For art enthusiasts, year-round-sunny Scottsdale has long been a fascinating destination to explore Native American artistic tradition alongside contemporary creativity.
Each November, the city comes alive more than ever with the annual Canal Convergence which gives Scottsdale’s artistic community a stage for self-expression. This year, a hugely exciting indigenous food festival comes to the town, and a country music festival makes its return. See below for more information.
November 01 – 02, 2024
Dreamy Draw Music Festival 2024
Inspired by the vibrant Southwestern spirit of Arizona, the two-day Dreamy Draw Country Music Festival celebrates the harmonious fusion of country and Americana. Seamlessly blending contemporary country melodies with a nostalgic nod to the past, Dreamy Draw delivers an immersive experience that will resonate with travelling music enthusiasts. Embark on a journey where the soul of the Southwest comes alive through the enchanting sounds of country and Americana at Dreamy Draw.
Alongside the headliners, the 2024 lineup features Charles Wesley Godwin, Shakey Graves, Paul Cauthen, Shane Smith & The Saints, Molly Tuttle and Josiah & The Bonnevilles. Guests will also be excited to hear performances from Rayland Baxter, Willow Avalon, Chaparelle, Aidan Canfield, Waylon Wyatt, Country Night, Bayker Blankenship, Jesse Daniel, Emily Zeck, Cardinal Bloom and Julia Degrazia. Representing Arizona’s vibrant music scene, Izzy Mahoubi and The Kruse Brothers will also take the stage.
November 08 – 17, 2024
Canal Convergence
Canal Convergence will once again illuminate the night sky when it returns to the Scottsdale Waterfront November 8-17, 2024. This year’s theme, “Reflections” showcases captivating light-based public art and programming that harness the power of reflection and foster meaningful experiences that encourage self-examination and deeper connections with others. In addition to eight large-scale art installations, the annual event will feature live music, a mini film festival and in-person workshops. It remains a must-attend event that has become a cornerstone of Scottsdale’s thriving arts community and a draw for art enthusiasts worldwide
November 22 – 23, 2024
Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience
Held in Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, The Arizona Indigenous Food Symposium & Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience is a two-day pivotal event that offers a unique opportunity to learn from indigenous peoples while celebrating and revitalising their food traditions. This symposium brings together indigenous communities from the region to share their rich knowledge, practices, and perspectives on traditional foods, plants, and medicines. With a focus on food sovereignty, environmental justice, health and wellness, and preserving cultural food practices and relationships with the land and natural resources, this event is both enlightening and inspiring.
Topics highlighted at the symposium include gathering and preparing traditional foods, restoring indigenous food systems, climate resilience strategies, decolonising food practices, and indigenous ecological knowledge. On the second day, the Arizona American Indian Tourism Association (AAITA) will present the Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience in celebration of Native American Heritage Month. This event promises an elegant, unique, and authentic Arizona experience, showcasing Native Arizona cuisine, arts, and live performances. Attendees will enjoy curated tasting stations, demonstrations, and interactive conversations with indigenous chefs and demonstrators, making it a sensory delight and a profound cultural experience.
These curated events will reflect the rich tapestry of Native Arizona with its history, foods, music, people and cultures. The event brings together many Native communities with traditional and contemporary elements that highlight and celebrate the beauty and important contributions of Arizona’s Native Peoples to Arizona culture.
For more information please visit www.experiencescottsdale.com