Fall fun in Cochise County

The communities in Cochise County are gearing up for visitors. Every fall they host fun, unique events: wine tastings, home tours, cycling events, garden tours, art festivals and more!

Here’s the September lineup:

Sept. 5, 45th Annual Brewery Gulch Daze, Bisbee

Events such as the “Miz Old Biz” contest and the new Belt Sander Races make up this unique event celebrating Bisbee’s past. Once home to more than 20 bars and brothels, Brewery Gulch was one of Bisbee’s liveliest avenues. Brewery Gulch Daze features a pancake breakfast, pet parade, chili cook off, recycled art show and kiddie carnival games. Look for the waiter/ waitress relay races, always good for a giggle. All proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Bisbee.

Details: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 5 in Old Bisbee. For more info, call 520-432-3554 or 1-866-2BISBEE.

Sept. 4-6: Rendezvous of Gunfighters, Tombstone

Gunfighter groups from throughout the U.S. compete in this weekend event. In addition, there will be a costume parade on Sunday on historic Allen Street.

Free admission. Call  520-457-9317, 1-888-457-3929 or www.tombstonechamber.comfor more info.

Sept. 10 & 11, Bisbee Plein Air Competition Weekend & Bisbee Bloomers Garden Tour

Artists are invited to Bisbee to paint the picturesque hillsides of Tombstone Canyon and the Mule Mountains of Southeastern Arizona. Meet Arizona’s many Plein Air painters and take advantage of a well-organized and beautiful venue to share and sell your work. On Sept. 11, tour Bisbee’s delightful gardens as residents open their yards to the public. A shuttle bus will be available.

Garden Tour tickets are $10 and are available at the Bisbee Visitor Center. Call 520-432-3554 or 1-866-2BISBEE for information on each event.

September 23-26, Cochise County Fair, Douglas

Enjoy carnival rides, 4-H demonstrations, livestock auctions, collegiate rodeo, bull riding, food concessions, retail booths, animal exhibits, arts and crafts, and live entertainment.

Details: 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Thursday through Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday at the Cochise County Fairgrounds, Leslie Canyon Road in Douglas, AZ. Admission is $6 for adults; $3 for seniors (age 60+) & children (age 6-17); children up to age 5 get in free.

Info: Cochise County Fair Association, 520-364-3819 or www.cochisefair.org

Sept. 24, 22nd Annual Elks Oktoberfest

Authentic German food and music, games for kids, dancing. Wine and beer available. 4-10 pm. Free.

Details: 4-10 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 25 at the Elks Lodge, #1 Elks Lane in Sierra Vista. Admission is free, beer is extra! Info: 520-458-2065

Sept. 25, Bisbee Blues Festival

The Fourth Annual Bisbee Blues Festival will feature live blues. This year’s artists are Tab Benoit, Shemekia Copeland, the Rhythm Room All Stars, Train Wreck and The Hounds. Food and beverages will be available.

Details: 11a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 25 at Warren Ballpark in Bisbee. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. For more info contact the Bisbee Visitor Center at 520-432-5421 or 1 (866) 2BISBEE or visit http://thebisbeebluesfestival.com/

Sep. 30-Oct. 3 Rex Allen Days, Cowboy Hall of Fame Ceremony & Banquet

The Cowboy Hall of Fame is the kick-off for the Rex Allen Days celebration. Western fun, Willcox style, this event honors their hometown hero. Rex Allen gained fame as a singer, cowboy movie star and narrator for Walt Disney Productions. This year will celebrate 59 years of Rex Allen Days, and the 2nd Annual Western Legends Award will be presented. Activities for Rex Allen Days include a parade, rodeo, General Orlando B. Willcox International turtle race, cowboy dances and country music concerts featuring Rex Allen Jr., Johnny Western and Jimmy Fortune. 

Details: Held at the Willcox Community Center. Admission varies per event. For more info, contact the Rex Allen Museum at 520-384-4583 or the Willcox Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture at 520-384-2272.

