STYLE + BEAUTY CHRISTY LYNN’S SEASONAL SHIFT ENTERTAINMENT
PERFECT HOUSTON DATE NIGHTS
CARIBBEAN CALLING FOOD + BEVERAGE DIVINE DESSERTS
TRAVEL
FEBRUARY 2025
Luxury, functional living reimagined.®
HOUSTON METHODIST LEADING CARE
•
Cheers to Love
Welcome to the February issue of River Oaks Lifestyle! This is our annual "Love Local" edition, a celebration of the people, places, and experiences that make Houston such a special place to call home. As we head into a month filled with hearts and roses, we’ve curated stories to inspire your Valentine’s Day plans—and beyond.
Looking for the perfect date night? We’ve rounded up our favorite one-of-a-kind dining expe riences that are sure to add a little extra sparkle to your evening. Whether you’re planning a romantic night out or just looking to treat yourself, these recommendations are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and create lasting memories.
Our cover story this month shines a well-deserved spotlight on the talented Christy Lynn Lee, a Houston-based fashion designer celebrating five years of creativity and inspiration. Her journey and designs are a testament to the incredible talent thriving right here in our community.
And if the winter chill has you dreaming of sun-soaked shores, you’ll adore our feature, "Caribbean Calling," which takes you on an adventure to the breathtaking Grace Bay Resorts in Turks and Caicos. Consider it your passport to paradise, complete with turquoise waters and sandy beaches that promise to soothe the soul.
This issue is packed with stories we’re sure you’ll love, from local treasures to faraway escapes. It’s all about celebrating what brings joy to our lives, and we hope these pages inspire you to embrace the beauty around you.
Thank you for being part of the River Oaks Lifestyle family. Here’s to a February filled with love, connection, and discovery.
Warmly,
SUZANNE SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER @RIVEROAKSLIFESTYLE
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kayla Bokemeyer | kayla.bokemeyer@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Savannah Schakett
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Diane Cowen
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Lauren Holub
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
If You Eat One Thing
Chef
Redefine
FEBRUARY 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Dr. Hoda Sana & Dr. Tarek Fakhouri at the Arts of Healing gala. 2: Lamont Farmer, Ronald Wadley at the Arts of Healing gala. 3: Sima Ladjevardian, Sabiha Rehmatulla at the Tenenbaum Jewelers celebration of the Robert Procop collection. 4: Kit Klaes, Danica Lapid, Taylor Dickey at the American Cancer Society ‘Shuck Cancer’ fundraiser. 5: Jeff & Rachel Bagwell at the Tenenbaum Jewelers celebration of the Robert Procop collection. 6: Zinat Ahmed, Pete Bell, Johnny & Debra Slaughter at the Lone Star Showdown. 7: Linda McReynolds, Spencer Tilman and Hannah McNair at Salvation Army of Greater Houston 30th annual luncheon.
DAVE ROSSMAN
DANIEL ORTIZ
DANIEL ORTIZ
DANIEL ORTIZ
COURTESY PHOTO
JENNY ANTILL
DAVE ROSSMAN
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Michelin-Starred Chef Unveils Menu for New Texas Hill Country Restaurant
Michael Fojtasek, a Michelin-starred chef and three-time James Beard finalist for Best Chef: Southwest, recently debuted The Restaurant at Albert Hotel. The founder of MaieB Hospitality has unveiled a seasonal menu highlighting ingredients from local farmers, ranchers and artisans. Its signature restaurant will showcase seasonal ingredients from local farms and vineyards under Fojtasek, whose Austin restaurant Olamaie earned a Michelin star in 2024.
Garden & Gun Returns to Houston for Annual Rodeo Smoke Show
Rodeo Smoke Show has been a staple kickoff to the Houston Rodeo and it returns on March 1 with live music, craft cocktails, and a makers’ market featuring artisan wares by top names in Western goods. Throughout the evening, indulge in Lone Star state-inspired stations by chef Leonard Botello and team featuring a crawfish boil, smoked meats, a combination of classic and unconventional sides and decadent desserts.
