Images Arizona (October 2025)

BOLD PAINTED ACCENT WALLS

A single stroke of urban bronze transforms this interior into a study in modern elegance. The accent wall, rich and refined, sets the stage for a curated composition: a sculptural petrified wood table, a leather-laced chair with artisanal detailing, and a contemporary rug that anchors the room with quiet sophistication. Elevated by striking artwork from Rene Palomino, the space captures a dialogue between organic texture and contemporary polish — a timeless balance of warmth and bold design.

THIRD

FEATURING TREVOR SWANSON

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16 FROM 4 TO 7 PM Artist Speaking at 5:15PM

f u l l s e r v i c e i n t e r i o r d e s i g n & f u r n i s h i n g s

w w w . o m d e s i g n g r o u p . c o m - 4 8 0 . 9 1 5 . 0 1 2 9

PUBLISHER

Shelly Spence

MANAGING EDITOR

Joseph J. Airdo

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Meaghan Mitchell

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Joseph J. Airdo

Francine Coles

Shannon Severson

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Francine Coles

Loralei Lazurek

ADVERTISING SALES

Cindi Calcinari 860-966-3271 cindi@imagesaz.com

From the Publisher

by Loralei Lazurek

As the scorching summer heat begins to wane, there’s a palpable sense of excitement in the air. October in Arizona brings not only cooler temperatures but also a collective sigh of relief as we emerge from our air-conditioned cocoons to embrace the vibrant autumn season.

Our cover story, “The Architect of Taste,” takes you inside the creative genius behind North Scottsdale’s most innovative culinary destinations, where master chefs transform seasonal ingredients into edible art that rivals any gallery exhibition.

For those seeking the perfect autumn escape, “Harvest Havens” guides you to Arizona’s premier fall farm destinations, from the Verde Valley’s Mortimer Farms to high country orchards where warm days and cool nights create ideal conditions for both agriculture and artistry. These authentic experiences offer sophisticated agritourism that rivals any vineyard tour.

This month’s photo essay, “Haunted Horizons,” showcases Dave Wilson’s mesmerizing images of Arizona’s landscapes transformed by fog, moonlight and atmospheric conditions that reveal the mysterious side of our familiar terrain. His work captures the ethereal beauty that exists just beyond the visible, reminding us that even our well-known desert holds secrets worth discovering.

Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416

Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 shelly@imagesaz.com imagesarizona.com

As you explore these pages, I hope you’ll be inspired to look deeper into the stories that surround us. Whether you’re savoring innovative cuisine, picking pumpkins under vast blue skies or simply appreciating the mysterious beauty of our desert home, remember that every landscape holds secrets worth discovering.

Happy fall!

Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona

Harvest Havens

The Valley’s Premier Pumpkin Patch Pilgrimage

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

The first whisper of autumn in Arizona doesn’t arrive with falling leaves — it beckons from the high country, where mountain air carries the scent of ripening apples and sprawling pumpkin patches paint the landscape in brilliant orange.

While Phoenix bakes in its final summer surge, destinations like Dewey, Flagstaff and the Verde Valley transform into harvest havens, offering sophisticated agritourism experiences that rival any vineyard tour or culinary expedition. This curated collection of Arizona’s finest fall farm destinations promises more than simple pumpkin picking — these are immersive cultural experiences that reconnect urbanites with the land while creating lasting seasonal memories.

APPLE ANNIE’S ORCHARD // WILLCOX

In the elevated Sulphur Springs Valley, Apple Annie’s Orchard represents four generations of agricultural artistry. The Holcomb family’s multi-location operation showcases the perfect marriage of elevation and expertise, where warm days and cool nights nurture everything from apples to award-winning pies. This authentic working farm spans multiple sites — fruit orchards at Hardy Road, produce fields at Williams Road and a year-round country store — each specializing in different aspects of the complete farm-to-table experience.

Through Oct. 31, the orchard’s Fall Pumpkin Celebration transforms the Williams Road location into Arizona’s most impressive agricultural adventure. A 12.5-acre corn maze features more than 600,000 stalks with two difficulty levels, while sprawling sunflower fields provide Instagram-worthy backdrops for harvest memories. Visitors can pick pumpkins directly from the vine, navigate the colossal maze, and indulge in signature apple cider doughnuts and farmto-table apple pies crafted from the orchard’s own harvest — representing authentic agricultural tradition.

appleannies.com

MORTIMER FARMS // DEWEY

The Verde Valley’s crown jewel spans 324 acres of authentic working farmland, where the mission of “connecting your family to your food” manifests through more than 54 carefully cultivated crops, from pumpkins and tomatoes to sunflowers and sweet corn. This family operation combines sustainable agricultural practices with educational programming that teaches visitors about land stewardship, while the high-country elevation provides a welcome 15–20 degrees cooler respite from Phoenix’s lingering heat.

Through Oct. 31, the beloved Pumpkin Fest & Corn Maze transforms the landscape into an agricultural celebration anchored by this year’s “Proud to Be Farmers”-themed corn maze, honoring those who feed our nation. Entertainment programming includes pig races, agricultural game shows, comedy juggling, tractor parades, fire dancers and Friday night barn dances — each crafted to bring joy while celebrating farming heritage. The farm’s signature farmto-table dinners, selling out monthly, offer farm-curated seasonal menus served under the stars where ingredients are grown, representing the ultimate fusion of local agriculture and culinary artistry.

mortimerfarmsaz.com

WILLIS FARM // SNOWFLAKE

Since 1926, five generations of the Willis family have cultivated this White Mountain working farm, where traditional agriculture meets innovative entertainment. The authentic operation grows everything from field corn and hay to an assortment of pumpkins, gourds and squash, maintaining the agricultural heritage that has sustained the Snowflake community for nearly a century. The family’s commitment to hands-on farming creates an atmosphere where visitors experience genuine rural life rather than manufactured entertainment.

Through Oct. 31, the farm offers multiple corn mazes uniquely designed each year featuring sponsor logos — this year showcasing the Soar Clinic design. Laser tag is uniquely incorporated into the corn maze experience alongside tractor train rides and a dedicated kids zone. Traditional games like witch’s cauldron toss and toilet paper toss maintain old-fashioned charm, while every Saturday evening transforms the maze into a spooky haunted adventure. A new farm/maze color run represents the family’s commitment to evolving with innovative customer engagement while honoring nearly a century of agricultural tradition.

thewillisfarm-ranch.com

VIOLA’S FLOWER GARDEN // FLAGSTAFF

While not a traditional produce farm, Viola’s Flower Garden represents the specialized art of floriculture, where the family-run operation cultivates beauty rather than sustenance. Nestled at Flagstaff’s southern edge, this established garden center specializes in nursery stock, landscaping services and botanical education, transforming the retail space into carefully curated garden vignettes that serve as both commercial displays and natural art installations.

Throughout October, Viola’s Pumpkin Patch transforms the garden center into an intimate autumn retreat featuring more than 25 pumpkin varieties displayed among botanical backdrops. A straw-bale maze and pumpkin-painting stations cater to younger visitors, while on-site Hatch green chile roasting adds authentic Southwestern flavor.

violasflowergarden.com // flagstaffpumpkinpatch.com

macdonaldsranch.com

MACDONALD’S RANCH // SCOTTSDALE

The Sonoran Desert provides an unexpected backdrop for this authentic Western ranch, where family ownership has created a premier destination for horseback trail rides through pristine desert landscape. MacDonald’s Ranch specializes in guided trail experiences that showcase native flora and dramatic sunset vistas while maintaining a petting zoo and offering stagecoach rides that transport visitors through Arizona’s frontier heritage.

