This one-of-a-kind chance to cross off an item from your bucket list – and celebrate love simultaneously – is available for both custom proposals and wedding packages. Rainbow Ryders handles all the traditional wedding stressors by coordinating everything, from catering and florals to photography and videography.

“At Rainbow Ryders, we love helping couples celebrate their love in the most unique way possible,” Wedding and Proposal Coordinator Nicola Vierno said. “Whether you choose one of our curated wedding packages or want to customize all the details, we’re here to make your special day the most unforgettable adventure yet.”

With 41 years of expertise, Rainbow Ryders has become the premier provider of hot air balloon adventures across the Southwest, with operations in Phoenix, Albuquerque, Colorado Springs, and now Park City. The Phoenix location maintains its high-standard equipment and more than 40 balloons with regular safety inspections, so couples can trust them to deliver an unforgettable wedding with breathtaking views and an experience like no other.

Guests can feel at ease as they take to the limitless sky with experienced pilots – each with over 500 hours in the sky and an up-to-date commercial pilot’s license.  As the “largest, best-rated hot air ballooning in the U.S.,” the company strives to make whatever brings guests to the air a picturesque experience. Sunrise and sunset rides can be booked in a group or in private. Sunrise rides are available year-round, and sunset rides are bookable November through March.

Rainbow Ryders also sells gift certificates, perfect for the person who craves the adventure of a lifetime in the Arizona desert. Special events at Rainbow Ryders raise the stakes on an already unforgettable moment, making them completely original. Enjoy the views of the sprawling Sonoran Desert as love flourishes in the golden sunlight. For more information visit rainbowryders.com. 

The limited seating event costs $129 per person and offers a serene backdrop “to take in resonating flavors with the setting sun.” A reception kicks off at 6 p.m. before swiftly moving to dinner at 6:30 p.m. The first of the wine nights will feature Stags’ Leap Winery on September 25. 

The menu will include a different wine with each meticulously crafted course:

• Sauvignon Blanc + Castelfranco Radicchio Mission Fig Salad with Laura Chenel goat cheese, pistachios and lemon vinaigrette

• Chardonnay + Roasted Maine Halibut with shaved green apple, radish, chive slaw and a classic beurre blanc

• Petite Sirah + Pappardelle Braised Rabbit Ragu with peas, carrots, pearl onions and parmesano reggiano 

• Cabernet Sauvignon + Roasted Lamb Rack with bacon, brussels sprouts and a blackberry cassis sauce

Stags’ Leap is a winery based in Napa Valley. Before being owned by Treasury Wine Estates nearly three decades ago, the winery had an over century-old history as a vineyard in the California hills. The company’s wine comes from a “proud winemaking heritage.” 

Camelback Mountain will provide a stunning backdrop to the evening whether on the Weft & Warp terrace or inside the inviting atmosphere. Come together with wine enthusiasts of all kinds to form a community around delectable foods and drinks. 

Different wineries will be showcased at Weft & Warp during wine night each month. Details for the October 30 and November 20 events have not been finalized, so visit hyattexperiences.com to stay tuned.

Since mid-July, agronomy teams have studied the soil and chosen nearly 400 additional trees, 400-plus hedges, and more than 5,000 shrubs and bushes that will benefit not only the soil but also provide ample shade to golfers. New tee boxes and bunkers were also added, and additional irrigation lines were placed. The result of the team’s hard work is a more attractive course with improved and better-defined golf holes.

“During the renovation schedule, crews focused on shaping, irrigation, and growing the Bermuda grass while planting hundreds of smaller trees. This summer, while the course was closed for improvements, we could plant larger, more mature trees and finish the landscape pods, adding more color and character to the golf course,” Club Director of Golf Leo Simonetta said. “Our members and guests will be pleased with the course enhancements and improvements.”

Named after the iconic Biltmore neighborhood surrounding the property, the Estates Course plays to a par of 71 and measures 6,669 yards from the back/black tees – an increase of more than 130 yards from the former Adobe Course it replaced.