Wine, gem, fiber art, classic car and Old West events in Cochise County

May 15 & 16, Wine & Music Festival, Willcox

Carlson Creek will be one of the wineries featured

Join Willcox Wine Country members as they host a weekend of wine, live music and food to cap off the Sulphur Springs Valley Historical Society’s Historic Preservation week. Local favorite Nowhere Man and Whiskey Girl will provide music, as will The Trail Mix Trio.

Details: Wine garden open Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Six tastes and a commemorative glass for $10. For more info, visit http://www.AzWineFestival.com.

May 15, Fiber Arts Festival, Bisbee

Celebrating its 18th year, the Fiber Arts Festival will be held in Vista Park in conjunction with the Bisbee Farmer’s Market. The Fiber Arts Show will present sheep-shearing, fiber demonstrations and vendors that sell finished products along with natural fibers and equipment.

Details:   8 a.m. – 1 p.m.at Vista Park in the Warren section of Bisbee. Admission is free. For more info, call 520-642-3603 or go to www.bisbeefiberarts.com.

May 15, Guided Tour of Buffalo Soldier Historic Sites

Learn about the accomplishments and history of Fort Huachuca’s Buffalo Soldiers during a tour around Fort Huachuca. The tour is given by a member of the Southwest Association of Buffalo Soldiers. Call 520-417-6960 or 1-800-288-3861 for more details.

Note:  Fort Huachuca is an active military installation.  U.S. citizens may take the tour and must provide valid photo identification for all over the age of 13.

May 29 & 30, Bisbee Gem and Mineral Show, Bisbee

Gems and minerals from many regions will be on display in historic Bisbee at the Queen Mine Tour. Call 520-432-2071.

Details: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Queen Mine Tour building in Old Bisbee. Admission is free. Call 520-432-2071 or visit www.DiscoverBisbee.com for more information.

May 29-31, Wyatt Earp Days, Tombstone

Gunfight reenactments fill the streets, along with a chili cook-off, hangings, street entertainment, look-alike contests and an 1880’s fashion show.

Details: The fun begins at 10 a.m. each day during Memorial Day weekend in historic downtown Tombstone. Admission is free. Call 520-457-3511 for more info.

May 29 & 30, Willcox Rod & Classic Car Show, Willcox

The 3rd annual car show will be held in the Willcox Historic District on Railroad Ave. For information contact the Willcox Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture at 520-384-2272 or the Rex Allen Museum at 520-384-4583 or info@rexallenmuseum.org

June 19 & 20, Tombstone Gem Show, Tombstone

An exhibition featuring gems, jewelry, mineral specimens and fossils. Great for jewelers, hobbyists and collectors.

Details: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express. Admission is free. For more information call 1-888-457-3929 or visit www.tombstonechamber.com

June 26 & 27, Sabaar Shriner’s Tombstone Sweet Onion Festival, Tombstone

Enjoy a weekend with parades, costume contest, music, Taste of Tombstone and the crowning of the Onion Queen!

Details: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Allen Street in Tombstone. Admission is free. Call 520-457-9327 for more info.

May 15, Guided Tour of Buffalo Soldier Historic Sites

Learn about the accomplishments and history of Fort Huachuca’s Buffalo Soldiers during a tour around Fort

Cochise County events: tribute, auction, quilt show and reenactment

If you head down to Cochise County this month you’ll have one more chance to see sandhill cranes. They are still around, but they usually head for home in March. Check out the Willcox and Douglas areas for prime viewing locations. You can have some spectacular birdwatching sessions on the Willcox play, the Whitewater Draw area and  many other places in Cochise County.

Other events include the annual tribute to Arizona native, Marty Robbins, the annual art auction in Bisbee and the Singing Wind Bookshop’s annual quilt and trunk show. Enjoy!

March 5 & 6, 19th Annual Tribute to Marty Robbins, Willcox

Special guest, Rex Allen Jr., joins in this 19th annual celebration of the country-music legend with afternoon and evening concerts, carriage rides, a viewing of Robbins’ race car. Entertainment will be held on historic Railroad Avenue, and the concert will be held at the Willcox High School.

Details: 6 p.m. concert, March 6 at the Willcox High School Auditorium, Bisbee Ave., Willcox, Ariz.  Admission is $10-$15. Get more info at 520-766-1404; www.friendsofmartyrobbins.org.