Open daily except Tuesdays throughout October, the ranch’s Pumpkin Patch Festival combines traditional autumn activities with authentic Western experiences. Gold panning, lasso lessons and hayrides create an immersive cowboy atmosphere, while the popular Blazin’ BBQ serves elevated ranch fare alongside classic festival treats.

SCHNEPF FARMS // QUEEN CREEK

Arizona’s largest fall festival destination spans 300 acres of working farmland, where fourth-generation farmers have perfected the integration of authentic agriculture with sophisticated entertainment.

The Schnepf family operation maintains year-round U-pick gardens, a renowned bakery serving farm-fresh breakfast and lunch, and elegant wedding venues that showcase the beauty of agricultural landscapes.

The farm’s Pumpkin & Chili Party, running Thursdays through Sundays Oct. 2–31, transforms the working farm into Arizona’s most ambitious harvest celebration. The celebrity corn maze, annually cut into the likeness of musical stars or public figures, anchors a festival featuring vintage carousel rides, professional stunt dog shows and Hillbilly Bob’s Pig Races. Evening fireworks and live music elevate the experience beyond typical farm entertainment.

schnepffarms.com // pumpkinandchiliparty.com

MOTHER NATURE’S FARM // GILBERT

The Kelsall family’s 47-acre operation in the heart of Gilbert preserves rural traditions within suburban convenience, representing nearly six decades of agricultural evolution. Originally established in 1968 for Christmas tree cultivation, the working farm has transformed into comprehensive agritourism while maintaining its core mission of connecting urban families with agricultural heritage. The farm’s commitment to animal rescue adds emotional depth to the experience, housing farm animals and rescued creatures that teach visitors about compassion and stewardship.

Open daily through Nov. 2, Brooke’s Pumpkin Patch includes a complimentary small pumpkin for every guest alongside access to hayrides, straw bale mazes and animal encounters with both farm animals and rescued creatures. The gentle atmosphere caters specifically to young families, with activities designed for safe toddler exploration.

mothernaturesfarm.com

ART & WINE FESTIVALS

Sip, savor, and celebrate!

Step into Arizona’s most unforgettable festival experiences, brought to you by Vermilion Promotions. Whether you’re an art lover, wine connoisseur, music enthusiast, or a culinary explorer, Vermillion curates an immersive celebration where creativity, flavor, and community come together in perfect harmony. Free admission.

Stagecoach Village Art & Wine Festival

Nov. 21-23, 2025

Jan. 9-11, 2026

Mar. 20-22, 2026

Kierland Fine Art & Wine Festival

Nov. 1-2, 2025

Jan. 31- Feb. 1, 2026

WestWorld Art & Wine Experience

Nov. 8-9, 2025

Wigwam Fine Art Festivals

Dec. 5-7, 2025

Feb. 13-15, 2026

Tubac Festival of the Arts

Feb. 4-8, 2026

Oro Valley Art & Wine Festival

Feb. 28-Mar. 1, 2026

High Street Art Festival

Mar. 7-8, 2026

SanTan Art & Wine Festival

Oct 25-26, 2025

Mar. 28-29, 2026

VERTUCCIO FARMS // MESA

The Vertuccio family’s Italian heritage infuses this East Valley working farm with Old World charm and New World innovation, where second-generation farmers Cono and Angela Vertuccio continue their parents’ agricultural legacy. Since 1979, the family operation has grown from a roadside produce stand into a comprehensive agritourism destination, maintaining year-round you-pick opportunities for peaches and seasonal vegetables while hosting educational programs and private events that celebrate sustainable farming practices.

Celebrating its 27th year, the farm’s Fall Festival runs Oct. 3–Nov. 2 with the Valley’s longest-running 5-acre corn maze offering both day and nighttime adventures. New this year is an extensive ropes course challenging visitors of all ages, joining returning favorites like the mega slide, jump pads, making music chimes and roller bowler games. The farm’s unique pet-friendly policy welcomes leashed dogs, making it distinctly inclusive among major fall destinations.

vertucciofarms.com

TOLMACHOFF FARMS // GLENDALE

Fourth-generation farmers Bill and Gracie Tolmachoff have transformed their century-old agricultural legacy into the West Valley’s premier agritourism destination, maintaining working crop fields alongside festival infrastructure. Originally growing cotton, wheat and corn, the farm has evolved to focus on fresh produce and seasonal entertainment while preserving its role as one of Glendale’s last great open-space farms.

The farm’s Pumpkin Days & Corn Maze operates throughout October with both a 6-acre family maze and a haunted AZ Field of Screams experience on Friday and Saturday evenings. The interactive family maze features map-collecting challenges, while unique attractions like the tomato cannon and a pedal cart track that accommodates 2–3 individual carts simultaneously distinguish the experience.

tolmachoff-farms.com

ROCKER 7 FARM PATCH // BUCKEYE

This family-owned Buckeye destination specializes in field crops that create photogenic agricultural landscapes rather than traditional produce farming. The operation cultivates 4 acres of sunflowers, historic cotton fields and Sudan grass specifically for scenic beauty and educational purposes, honoring Arizona’s agricultural heritage while providing contemporary families with authentic rural experiences.

Operating weekends throughout October, the farm’s Pumpkin Patch & Farm Festival combines traditional activities like pumpkin selection with unique agricultural tourism focused on the farm’s signature sunflower and cotton fields. A tractor tire playground, jumping pillow and pedal carts provide active entertainment, while scenic crop fields offer unparalleled backdrops.

Achieve your Best Body

A N D R E S T O R E Y O U R H E A L T H

PP e r s o n a l i z e d a n d D o c t o r -

S u p e r v i s e d W e i g h t L o s s

The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ medical weight loss program integrates FDA-approved medications with a natural and holistic approach to address the underlying biological and physical issues responsible for weight gain

In addition to losing weight and keeping it off, The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ medical weight loss program provides clients with the tools they need to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes as well as optimize hormones for energy, health and longevity.

T h e M o s t C o m p r e h e n s i v e &

S u c c e s s f u l P r o g r a m A v a i l a b l e

The Center for Integrative Healing & Wellness’ medical weight loss program is designed to help clients be the healthiest they have ever been, in the best body that they have ever had.

Regardless of the amount of weight you want to lose, the spa-like clinic’s Integrative Team will monitor and guide you throughout the process of reaching your goal. Our clients typically lose 15–20% or more of their body weight an average of 53 pounds in 6–12 months

Best of all, the program ensures that patients maintain lean muscle mass and keep the weight they lost off for life. That is because, unlike other programs, our weight loss program looks not only at scale weight but also takes into consideration body fat, muscle mass and water weight, which all affect one’s ultimate goal

REDESIGN YOUR STORY WITH SARAH GRAHAM

OCTOBER 23–25

Cocktail Party Thursday 4–7 p.m. Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Appointments Recommended.

Transform treasured jewelry into pieces that reflect who you are today. Award-winning designer Sarah Graham brings her acclaimed metalsmithing expertise to reimagine your collection using her signature fusion of 18-karat gold and innovative materials. Join us Thursday evening for a cocktail party to meet Sarah and discuss your redesign possibilities.

