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Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering
Meteor Mania: Perseids
Aug. 11-13 Prescott, Yavapai College Performing Arts Center Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering is devoted to its mission of preserving the culture, traditions and history of cowboy poetry and music. Located in the cooler climate of Prescott, Arizona, the gathering brings together the finest group of reciters and performers. Enjoy more than 50 performers as they share their heritage and the culture of the American Cowboy through poetry and music. 7 p.m. $20-$35. www.azcowboypoets.org.
Aug. 12-13 Tucson, Kitt Peak National Observatory The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most spectacular celestial shows of the year. Watch as more than 50 meteors become the focal point of a dark night sky. You and your fellow stargazers can admire this cosmic celebration at Kitt Peak National Observatory in Tucson. The observatory is home to the largest collection of radio and optical telescopes in the world, which makes it an idyllic spot for this meteor show. 10 p.m.-3 a.m. $45 for adults, $25 for children. www.noao.edu.
10th Annual Bullhead City River Regatta
World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo
Aug. 13 Bullhead City, Colorado River The world’s largest tube float is here! Visit Bullhead City this month for some fun in the sun as residents and visitors alike take a dip in the Colorado River. This year’s River Regatta theme is “Pirates of the Colorado,” and it features themed contests like the Ms. River Regatta Bikini Contest and Most Spirited Business. Channel your inner Captain Jack Sparrow as you take a refreshing river ride! 7 a.m. $30. www.bullheadregatta.com.
Aug. 18-22 Payson, Payson Multi Event Center Head to “Arizona’s cool mountain town” to see this rodeo heading into its 132nd year. Located in the heart of Payson, Arizona, the event provides an Old West experience with some of the world’s best professional cowboys and cowgirls competing to win. Fearless bull riders, steer wrestlers, bronc riders, specialty acts, a rodeo parade and colorful clowns will keep you entertained. Showtimes vary. $18. www.paysonrimcountry.com.
Green Chili Roast
Southern Arizona Salsa & Tequila Challenge
Aug. 20-21, 27-28 Willcox, Apple Annie’s Orchard Apple Annie’s Orchard has been celebrating the seasons in Willcox, Arizona, since the early 1980s. Notorious for throwing great family friendly events, this month the farm will host one flaming hot celebration – The Green Chili Roast. Enjoy chili tastings including eight roasted chilies grown on the farm. Can’t get enough of those spicy green chilies? Forty pounds of any chili grown on the farm will be available for purchase. 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Free. www.appleannies.com.
Prickly Pear Festival Aug. 20-21 Superior, various locations ’Tis the season of the prickly pear, so rejoice in the bloom of this succulent fruit! Events include an early morning desert hike on the mountainside followed by a pancake breakfast with prickly pear syrup, an array of prickly pear foods for purchase by local vendors, prickly pear beer, wine and margarita tastings, live demonstrations, art and entertainment. 6:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Free; dinner and entertainment tickets, $25. www.superiorazchamber.net.
GREAT EVENTS TO ATTEND THIS MONTH! Hit the road and soak up festivities statewide BY ELIZABETH LIBERATORE
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Aug. 20 Tucson, La Encantada Shopping Center This spicy event celebrates its fifth anniversary with more than 45 participating mixologists and chefs competing for the best-tasting tequila and salsa recipes. Attendees can indulge in a spread of food tastings and sip tequila-infused drinks. Funds raised will benefit Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance and the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. 7-10 p.m. $55. www.saaca.org.
Sedona Bike & Brew Festival Aug. 26-27 Sedona, Sedona Golf Resort Sedona Golf Resort is hosting this event that allows bikers of all ages to relish the wonder and awe of Sedona's unique landscape. The six-mile track will take riders across 18 holes and through 400 feet of elevation changes and 90 acres of fairways. After the race, the resort's restaurant, Juniper Bar & Grille, will be hosting dinner along with music and, of course, ice-cold brews. Event times and prices vary. www.sedonagolfresort.com/race.