During the 2023 renovation, the club installed a state-of-the-art irrigation system allowing the agronomy team to control each sprinkler head while using high-tech sensors to measure soil moisture and salt levels to allow for precise watering and reduced water usage.

In May 2024, the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club unveiled its new 19,400-square-foot clubhouse – home to the Adobe Bar & Grille, a grab-and-go market known as The Pantry, a golf simulator room, as well as 6,000 sq. ft. of event space in The Ballroom. The Adobe Bar & Grille features a center bar, communal tables for dining and swapping golf stories, multiple televisions and large Renlita doors that open to an expansive patio with views of the Estates Course and downtown Phoenix.

The Arizona Biltmore Golf Club is a 36-hole golf facility that winds through some of Phoenix’s most stunning homes. The Tom Lehman-designed Estates Course and the Bill Johnston-designed Links Course are open to the public, with limited membership opportunities.

Established in 1928, the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club has been a destination for Phoenix residents, tourists, corporate leaders, U.S. Presidents, celebrities, and dignitaries for nearly a century. For more information, visit www.azbiltmoregc.com.

Headlining this year’s festival is Bottoms Up, a Van Halen tribute band that will perform spot-on renditions of the rock anthems that defined the ‘80s. The event will feature show-stopping performances by local bands such as Big Iron AZ, Sweet Mess and High ‘90s.

The festival, produced by Arizona’s own Forty8Live!, is packed with activities for everyone. Over 20 Valley restaurants and food trucks will serve up taco creations that range in flavor and style, plus sides like chips and salsa, queso and more. There will also be a taco-eating challenge for competitive attendees who think they’ve got what it takes to be the ultimate champion.

“This year’s Rockin’ Taco Street Fest is shaping up to be our best yet,” Chief Operating Officer Allen Royce said. “We’ve worked hard to bring together an incredible lineup of food, entertainment and activities. Whether you’re here for the tacos, the music or the fun, we guarantee a memorable experience for everyone.”

Beyond the tacos and tunes, festivalgoers can enjoy a range of adrenaline junkie activities. Lucha Libre wrestling and a Mechanical Taco Ride will be part of the entertainment. The margarita and michelada tent will offer mixology lessons for those looking to fine-tune their cocktail skills. Families can head to the Little Amigos play area with games like corn hole, ladders and Kong Pong.

“Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or just looking for a fantastic day out with the family, the Rockin’ Taco Street Fest is where you need to be,” Royce said.

Tickets for the Rockin’ Taco Street Festival are $18 for a single ticket, $32 for two tickets, and $44 for a group of four. Attendees are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as prices will increase closer to the event’s start. Children 12 and under are admitted free. For more information, visit Forty8Live.com.

From swimwear to red carpet wear and dream-worthy statement pieces, Scottsdale Fashion Week is a show that caters to everyone’s fashion palate. The week is a fusion of fashion, music, art and entertainment that attracts thousands of enthusiasts and national brands each year. Below is this year’s schedule of events:

Thursday, September 26: Opening Night | 7 p.m. 

Opening night will feature a showcase of Fall ‘24 collections from local boutique AMY & MAN Atelier. The night will be set in an exclusive, brand-new, three-story private estate known as The 1 Home, a luxurious short-term rental owned by Nathan Shew in the heart of Scottsdale. AMY & MAN Atelier is known for its curated selection of world-renowned brands such as Veronica Beard, L’Agence, Cult Gaia, Mother and more. The venue’s location will remain exclusive to ticket buyers with guests being chauffeured to and from the property. 

Friday, September 27: Rev up the Runway | 7 p.m. 

Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale – a long time partner of Scottsdale Fashion Week – will host the thrilling “Rev Up the Runway” event. Set amidst a backdrop of luxury vehicles, the evening will showcase a striking blend of swimwear and lingerie on a pop-up runway. The event will feature stunning designs from CAMI and JAX, Macy’s Swimwear and Yandy. 