OCTOBER 16

Wine and hors d’oeuvre Thursday from 4–7 p.m.

Discover the powerful bronze and steel sculptures of internationally acclaimed artist Jennyfer Stratman. Her distinctive works bridge industrial strength with organic beauty, transforming metal into poetry. Experience these sculptural masterpieces that have captured collectors worldwide.

GOLDEN GEOMETRIES THE ARTISTRY OF ALEX ŠEPKUS

NOVEMBER 11–12

Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Enter the extraordinary world of Alex Šepkus, where microscopic artistry meets unparalleled vision. Each 18-karat gold masterpiece showcases intricate geometric patterns and textures that transform jewelry into wearable sculpture. Experience these collectible treasures that have captivated museums and connoisseurs worldwide.

NOVEMBER 14–15

Friday 10 a.m.–7 p.m. // Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Celebrate Italian excellence with an exclusive showcase featuring FOPE’s revolutionary Flex’it technology, Demeglio’s innovative engineering, Mattia Cielo’s futuristic designs and Roberto Coin’s signature artistry. Join us Friday evening for cocktails as we toast the finest expressions of Italian goldsmithing, where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary innovation.

Grace Renee Gallery is a refreshingly beautiful way to explore fine contemporary art in the breathtaking shadows of the Sonoran Desert foothills of Carefree, Arizona. Artfully designed jewelry, inspiring sculptures, spectacular wall art, stunning ceramics and more await.

UPCOMING EVENTS

AARON HENRY’S GOLDEN LEGACY

NOVEMBER 21–22

Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Discover the warm luxury of Aaron Henry’s 18- to 19-karat gold creations, where each piece undergoes a meticulous 10-step process to achieve unmatched brilliance. These modern heirlooms blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary sophistication, designed to be treasured for generations.

Community

THROUGH OCT. 17

CRAZY FOR YOU

Don Bluth Front Row Theatre presents this Tony Award-winning musical featuring Gershwin classics. $36+; discounts available for seniors, students, military and youth. See website for showtimes. Don Bluth Front Row Theatre, 8989 E. Via Linda, Suite 118, Scottsdale. 480-314-0841; donbluthfrontrowtheatre.com

THROUGH OCT. 26

ARIZONA STATE FAIR

The Arizona State Fair celebrates 141 years as a gathering place for Arizona’s diverse residents to honor the past, celebrate the present, and explore the future. Open Thursdays through Sundays, the fair features thrilling rides, along with classic and innovative fair foods. $17.50. See website for hours. Arizona State Fair, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix. 602-252-6771; azstatefair.com

THROUGH JAN. 25

COMIC CONSERVATION

Phoenix Zoo’s Wild Side Gallery presents an exhibition that blends comic art with

THROUGH

OCT. 31

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

PUMPKIN FEST AT THE PRINCESS

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess presents its celebration of autumnal enchantment featuring three themed areas: Pumpkin Patch with swing rides, gem mining and vintage farm trucks; Jack-O’-Lantern Lawn with animatronics and fire pits; and Cider Orchard with a hay maze and roller coaster. The event includes fall dining specials, plus seasonal bites and ciderinspired treats. See website for prices and hours. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, 7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale. pumpkinfestattheprincess.com

wildlife conservation, featuring original works by creators including Jay Fotos, Mark Kidwell, Meredith McClaren, Ryan Huna Smith, Jeff Pina and Hanna Strauss. A signed Todd McFarlane print will also be on display. Included with general admission. Thursday–Sunday, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Special launch event Oct. 4, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., with activities, character and artist meet-and-greets, and a surprise guest. Phoenix Zoo, Wild Side Gallery, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 602914-4363; phoenixzoo.org

THROUGH FEB. 15

JAMES PERKINS BURYING PAINTING

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art presents New York-based artist James Perkins’ first museum exhibition featuring “post-totem” works created through nature collaboration. The artist buries silk, wood and stone sculptures in landscapes, allowing elements — including local coyote packs — to alter the pieces before they’re re-stretched as paintings. $13+; discounts available for youth, students, seniors and veterans. SMoCA, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org

OCT. 5

THE SCOTTSDALE CHORUS

The award-winning Scottsdale Chorus returns with more than 80 energetic voices, presenting joyful, genre-spanning performances from timeless barbershop harmonies to contemporary hits — complete with dazzling choreography. $33+. 3 p.m. Virginia G. Piper Theater, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480499-8587; scottsdalechorus.org

OCT. 11–FEB. 22

JEANNE K. SIMMONS: ROOTED

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art presents wearable sculptures crafted from foraged materials including moss, branches and wild grasses. The sitespecific installation brings Washington state’s temperate rainforest materials into the Arizona gallery space, addressing climate change and ecological themes. Part of the PROJECT SPACE series. $13+; discounts available for youth, students, seniors and veterans. SMoCA, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-8744666; smoca.org

OCT. 11–MAY 10

FRAMERATE:

DESERT PULSE

Desert Botanical Garden debuts a multisensory exhibition by ScanLAB Projects featuring five monumental video installations that translate thousands of images into an immersive portrait of the Sonoran Desert. Included with membership or general admission. 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 480941-1225; dbg.org

OCT. 12

THE BIG BRASS THEORY

Salt River Brass launches its 45th anniversary season with a vibrant program celebrating the world of brass music. Led by Music Director Julie Desbordes and joined by organist Michael Salazar, the concert features masterworks by Bach, Handel and Monteverdi, alongside jubilant contemporary pieces by Sandy Smith and Philip Sparke. See website for price. 3 p.m. St. Barnabas on the Desert, 6715 N. Mockingbird Lane, Paradise Valley. saltriverbrass.org

OCT. 12

SYMPHONIC CINEMA

Women’s Orchestra of Arizona opens its 2025–26 season with cinematic flair, performing selections from Rossini’s “Barber of Seville,” Carwithen’s “Suffolk Suite,” Ward & Bates’ “America the Beautiful,” and Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition.” Free+. 3 p.m. North Scottsdale United Methodist Church, 11735 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. womens-orchestra-arizona.org

Community

OCT. 15–18

BARRETT-JACKSON SCOTTSDALE FALL AUCTION

The “world’s greatest collector car auction” returns to WestWorld for a four-day fall showcase featuring hundreds of collectible vehicles crossing the block at no reserve, automobilia auctions, exhibitors, ride-and-drives and family-friendly activities. See website for prices and schedule. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. 480-421-6694; barrettjackson.com

OCT.

16

SCULPTING CONNECTIONS

Grace Renee Gallery spotlights the bronze and steel sculptures of internationally acclaimed artist Jennyfer Stratman. Stratman's distinctive works bridge industrial strength with organic beauty, evolving from her background as a ceramicist into powerful metal sculptures now held in collections worldwide. View her latest sculptural works in an intimate gallery setting. Free. 4–7 p.m. Grace Renee Gallery,

OCT. 11–FEB. 22

CASEY CURRAN: TIDAL SKY

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art presents an immersive installation inspired by Théodore Géricault’s 1818 painting “The Raft of the Medusa,” exploring themes of survival, historical cycles and hope. The exhibition occupies two galleries, featuring kinetic sculptures with hand cranks that invite visitor interaction and wearable sculptures created in collaboration with couture designer Iris van Herpen. $13+; discounts available for youth, students, seniors and veterans. SMoCA, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org

Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Road, Carefree. 480-575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

OCT. 17

NOT QUITE DEAD WHITE MAN MUSIC

MusicaNova Orchestra presents Evan Williams’ “Dead White Man Music,” a new harpsichord concerto blending Bach with Nina Simone and Julius Eastman, performed by Tigran Buniatyan. $33.50+. 7:30 p.m. The Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. musicanovaaz.org

OCT.

