Hospice of the Valley - Eckstein Center

Ready for a night of dancing and fun? Head to Bar Smith, located in the heart of downtown Phoenix. Whether you prefer to dance under the stars on the open Rooftop or inside on the lower level, Bar Smith has something for everyone. On Ladies Night, groove to the beats of HipHop/EDM Latin and DJ Fantastico. On BigFun Fridays, get down to Trip/Glitch/House and Electro/Prog/Dubstep. And on Solstice Saturdays, Senbad & Salaz bring the house down with new & old school hip hop, R&B, funk, and more. With two floors of creativity and energy, Bar Smith is the perfect spot to dance the night away.

Take the chance to explore the Arizona Capitol Museum and learn about Arizona's bootstrapping attitude and dynamic history. Discover more than 20 exhibits that showcase the evolution of Arizona from its territorial beginnings to the present day. The museum offers a glimpse into the state's diverse cultures and the significant historical figures that helped shape it. Visitors can explore displays highlighting Arizona's state symbols, the USS Arizona, and photographs by Edward S. Curtis. There's something for everyone to enjoy. One of the most impactful exhibits is the Arizona Gratitude Train boxcar, sent to the state as a token of gratitude from France after World War II. The artifacts, such as a wedding dress from Lyon and a Peugeot bicycle, pay tribute to Arizona's resilience and strength.

Visit the last remaining basilica in Arizona, St. Mary's Basilica. As the oldest Catholic parish in the city, this beautiful church has a rich history and is worth a visit. St. Mary's Basilica is also one of the most-photographed religious icons in the area. The structure has an otherworldly, unique atmosphere, and visitors often live in a peaceful state of mind. Interestingly, in 1985, Pope John Paul II declared St. Mary's a Minor Basilica, a massive deal in the Catholic Church. So, if you're in Phoenix, check out this fantastic piece of history.

To experience the true essence of Japanese culture, visit the Arizona Matsuri Festival of Japan in downtown Phoenix every February. This popular event is one of the biggest Japanese festivals in the US, featuring over 60 vendors offering food and merchandise and exhibits by local schools, universities, and organizations. This event has four stages to witness thrilling performances, including Taiko drumming, martial arts displays, and traditional Japanese dance shows. The best part? It's completely free, and there are plenty of activities for people of all ages to enjoy. This is an incredible opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Japan's vibrant culture and make unforgettable memories.