Entries by Jim Schwartz

Oceans In The Desert

Dive into the wonders of the ocean without leaving the Valley. Whether you’re looking for a full half-day immersive adventure or a quick, budget-friendly family outing, OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale and SEA LIFE Arizona in Tempe deliver unforgettable underwater experiences. From thrilling 360-degree rotating rides and larger animals to interactive touch pools and ocean tunnels, these two attractions offer something for every age and schedule right here in the Phoenix region.

Local Artists at M3F 2026

M3F 2026 turned Steele Indian School Park into a desert dreamscape of music and immersive art, but the real magic came from Phoenix and Valley locals. From house DJ Tommy Toole lighting up the new Signal 33 stage to emerging artists and creative teams bringing “Art Comes First” to life, this nonprofit festival proved that the Valley’s homegrown talent belongs on the biggest stages.

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Saddle Up For Holiday Magic

This season, trade the crowded malls for open desert trails and snow-dusted red rocks. Discover magical holiday horseback rides in the Phoenix Valley and unforgettable winter adventures through Sedona’s iconic crimson canyons. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned rider, saddle up for a truly memorable Western holiday experience in Arizona.

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The 2025 Arizona State Fair Blooms with Tradition and Thrills

As autumn’s crisp edge sharpens the Sonoran Desert, the 2025 Arizona State Fair (Sept. 19-Oct. 26) blooms with “Grow Happiness” at Phoenix’s 1826 W. McDowell Road—170 acres of rides, roasts, and reunion magic. Kick off with September Nights’ themed vibes, then catch The Format’s sold-out Sept. 27 set or AJR on Oct. 3 amid turkey legs and funnel cakes. From Grandstand rodeos to fair food feasts like birria potatoes, this 141-year tradition harvests joy for all.

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Fiddler on The Rock… UP and Coming from the Redrocks of Sedona! (Cover Story – June & July 2025)

In the heart of Sedona, Arizona, where red rock formations glow under the desert sun, Tyler Carson, known as the Fiddler on the Rock, captivates audiences with his violin. His music—a fusion of classical precision, folk fire, and global influences—resonates like the landscape itself: vast, vibrant, and deeply spiritual. From performing for massive audiences at age 11 to reclaiming his voice after a devastating loss, Carson’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and an unshakable connection to joy.

White Water Arizona

Discover The Phoenix Region explores Arizona’s thrilling whitewater rafting adventures, guiding enthusiasts through the iconic Colorado River, seasonal Salt River, and scenic Verde River, offering diverse experiences for all skill levels amidst stunning desert landscapes.