18–19

EXPERIENCE SPAIN

The Musical Instrument Museum explores Spanish musical traditions through interactive workshops, demonstrations and performances featuring traditional instruments and regional musical styles. $20; youth discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org

OCT. 18–19

TACO FEST AZ

Arizona’s iconic annual Taco Fest returns with two days of tacos, tequila and entertainment. Enjoy tacos from more than 40 restaurants and food trucks, $4 tacos, $10 margaritas, VIP Agave Show with more than 20 tequila and mezcal brands, lucha libre wrestling, DJ stages, visual art activations, pop-up experiences, a kids zone, and more. $15. Saturday 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Salt River Fields, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. tacofestaz.com

OCT. 19

ECHOES OF A NEW WORLD

Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra opens its concert season with reflections on resilience and renewal, featuring Brahms’ “Tragic Overture,” Clara Schumann’s “Three Romances” (arranged by William C. White), Robert Schumann’s “Overture and Finale,” and Howard Hanson’s “Symphony No. 2, ‘Romantic.’” See website for price. 4 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-499-8587; scottsdalesymphonicorchestra.org

OCT. 22–24

SPOOKY SAFARI

Phoenix Zoo invites families for three nights of not-too-spooky fun featuring trick-or-treat stations, face painting, hourly costume parades and bewitching crafts. Admission includes zoo entry plus games and entertainment; food and beverages available for purchase. $18; children 2 and under free. 5:30–8:30 p.m. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 602-286-3800; phoenixzoo.org

OCT. 23

FALL FASHIONS WITH FRIENDS

Newcomers and Neighbors of the Scottsdale Area presents its annual fashion show and luncheon featuring curated fall collections from Paris Paris boutique. The event benefits Where Hope Lives, an organization combating human trafficking and providing recovery services for young survivors. The afternoon includes a pop-up boutique, lunch and fashion show featuring casual, sporty and special occasion looks. $70+; runway tables available. 11:15 a.m. Grayhawk Golf Club, 8620 E. Thompson Peak Parkway, Scottsdale. newcomersclubofscottsdale.com

OCT. 24–25

REDESIGN YOUR STORY: A JEWELRY TRANSFORMATION EVENT

Award-winning jewelry designer Sarah Graham brings her acclaimed metalsmithing expertise to Grace Renee Gallery for an exclusive redesign event. Transform your existing jewelry into pieces that reflect who you are today — Graham will reimagine your treasured but outdated pieces using her signature fusion of 18-karat gold and innovative materials. Discover how her organicinspired designs can breathe new life

into your collection while preserving sentimental value. By appointment. Grace Renee Gallery, Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Road, Carefree. 480575-8080; gracereneegallery.com

OCT. 24–25

STRANGE GARDEN

Desert Botanical Garden invites families to explore the “boo-tanical” side of the Sonoran Desert with live music, immersive experiences and curious creatures along the trails. Kids receive a free pumpkin while supplies last, and themed activities include the Monster Bash Dance Party, Mad Botanists’ Propagation Laboratory, Buggy Entomologists and a pumpkin patch. Included with membership or general admission. 5:30–9 p.m. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. 480-941-1225; dbg.org

OCT. 24–26

SPOOKTACULAR HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL

Salt River Fields transforms into a Halloween glow with more than two dozen tethered hot air balloons handing out candy for safe, family-friendly trickor-treating. The weekend features nightly balloon glows, live music, costume contests, a kids zone, a pumpkin patch, haunted trail, and dozens of food and dessert vendors. See website for prices. 5–9 p.m. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. azspooktacular.com

OCT. 25

WESTERN WIFFLE BALL

CLASSIC

Top wiffle ball talent from more than 20 states competes for the sixth annual Big League Wiffle Ball Western Wiffle Ball Classic. The tournament features high-profile players including Las Vegas’ Jordan Bohnet, the 2024 Series MVP and Cy Young Award winner known for

pitching at speeds up to 100 mph, and New York’s Jordan Robles, recipient of the 2024 Silver Slugger Award. 9 a.m.–7 p.m. See website for schedule. Scottsdale Stadium, 7408 E. Osborn Road, Scottsdale. blwiffleball.com

OCT. 25–26

10TH ANNUAL ITALIAN FESTIVAL

The Italian Association of Arizona presents its 10th annual Italian Festival, La Strada del Vino, offering authentic cuisine, live music, and more than 30 wines from Italy’s top regions. Enjoy performances from international and local musicians, family-friendly entertainment, and vendor shopping. $20. Saturday 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Old Town Scottsdale Waterfront, 185 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale. italianassociation.org/annualitalian-festival

OCT. 27

RACHAEL & VILRAY

Arizona Musicfest presents the jazz duo featuring Rachael Price (vocalist for Lake Street Dive) and Vilray Bolles (Brooklynbased guitarist, singer and songwriter), who conjure 1930s and ‘40s swing with timeless songs of passion and whimsy delivered with modern wit. $43+. 7:30 p.m. Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. arizonamusicfest.org

NOV. 1–2

KIERLAND FINE ART & WINE FESTIVAL

This North Scottsdale staple transforms Kierland Commons into an openair gallery and tasting room. Browse bronze, glass, metal and wood sculpture, paintings, mixed media, fiber art, artisan jewelry and fine photography while enjoying live music and gourmet bites. Wine tasting packages feature a commemorative glass and tastings from

Community

16 Arizona wineries, with proceeds benefiting Horses Help. Free admission and parking; valet available. Wine tasting packages $30+. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Kierland Commons, 15205 N. Kierland Blvd., Scottsdale. 623-734-6526; vermillionpromotions.com

ARIZONA MASTERWORKS NAMES NEW DIRECTOR

Arizona Masterworks Chorale has appointed Darren S. Herring as music director and principal conductor, leading the ensemble’s return to the concert stage this fall. An accomplished choral musician spanning careers in the United States and United Kingdom, Herring also serves as program coordinator for Music on the Desert at Saint Anthony on the Desert Episcopal Church in Scottsdale. He’s recognized as a clinician, conductor, adjudicator and composer, with particular expertise in international choir tours. arizonamasterworks.com

MENDOCINO SELECTS SCOTTSDALE FOR ARIZONA DEBUT

California-based Mendocino Farms has chosen Scottsdale Promenade for

OCT. 11–MARCH 8 EVAN ROTH: PATHFINDING

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art presents Berlinbased artist Evan Roth’s meditative videos and large-scale quilts inspired by Arizona skies. Roth applies centuries-old cartographic mathematics to sky photography, creating “Skyscapes” that translate spherical images into flat planes. The exhibition features site-specific work capturing both cloudless and cloudy Scottsdale skies, displayed in SMoCA’s gallery space near the entrance. The show creates dialogue with James Turrell’s nearby “Knight Rise” Skyspace, offering two perspectives on Arizona’s luminous skies. Free. SMoCA, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 480-874-4666; smoca.org

its first Arizona location, marking a significant step in the sandwich and salad shop’s national expansion. The family-owned concept offers chef-driven takes on classic lunch and dinner fare. Slated to open in 2026 at the corner of Scottsdale Road and Paradise Lane, the 3,000-square-foot restaurant will include a 500-square-foot patio, joining approximately 80 existing restaurants across California, Colorado, Texas and Washington. mendocinofarms.com