Lafayette 148 presents Unearthing Beauty
Entitled Unearthing Beauty, the Lafayette 148 Pre-Fall 2025 collection assembles a sophisticated, exquisitely crafted and versatile range of summer dresses, relaxed tailoring, ultra- lightweight leather garments, and seasonal knitwear. The collection showcases the Lafayette 148 atelier’s masterful skills across fabric, palette and print, all of which have been developed to evoke the many sculptural, textural and tonal qualities of clay, ceramics and pottery making.
Photography by Jody Horton
Photography Courtesy of Garden & Gun
Photography Courtesy of L148
Houstonian Teen Start-up Company: Hair Tinsel Birthday Parties
Dylan Rovelli, a 13 year old entrepreneur and eighth grader at The Joy School, is the founder of Kinda A Big Dyl Hair Tinsel, a mobile hair tinsel service. Tinsel installation is a fun way to add sparkle and personality to your hair, with over 20 colors to choose from. She does in-home private and group applications, school events, and birthday parties! It’s also a great addition to any holiday or celebration. To book an appointment, follow her on Facebook and Instagram @Hair_Tinsel_by_kindaAbigdyl
and automated
Photography Courtesy Dylan Rovelli
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ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN KENNEDY
IF YOU EAT ONE THING
CHEF MICHAEL LARA’S SEVEN-LAYER TORTA SETTEVELI IS A MUST-TRY AT TAVOLA.
Chef Michael Lara leads the kitchen at Tavola, the upscale Italian spot in Post Oak. As the chef de cuisine, he works with Salvatore Martone, The Bastion Collection's Michelin-Starred Corporate Chef, and a Joël Robuchon protégé to create a menu that celebrates the diverse flavors of Italy. Lara continues the restaurant's commitment to high-quality ingredients, bringing in items like dried pasta, cured meats, flour, and olive oil straight from Italy while also incorporating top-notch products from the U.S. Whether it's lunch, brunch, dinner, or happy hour, Tavola delivers an authentic Italian experience.
Tavola also offers a solid post-dinner menu featuring sweet treats and digestifs. Although there are several good options, the torta setteveli is a stunning and delicious reason to always leave room for dessert. tavolahouston.com
THE CAKE
According to Lara, the torta setteveli is a seven-layer cake that is traditional to Sicilian culture, specifically Palermo, which is the capital of Sicily. Offered on Tavola's
dessert menu each day, it typically takes about four hours to make.
THE LAYERS
Lara and his team make each of the seven layers, consisting of a biscuit or cake base, custard or milk cream, chocolate ganache or mousse, hazelnuts, and whipped cream.
THE FLAVORS
A best-seller on the menu, the torta setteveli offers a sweet and satisfying bite. "The chocolate mousse and custard give the cake a nice dense texture, which is complemented by the light, fluffy layers, and slight crunch that comes from the nuts and biscuits," said Lara.
THE TOPPINGS
The cake is topped with a smooth, glossy chocolate layer. Lara notes that it is not overly sweet, "It allows the chocolate's deep, slightly bitter flavor to shine through and complement the sweeter, creamier layers inside the cake."
Tavola, Torta Setteveli
IT’S A DATE
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
REDEFINE ROMANCE WITH HOUSTON’S ONE-OF-KIND DATE NIGHT EXPERIENCES.
Santé is a sophisticated cocktail lounge located in the Upper Kirby neighborhood. Photo by Chris Furia
Date Night Vibes
Santé Lounge
Santé Lounge, a cocktail spot in Houston’s Upper Kirby area, is the perfect location for a night out on the town. The lounge offers a curated food program featuring oysters, caviar, artisanal meat and cheese boards, and flatbreads like The Frida with chorizo and avocado-poblano drizzle. Their cocktails are also inspired by famous artworks, such as The Three Graces, an elegant twist on the Amaretto Sour, and Le Grand Canal, a refreshing vodka-based drink with Prosecco inspired hand-crafted cocktails.