Saturday, September 28: A Night Out with Ramy Brook | 7 p.m. 

New York City designer Ramy Brook will headline A Night Out with Ramy Brook at Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale. Known for its chic designs, Ramy Brook is available in over 250 boutiques across the country including Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus. The brand has been embraced by celebrities like Brook Shields, Kelly Clarkson and Miranda Lambert, who have worn Ramy’s designs at major events. 

Sunday, September 29: Sunday Soirée | 11 a.m. 

Scottsdale Fashion Week’s grand finale will unfold at Scottsdale Fashion Square, where Nordstrom will present an array of impressive ready-to-wear collections, from chic women’s attire to sophisticated men’s fashion. The themed soirée will include refreshing brunch cocktails with an exclusive in-store shopping after-party for ticket holders. 

In addition to the runway shows, attendees can look forward to private shopping events, art installations, live entertainment and exclusive swag bags. Scottsdale Fashion Week is also partnering with nonprofit Magical Builders – a portion of proceeds will support its Magical Beauty Initiative, which benefits underserved communities by facilitating the renovation of charitable facilities such as youth and teen centers, domestic abuse shelters, athletic fields and more.  

Tickets for Scottsdale Fashion Week are on sale now. For more information, follow Scottsdale Fashion Week on Instagram @scottsdalefashionweek or visit scottsdalefashionweek.com.

The Coronado Sessions is powered by Musicshed, a Co-Media brand and community for music discovery that helps artists and music creators be seen and heard. Watch the first episode here – and to hear the live recordings and support Taylor Anderson, click here! 

Musicshed Presents: The Coronado Sessions. A Co-Media original production in partnership with AZF Media, Marmera Films, and Visit Phoenix. 

The new spot is set up in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter on Fifth Avenue, in an iconic 2,400-square-foot space with the same aura and unparalleled atmosphere as Scottsdale and Napa Valley’s venues.

“We are excited to bring Wine Girl to this dynamic city,” Co-Owner Trevor Johnston said. “Get ready to sip, savor, and party with us with exceptional wines in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.”

The upcoming Southern California establishment will be open seven days a week and offer numerous special monthly events, including paint and sip nights, hit television viewing parties, live podcast tapings, yoga and mimosas and wine girl bottle boys’ nights.

The classic, comfy seating and iconic swings in Scottsdale will also be available at the San Diego location. A private banquet room will be perfect for a gathering of wine enthusiasts or bachelorette parties celebrating the bride-to-be.

The San Diego location will also boast a floor-to-ceiling merchandise display, complete with the bar’s classic apparel, home decorations and gifts.

As Wine Girl prepares to welcome wine lovers, they are looking to hire for more than a dozen positions in the fall – and what’s more, a fourth location was recently teased on their Instagram, so a new city will be able to indulge in all things Wine Girl soon.

Meanwhile, the Scottsdale location will continue hosting wine-inspired festivities, including the Bottled Bombshells Drag Brunch on September 29. Tickets are $25, and there is a two-drink minimum.

For more information and to stay up-to-date on that secret fourth location, visit winegirl.com or follow @winegirlscottsdale on Instagram.

Arizona Biltmore Staycation

During Labor Day weekend, August 30-September 1, guests who staycation will also find numerous family-friendly activities and deals. Arizona Biltmore will show The Goonies at its dive-in movie event on Friday, offer a chance to swim with mermaids at Paradise Pool on Saturday, and of course, check out the splash pad and twist triple water slide. Enjoy DJs, Glow Parties, and events at the adults-only pool, such as Bacardi, High Noon, and Codigo Tequila events. Arizona Biltmore also has an exclusive, adults-only lounge called The Citrus Club that offers a curated bar selection and buffet-style dining throughout the day for guests 21 and over.  The weekend-long events will be open to all resort guests with a room reservation or non-resort guests who purchase a day pass from ResortPass. For more, visit arizonabiltmore.com.

