieces specifically for the trip and mixing them with reliable basics you already own.

STEP ONE: AUDIT YOUR CLOSET

Before spending money, decide which foundational pieces you own and can add to your suitcase rotation. If you live in pajamas or workout clothes most of the time, it may be time to invest in a few versatile pieces. It’s always a good idea to have a pair of sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, go-anywhere jeans and a few shirts that can serve you equally well on vacation and in everyday life.

STEP TWO: LEVERAGE RENTAL SERVICES FOR STATEMENT LAYERS

Once your wardrobe has a few packable staples, renting clothes is a handy hack to elevate your style on top of the basics. One rental service available online is Nuuly, from the parent company of Anthropologie and Free People, which allows members to rent six items per month for about $98. It’s a low-risk way to experiment with high-quality

ARTICLE BY KRIS ANN VALDEZ PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY KRIS ANN VALDEZ

M UST SE E | S HO P P I NG

styles, especially when traveling to a different climate, refreshing a business-casual wardrobe, or simply wanting to look fabulous without a hefty financial commitment. It’s easy to get started, and the service often has introductory rates for new customers. Download the app and start browsing. In the top right corner, you’ll see the red hanger symbol. Click that to add items to your virtual closet.

STEP THREE: AVOID ROOKIE APP MISTAKES

Fair warning: navigating Nuuly and other rental apps requires a bit of strategy. Make sure to spend time reading customer reviews to assess the physical wear and tear and sizing accuracy of items. Pay attention to how outfits look in the photo reviews, especially on customers with body types similar to yours. During peak travel seasons and holidays, high-demand pieces rent out quickly. One of the biggest mistakes renters make is falling

in love with items too far in advance. To avoid a last-minute scramble, filter strictly by real-time size availability on the exact day you want to place your order with backup options saved in your virtual closet.

STEP FOUR: MAXIMIZE THE VALUE OF YOUR BOX

The true value of renting is the ability to choose garments you’d never buy outright because of high retail costs. Use your rental slots for expensive statement pieces like patterned pants, a unique jacket or a fun blouse that will shine in your vacation

photos or at that conference you’re attending. Being well-dressed is a big confidence booster. Premium rented garments often offer noticeably better quality and tailoring than typical fast fashion. Even a last-minute wildcard selection, like a houndstooth jacket with toggle buttons, can push you outside your comfort zone and inspire you to style your existing clothes in entirely new ways. When curating your suitcase, one helpful formula is the fivefour-three-two-one method: five tops, four bottoms, three pairs of shoes, two layers and one set of accessories.

STEP FIVE: SKIP THE POST-TRIP LAUNDRY

After you return home, subscription services like Nuuly include a prepaid return shipping label and handle all the cleaning themselves. Simply toss the dirty, worn garments back into the return case and send them off, eliminating post-vacation laundry dread. But if you can’t part with an item, you can also purchase it at the current listed price and keep it. If you decide not to keep a favorite piece—at least it will live on in your vacation photos and memories. And that’s nice, too.

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EVERYDAY CURLS,

ELEVATED

ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANIE SLEZAK

MATEO WOOD OF VERBENA, THE SALON, GIVES US A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO EFFORTLESS CURLS — PLUS A QUICK HALF-UP LOOK TO TRY NEXT.

H OW TO | STYL E + BEAUT Y

CURL IT RIGHT

01/

Section the hair into three parts: one above the crown, one from ear to ear, and the remaining hair as the third section. The sections don’t need to be perfect. Wood says the less precise, the better, so you avoid visible lines in the finished style.

02/

Spray each section with a light-hold hairspray and heat protectant. This helps the style last longer and keeps frizz at bay.

03/

Divide each section into three subsections, then swipe the curling iron through the hair to preheat it. Hold the iron straight up, with the barrel’s end at the top of your head and the clamp facing down. To curl away from your face, the clamp should face the mirror; to curl toward your face, it should face away from the mirror.

04/

Starting at the upper-mid portion of the subsection, feed the hair into the iron by clicking back, leaving the ends out of the iron for a more modern finish. Hold for a few seconds, until hot to the touch, then twist the hair on the way out so it releases as a tight curl. Repeat with the next subsection, curling toward the face this time, and alternate direction with each following subsection to build volume. Repeat the entire process on the second and third sections.

05/

Let the curls cool for five minutes, then mist hairspray in light bursts about a foot from the hair. Flip your head over and use a wide-tooth comb to loosen the curls from nape to front, spraying more hairspray as needed. Lift your head back up (don’t flip it) and use your hands to settle the hair into place before running the wide-tooth comb through the surface only, to smooth without disturbing the curl pattern underneath. CONTINUED >

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HALF-UP, HANDLED 01/

Gather the top section of hair with your fingers, leaving a few pieces loose around the ears for a softer, more interesting front.

02/

Secure with a standard hair tie, looping it through once, then loop it a second time, pulling the hair only partway through to form a small bun.

03/

Take the tail from the left side and pull the excess hair from bottom to top, forming a second small bun.

04/

Wrap the elastic around both buns to secure them together, then fan out the top and bottom sections for volume. The goal, according to Wood, is “cute and messy.”