Guests can enjoy the chic ambiance, including jewel-toned seating, vintage chandeliers, and two 300-yearold olive trees. The space is divided into areas like the garden with a central bar, the spin room near the DJ booth, and an outdoor lounge, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere. santehtx.com
Santé Lounge in Houston’s Upper Kirby features handcrafted cocktails inspired by art, a curated food program with oysters and flatbreads, and diverse spaces, including a garden and outdoor lounge.
Photo by Chris Furia
Photo by Chris Furia
Sante Lounge, Three Pears Old Fashioned. Photo by Chris Furia
Art, Music, Innovation
Art Club, a new venue at POST’s X-atrium, combines art and nightlife with immersive gallery exhibits by day and a nightclub experience by night, featuring international artists and exclusive collaborations.
Art Club
Want a date that combines art, performance, and nightlife in a single destination? Art Club, a brand new visual arts destination and nightlife experience, recently opened at POST’s X-atrium. This massive, nearly 30,000-squarefoot venue combines art and entertainment, offering immersive gallery exhibits by day and a vibey nightclub experience by night. Founded by Kirby Liu, Director of POST, Art Club showcases cutting-edge works from 13 acclaimed international artists who innovate with lasers, sound, and video.
In nightclub mode, the venue’s lounge and black box theater come alive with music and visuals, offering DJs a platform to blend sound with captivating visual art. Art Club also houses the reopened TOMO magazine and design shop, featuring curated merchandise and exclusive collaborations. posthtx.com
Photo courtesy of Art Club
Photo courtesy of Art Club
Photo courtesy of Art Club
Let’s Pickle!
Casa Pickle
Casa Pickle recently opened as Houston’s premier member-focused indoor pickleball club in the Memorial/West Galleria area. The 20,000-square-foot facility features nine PPA-certified CushionX courts, designed for comfort and performance with joint-friendly, slip-resistant surfaces and enhanced shock absorption. Members can enjoy upscale amenities, including lounge seating, changing rooms, a stylish upstairs bar, and a glass-paneled viewing area. The club offers private, group, and youth training sessions led by pro-Austin Gridley, a 6.0 DUPR player ranked number one in Houston. Perfect for a date night or evening with friends, Casa Pickle was created to bring players of all levels together in a state-of-the-art environment, providing a unique space to play and connect. casapickle.com
Casa Pickle, Houston’s premier indoor pickleball club, offers nine PPA-certified courts, upscale amenities, and training sessions by pro Austin Gridley.
Photo by Raydon Creative
Photo by Raydon Creative
Photo by Raydon Creative
The Perfect Fit
a milestone year with new collections and strategic pop-up boutique.
Christy Lynn Lee, founder of a beloved Houston-based fashion label, known for its delicate details and gorgeous silhouettes.
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN HOLUB PHOTOGRAPHY
Christy Lynn Lee marks
Houston-based fashion designer Christy Lynn Lee is marking five years of her eponymous brand with a pop-up boutique in River Oaks District. The pop-up, running through the end of the month, will feature selections from her Fall/Winter 2024 line and the first release of her Spring 2025 collection in February.
"I wasn't initially looking to open a pop-up during the holiday season, but the opportunity came unexpectedly, and I decided within two weeks," Lee shared. "I've learned a lot from my Memorial store over the past year, and River Oaks District's out-of-town and international clientele presented a unique learning opportunity."
Lee launched her ready-to-wear brand in 2019 and quickly gained recognition for her romantic, ephemeral dresses featuring hand-painted floral designs and fabrics sourced from Italy, France, and China. However, in recent years, she has shifted her focus to include versatile separates, knitwear, and suiting. The upcoming Spring 2025 collection continues this evolution, introducing fresh layering pieces and feminine tailoring.
Christy Lynn Lee with her husband and business partner Christophe Chung. Photo by Quy Tran
Photo by Quy Tran
Visitors to either of Christy's retail locations or her atelier will be enthusiastically greeted by the brand's mascot, Oliver.