March 6, Annual Art Auction, Bisbee

Historic Bisbee’s 18th annual art auction features nationally recognized artists from southern Arizona. The event includes an artists’ reception, live and silent auctions. Overnight packages at Bisbee inns are available during the art auction weekend. Packages include a night’s stay, dinner and admission to the art auction for two.

Details: 6-9 p.m., March 6 at the Copper Queen Plaza Convention Center, Main Street, in Old Bisbee. Admission is $10. Get more info at 520-432-3554 or 1-866-2-Bisbee; www.discoverbisbee.com

March 14, Quilt & Trunk Show: a brown bag lunch lecture, Benson

The Singing Wind Book Shop presents its Quilt & Trunk Show, a brown bag lunch lecture featuring Lynn Haak, the Sharlot Hall award winner for history. Haak is a designer who has been quilting all her life. She serves in several quilting organizations including the Arizona Quilters Guild, the Arizona Historical Society and others. She is a board member of the Arizona Quilters Hall of Fame. Haak and her husband bill will bring 20-25 quilts to the Singing Wind along with their book, Images of America: Globe.

Details: 1 p.m. at the Singing Wind Bookshop in Benson. Admission is free. More info at 520-586-2425.

March 20, Fairbank Days

Fairbank Days is a monthly event planned with different themes and re-enactors. Visitors can enjoy tours, exhibits and talks. This month there will be live music, art exhibits, re-enactments of “the Great Fairbank Train Robbery” and tours of the Townsite and cemetery. In addition, Tucson’s 2nd Catalonian Infantry Spanish Soldiers will travel to Fairbank to perform. Visitors can participate in a hike to the Presidio Santa Cruz de Terrenate.

Details: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday, March 20 at Fairbank (on Highway 82 east of the San Pedro River between Tombstone and Whetstone). Admission is free but donations are accepted. You can get more info at 520-457-3062.

Why not plan a weekend of it?

For nearby accommodations, restaurants or attractions, check with the local visitors center in Benson (520-586-4293), Bisbee (1-866-2-BISBEE, 1-866-224-7233), Tombstone (1-888-457-9317), Sierra Vista (1-800-288-3861) or Willcox (1-800-200-2272).

Valentine’s Day: spend it in Cochise County

Some of the hotels and bed & breakfast inns in Cochise County have some really sweetheart deals and romance packages this month in honor of Valentine’s Day. And, I just received word that Shadow Mountain Resort Restaurant will have a “Guest Chefs Night” on Saturday, Feb. 13. Spend the weekend in southeastern Arizona where Wyatt Earp strolled, the Chiricahua Mountains were formed and Buffalo Soldiers served our nation.

During Valentine’s weekend, Dos Cabezas Spirit and Nature Retreat, a small bed & breakfast inn just 14 miles from Willcox, is offering a “Country Valentine,” a one-night’s stay, dinner, a dozen roses, a box of chocolates and a gourmet breakfast the next morning. Choose either Friday, Saturday or Sunday night, Feb. 12, 13 or 14 2010. You can also give a gift certificate. The package includes complete privacy since the inn hosts only one party at a time. Cost is $249. Dinner will be arranged at your choice of Coronado Vineyards or El Ranchero Restaurant in Willcox.

To book your special weekend, email or call: Charmayne Samuelson at 520-384-6474 or send an e-mail.

In Sierra Vista, America’s Best Value Inn is offering a special for the Feb 12-14 weekend. Guests can stay for only $54 per night. Check with the hotel at 520-459-5380 for more details. Also in Sierra Vista, the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel is offering 30 percent off their room rates. So you can get a deal for $59-$69 per night. Ask for their Valentine’s Weekend specials. Call Suburban Extended Stay at 520-458-0540 for more information.

Bisbee‘s Letson Loft Hotel and Jonquil Motel are offering their “Sweetheart Specials” the entire month of February 2010. Treat your Sweetheart to an overnight or two at The Letson or the Jonquil Motel in the month of February and they’ll treat you to $15 OFF the Letson Loft’s rate or $10 off at the Jonquil. this offer is good on Sunday to Thursday night stays!  Be sure to mention the “Sweetheart Special” when you call or book online!  Rate will be adjusted upon check-in.

