Alex M Stewart, DPM FACFAS-Ahwatukee Foot and Ankle

If you're looking for a fun and exciting family adventure, the Renaissance Festival is an event you won't want to miss. Held annually in February and March, this festival transports you back in time to a 16th-century village filled with mermaids, maidens, and magical moments. With so much to see and do, you'll feel like you're a part of a 30-acre circus, an arts and crafts fair, a jousting tournament, and a feast all at once. Over 200 shops sell handmade items like blown glass, leather goods, and jewelry, where you can watch artisans create masterpieces right before your eyes. And with 16 stages of nonstop entertainment featuring music, dance, comedy, falconry, and acrobatics, there's something for everyone. Make sure to catch the three daily jousting tournaments or the Exclusive Pleasure Feast fit for royalty.

Appreciate handmade goods and native art at the Heard Museum, where you'll see ongoing festivals and programs that introduce artists to the public, which is a great way to learn more about their work and the culture behind it. Alternatively, if you're interested in shopping for high-quality goods, the Guild Indian Fair & Market is an acclaimed event that features wares from more than 700 artists. As the world's preeminent museum for presenting, interpreting, and advancing American Indian art, the Heard Museum emphasizes its intersection with broader artistic and cultural themes. During your visit, you can explore 12 exhibition galleries, enjoy free guided tours, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoor sculpture gardens. You can also indulge in delicious cuisine at the renowned café, check out the contemporary art gallery, and shop at the trading-post-style shops. With so much to see and experience, you'll want to prioritize the Heard Museum.