Sunset Yoga on the Lawn

Enjoy a yoga session on the lawn every night of the holiday weekend at Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale. As you stand in tree pose, you can soak in the relaxation of the serene Camelback Mountain backdrop. For $10, you can register for one of the four classes from Friday to Monday at 6:30 p.m. Don’t forget your yoga mat and water bottle. To purchase tickets, visit Mountain Shadows. 

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain: Summer Send-Off

Enjoy the luxuries offered at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain. Pamper yourself at the Sanctuary Spa with 20 percent off one 60-minute treatment or 30 percent off two or more 60-minute services on the same day. Continue nourishing your body with their pop-up sushi bar featuring hand-rolled sushi, nigiri and sashimi from 5 to 9 p.m. all weekend. During the Veuve Clicquot Apré Swim experience, guests can sip on one of four featured Veuve Yellow Label cocktails. For more information, visit Gurney’s Resorts.

End of Summer – White Party

The Montauk in Old Town Scottsdale is saying goodbye to summer Hamptons-style this Labor Day weekend with its all-day ‘End of Summer – White Party’ event, starting at noon. Local DJs will keep the tunes going until 8 p.m., and guests are encouraged to dress in their best white attire to enjoy specials like $5 glasses of Hampton Water Rosé, $15 glasses of Veuve, $15 Los Sundays Frozen Coconut Margs and more.

W Scottsdale’s Blanc de Blancs

Dive into the holiday weekend at any of W Scottsdale’s Blanc de Blancs Labor Day events. The weekend starts on Thursday, August 29, with a night swim party and a fireworks show. Wear white and delight in refreshing cocktails at the adults-only WET Deck. Tickets start at $25, and hotel guests will have free access to the party. VIP reservations can be made via vip@spellboundeg.com. For more information, visit W Scottsdale. 

Queen Creek Olive Mill Sangria Social and Grill at the Mill event

Enjoy any of the Queen Creek Olive Mill’s four seasonal sangrias on August 31 and BBQ faves at Grill at the Mill on September 2. Whether you want a carafe for your party, a single glass for yourself or a flight to try it all, Queen Creek Olive Mill has you covered. Dig into great food and conversation among the surrounding olive tree ambiance. For more, visit queencreekolivemill.com.

LDV Winery Specials

Savor specialty wine deals through September 2 from LDV Winery. They offer 40 percent off the purchase of six bottles of wine or 50 percent off 12 or more bottles with local pickup at the Scottsdale Tasting Room. Soak up more deals and stay for a $10 glass of wine and special wine-paired tapas at LDV’s Tasting Room in Old Town Scottsdale over the weekend. For more information, visit ldvwinery.com.

Fire at Will

Fuel your body during the long weekend with the iconic Hush Burger from Fire at Will. This weekend, you can indulge in the Scottsdale restaurant’s star dish (complete with American cheese, caramelized onion, pickles, and fancy sauce on a Noble brioche bun) for half off the regular price. For more information, visit eatfireatwill.com.

Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort

Looking for an event for the whole family? Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort has you covered this holiday weekend with 20 percent off their best available rates for all Arizona residents. The Falls Water Village at Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs will offer poolside fun Friday through Monday and have a Wildlife World Zoo visit on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. For more, visit Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort.

The reopening of the showroom marks a significant moment for the brand as it’s come a long way from being a solely online experience when it debuted 25 years ago in 1999. Now, Blue Nile has 18 physical locations and an online presence.

Customers are greeted by an elegant setting designed to enhance their shopping experience. Blue Nile strongly emphasizes jewelry education, offering consultations where expert jewelers provide detailed information about the Four Cs: cut, color, clarity and carat weight. These consultations are vital to helping customers make informed decisions, whether they are purchasing jewelry for an anniversary, engagement, birthday, or just for fun.