Guest Chefs Night–Bring your Valentine to Shadow Mountain Resort Restaurant for a satisfying dinner and entertainment. On Saturday, Feb. 13, you can get a half rack of baby back ribs, baked potato, beans, slaw and dessert for two for $15. Guest chefs Gary & Kathie Brauchla and Troy & Melanie Pope will cook. Entertainmetn will be provided by “Mac the Rounder” and Bob & Patty Shemwell.

Details: Dinner served from 6-8 p.m. with entertainment from 6-10 p.m. Cost is $15 per person. For more information, call 520-826-3417. Reservations encouraged by Feb. 11.

Enjoy the Valentine’s Day and President’s Day weekend.

If you’re looking for something to do that weekend, check out these events:

Feb. 12-14, 18th Annual Cochise Cowboy Poetry Music & Poetry Gathering, Sierra Vista

Once a year, Sierra Vista becomes a Western wonder of poetry, music, storytelling and song. More than 60 artists from all over the U.S. and Canada will converge on Sierra Vista for three major stage performances and free mini-concerts. Learn the history of the Arizona Territory through song and poetry.

Details: Various free events will take place throughout the weekend. The headline shows are 7 p.m. on Feb. 12 & 13 and 1 p.m. on Feb. 14. Performances are held at the Buena Performing Arts Center, 5225 Buena School Dr. in Sierra Vista. Admission is $6 for high school students, $16 for seniors and military and $18 for adults. For more information, call 520-417-6960 or visit www.cowboypoets.com.

Feb. 13, Chocolate Tasting, Bisbee

Serious chocoholics will melt for this fundraiser to benefit the city of Bisbee’s public library. A ticket buys you entrée to a spread of decadent chocolate desserts at Arizona’s oldest library, the Copper Queen. This is Valentines Day, after all, so pick up a to-go box of exquisite chocolates created in Bisbee kitchens to share later with your darling.

Details: 6 – 8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 13 at the Copper Queen Library, 6 Main St. in Bisbee. Admission is $10 in advance and $12 at the door. For more information, call 520-432-4232 or  visit http://www.discoverbisbee.com.

Feb. 13, Wine and Chocolates, Willcox

Coronado Vineyards will pair their wines with chocolates on Saturday. It’s a treat you won’t want to miss!

Details: 10 a.m., Sat., Feb. 13 at Coronado Vineyards, 2909 E. Country Club Drive, Willcox, AZ. The cost is only $7 per person, which includes wine and chocolate. Call 520-384-2993 for more information.

Feb. 13, Fairbank Days

Visitors can enjoy tours, exhibits and talks. This month there will be live music, art exhibits, re-enactments of “the Great Fairbank Train Robbery” and tours of the Townsite and cemetery.

Details: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 13 at Fairbank (on Highway 82 east of the San Pedro River between Tombstone and Whetstone). Admission is free, but donations are accepted. Info: 520-457-3062

Fun February events in Cochise County

Just added: lectures on Zapotec weaving tradition at Cochise College, Feb. 9 & 10!

Jan. 27-Feb. 24, Tombstone Association of the Arts 27th Annual Quilt Show, Tombstone

Every corner of Cochise County is represented in this voluminous display of original modern and traditional quilts of all sizes and patterns. Some are for sale, and others are family heirlooms displayed for viewing only. Visitors will be encouraged to vote for three People’s Choice Awards.

Details: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily, Jan. 27-Feb. 24 at the Tombstone Association of the Arts Gallery, 317 Allen St. in Tombstone. Admission is free. Call 520-459-7960 for more info.

Jan. 31, Cowboy Cowgirl Roundup, Benson

The Singing Wind Book Shop presents its “Cowboy/Cowgirl Round-up,” a day full of readings and music. Poets and writers will satisfy cravings for Western history and culture.

Details: 1 p.m. at the Singing Wind Bookshop. Admission is free. Call 520-586-2425 for more info.