05/

Once you’re happy with the shape, secure it with bobby pins and finish with texturizing spray to hold the look.

Want to see the technique in action? Follow along with Wood’s video tutorial on Instagram at @mateowiththecurls

H OW TO | STYL E + BEAUT Y

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T H E VA L L E Y ’ S C H I C E S T S TAY S O F T H E S E A S O N ARTICLE BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

STAY IN

Sunset Beach at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Courtesy of Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

STYLE Staycations have become as much a part of an Arizona summer as escaping to the high country or heading west to the California coast, offering the relaxation of a vacation without the hassle of travel. Then Labor Day arrives, and despite it still being triple digits, many assume staycation season is over.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

The Phoenician Pool. Courtesy of The Phoenician.

Not so fast! September occupies a unique place on the local hospitality calendar, falling between the peak of summer staycations and the return of the busy tourism season that begins right around Halloween. That timing aligns with broader travel trends as well. The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) notes that domestic leisure travel remains the largest segment of the U.S. travel market, reinforcing that memorable getaways continue to be a priority, even when they are close to home. Here are some of the Valley's most stylish ways to staycation this season.

ROMANCE, REFINED Villa views at the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain. Courtesy of Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, A Gurney's Resort & Spa.

Paradise Point at the Westin Kierland Resort and Spa. Courtesy of Westin Kierland Resort and Spa.

According to the AHLA, leisure travel continues to fuel hotel demand nationwide, and today’s travelers are placing a premium on experiences. Framed by Camelback Mountain, The Phoenician pairs the Forbes Four-Star Phoenician Spa, sparkling pools and dinner at J&G Steakhouse with panoramic views that have made it one of Scottsdale's quintessential date-night destinations. Beyond the spa, guests can spend the afternoon beside one of several pools, enjoy afternoon tea, play a round on the championship golf course or simply settle in for cocktails before dinner, making it remarkably easy to fill an entire weekend without ever leaving the property. Those looking for something more intimate will find it at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa. Built into the mountainside above Paradise Valley, Sanctuary centers on wellness, exceptional dining, and spectacular views. Villas and suites overlook Praying Monk, Four Peaks and the surrounding desert, while experiences ranging from aerial yoga and Bike & Hike adventures to afternoons at the award-winning spa create a restorative escape. The experience continues at Elements, where seasonal menus are matched by panoramic mountain views, before ending the evening with handcrafted cocktails at Jade Bar, long considered one of Arizona’s favorite sunset destinations. Luxury takes on yet another form at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, where the AAA Five Diamond Privado Villas redefine what it means to check into a resort. Guests enjoy

CONTINUED >

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private check-in, dedicated villa hosts, a relaxation pool, concierge service and complimentary access to Well & Being Spa. Chauffeur service to Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons adds another thoughtful touch, while full access to the Princess allows couples to move from the adults-only Sonoran Landing pool to Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina before ending the evening around the Plaza Bar's fire tables. Couples can also spend the day at Sunset Beach, complete with sparkling white sand, before retreating to the privacy of their villa.

GATHER THE GIRLS

The JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa lazy river. Courtesy of JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa.

The pool at the newly opened Hotel Solaya Scottsdale. Courtesy of Hotel Solaya Scottsdale.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

More travelers are planning getaways built around a shared interest rather than a destination. AHLA identifies niche travel as a growing priority, and girls’ weekends focused on uninterrupted time together fit that trend perfectly. Fortunately, the Valley offers no shortage of stylish places to reconnect, whether the plan calls for a full day by the pool, a little retail therapy or simply catching up over cocktails without watching the clock. Hotel Valley Ho continues to prove why it remains one of the Valley's most enduring addresses. The midcentury-modern landmark pairs the lively OH Pool with the quieter adult-geared OHasis, while VH Spa and ZuZu provide plenty of reasons to spend the entire day together before heading out for the evening. Shopping is naturally part of many girls’ weekends, which is where Hotel Adeline comes into play. Just steps from Scottsdale Fashion Square, the boutique hotel makes it easy to browse everything from designer labels to local boutiques before returning to its infinity pool, cabanas and intimate speakeasy, where inventive cocktails provide a fitting end to the day. For groups looking to celebrate a birthday, milestone or simply a long overdue weekend away, the newly opened Hotel Solaya offers another fresh option. The reimagined property pairs a buzzy spa with poolside cabanas, signature restaurant Ella on the Park and easy access to galleries, boutiques and wine bars, making it easy to spend less time driving and more time enjoying one another's company.