NEW PUBLIC ARTWORK ENHANCES RAILROAD PARK

Scottsdale Public Art has added “Parallel Companion,” a new permanent artwork by Arizona artist Kristine Kollasch, to the recently renovated McCormickStillman Railroad Park. The 9-foot saguaro-and-bench piece incorporates reclaimed railroad tracks and spikes alongside stone, ceramic and glass tiles — including hundreds of communitymade mosaics created at workshops across Scottsdale. The installation anchors upgrades at the park’s north entrance near Stillman Station, including a new indoor train-themed play area,

splash pad and an enhanced playground. The artwork also contains a time capsule with 2025 mementos, making it both site- and time-specific. scottsdalearts.org

SCOTTSDALE ARTS AND CATTLE TRACK FORGE PARTNERSHIP

Scottsdale Arts and Cattle Track Arts Compound are launching a creative partnership that will expand programming at the historic 11-acre campus in central Scottsdale. Scottsdale Arts will manage various elements of the compound while current studios, residents and The School of Architecture remain in place. A master plan includes approximately 20,000 square feet of new art spaces, including The Barn — relocated from Paradise Valley — to serve as the hub for ArtSpark, a career-development program providing stipends, yearlong studio or rehearsal space, and mentorship for emerging artists. scottsdalearts.org

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Golden Crescendo Scottsdale

Center for the Performing Arts Celebrates 50 Years of Cultural Excellence

When Roger Miller took the stage on Oct. 23, 1975, for the inaugural performance at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, few could have predicted the cultural dynasty that would unfold over the next five decades. The choice of Miller — country music’s “wild child” who defied easy categorization — proved prophetic for a venue that would consistently champion artistic innovation and boundary-pushing performances.

“When the center opened, the city of Scottsdale was only 24 years old, having incorporated in 1951,” reflects Gerd Wuestemann, CEO of Scottsdale Arts since 2018. “That’s a pretty extraordinary step for any city, and I think it reflects that Scottsdale has always seen itself as a place where creativity flourishes and is supported.”

The center’s origins were as innovative as they were accidental. Built underground due to Scottsdale’s height restrictions, the venue’s unique design created what Wuestemann describes as “an amazing-sounding, very special room.”

“The entire hall is built underground,” he explains. “I always assumed this was a cutting-edge acoustic choice, creating the best possible sound environment with complete isolation and a perfectly quiet background. Actually, it was done because Scottsdale’s height restrictions were so severe at the time that we couldn’t build much taller. So by virtue of serendipity, planning and ambition, all these pieces came together perfectly.”

The center’s programming philosophy has undergone significant transformation since becoming primarily “snowbird-centric” in the 1990s and early 2000s, a shift from

Fifty years is amazing for any organization, but 50 years in a city that didn’t even exist until 1951 is especially remarkable. Gerd Wuestemann

its innovative early years. Under Wuestemann’s leadership, the organization has expanded from three business units to seven, encompassing everything from the Museum of Contemporary Art to Canal Convergence.

“Since 2018, we’ve grown tremendously,” Wuestemann notes. “We were fortunate to pass part of the city’s GEO bond in 2019, which included renovating Scottsdale Civic Center. We pushed an initiative to build outdoor stages as part of that project, and we were able to build those stages coming out of the pandemic.”

These outdoor venues have revolutionized the center’s community engagement.

“From October through April or May, there’s no better place in the country to be outside enjoying a casual experience,” Wuestemann explains. “You don’t have to dress up, sit formally, or behave a certain way. You can be yourself, bring your kids, and just enjoy being outside.”

The 50th anniversary season exemplifies this evolved programming approach, balancing reverence for the past with bold artistic risks. The Phoenix Chorale returns to perform, echoing its 1976 appearance when it was known as the Bach & Madrigal Society. A special exhibition will showcase artwork by 1970s Scottsdale luminaries including Fritz Scholder, Ed Mell and Dorothy Fratt.

Abbey Messmer, director of programming, has been instrumental in shaping the center’s curatorial vision during her tenure with Scottsdale Arts, which

spans more than two decades. Her deep understanding of the center’s mission extends beyond the stage. In 2005, early in her career working in artist services, Messmer coordinated a visit by Lily Tomlin to a local elementary school the morning before her performance.

“She read to the children and chatted with everyone,” Messmer recalls. “She completely lit up the room — it was such a delightful experience. To me, that moment really captured our mission around the arts. It’s not just about what’s happening on stage — it’s about creating those meaningful connections and learning experiences in the community.”

This philosophy of community connection now informs how Messmer approaches the center’s milestone season programming.

“The heart of the season is looking back — honoring where we’ve been — while also boldly looking ahead,” Messmer explains. “We’re celebrating the incredible artists who’ve shaped our stages over the decades by bringing some of those people back, and then introducing new voices that point to the future of the arts.”

The anniversary celebration launches with Alison Krauss and Union Station, chosen specifically to create what Wuestemann calls “this amazing 50-year arc” connecting back to Roger Miller.

“We searched for an artist who could celebrate this amazing theater and its legendary acoustics — someone very much of today and the future but who could also connect back to our beginnings,” he says.

Perhaps no artist embodies the center’s enduring relationships better than pianist Jeffrey Siegel, who enters his 47th season performing at the venue — nearly the entire lifespan of the building. His “Keyboard Conversations” series has become a beloved institution, combining classical performance with accessible commentary that bridges the gap between newcomers and seasoned classical music enthusiasts.

Siegel’s remarkable tenure represents more than longevity; it exemplifies the center’s commitment to fostering deep, sustained artistic partnerships that enrich the community year after year. This season alone features four new installments of his series, exploring everything from Beethoven’s youthful genius to Chopin’s Romanticism.

The anniversary programming spans genres from Broadway star Lea Salonga to jazz legend Dee Dee Bridgewater, from comedian Rita Rudner to contemporary dance companies. This diversity reflects the center’s commitment to serving an increasingly broad audience.

“Our main goal was to broaden our audience and open doors for new people to come to us, so there’s a future for the building,” Wuestemann explains. “We’ve tried to continue offering the great work we’ve been known for — strong Broadway performers, first-rate classical music, quality jazz — but also open new doors by bringing in R&B and soul artists, and quality rock ‘n’ roll shows.”

The center’s commissioning tradition continues with Jacob Jonas The Company creating new work, while the “Homegrown” Arizona choreographer showcase nurtures local talent — embodying Messmer’s vision for the future.

“My hope is that the center continues to be a place where everyone feels welcome,” she says. “People want to come experience incredible, imaginative artists while making memories with their families and friends.”

Looking ahead, the center will break ground on two new theaters in April 2026, marking the end of the 50th anniversary season with a literal foundation for the future. One will be a flexible black box theater; the other, a 250-300 seat venue focused on intimate musical experiences.