Feb. 9 & 10, Lunch Lecture: The Zapotec Weaving Tradition, Sierra Vista & Douglas

Alex Martinez, a Zapotec weaver from Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca, shares his family tradition of master weaving that employs the same ancient methods of carding and spinning wool to create rugs and tapestries that their ancestors used more than 100 years ago.

Feb. 9: 12:10 – 1 p.m., at the Sierra Vista Campus, 901 North Colombo Ave., Room 313. Sponsored by the Center for Lifelong Learning. Call 520-515-5492 for more information.

Feb. 10, 12:10 – 1 p.m., in the student union on the Douglas Campus, 4190 W. Highway 80. Sponsored by the Center for Lifelong Learning. Call 520-417-4772 for more information.

Feb. 12-14, 18th Annual Cochise Cowboy Poetry Music & Poetry Gathering, Sierra Vista

Once a year, for three days, Sierra Vista becomes the center of Western poetry, music, storytelling and song. More than 60 artists from the U.S. and Canada will converge for three stage performances and free mini-concerts on Saturday, Feb. 7. Learn the history of the Arizona Territory through song and poetry.

Details: Various free events are held throughout the weekend. Headline shows are 7 p.m. on Feb. 12 & 13 and 1 p.m. on Feb. 14 at the Buena Performing Arts Center (at the high school); 5225 Buena School Dr., Sierra Vista. Admission is $6 for high school students, $16 for seniors and military and $18 for adults. See www.cowboypoets.com for more info or call 520-417-6960. 

Feb. 13, Chocolate Tasting, Bisbee

Serious chocoholics will melt for this fundraiser to benefit the city of Bisbee’s public library. A ticket buys you entrée to a spread of decadent chocolate desserts at Arizona’s oldest library, the Copper Queen. This is Valentines Day, after all, so pick up a to-go box of exquisite chocolates created in Bisbee kitchens to share later with your darling.

Details: 6 – 8 p.m., Feb. 13 at the Copper Queen Library, 6 Main St., Bisbee. Admission is $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Call 520-432-4232 for more info or view the events calendar at http://www.discoverbisbee.com.

Feb. 13, Fairbank Days

Fairbank Days is a monthly event planned with different themes and re-enactors. Visitors can enjoy tours, exhibits and talks. This month there will be live music, art exhibits, re-enactments of “the Great Fairbank Train Robbery” and tours of the Townsite and cemetery.

Details: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 13 at Fairbank (on Highway 82 east of the San Pedro River between Tombstone and Whetstone). Admission is free (donations accepted). For more info, call 520-457-3062.

Feb. 27 & 28, Celebrating Quilts, Sierra Vista

The Hummingbird Stitchers Quilt Guild will hold its annual show.

Details: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 27; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 28 at Buena High School, Sierra Vista.  Admission is $5 for adults and free for children under 12. Visit http://www.hummingbirdquiltguild.com/HSQG_QuiltShow.html for more info.

February, Miniature Art Show, Willcox

Stop by the Willcox Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture to admire a nationally judged show of artwork no bigger than 35 square inches. The mini show and sale, sponsored by the Art League of Willcox, features artists from all over the country.

Details: The show will be held 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mon. – Fri.; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sat.; 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Sun. the entire month of Februrary at the Willcox Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture’s Visitor Center, 1500 N. Circle Road in Willcox. Admission is free. Call 520-384-2272 or 520-384-5317 for more info.

Feb. 28, Current Events Symposium, Benson

The Singing Wind Bookshop will hold its annual current events symposium on wilderness preservation. Art in the Wilderness, a book published by the Sky Island Alliance Project will be featured. It is dedicated in memory of photographer Bob Van Deven, whose photographs are included. Other photographers, artists, musicians and poets are featured such as Chip Hedgecock, Diana Madaras, Richard Shelton and Charles Bowden. Some of the books artists may attend. Singing Wind will welcome Doug Scott, author of Our Wilderness: America’s Common Grounds, who is an acclaimed authority on wildlands preservation.

