GREAT EVENTS THIS MONTH

BY KAYLOR JONES

AAHA! Art. Food. Wine.

March 11, JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa

This month, celebrate one of the country’s oldest and largest nonprofits at the Hospice of the Valley’s signature fundraising event. Guests can expect an array of fine art, specially selected wines, and a delicious seated dinner in addition to a raffle and live and silent auctions. Proceeds from the evening will support the organization’s charity care for end-of-life patients’ programs, which prioritize comfort, dignity, and compassion. 6-10 p.m. $375; ages 40 and younger, $300. www.hov.org.

Dancing with the Stars Arizona Gala

March 11, The Phoenician

Help the National Kidney Foundation of Arizona celebrate the organization’s 60th anniversary at the Dancing with the Stars Arizona Gala. The 17th year of this Valleyfavorite event will see even more local celebrities take to the stage, partnering with a professional dance instructor for a competition that’s sure to stun. The black tie optional evening, co-chaired by Kristin Hartman and Valeria Pesch, aims to raise over half a million dollars to help prevent, treat, and educate about kidney disease, a condition that affects one in nine Americans. The evening will begin with a cocktail hour, followed by a seated dinner. 6 p.m. $550. www.azkidney.org.

Fashion & Fizz

March 11, Ballet Arizona

Join the young leaders of Ballet Arizona’s Contemporary Council at this inaugural fundraiser. The event will provide an up close look to the awe-inspiring costumes that help make every Ballet Arizona performance a work of art. From classic tutus to intricate contemporary pieces, this runway show is a unique chance to get inside the minds of the company’s avant-garde costume designers. Upgrade to a VIP ticket to enjoy a private lounge and bar, in addition to VIP seating during the fashion show. 2-5 p.m. General admission, $50; VIP, $80-$125. www.balletaz.org.

Arizona Opera Gala

March 19, Omni Montelucia Scottsdale Resort & Spa

This magical evening promises a grand affair, from a gourmet dinner to one-nightonly musical performances. In line with the event’s elaborate Vienna carnival theme, attendees can expect to hear well-loved songs from Viennese premieres, including Mozart’s The Magic Flute, which has remained one of the most highly-regarded operas since its debut in 1791. Proceeds from the event will support the Valley’s flourishing fine arts community, helping Arizona Opera – which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary – continue to share the rich history of opera and the power of storytelling through music. 4 p.m. $500. www.azopera.org.

Monte Carlo Casino

March 30, Troon Country Club

Experience the glamour of Monaco from right here in the Valley at this unique event. Try your hand at a game of blackjack, roulette, or craps while enjoying drinks and delicious hors d’oeuvres. Attendees will also be able to enter a raffle for a chance to win a $500 fine dining certificate. The fundraiser will benefit the Phoenix Dream Center, a residential facility for victims of sex trafficking that combines a trauma-informed approach with counseling, health care, educational programs, and career training. 6-9 p.m. $125. www.creativewomenofpinnaclepeak.com.

Rooftop 2023

March 31, Mountain Shadows Resort

There’s no better way to spend an evening than sipping craft cocktails under the stars. Soak in the jaw-dropping views atop the roof of Mountain Shadows Resort while fighting to end homelessness at Homeward Bound’s relaxed fundraising event. Attendees will have the opportunity to enter a luxurious raffle while popping between gourmet food stations and enjoying live entertainment from The Hamptons, voted the best live band in Arizona – all in the name of a good cause. 6 p.m. $300. www. homewardboundaz.org.