EVERYONE’S INVITED

Family travel today is increasingly multigenerational, and AHLA highlights the continued demand for leisure experiences that appeal to all ages. Valley resorts have answered with everything from sprawling water parks and lazy rivers to championship golf, award-winning spas and standout dining. Case in point is the newly reimagined Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort, where a $115 million transformation has ushered in a new era for the beloved property. Ten outdoor pools, a three-story waterslide and multiple restaurants by celebrity chef Richard Blais give every member of the family something to enjoy without ever leaving the property. Between pool time, families can explore the lush grounds before gathering for dinner, making the resort feel like a destination all its own. A few miles away, the Arizona Biltmore continues to prove why some resorts never go out of style. The historic landmark blends Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture with seven pools, Paradise Pool's signature waterslide and Tierra Luna Spa, allowing everyone to enjoy the day their own way before coming together again each evening. It is that balance between history, recreation and relaxation that has kept generations of Arizona families returning year after year. Families who believe bigger really is better will find plenty to love at JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa. AquaRidge WaterPark, complete with a lazy river and waterslides, joins pickleball, golf and multiple restaurants to keep every day full without requiring much of an itinerary. Spacious accommodations and a full calendar of family-friendly activities make it equally appealing for quick weekend escapes and larger family celebrations. Rounding out the list is Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, where guests can ride the FlowRider, float the lazy river, relax at Agave Spa or tee off on the golf course before strolling Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter. Adventure Water Park ensures younger guests stay entertained while adults enjoy the resort's dining and Scotch Library, proving the best family staycations offer something memorable for every generation.

The Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort from above. Courtesy of Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort.

Chocolate Hazelnut La Zozzona at Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort. Courtesy of Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMALEE RATHSAM

MORE THAN

a Bag

A BLEND OF FASHION AND FUNCTION 28

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

A purse does more than hold your phone, keys, and wallet. It quietly pulls an outfit together while also handling the practical side of everyday life. That balance between fashion and function is what makes a great purse feel less like an accessory and more like part of a personal style. Some bags are designed to stand out. A bold color, metallic detail, or structured shape can instantly become the statement piece of an outfit. Even with simple jeans and a white T-shirt, the right purse adds personality and intention. Other times, a purse works best when it blends in. Neutral tones, soft leather, or minimalist designs create a polished look without stealing attention from the rest of the outfit. These subtle bags are often the ones people reach for every day because they work with almost everything. CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/A HWAT UKE E

Of course, style only goes so far if a purse is impractical. The best bags are the ones that fit real life. A roomy tote helps someone move from work meetings to errands without missing a beat. Even a small clutch has a purpose for evenings out when only the essentials matter. Fashion trends may change every season, but the role of a purse stays the same. It adapts while still serving a purpose. That’s why people often invest in bags they truly love. A good purse is dependable, but it also can make a fashion statement. In many ways, a purse is one of the few accessories that people use every single day. It carries necessities, reflects personal style, and can completely change the tone of an outfit. Whether bold and eye-catching or simple and understated, a purse proves that fashion and function can exist beautifully together.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

FASHION TRENDS MAY CHANGE EVERY SEASON, BUT THE ROLE OF A PURSE STAYS THE SAME. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/A HWAT UKE E

SEPTEMBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

SU NDAYS

Ahwatukee Farmers Market Ahwatukee Swim & Tennis Center | 8:00 AM Fresh food, arts and crafts, food trucks and more come together each Sunday for this signature weekly community event. The Ahwatukee Farmers Market continues their summer hours this month, running from 8 to 11 a.m. For more information, visit ArizonaCommunity FarmersMarkets.com/Ahwatukee-Farmers-Market. SE PT E M BE R 1 0 T H- 1 4 TH

Tempe Healing Field at Tempe Beach Park Tempe Beach Park Honoring the 25th anniversary of September 11, the Tempe Healing Field begins on Sept. 10 where volunteers can help stand up flags. On Sept. 11, the tribute ceremony will begin at 5:46 a.m. Other events include a candlelight vigil, a concert and a 5k run/walk. For more information on the event, along with volunteer details, visit TempeHealingField.org. CONTINUED >

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events

CONTINUED

SEPTEMBER 16TH - OCTOBER 4 T H

Phantom of the Opera ASU Gammage Cameron Mackintosh's revitalized production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's classic, "The Phantom of the Opera," returns to Tempe. The story follows Christine Daaé, a soprano whose voice enchants The Phantom, a masked genius in the Paris Opera House. As he mentors her, his love turns to jealousy when her childhood sweetheart, Raoul, reenters her life. ASUGammage.com SEPTEMBER 18TH

José González: Against the Dying of the Light Tour Tom and Janet Ikeda Theater at Mesa Arts Center | 8:00 PM Singer/songwriter José González comes to the Ikeda Theater to share his guitar-forward and intimate songs with the Valley. Known for his soft and pensive vocals, González shares music from his fifth album on this tour. For tickets and more information, visit MesaArtsCenter.com. SEPTEMBER 18TH-27TH

Arizona Restaurant Week Enjoy the variety of culinary delights that Arizona has to offer during the 2026 Arizona Restaurant Week. Diners can enjoy prix-fixe menus at eateries throughout the state for $33, $44 or $55 (prices can be per person or per couple). View participating restaurants and their menus at ArizonaRestaurantWeek.com. SEPTEMBER 26TH-APR IL 2027

Dinosaurs in the Desert Phoenix Zoo They’re back! Last spotted in 2023, dinosaurs return to the desert on Sept. 26 through April 2027. Activities include a self-guided tour, interactive fossil dig and a dino-themed photo-op. Entrance is included with a general Zoo ticket purchase. Opening Day celebrations take place on Sept. 26. Visit PhoenixZoo.org for more information.

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