“Enhancing our retail offering remains a core element of the south wing redevelopment initiative,” David Hyatt, General Manager for Macerich, said. “We were delighted to be Blue Nile’s original home in Arizona, and even more so knowing that the unparalleled experience we offer loyal shoppers has earned their confidence in creating an all-new market-exclusive showroom.”

The showroom features private consultation rooms, allowing clients to explore curated collections in an intimate setting. This personalized approach will enable customers to view an expansive array of engagement rings, bridal jewelry and luxury diamond pieces that embody the Blue Nile brand.

For those with more immediate needs, such as a gift or a special occasion, Blue Nile recently introduced a curated collection of diamond jewelry essentials available for same-day purchase. In addition, the brand has expanded beyond natural with the introduction of lab-grown diamonds, which offer additional price points and align with many clients’ growing interest in sustainable jewelry.

“Our new showroom gives us the ability to take our clients on a journey to view engagement and bridal, luxury diamond jewelry and an expansive array of unique pieces that showcase our Blue Nile story,” Showroom Manager Joe Provenzo said.

As Scottsdale Fashion Square continues expanding its luxury offerings, Blue Nile’s showroom is a shining example of the shopping center’s dedication to providing exceptional retail experiences. With nearly 60 unique-to-market retailers, Scottsdale Fashion Square remains a premier shopping destination. To browse the online jewelry catalog, visit bluenile.com.

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot Opening August 2024

KPOT is sparking a cultural dining revolution by blending traditional Asian hot pot with Korean BBQ. Guests are invited to gather around a simmering pot of broth and grill meats and veggies at the table. This lively spot will also feature a full bar and a nightlife atmosphere. The restaurant will be located near The Foundry and Ski Pro.

The Bridge Improv Opening in early 2025

Get ready to laugh until you cry at The Bridge Improv. Specializing in “clean and clever comedy,” this venue will host shows every Friday and Saturday. They’ll also offer comedy classes and corporate training, making it a hub for creativity and community. The Bridge Improv will be between Sloan Boutique and Dink & Dine Pickle Park.

Taroko Sports USA Opening early to mid-2025

Get ready to swing for the fences at Taroko Sports USA, where baseball meets immersive gaming. This family-friendly batting cage concept features automatic ball returns and Hit Trax scoring systems for non-stop action. Located near Home Depot and the upcoming Slick City Action Park, Taroko Sports hopes to be a hit!

Slick City Action Park Opening mid to late 2025

Slick City Action Park is all about thrills—for the whole family. The venue will offer slides like The Avalanche, Twizzler, and Cowabunga, as well as an acrobat alley, go-karts, and a sports court area. This action-packed venue promises heart-pounding excitement for all ages. Slick Action Park will be found near Esporta Fitness.

Dink & Dine Pickle Park is bringing its first-ever location to Mesa Riverview. This innovative venue will offer 11 pickleball courts, including a showcase court perfect for pro matches. With four distinct restaurants, multiple bars, and a live music stage, it’s the ultimate destination for food, fun, and sport. Look for it next to Bass Pro Shops.

“We are proud of the new tenants that we will soon introduce to Mesa Riverview’s guests, each of which will help shape the center into an East Valley hot spot and one of the area’s most sought-after day-to-night ‘eatertainment’ destinations,” Chris Byrd, vice president of leasing for Mesa Riverview’s owner, Kimco Realty, said.

Mesa Riverview also boasts customer-favorite retailers like Burlington, Ski Pro, Boot Barn, Bass Pro Shops, Walmart, Home Depot, and multiple salons, as well as several recently opened or coming-soon retailers and service providers like Ross Dress for Less, CenterWell, and DXL.

As these exciting new tenants prepare to open their doors, Mesa Riverview continues to cement its place as the East Valley’s premier destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. For more information, visit mesariverview.shopkimco.com.