Fire Ban in Desert Parks and Preserves Begins May 1
The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department’s annual ban of open fires in the city’s desert parks and mountain preserves started Wednesday, May 1. The Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department’s annual fire ban went into effect the same day.

In consultation with the Phoenix Fire Department, smoking and charcoal fires are included in the ban due to the extreme fire danger that the combination of low humidity, increased temperatures, excessive dry vegetation, and frequent high winds create each spring.

The ban applies to Camelback Mountain, Deem Hills Recreation Area, Lookout Mountain, Papago Park, Phoenix Mountains Park, and Recreation Area, Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Phoenix Sonoran Preserve, North Mountain Park, Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, and South Mountain Park/Preserve. The ban does not apply to the City’s flatland parks.

For those using the city’s desert parks and preserve land, the fire ban stipulates the following:
• Open wood and charcoal fires are prohibited
• Propane or gas grills may be used, but only in established picnic areas
The following activities continue to be prohibited year-round:
• Smoking outside enclosed vehicles
• Fireworks

For more information, visit phoenix.gov.

Kierland Commons Presents May Music Series
Photo courtesy of Kierland Commons
The May Music Series returns to Kierland Commons this month. Set in the Center Plaza in front of Shake Shack, the series features free, live performances every Friday evening at 6 p.m.

The lineup of local talent includes:
May 3: Garth Tribute

May 10: Rock Lobster

May 17: Elton John Tribute

May 24: Jacob Morris

May 31: Common Good

Kierland Commons is located at 15210 N. Scottsdale Rd., in Scottsdale. For more information, visit, kierlandcommons.com.
Introducing The Venue on High Street: Your Premier Event Space
High Street, known for its restaurants perfect for gatherings, now presents The Venue on High Street, an ideal space for your private events. Located at the west end of High Street, this indoor venue offers 3,800 square feet of versatile space, catering to a variety of occasions.

From business seminars to birthday parties, The Venue on High Street serves as a blank canvas for your event needs. With amenities such as a built-in bar, Wi-Fi, two televisions with AppleTV connectivity, and spacious restrooms, this venue can accommodate gatherings of up to 120 people. The ample open event space provides room for customization, featuring a white interior that allows for personalized lighting and décor. Additionally, the venue offers a backroom for catering setup or back-of-house preparations.

While The Venue on High Street does not supply a sound system, projection equipment, tables, or chairs, its polished concrete floors and covered garage parking add to the convenience and comfort of your event.

To inquire about renting The Venue on High Street for your next private event, contact [email protected]. Be sure to include details such as a brief description of your event, desired date and time, as well as the number of attendees.