College Times

Issue date: 11/5/09 Section: Calendar

Media Credit: Ryan Ruiz The November weather makes it the perfect time to get outside, relax and mingle.

Early November in Phoenix, what's not to love? The chilly weather, crisp air and holiday tunes replace the once-scorching sun on summer days. Since fall has arrived, there's all the more reason to be outside, making afternoon walks in Phoenix bearable once again.

This weekend, the Fifth Annual Certified Local Fall Festival presented by Local First Arizona celebrates locally-owned businesses in Arizona in an ultimate street festival. Over 60 vendors from a diverse range of businesses will participate in this family-friendly event. Some participating businesses include Changing Hands Bookstore, Arizona Highways Magazine, Spinato's Pizza, Copper Star Coffee and Arizona Art Supply. Member businesses will be setting up different booths and promotional tents where volunteers will be present. Get there as early as possible if you want to be among the first 500 to receive gift bags.

Last year, over 4,500 attendees swarmed the event and this year Local First is expecting 5,000 or more visitors.

Live music and entertainment will be provided by Arizona's local musicians and bands: Vanessa Atalanta, Nowhere Man and a Whiskey Girl, Flyaway Tigers, Fatigo, Turn Back o Man and Loose Cannons Blues Band. Dance performances will feature a Middle-Eastern dance company and Diamondbacks Mascot Baxter will even make an appearance. A silent auction and raffle will be set up to raise funds for Local First.

There will be different food stalls set up for free samples and local breweries are also providing drinks in the beer and wine garden. For those seeking non-alcoholic beverages, Souvia Tea and Pop the Soda Shop will be offering a variety of flavored teas and sodas.

There will be many entertaining and engaging activities for children. At the craft booth, they'll be given the opportunity to learn how to be future entrepreneurs by creating business cards. Kids seeking adventure can challenge themselves to rock climbing. Also, younger children will be able to play in a bounce castle.

Bring your family and friends for a day to chill out, sample some food and beverages, enjoy local music and support the businesses.

The fifth annual Certified Local Fall Festival, Duck and Decanter, 1651 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602.274.5429, Saturday, November 7, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., free


OTHER OPTION

Life Project, Film highlights issues in Cambodia and presents a powerful message to support children, youth and families in the nation struggling with lack of shelter, health and poverty. MADCAP Theaters, 730 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.634.5192, Sunday, Nov. 8, 5 p.m., free

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