As Wuestemann reflects on this milestone, he sees the anniversary not as an endpoint but as a launching pad: “Fifty years is amazing for any organization, but 50 years in a city that didn’t even exist until 1951 is especially remarkable. Looking back helps us understand our future.”

From Roger Miller’s pioneering performance to Alison Krauss’ upcoming celebration, the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts has proven that great art transcends time — continuously evolving while honoring the creative spirit that built this desert cultural oasis.

scottsdalearts.org

EXPERIENCE

50th Anniversary Gala featuring Alison Krauss and Union Station Saturday, Nov. 1 // See website for time // Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale // See website for price // scottsdalearts.org

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Royal Rumble Wales Polo Team Returns to Desert Championship

When Ricky Cooper declared the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships “the best polo event in the world,” he wasn’t merely offering diplomatic pleasantries. As captain of the Wales National Polo Team — founded in 2008 under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Charles, now King Charles III — Cooper understands exceptional polo. This November, he and his internationally acclaimed squad return to WestWorld of Scottsdale for what promises to be the most thrilling edition yet of America’s most attended polo weekend.

The 14th annual Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships spans four record-breaking days, Nov. 8-9, transforming Scottsdale into the epicenter of American polo. Six electrifying matches pit global powerhouses against each other, while the concurrent WestWorld Art & Wine Experience adds unprecedented cultural depth to an already sophisticated celebration.

“The Best Polo Event in the World” distinction isn’t hyperbole — it’s recognition of an event that has masterfully evolved from a local tournament to an international destination. This year’s signature match pits Cooper’s Wales team against the defending champions, Wine Country

Polo Club, in a 2 p.m. Saturday showdown that embodies everything compelling about modern polo: royal pedigree meeting California innovation, tradition facing contemporary challengers.

Cooper’s Wales roster reads like polo’s greatest hits. Argentine standout Matias Amaya brings thirdgeneration professional expertise from his Warwickshire stud farm, while Mikey Henderson arrives fresh from gold-medal glory with Team Ireland at the Federation of International Polo European Championships. Cooper himself earned top honors at England’s Victor Ludorum Awards after dominating the arena polo season — credentials that underscore Wales’ formidable championship credentials.

Yet the Wales-Wine Country clash represents just one jewel in a weekend crown studded with compelling narratives. The inaugural Army vs. Navy match honors Veterans Day weekend with patriotic fervor, while Sunday’s Battle of the Sexes and International All-Stars matches showcase polo’s inclusive evolution. Each contest delivers the sport’s signature blend of athletic prowess and strategic sophistication that has captivated global audiences for centuries.

While the polo matches are undoubtedly the main event, the energy, atmosphere and overall experience surrounding them is a big part of what keeps people coming back year after year. Beli Merdovic

“While the polo matches are undoubtedly the main event, the energy, atmosphere and overall experience surrounding them is a big part of what keeps people coming back year after year,” explains Beli Merdovic, general manager of title sponsor Bentley Scottsdale. The observation captures why this championship transcends sport to become a cultural phenomenon.

This transformation is evident throughout the event experience. The reimagined Barrett-Jackson Champagne & Jazz Lounge epitomizes this evolution, adopting an open-air format that celebrates November’s ideal desert temperatures. Guests can now savor premium champagne while watching world-class polo unfold against Scottsdale’s dramatic mountain backdrop — a uniquely Arizona luxury that international visitors consistently cite as unforgettable.

Fashion takes center stage alongside sport, with Phoenix Fashion Week’s World’s Longest Catwalk Fashion Show and Canine Couture by Lugari Pet Salon providing runway glamour between matches.

The beloved Casa Amigos Dayclub returns, offering sophisticated socializing that has become synonymous with Scottsdale’s high-style reputation.

Beyond these signature attractions, this year’s concurrent WestWorld Art & Wine Experience elevates the cultural quotient dramatically. One hundred artists and craftsmen join 20 acclaimed Arizona wineries, creating an immersive celebration of creativity that positions the championship as more than a

sporting spectacle — it’s a comprehensive cultural festival worthy of the Valley’s discriminating tastes.

For newcomers to polo, the sport’s appeal lies in its unique combination of equestrian skill, strategic thinking and social atmosphere. Each six-chukker match unfolds like high-speed chess, with players demonstrating remarkable horsemanship while executing complex team strategies. The intimate WestWorld setting allows spectators unprecedented access to both action and athletes, creating engagement impossible at larger venues.

As Cooper and his Wales teammates prepare for desert combat, they carry more than royal patronage — they represent polo’s highest traditions meeting Arizona’s innovative spirit. Whether defending championship honor or claiming new glory, each team arrives understanding they’re participating in something truly special: polo at its most refined, in a setting that captures both the sport’s timeless appeal and Scottsdale’s contemporary elegance.

Scottsdale

Polo Championships

Nov. 8–9

Matches begin 10 a.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. Sunday WestWorld of Scottsdale 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale

See website for prices // 480-312-6802 thepoloparty.com

photo essay

Dave Wilson

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

It feels as if I’m seeing the ghosts of the land’s past — not the spooky kind, but the spirits of ordinary people, full of stories forever lost to time.

Dave Wilson

Haunted Horizons

The yellow eyes appeared first — massive, unblinking, staring back through the pre-dawn darkness of the Mogollon Rim. Then another pair materialized from the shadows. And another. Dave Wilson stood frozen, his headlamp’s beam catching what his mind interpreted as bears lurking just beyond the treeline.

“I literally started trembling,” Wilson recalls of that early morning encounter that would ultimately inform some of his most evocative landscape photography. “Something about seeing large eyes reflected in the darkness taps into something deeply primal. The experience completely overrides all rationality and fills you with terror.”

The “bears,” as it turned out, were elk — a discovery Wilson made only when dawn broke and thick morning fog

began rolling through the forest. But that primal fear, that brush with the unknown, had already shifted something in his artistic vision.

“I think being creeped out by imaginary killer bears actually put me in the perfect mindset to capture the beautifully eerie nature of the fog,” he says. “I had no trouble getting good photos.”

This intersection of fear and beauty, mystery and familiarity, defines this haunted collection of Wilson’s atmospheric Arizona landscapes that transform our known desert terrain into something altogether more enigmatic. Through his lens, fog-shrouded forests become portals to another realm, moonlit lakes reflect stories we’ll never know, and stark desert silhouettes stand as sentinels guarding secrets buried in time.

Something about seeing large eyes reflected in the darkness taps into something deeply primal. The experience completely overrides all rationality and fills you with terror. Dave Wilson

GHOSTS IN THE LANDSCAPE

Photographer Dave Wilson’s willingness to embrace rather than resist unexpected conditions has become fundamental to his artistic process. When monsoon clouds replaced his anticipated golden-hour sunset at Joshua Tree Parkway northwest of Wickenburg, disappointment lasted exactly five minutes.

“Then I realized that if I let go of color and concentrated on dramatic black-and-white tones, I could still capture some really striking images — and I did,” he recalls. “You have to be an opportunist. If you set out expecting sunshine and blue skies but the weather turns dark and stormy, embrace that shift! It’s not worse — it’s just different.”

This adaptability extends beyond weather into a deeper philosophical understanding of Arizona’s landscape as a repository of untold stories. For Wilson, the state’s mystery emerges not from supernatural elements but from the weight of human history layered beneath the visible terrain.