"Spring 2025 will land on February 1, and it features many layering options, including embroidered leather coats and soft leathers," Lee shared. "I'm really excited about the suiting—it's feminine tailoring with navy as the season's key color. We will have a lot of prints and core pieces in this collection."
As Lee celebrates her fifth anniversary, she reflects on her brand's expansion. "The first three years were like a honeymoon phase, with a lot of rapid growth," Lee said. "The past two years have been more about navigating trials and planning on the best ways to sustain my brand. I've built a small but strong team in Houston and New York that supports our production and design efforts. This allows me to focus on the outward-facing aspects of the business."
While her brand's reach has expanded nationally and internationally—with global shipping launched in the last six months—Lee has plans to stay in Houston. Her design studio, warehouse, and flagship store are all based in the Bayou City, which she credits as being key to her success.
"We couldn't have grown this much without Houston's support. This city is home," she said. "Houston embodies diversity, creativity, and opportunity. It's an international hub that connects us to a global audience while maintaining an incredible local community."
The pop-up has already introduced Lee to new customers from across the globe, validating the value of the River Oaks location. "Meeting shoppers from places like the Philippines, Miami, and California has been an incredible experience," she noted. "The response has been overwhelmingly positive." christylynn.com
“We
couldn’t have grown this much without Houston’s support. This city is home. Houston embodies diversity, creativity, and opportunity. It’s an international hub that connects us to a global audience while maintaining an incredible local community.” – Christy Lynn Lee
Christy Lynn at the runway debut of newest collection in River Oaks District. Photo by Quy Tran
THE STORY BEHIND VIDEO MOJO
CARIBBEAN CALLING
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GRACE BAY RESORTS
Grace Bay Resort
Grace Bay Resorts in Turks and Caicos makes it easy to experience a fantastic island getaway.
With over 7,000 islands in the Caribbean, picking the ideal winter escape can be challenging. But Turks and Caicos, with its pristine white beaches and clear blue waters, is a perfect option for those looking to swap chilly weather for a sunny retreat.
This archipelago, 575 miles southeast of Florida, consists of 40 islands and cays. Providenciales "Provo" and Grand Turk are the most populated among the nine inhabited islands. Provo is home to the largest number of resorts, restaurants, and shops, making it a hub for visitors. Recently ranked the #1 Best Place to Visit in the Caribbean for 2023 by U.S. News & World Report, Turks and Caicos is the perfect spot for slowing down and embracing the relaxed island lifestyle.
In addition to its beautiful landscapes, the islands offer rich culture, warm hospitality, and luxurious accommodations, making it a destination worth adding to any travel list.
BEST TIME TO VISIT PROVIDENCIALES
With over 350 days of sunshine a year and temperatures that never drop below 75 degrees, it's hard to go wrong when choosing a time to visit Turks and Caicos. The high season is between December and April, when visitors escape colder climates. The rest of the year is quieter, with July and August being the hottest months, similar to Texas summers.
HOW TO GET TO TURKS AND CAICOS FROM HOUSTON
Traveling to Turks and Caicos is easy. A short flight to Miami followed by a quick hop to Providenciales can have you enjoying a beachside cocktail by noon. Some airlines offer direct flights to Provo during peak travel times, but it's a good idea to plan ahead for the best fares and schedules.
WHERE TO STAY IN TURKS AND CAICOS GRACE BAY CLUB
Grace Bay Club, located on the famed Grace Bay Beach, is the island's oldest luxury resort. It's three resorts in one, catering to couples, families, and larger groups such as wedding parties. Accommodations range from Junior Suites and Villa Penthouse Suites to expansive five-bedroom residences at The Estates. Onsite dining options include casual spots and fine dining, and the resort is within walking distance of local shops and restaurants. Grace Bay Club is a versatile choice for travelers with an adults-only area and excellent kids' programs.
GRACE BAY RESORTS PRIVATE VILLA COLLECTION
For those who prefer a more secluded stay, Grace Bay Resorts offers a collection of private beachfront villas. These spacious, freestanding villas—ranging from four to 13 bedrooms— come with personalized services like an on-call butler and access to resort restaurants. Larger villas also feature a private chef and butlers trained by the Butlers Guild in England. Guests can enjoy beachfront relaxation, water sports, and all the comforts of a home away from home.