Details: 1 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 28 at the Singing Wind Bookshop. Free to the public. Valet parking is available. Singing Wind is located 2-1/4 miles north of I-10 exit 304 and 1/2 mile east on Singing Wind Road. For more info, call the Singing Wind at 520-586-2425.

For ideas on places to stay or other things to do, visit the Cochise County website or the websites for the communities of Benson, Bisbee, Sierra Vista, Tombstone or Willcox.

Art, music events at Cochise College, southeastern Arizona

If you are in Cochise County this month, Cochise College is holding a few events that might interest you. Check out these events featuring art demonstrations, film and musical performances. Many are free, too! Check with the college for more details.

Wednesday, December 2
Mata Ortiz Pottery Demo and Sale
Sierra Vista Campus, Ceramic Studio, Room 813 and 2-D Studio, Room 811

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Cochise College Art Department presents a demonstration by Lorenzo and Lucy Bugarini of the complete process of making and firing a Mata Ortiz pot. Free and open to the public.

Wednesday, December 2

In Dulci Jibilo: Holiday Choral and Strings Concert
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 11th Street and D Avenue, Douglas
7 p.m.
Internationally known soprano Melanie Germond directs the Cochise College Chamber Choir, and Dr. Lori Keyne, director of Cochise College music programs, leads the acclaimed Bi-National Chorus, in ancient to modern holiday sacred music featuring Vivaldi, Distler, Gorecki, Pärt, Victoria, Gounod, Biebl, Corelli and Buxtehude, as well as Latin American colonial Christmas works. Free. For information, call (520) 515-8759.

Thursday, December 3

Art Department Bonfires
Douglas Campus
1 – 7:30 p.m.
An event of Promethean proportions. Bring chairs and blankets and enjoy the warmth of the largest bonfires in Cochise County while watching folklorico dancers and listening to fantastic original music. Co-sponsored by the Douglas Campus Student Government Association and the Cochise College Art Department. Free and open to the public.

Friday, December 4

Double Feature Film Screening: Performance and Gimme Shelter
Sierra Vista Campus, Andrea Cracchiolo Library
11:30 a.m.
Performance – A rogue hit man seeking refuge from his boss rents a room in the home of an agoraphobic musician, formerly a rock superstar. Rated R. 105 minutes. Gimme Shelter – Arguably the greatest rock documentary of all time covers the free 1969 Rolling Stones-Jefferson Airplane concert at Oakland’s Altamont Speedway, when the Hell’s Angels assaulted a swarming crowd of 300,000. Rated R. 91 minutes. Hosted by student club Cinéaste Circle. For more information, contact club advisor Mary B. Coyle at coylem@cochise.edu or (520) 515-5499.

Friday, December 4
Sock Hop: Knock Your Socks Off, Cochise College
Sierra Vista Campus, Andrea Cracchiolo Library
7 – 10 p.m.
Phi Theta Kappa, the Dance Club, and the Sierra Vista Campus Student Government Association host this public event to accept sock donations for local organizations. Admission to the Sock Hop is a package and/or pair of new and unopened socks. Food, music, photo opportunities, a dance contest, craziest sock contest, and other authentic outfit contest.  Prizes vary. The event is open to the public. For more information, call (520) 515-5315 or (520) 515-5484.

Friday, December 4
Faculty Recital
Kino Hall at St. Andrew the Apostle Church, Sierra Vista
7 p.m.
Dr. Jay Kuh, Cochise College associate faculty in voice and theater, in conjunction with voice student Young Ernst, presents. Free and open to the public.

Saturday, December 5
Holiday Concert: Cochise College Band & Jazz Ensemble
Holy Trinity Monastery, St. David
2 p.m.
The Concert Band highlights Lithuanian Rhapsody (Scarmolin), Bless this House (Brahe), and Italian Festival (arranged by Glenn Osser), while the Jazz Ensemble performs swing standards like Sentimental Journey and modern jazz classics such as Herbie Hancock’s Watermelon Man. Free admission. For more information, call (520) 515-8759.

