Cactus League games don’t begin until next week but you needn’t wait to enjoy the beautiful weather in Downtown Phoenix.
Pop Up Park at CityScape
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday-Friday head over to Patriot’s Square at CityScape to enjoy the Downtown Ambassadors’ Pop Up Park. Challenge friends to a game of corn bag or basketball, check out a magazine or board game, or simply find a place to sit and enjoy your lunch in the Arizona sunshine. As a special treat, on Thursdays and Fridays you can listen to DJ Sean Watson and DJ William Reed play everything from Animal Collective to Yeasayer. (I don’t believe Zac Brown Band or ZZ Top is in either of their repertoires, but feel free to make a request.)
Food Truck Friday at Phoenix Public Market
Get your food truck fix every Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Valley’s preeminent mobile food vendor gathering. Dine on all your favorites–Short Leash Hot Dogs, Sweet Republic Ice Cream, Riteway Catering, Jamburritos Cajun, Hey Joe Filipino, Torched Goodness, MOJO Bowl, Emerson Fry Bread, and the carside, Pizza People–and maybe meet some new friends in the process.
Matsuri: A Festival of Japan
One of the most highly anticipated festivals on the calendar takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Heritage Square. Matsuri featuring Japanese exhibits, demonstrations, arts and crafts, children’s activities, bonsai displays, food, and three stages of live entertainment. 2012 Arizona Matsuri commemorates the centennial of the gifting of cherry blossom trees from Japan to the U.S. Admission is free.
Four Peaks Kilt Fest
If you thought the Strong Beer Festival was end of Arizona Beer Week guess again. The week long celebration of ale culminates Saturday from 12-5 p.m. at CityScape. There will be food, entertainment, and of course beer. Get a glimpse and taste of Arizona’s up-and-coming craft beer scene. Admission is $5.
Second Annual Downtown Symphony Stroll
Sunday’s second annual event,which takes place from 4-7 p.m.,  includes Corner Bakery (Pianist Ed Madden), My Big Fat Greek Restaurant ( Guitarist Peter Pancrazi), Copper Blues (Brazilian Jazz of Beth Lederman Duo), Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery (Jazz Saxophonist Paul Brewer), Hanny’s (Harpist Paula Provo), and Kincaid’s (Guitarist Stan Sorenson).  Walk from location to location to enjoy a beverage, appetizer, and classical music. $65 ticket includes three drinks. Hosted by Phoenix Symphony Allegro to benefit the Phoenix Symphony Music Outreach Program. For more information call (480) 419-8580.
Have a great weekend in Downtown Phoenix!