ROCK HOUSE
Rock House, one of the newest additions to Turks and Caicos' luxury scene, offers a boutique experience with 46 oceanfront villa-style rooms. Nestled into the limestone cliffs, the resort provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Grace Bay. Designed with a chic, modern vibe, Rock House combines Caribbean charm with a touch of Mediterranean style, complete with macrame umbrellas, daybeds, and cabanas. The infinity pool is the resort's social hub, offering gorgeous views and easy access to the nearby Cave Bar and Vita Restaurant. Since its opening in 2022, Rock House has quickly become one of the top choices for discerning travelers. gracebayresorts.com
Grace Bay Private Villa
Rock House, one of the newest properties in Turks & Caicos, offers delicious meals at its restaurants and bars. Tuna tartare at Rock House.
View of Rock House's infinity pool.
IN THE MIX
this foyer
Designer Shundra Harris adds function to homes and offices.
ARTICLE BY DIANE COWEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACIE HENLEY
Shundra Harris was working as an aerospace engineer when she remodeled her own home. When friends saw how gorgeous it turned out, they asked for her help and her second career was born.
For
, Houston interior designer Shundra Harris created a cozy nook with an upholstered wall under the stairs.
“Residential projects are more personal, but there are more home offices for people working from home. A husband and wife might have their own offices and then come together in public or family areas.”
– Shundra Harris
She’s now the principal at Shundra Harris Interiors, handling a mix of commercial and residential projects. In February, Shundra will be inducted into the Houston Design District’s Leaders In Design program.
“Since COVID, there’s been a focus on work-life balance. In commercial projects, we’re using more of a residential approach,” Shundra said. “Residential projects are more personal, but there are more home offices for people working from home. A husband and wife might have their own offices or areas to be on their own and then come together in public or family areas.”
She recently completed working on a new home for Houston Texans coach Demeco Ryan and
his family. “We’re putting furniture in now. It’s been an amazing experience. My charge was ‘no white cabinets,’ so we’ve got some navy in the kitchen and red in the game room. We got to really be creative in this home.”
Shundra contributes to the interior design profession through the American Society of Interior Designers. She’s a past president of the local Gulf Coast Chapter and now serves on ASID’s national board. She also does volunteer work writing for licensing exams, doing site visits for universities seeking program accreditation and reviewing college curriculum.
This kitchen - living area designed by Houston interior designer Shundra Harris offers a lot of functionality.
THE SCOTTSDALE LURE OF
The endless skies of blue are interrupted only by cacti rising majestically from the ground, arms reaching skyward, and palm trees, which are often adorned by lights that twinkle when the sun sets. There are vistas of open desert, rising mountains, and even the lush green of the locale’s many golf courses. And, of course, there are the vibrant shopping, dining, art, and event scenes, too.
Scottsdale is a city located in Metro Phoenix in Arizona, which as a whole is nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun” for its more than 330 days of sun each year—one of the reasons the area is a draw for visitors. With few rainy days, it’s easy to plan your daily activities without worry. Yes, though, the summer gets hot. But the rest of the year? Perfection.
Scottsdale is a mix of a resort destination, city, and suburbs, with more open desert the further north you venture. To the south is Downtown Scottsdale—also known as Old Town Scottsdale—which is a mix of old Southwestern charm
BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
(including the legendary cowboy saloon, Rusty Spur Saloon); modern eateries from famed chefs; lots of shopping at small boutiques and specialty shops; the Arts District , which is filled with art galleries; and even tasting rooms from Arizona wineries located along the famed Scottsdale Wine Trail
Nearby is Scottsdale Fashion Square , one of the nation’s premier shopping destinations. While you’ll find many usual retailers there, there are also more than 40 luxury brands, including Christian Louboutin, Bottega Veneta, and Louis Vuitton.
