This week you can learn about herbs, tap your feet to the music, get artistic with preschoolers, make a mini chair, analyze fish oil, discover the outdoors and download photos.
This column includes activities and programs in the Greater Phoenix area that have free admission. If you are looking for fundraisers, seminars, workshops, and other community programs that have an admission charge, or where donations are expected, I have a separate column for those. I call them "Phoenix Area Programs, Fundraisers & Events" and you can find those listings in my blog. They tend to cover a wider range of dates than a week, because advance registration is often required. For a long list of programs and festivals that are annual events in Greater Phoenix check the calendar.
What: Herb Gardening in the Desert
When: Thursday, August 16, 2012 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Avondale City Hall, 11465 W. Civic Center Drive, Avondale
It's possible to create beautiful, inviting landscapes with plants native to our own "back yard." Learn how to use wonderful natives to design a low maintenance and water-thrifty garden. Pre-registration is requested to reserve your seat. Call (623) 333-4422.
What: Sun Lakes Big Band
When: Friday, August 17, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Chandler Center for the Arts in Downtown Chandler
The Sun Lakes Big Band is composed of 15 veteran big band players who recreate the sounds of the Glenn Miller era bands. Formed in 1998, the band will feature vocalist Joe Carroccio performing several of Frank Sinatra's most famous hits along with key soloists performing legendary standards plus additional swinging jazz arrangements.No tickets required. Foyer doors open at 6:30 p.m. and all seating is first come, first served. Donations accepted.
What: Free Art Friday
When: Friday, August 17, 2012 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Edna Vihel Activity Center, 3340 S. Rural Road, Tempe
Preschoolers get artistic. Theme: It's A Dry Heat.
What: Free Art Workshops
When: Saturday, August 18, 2012 from noon to 4 p.m.
Where: Tempe Center for the Arts
A walk-in workshop where participants work with an artist on an artistic endeavor. This week: Miniature Chairs with Marco Albarran. Visitors of all ages will discuss and create chairs that represent personal family memories and stories from recycled materials.
What: The Truth About Fish Oil and Other Dietary Supplements
When: Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Foothills Library, 19055 N 57th Avenue, Glendale
Presented by Dawn Knudsen Gerber, Pharm.D., CGP, FASCP,of Midwestern University. Is garlic good for you or just good for cooking? Is vitamin E women's friend or foe? These and other dietary supplements such as fish oil are everywhere, but telling the difference between their true benefits and their marketing promises can be difficult. Dr. Gerber will help you separate fact from fiction on commonly-marketed dietary supplements and teach you how to make educated decisions about herbs, vitamins, and other natural products.
What: Discover Outdoors Day
When: Saturday, August 25, 2012 at 8 a.m.
Where: Sunrise Pool, Peoria
Preview the fall programs offered this session Discover Scuba Diving, Kayaking/Canoeing, Geocaching, Hiking/Backpacking, and the Junior "Ranger" program. Go online for more information and to register. Raffle prizes. Scouts may sign up at the event for free Swimming Merit Badge/Test.
What: Digital Photography Downloads
When: Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at 2 p.m.
Where: Sunrise Mountain Library, 21109 N. 98th Ave., Peoria
Learn how to get pictures off of your camera, basic editing of your photos and how to attach to an email. You can bring a camera and the cord or an SD card with pictures on it to work with in class. Registration required as space is limited. Call 623-773-8650.
More Freebies
If you've arrived at this page and find that the event dates have past, check my recent blog entries for more Free Things -- I write about free things to do in Greater Phoenix several times per month. Also, check that same blog list for another column on upcoming fundraisers, walks, runs, seminars, workshops and programs that might interest you.
If you know about a free event that's open to the public that you'd like me to consider for this weekly column, complete and submit this form at least 8 days prior to the event and I'll consider it.
All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.
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