Sunday, December 6
In Dulci Jibilo: Holiday Choral and Strings Concert
St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, 900 Taylor Drive, Sierra Vista
7 p.m.
Internationally known soprano Melanie Germond directs the Cochise College Chamber Choir, and Dr. Lori Keyne, director of Cochise College music programs, leads the acclaimed Bi-National Chorus, in ancient to modern holiday sacred music featuring Vivaldi, Distler, Gorecki, Pärt, Victoria, Gounod, Biebl, Corelli and Buxtehude, as well as Latin American colonial Christmas works. Free. For information, call (520) 515-8759.

If you’re interested in visiting Cochise County’s communities, check the Benson, Bisbee, Douglas, Sierra Vista, Tombstone and Willcox websites for more information.

Holidays 2009: Fun in Cochise County

So, the holidays are coming up. I’m already planning my Thanksgiving dinner. I’ll make apple pies for my fiance and his family this year. This will be their first taste of those pies. I hope they like them!

It reminds me of the first Thanksgiving weekend he and I took in Cochise County. We had dinner at Winchester’s in the Copper Queen Hotel. On Friday, we hiked off all those calories in Chiricahua National Monument on the Echo Canyon Loop trail. And then on Saturday we toured some wonderful homes on the Bisbee Historic Home Tour.

These annual events are lots of fun. If you’re heading to southern Arizona this holiday season, check out some of the events in Cochise County:

Nov. 25, Annual Douglas Christmas Light Parade

Annual Christmas Light Parade though historic downtown Douglas.  The light parade kicks off the holiday season with lighted floats, marching bands and a visit from Santa Claus.

When: 7 p.m.

Where: downtown Douglas

Admission: Free

Info:  Douglas Visitor Center, 520-417-7340

Nov. 27, Festival of Lights, Bisbee

The holiday season officially begins with a merry lighting ceremony and celebration in front of the Copper Queen Library. Santa will arrive in downtown Old Bisbee on a flashy fire truck with goodies for all children.

When: 6 p.m., Friday, Nov. 28

Info: 520-432-6016

Nov. 27 & 28, Historic Home Tour, Bisbee

Turn-of-the-century splendor comes to life when Bisbee residents open their doors. Visitors will get a glimpse into the town’s architectural history. Docents answer questions about the distinctive structures.

Info: Bisbee Visitor Center, 520-432-3554 or 1-866-2BISBEE

Nov. 28, Art Chairs of Bisbee Silent Auction

Bid on local artist’s decorated chairs done in a variety of mediums at the 6th Annual Art Chairs of Bisbee Silent Auction. Sponsored by the Bisbee Woman’s Club, proceeds go to a local charity.

Info: Bisbee Visitor Center, 520-432-3554 or 1-866-2BISBEE

Dec. 4 & 5, Christmas Apple Festival & Christmas Lighted Parade, Willcox

Events include a bazaar with handcrafted arts and crafts vendor, raffles and fun with drawings for door prizes, apple cooking contest and entertainment. The parade will be held at dusk (about 6 p.m.) on Dec. 5. Bring a friend and enjoy two fun-filled days of surprises and holiday shopping.

When: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 4; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 5

Where: Willcox Community Center

Admission: Free

Info: Willcox Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, 520-384-2272

Dec. 5, 51^st Annual Holiday Parade, Sierra Vista

This is Arizona’s longest running holiday parade and is a family event with Santa Claus, floats, marchers and bands.

When: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Dec. 5

Info:  520-458-6940; www.sierravistachamber.org

Dec. 6, Holiday Tour of Historic Homes, Sierra Vista

Visit the turn-of-the-century homes, still occupied by officers, on the National Historic Landmark District of Fort Huachuca. These homes are beautifully decorated for the holiday season.

When:  1-4 p.m.

Where: Fort Huachuca, Sierra Vista, Arizona

Admission:  Tickets $10 in advance, $12 day of the tour

Info:  520-417-6960

Note: Fort Huachuca is an active military installation. Stringent entrance requirements are enforced. U.S. citizens may enter with a visitor pass. Required documentation includes: vehicle registration and insurance, current, valid photo identification for driver and all passengers over age 13. Regulations may change without notice.