“The strongest thread connecting humans throughout all of history isn’t our cultures, languages, religions or technologies — it’s the land we’ve all shared,” he reflects. “For me, it’s impossible to look out over a beautiful landscape and not think about that legacy. It feels as if I’m seeing the ghosts of the land’s past — not the spooky kind, but the spirits of ordinary people, full of stories forever lost to time.”

This perspective has evolved through decades of exploration, revealing Arizona not as a collection of distinct regions but as an interconnected whole. The Catalinas, Chiricahuas and Mount Graham aren’t isolated sky islands but part of what Wilson calls an “Arizona archipelago” — connecting the southern Rockies to Mexico’s Sierra Madre Occidental.

“Wherever you travel in the Grand Canyon State, everything is connected, a part of one grand landscape,” he observes.

Yet this expanded understanding carries sobering awareness. Wilson estimates that true wilderness comprises only about 6% of Arizona, with the remaining 94% increasingly developed or exploited.

“Arizona’s wild places are increasingly haunted by human activity, and the scariest thing happening to our land is that its wildness is vanishing — disappearing faster than a kid’s Halloween candy,” he warns. “My advice? Get out and experience Arizona’s wild places while they’re still wild. Don’t relegate exploring the state to a bucket list for ‘someday.’ Put it on your list of things to do now.”

Arizona’s wild places are increasingly haunted by human activity, and the scariest thing happening to our land is that its wildness is vanishing — disappearing faster than a kid’s Halloween candy. Dave Wilson

Meet the Photographer

Dave Wilson’s journey from documenting wildlife sightings to creating fine art began during teenage hiking expeditions in the mountains around Tucson. Armed initially with a camera to prove his encounters with deer, javelina and bighorn sheep to skeptical friends, he approached photography “basically as a form of hunting.”

“Some people hunt with a gun. I hunted with a Canon,” Wilson explains. “My goal was simply to get close enough to an animal for a killer shot.”

A 20-year career in public relations and corporate communications — including positions at Walker Agency Public Relations, Graphics Co-Op and the Downtown Mesa Association — refined his technical skills through commercial photography, but it was the call of solitude that ultimately shaped his artistic vision. Wilson discovered that his most compelling work emerged when civilization fell away entirely.

“I have participated in all kinds of creative endeavors, but the endeavor that I keep returning to more than any other is nature and landscape photography,” he says. “That is probably because it is something that I can do completely alone. With outdoor photography, I can walk away from civilization altogether and work completely alone, and that is where I am most comfortable.”

This preference for solitude isn’t merely artistic temperament — it’s a practical necessity for capturing the fleeting moments that define his work. While others might retreat at sunset, Wilson ventures deeper into twilight’s embrace.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve hiked all day with others, only to have them say, just as the sun is finally getting low and the light is perfect, ‘Well, we’d better head back if we want to make it to the car by nightfall,’” Wilson says. “Hiking alone spares me the frustration of being with people who are ready to quit just as the conditions become ideal — adults who, even now, are still afraid of the dark.”

Wilson’s connection to Arizona’s landscape extends beyond photography. His book “Ruins Seldom Seen” uniquely combines a hiking guide with historical exploration — each trail leads to ancient Native American pueblos, cliff dwellings or rock art sites throughout the Southwest. Originally published by Falcon Press in 1999 and revised by Wilson in 2011, it establishes him as both a visual chronicler and written guide to the region’s archaeological treasures.

davewilsonimages.com

Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Luke Wayne Media

The Architect of Taste

Chef Cory Oppold Designs Culinary Masterpieces at COURSE

In the sleek, minimalist interior of COURSE Restaurant, Chef Cory Oppold moves with deliberate precision. His hands, trained in architectural principles as much as culinary techniques, arrange microgreens, transform a plate of asparagus into a verdant landscape — a living plant rising from the white canvas of fine china.

“I view every chef as an artist and their restaurant as their gallery,” Oppold says, his eyes carefully monitoring every detail of the dish before it leaves the kitchen. “For example, when guests taste our asparagus, they realize this isn’t just ordinary asparagus.”

This masterful transformation of the familiar into the extraordinary defines Oppold’s culinary philosophy at COURSE, where his architectural training and farm upbringing converge in a symphony of meticulously crafted tasting menus. Since opening in May 2023, his North Scottsdale restaurant

I view every chef as an artist and their restaurant as their gallery. Cory Oppold

has garnered critical acclaim, including a 2025 James Beard Foundation semifinalist nomination for Best Chef: Southwest and the Arizona Restaurant Association’s Exceptional Culinary Experience award.

The journey to culinary stardom began far from the desert landscapes of Arizona. Oppold grew up on a dairy farm in Pearl City, Illinois, where hard work was simply expected and farm-to-table wasn’t a trend but a way of life.

“I started working around age 8 or 9,” Oppold recalls. “Hard work was just natural, you know? That’s just how we grew up.”

His early years, surrounded by large gardens and preserving food through canning and fermentation, instilled an appreciation for ingredients that would later become foundational to his culinary approach. But cooking wasn’t his first career aspiration.

“When I turned 18, my sister, who was already living in Phoenix, texted

me,” Oppold explains. “She knew I wanted to study architecture and said, ‘Hey, since Frank Lloyd Wright’s influence is so strong here, why don’t you come out after graduation?’ It made sense, so I moved to Phoenix in 1998.”

The pivotal moment in Oppold’s culinary awakening came about a year and a half later, when he experienced fine dining for the first time at the Biltmore.

“That meal opened my eyes,” he says, his voice still carrying traces of that revelatory experience. “I realized food could be more than just nourishment. It was entertainment, art. I was completely intrigued and became really interested in culinary school.”

Encouraged by friends, Oppold enrolled at the Scottsdale Culinary Institute (later Le Cordon Bleu), graduating with honors in 2002. His career trajectory took him through several prestigious kitchens, including Different Pointe of View, L’Auberge de Sedona, Binkley’s, Tarbell’s and Atlas Bistro, before the COVID-19 pandemic forced a pivot.

“When COVID-19 hit in 2020, all restaurants were shut down,” Oppold recalls. “I created something called Simmer Down — a cryo-vac meal kit service for people who were cautious during those chaotic first few months.”

This adaptability evolved into an in-home dining service that allowed him to refine his multicourse concept while building a loyal client base. During one such private event, he met his future COURSE partners, Christian and Brett Pezzuto, setting the stage for his brick-and-mortar vision to become reality.

ARCHITECTURAL PRINCIPLES ON A PLATE

The connection between Oppold’s architectural training and culinary artistry is evident in every dish that leaves his kitchen. His plates demonstrate the same attention to composition, balance and structural integrity that he learned studying architecture.

“Both architecture and cooking definitely have an artistic element to them,” Oppold observes. “With architecture, it’s about building components, working with different layers, heights, and colors. Those same principles that drew me to architecture translated naturally into cooking.”

This design-oriented approach is visible in COURSE’s spring menu, where monochromatic color schemes and structural elements create visual cohesion within each dish.

“I definitely love our asparagus dish from the spring 2025 menu,” Oppold says with obvious pride. “It’s composed like a plant, featuring a manicotti filled with ricotta alongside different preparations of asparagus. We incorporate sea grass and sea beans with the asparagus, and everything is garnished to create this beautiful monochromatic green plate.”

