Five Free Things To Do In and Around Phoenix - November 2009

If you are looking for some unique activities that won't cost you a dime, this week you can see some stitches, dance your way to better health, meet wild critters, check out some vinyl, and learn how to fry a turkey.

What: Art Quilts XIV: Significant Stitching
When: November 20 through January 2, 2010, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon-4 p.m. on Saturday
Where: Chandler Center for the Arts
An exhibition of contemporary fiber works will be on display. An opening reception for the exhibition will take place on Friday, Nov. 20, from 7-9 p.m. at the Chandler Center for the Arts. The reception is free and open to the public; music will be provided by jazz performer Pete Pancrazi. This exhibit features 46 pieces by 41 different artists. The interpretation of this year's theme ranges from statements on forgiveness, peace and suicide to works with intricate stitching. For more information, call 480.917.6859.

What: Dance Your Way to Good Heart Health
When: Friday, November 20, 2009 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Banner Del E. Webb Auditorium, 14502 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West
Dancing is a great aerobic work - simple and fun to do! A growing number of cardiologists are giving heart patients some great advice as a prescription: dance your way to heart health. Come join the dance party to learn a few new moves - Latin style with Zumba - while also getting tips from a Banner cardiologist about Heart Disease prevention. Free blood pressure and cholesterol screenings. Reservations required. Register online or call 602-230-CARE (2273).

What: Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center Open House
When: Saturday, November 21 and Sunday, November 22, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center
Visitors will have the opportunity to see eagles, hawks, reptiles and other animals, view educational displays, and meet wildlife experts. The Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center is a wildlife triage, treatment and rehabilitation facility operated by Arizona Game and Fish in cooperation with the nonprofit Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center Auxiliary. Its original focus, when founded in 1983, was on treating and rehabilitating sick and injured wildlife. The Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center is located north of Pinnacle Peak Road just west of I-17 in Phoenix.

What: Usedbeats Swap Meet
When: Saturday, November 21, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Phoenix New Times parking lot, 1201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix
The Usedbeats Swap Meet is a bazaar-like atmosphere hosting a variety of vendors showcasing all types of music related merchandise, including new and used vinyl and CDs, DJ gear and lighting, band equipment instruments, and more. There will be live entertainment all day from some of the Valley's up-and-coming DJ's and musicians.

What: Holiday Cooking Safety Clinic
When: Saturday, November 21, 2009 from 10 - 11:00 a.m.
Where: Fire Station 172, 1825 N. 107 Ave., Avondale
Avondale Fire-Rescue and your local State Farm agents share tips on how to Serve up a Recipe for Safety in your home this holiday season. Meet local firefighters, learn their favorite recipes, watch 'how to' and 'how not to' Turkey Fryer demonstration, basic cooking and holiday safety, Fire Extinguisher training, giveaways, and sample tasty treats cooked up by your local Avondale fire officials.

This is by no means everything! Some of the larger annual festivals and events are also free. You'll find those listed in the monthly calendar. If you've arrived at this page and find that the event dates are past, check my recent blog entries for more Free Things -- I write about free things to do in Greater Phoenix several times per month!