Heading north are open-air shopping destinations Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons , which sit across the street from each other. Take the afternoon or evening to stroll through, exploring the shops, restaurants, and activity destinations such as the indoor mini-golf destination Puttshack . What else is there to see and do? Plenty.
FROM RELAXATION TO SHOPPING TO GOLF TO SIGHTSEEING, THIS DESTINATION HAS IT ALL
PLAY
Like golf? There are more than 200 golf courses in the Scottsdale area. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, there is a course for you. One of the most popular in the area is the TPC Scottsdale as it is the locale of the WM Phoenix Open, the most-attended golf tournament in the world.
For most of the year, Scottsdale boasts warm temperatures, making spending a day splashing in a pool a perfect choice. Many local resorts have pool areas that feature fun extras such as water slides, lazy rivers, and even a cooled sand beach. And even if you’re not an on-site guest, you can often purchase a day pass to be on-site through ResortPass.com.
Of course, there’s also plenty of outdoor recreation in Scottsdale. Pinnacle Peak in North Scottsdale is a popular mountain to hike (as is the iconic Camelback Mountain, which is located in nearby Phoenix), and the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is a park and trail system spread over 11 miles. Kids love McCormickStillman Railroad Park , which boasts a small-scale train that circles the park and plenty of play areas.
A destination filled with numerous attractions is A rizona Boardwalk , a center that includes Butterfly Wonderland , OdySea Aquarium , Ripley’s Believe It or Not! , Museum of Illusions , and more.
CULTURE
The beauty of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert led famed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), to build Taliesin West , his winter home and desert laboratory, in a mountainside in East Scottsdale. Today, there are daily tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and events are offered often.
However, Wright’s architecture isn’t the only art in the area. Beyond the Arts District in Downtown Scottsdale, there is public art all around the city, from sculptures to murals, so definitely keep your eyes open!
There are also museums such as Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West , a Smithsonian Affiliate, which showcases items from the Greater Western region, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art , affectionately known as SMoCA.
On Thursday evenings, there’s a free public ArtWalk in the Arts District, where galleries stay open later. Wander the streets and galleries, often against a backdrop of live music and even artist appearances. CONTINUED >
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DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
From mom-and-pop restaurants to those run by James Beard Award-winning chefs and celebrity chefs, Scottsdale has it all. There’s Luna by Giada , by famed chef and TV personality Giada de Laurentiis; Uchi by James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole; FnB by James Beard Award-winning chef Charleen Badman; and The Americano, which is helmed by celebrity chef and TV personality Beau MacMillan. Other local favorites are chef Joey Maggiore’s new The Italiano; Postino, for bruschetta and wine; Ocean 44 for seafood; and Old Town Tortilla Factory—which is set in a historic 75-year-old adobe home—for Southwestern with a Mexican twist.
If you’re looking for a night out, Downtown Scottsdale has the biggest concentration of clubs and bars. The walkable area has Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, El Hefe , Boondocks Patio & Grill , and many others.
If a more upscale lounge is your scene, check out the new Tell Your Friends speakeasy in North Scottsdale, located under The Americano restaurant.
EVENTS
Scottsdale is also known as a destination for events that draw attendees from around the world. Depending on your hobbies, time your visit to coincide with the one that interests you most. Golf lovers (and those who like to party) head to Scottsdale for the popular PGA tournament WM Phoenix Open , dubbed “The Greatest Show on Grass,” also includes concerts with wellknown musical acts. Auto enthusiasts flock here for Auto Week , which includes the famous Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction . In late February and through March, the MLB’s Spring Training takes over the Valley, with Scottsdale Stadium becoming the home of the San Francisco Giants. There’s showmanship at the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and rivalry on the field at the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Classic , which draws players from around the world and features polo matches, a fashion show, parties, and more. And in 2025, Art Week , the next big event in the art world, debuts in Scottsdale.