Each season, COURSE menus continue with a color-focused approach as seen in other standout dishes.

“Then we have a dish that’s almost entirely yellow — our sea bass with fennel, tomato

jam, patty pan squash and yellow bell pepper sauce,” Oppold explains. “Everything on the plate plays within that yellow color palette.”

He describes the spring menu finale with equal enthusiasm: “The dessert course is a study in red, featuring strawberries, pink peppercorns, hibiscus, amaranth and rhubarb. The whole menu flows like a rollercoaster of flavor — it starts bright and acidic, mellows out in the middle, and finishes with these beautiful, bold notes.”

For Oppold, vegetable-forward dishes provide the greatest canvas for creativity.

“Vegetable dishes are definitely our biggest thing,” he says. “We love taking everyday ingredients and restructuring them into something unique. Vegetables are special because they tell you exactly what time of year it is — melons

James Beard semifinalist chef Cory Oppold brings architectural precision and farmfresh philosophy to North Scottsdale’s fine dining renaissance at COURSE Restaurant.

in summer, black truffles in winter. That’s why vegetables are really the cornerstone of what we do at COURSE.”

This architectural approach extends beyond aesthetics to the fundamental structure of flavors and textures within each dish.

“When we build a dish, we first think about which ingredients will taste great together,” Oppold explains. “But then we play with different techniques to create contrasting textures — if something’s creamy, we need a crispy element next to it. It’s all these little details working in harmony. Like with a fatty fish, we know we need an acidic component to balance it out. Making a dish look beautiful is one thing, but making it make sense on the palate — that’s the tricky part. And honestly, that’s where it gets fun.”

FARM ROOTS TO CULINARY HEIGHTS

Despite the sophisticated presentation of his cuisine, Oppold maintains a connection to his farming background through his ingredient selection and relationships with producers.

“Growing up as a farm boy, I experienced firsthand just how hard farming is and how much work farmers put in,” he says. “That’s why supporting local producers is so important to us at COURSE. When we can source ingredients locally, we not only get better quality, but we’re also supporting the hardworking people in our agricultural community.”

This appreciation for agriculture translates to COURSE’s menu development, where seasonality dictates direction.

“We try to source as much locally as possible,” Oppold notes. “Our beef comes from Prescott, and we work with many local vegetable producers. But we also like to incorpo-

rate specialty ingredients that aren’t available here in Arizona. Sometimes the best version of an ingredient comes from California, and in those cases, we go with what’s best. While we prioritize regional sourcing when possible, our ultimate commitment is to using the highest quality ingredients, regardless of origin.”

The menu at COURSE changes with each season, offering a five-course tasting menu Tuesday through Thursday and an eight-course chef’s tasting on Fridays and Saturdays. This constant evolution reflects Oppold’s commitment to creativity and innovation.

“We deliberately avoid repeating dishes or creating ‘signature items’ — we’ll never put the same dish on the menu twice,” he says with conviction. “The creative process of menu writing is what intrigues us most. We’re always pushing ourselves to learn new techniques and approaches to keep things exciting, not just for our kitchen team but for our servers and especially our guests.”

This dedication to novelty resonates with COURSE’s clientele. The restaurant has quickly become a destination for special occasions and culinary adventurers seeking more than just sustenance.

“I always love when guests ask to come into the kitchen to meet our whole team,” Oppold shares. “That’s definitely one of the best reactions we can get.”

ELEVATING NORTH SCOTTSDALE’S DINING SCENE

COURSE’s location along Shea Boulevard was strategically chosen to serve clients from across the Valley.

“During my in-home dining period, my clientele was spread across Paradise Valley, Desert Mountain, DC Ranch, Gilbert and Chandler,” Oppold explains. “This spot along the Shea corridor is perfect because it’s close to Loop 101, making it accessible for all my clients coming from both the North Valley and the East Valley.”

The restaurant’s success has contributed to North Scottsdale’s rising reputation as a fine dining destination beyond the established resort restaurant scene. COURSE’s intimate dining room creates an exclusivity that complements the meticulous nature of Oppold’s cuisine.

Since opening, COURSE has accumulated an impressive array of accolades. In addition to the James Beard recognition, the restaurant was named Emerging Restaurant of the Year and Top Chef at the 2024 Arizona Restaurant Association Foodist Awards then recognized for Exceptional Culinary

Experience in 2025. COURSE was also the only Arizona establishment to make Yelp’s national list of Best New Restaurants for 2024, ranking No. 7.

“The recognition puts more weight on your shoulders — though we already put that pressure on ourselves as a team back here,” Oppold reflects. “While the accolades are nice, they don’t change our fundamental approach or philosophy. What they do change is our drive — it makes us want to work even harder to keep exceeding expectations.”

This drive for excellence extends to every aspect of the COURSE experience, from the culinary creations to the service.

“Our focus is simple — making our guests happy,” Oppold says. “That’s the foundation of everything we do. And equally important is keeping our staff happy, because those two things go hand in hand. The happier our

staff is, the better experience our guests will have. For COURSE itself, we’ll keep pushing the envelope, exploring what we’re capable of, and making every menu better than the last.”

Despite his sophisticated culinary repertoire, when asked what he craves for personal enjoyment, Oppold’s answer reveals his unpretentious nature.

“I would definitely say eggs are probably one of my favorite things — specifically scrambled eggs with Sriracha on toast,” he says. “Something very simple and, to be honest, kind of mindless, but just really tasty, you know?”

This balance of simplicity and complexity, of farm roots and fine dining finesse, defines not only Oppold’s cuisine but his approach to life. As COURSE continues to evolve, it remains a canvas for his artistic expression — a gallery where architecture meets agriculture, and where everyday ingredients are transformed into extraordinary experiences.

courserestaurantaz.com

RUSTIC ITALIAN PEAR CAKE

This elegantly rustic Italian pear cake embodies the gentle transition from Arizona’s scorching summers to cooler autumn evenings. Greek yogurt creates an impossibly tender crumb while chunks of perfectly ripe pears — Bosc or Bartlett varieties work beautifully — infuse each bite with seasonal sweetness. The cake’s restrained sugar content allows the pears’ natural essence to shine, making it equally at home gracing a sophisticated breakfast table or concluding an intimate dinner party.

Serves: 8

INGREDIENTS:

3 large firm, ripe pears (Bosc or Bartlett), cut into 1/2-inch pieces

Recipe

2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup whole-milk Greek yogurt

2 large eggs, room temperature

3 teaspoons baking powder

1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Confectioners’ sugar for dusting Freshly whipped cream for serving (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 1/2-inch springform pan with parchment paper or coat with cooking spray.

2. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, whip sugar and eggs in a large bowl until the mixture achieves a pale, creamy texture — approximately 3 minutes.

3. Gently fold in the yogurt, melted butter and vanilla extract using a spatula until just combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. Sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Fold in the pear pieces with care to avoid overmixing.

5. Transfer batter to the prepared pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil during the final 10 minutes.

6. Cool completely on a wire rack before removing from pan. Dust with confectioners’ sugar just before serving alongside dollops of freshly whipped cream.

For an elegant presentation, garnish with paper-thin pear slices dehydrated at 150 degrees until crisp — a process that may take several hours, depending on humidity levels.