5 alternative events around Phoenix in July
In a metropolis the size of Phoenix, many events fly under the radar. That's especially true of events that are, shall we say, a bit closer to the edge.
Here are a few things to do that may not be for everybody. (NOTE: The Phoenix TARDIS event, originally set for July 10-12, has been cancelled.)
America, F**k Yeah! 4th of July Party at Tongue Tied
DJs Roya and Funkfinger get patriotic with their monthly dance party, this time featuring pie-eating and costume contests, face and body painting, a photo booth, cheap drinks and a barbecue. The organizers also will be raffling off items and giving out free swag, such as apple pie, lollipops, condoms and holiday decor.
Details: 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Saturday, July 4. Linger Longer Lounge, 6522 N. 16th St., Phoenix. Free before 9 p.m.; $5 after. 602-264-4549.
Mac Sabbath
The heavy-metal parody band pays tribute to Black Sabbath, basing its imagery and lyrics around fast food. So Black Sabbath song "Iron Man" is changed to "Frying Pan," while "Never Say Die" is changed to "Never Say Diet." The band members wear costumes inspired by McDonald's characters.
Details: 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 10. Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Ave., Phoenix. $15-$17. 602-716-2222, crescentphx.com.
Delfino Island Beach Party
Named for the fictional Isle Delfino, a tropical island in the Super Mario Bros. universe, the all-day party will feature a Splatoon video-game tournament, beach-themed costume contest and scavenger hunt. The bar will serve barbecue dishes and tiki-style cocktails.
Details: Noon-3 a.m. Saturday, July 25. Endgame, 699 S. Mill Ave., Tempe. 480-921-4245, endgamebar.com.
SWAY Summer Pool Party
The LGBT-friendly events company SWAY hosts its fourth annual pool bash. This year, it's taking place at the hip Hotel Valley Ho and will be free. The party will feature pop-up boutiques, samplings and music from DJ Robbie. For $20, get VIP access and enjoy cocktail samples, lounge seating, snacks, giveaways, shaded areas and massages.
Details: Noon-6 p.m. Sunday, July 26. Hotel Valley Ho, 6850 E. Main St., Scottsdale. Free. 602-277-7929, swayevents.com.
Bomba Lucha
Pyrrha Sutra Presents this wild Lucha Libre variety show featuring luchadores, sexy circus and burlesque performers, live music and live art. VIP tickets include front-row seating, an alcoholic beverage, appetizers and interaction with the performers. The evening also will feature mermaids, water guns and spiked snow cones. Wear your best summertime attire.
Details: 8:30 p.m. Saturday, July 18. Paz Cantina, 1011 N. Third St., Phoenix. $15; $100 for VIP. 602-368-2487, pazcantina.com, pspresents.com.