NEARBY
While there’s so much to do, see, and experience in Scottsdale proper, there’s also much to see nearby. Make sure to experience the Musical Instrument Museum (affectionately known as the MIM), which is the world’s only global instrument museum. Desert Botanical Garden features an array of desert plants, and Phoenix Art Museum has an impressive collection of art. And, of course, the Phoenix Zoo is a perfect place for both kids and adults alike.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS FEBRUARY 2025
events
FEBRUARY 1ST
Mean Girls the Musical
Sarofim Hall - Hobby Center | 7:00 PM
Tina Fey's Drama Desk award-winning Broadway musical, based on the 2004 Lindsay Lohan film, Mean Girls is out on tour! With a book by Fey, direction by Book of Mormon's Casey Nicholaw, music and lyrics by Jeff Richmond, and Legally Blonde's Nell Benjamin, it's no surprise that the musical is a Broadway smash hit, earning 12 Tony nominations along the way.
FEBRUARY 1ST
West Side Story
Brown Theater | 7:00 PM
More than fifty years ago, a show about New York City changed musical theatre forever. Now, it's coming home to make history once again. From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. Arthur Laurents' book remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever.
FEBRUARY 1ST
Kumail Nanjiani at 713 Music Hall
713 Music Hall | 7:00 PM
From stealing the show on HBO's Silicon Valley to many of his guest turns on some of the best comedy television, movies, and podcasts of the last decade, (including Veep, Adventure Time, Broad City, and The Big Sick, Kumail Nanjiani has built a career out of his dry wit, never taking himself too seriously.
FEBRUARY 6TH
Cirque du Soleil Echo
Sam Houston Race Park | 7:00 PM
The incredible performance company, Cirque du Soleil, is bringing a new story to the world! Echo promises to be a classic Cirque show, with stunning and unique acrobatics, beautiful visuals, and enchanting characters. The show is written and directed by Cirque du Soleil regular Mukhtar Omar Sharif Mukhtar, the mastermind behind shows Messi10, Vision, and more.
FEBRUARY 8TH
Ballet Folklorico de Mexico: De Amalia Hernandez
Jones Hall | 7:00 PM
Seen by millions of dance fans worldwide, Ballet Folklorico de Mexico has traveled to more than 60 countries and regularly garners rave reviews with every new show they produce. The oldest celebrated dance company in Mexico, Ballet Folklorico was founded in 1952 by Amalia Hernandez, as her own personal ambition to rescue the 60+ dancing traditions of Mexico.
FEBRUARY 14TH
Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock Live
Cullen Theater | 7:00 PM
For the first time ever, the Fraggles are going on tour across the United States on a hunt for the Great Song Stone. Join Gobo Fraggle as he takes his friends on an ambitious musical journey for the legendary long-lost treasure. See the Fraggles, as they walk around the stage and are joined by giant Gorgs and mechanized Doozers.
We supply top quality rentals for a myriad of special occasions. We have serviced weddings, conferences, fundraising galas, corporate, and private events by providing rentals such as tents, shades, and dining necessities. We work closely with topnotch caterers, designers, and producers to ensure the best event possible.
FEBRUARY 21ST
Houston Symphony presents: Star Wars, the Empire Strikes Back in Concert
Jones Hall | 7:00 PM
Join the Houston Symphony as they present a screening of George Lucas and Lawrence Kasdan's 1980 sci-fi masterpiece, with John Williams' unforgettable score played live in accompaniment.
FEBRUARY 23RD
Gypsy Kings in Concert
Smart Financial Centre | 7:00 PM
The Gipsy Kings are hugely influential figures in the world of flamenco and, more widely, world music as a whole. They blend flamenco with a sprinkling of Latin rhythms, western pop and jazz. Comprised of two sets of brothers, the Reyes' and the Baliardos, who banded together in 1979 under the original moniker Los Reyes, the group have sold over 25 million records worldwide.
FEBRUARY 28TH
Houston Symphony presents: 007 James Bond Forever
Jones Hall | 7:00 PM
Nobody does it better than the Houston Symphony. Joined by Broadway's Lena Hall the orchestra will be taking you on a journey through some of the best Bond themes ever. So grab those martinis and settle in for an unforgettable night of music, including selections from Diamonds Are Forever, Skyfall, and of course, our favorite, Live and Let Die.
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