Dec. 12, Christmas on Main Street, Benson

Street vendors, local entertainment and the Saint David High School Choir make downtown Benson a holiday delight. This down home holiday celebration culminates with a visit from Santa and a tree lighting ceremony. Presented by the Benson Chamber of Commerce.

When:  10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Admission: Free

Info:  520-586-2842 or www.bensonchamberaz.com

Cochise County abuzz with events

Cochise County’s communities are in full swing with events this month! October is packed with great stuff like Tombstone’s Helldorado Days, Bisbee’s Stair Climb, the Cochise County Cycling Classic and Benson’s Butterfield Stage Days. Read on for more info!

Oct. 9-12, Corvettes and Ghost Riders, Tombstone

Early Cowpoke Rendezvous, Welcome Rustlers Corral, Boardwalk Rally, People’s Choice NCCC Car Show, Cochise County Road Tour and more.

Details: throughout the weekend in historic downtown Tombstone. Admission is free. For more info, contact the Tombstone Chamber of Commerce at 1-888-457-3929 or http://www.corvettesandghostriders.com/

Oct. 10 & 11, Butterfield Overland Stage Days

Although the Butterfield Overland Stage ran for only two years, it was a turning point in American history. This event marks John Butterfield’s overland mail and passenger service that connected East with West. An official U.S. Post Office Pony Express mail run will take letters with a special cancellation on horseback from Benson to Dragoon on Saturday. Vendors and entertainment will be held in Lions Park. Craft vendors will sell their wares and demonstrate how they are made. Musical entertainment will include The Santa Cruz River band featuring Ted Ramirez and Michael Ronstadt on Sunday. A quilt show and a car show will be held, and back by popular demand the “Quad Boys” will provide quad motorcycle demonstrations.

Details: Contact the Benson Chamber of Commerce at 520-586-2842.

Oct. 10, Butterfield Rodeo, Benson

This one-day Butterfield Rodeo, one of the more popular rodeos in the area, will raise money for charity.

Details: 5 p.m., followed by a dance at 8:30 p.m., Sat., Oct. 10 at the Arena Bar on Prickly Pear Ave. for more info, contact the Benson Visitor Center at 520-586-4293.

Oct. 10, Cars in the Park, Sierra Vista

More than 350 vintage and custom cars will be polished and shined at the Annual Cars in the Park, considered the largest outdoor car show in Arizona.

Details: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Sat., Oct. 10 at Veterans’ Memorial Park, Sierra Vista. Admission is free for spectators. For more info, call 520-803-9457.

Oct. 10, Wine Festival, Bisbee

Visitors can sample more than 50 Old and New World Wines at the Vintage Bisbee Wine Festival at City Park in Brewery Gulch. Sponsored by the Bisbee Rotary Club, this event is guaranteed to be an afternoon of great food, music and fun.

Details: 4-7 p.m., Sat., Oct. 10, at City Park in Bisbee’s Brewery Gulch. Find ticket info at 520-432-3554 or www.bisbeerotaryclub.org

Oct. 10 & 11, 35th Annual Mineral, Gem and Jewelry Show, Sierra Vista

Live demonstrations, educational displays, rocks, jewelry, gems, minerals, fossils, equipment, lapidary supplies & more! Presented by the Huachuca Mineral & Gem Club, the show benefits the club’s scholarship fund.

Details: Oct. 10 & 11, Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Elks Lodge, 1 Elks Lane (off Wilcox Drive), Sierra Vista. For more info, call 520-459-3718.

Oct. 16 & 17, SAHR Biker Rodeo, Benson

Every year in October, the Southern Arizona Harley Riders put on their Biker Rodeo at The Arena in Benson. Featuring a bike show, games for kids and bikers, a charity auction, vendors and door prizes.

Details:  The Arena, Benson. Admission is $15. Visit http://www.sahr.us for more info.

Oct. 16-18, 80th Annual Helldorado Days, Tombstone

What started out as the town’s 50th anniversary celebration in 1929 has turned into a famous tradition. Events include reenactments, a parade, gun show, fashion shows, carnival, live music, contests and street entertainment.

Details: all weekend in historic downtown Tombstone. Admission is free. For more information, contact the Tombstone Chamber of Commerce at 1-888-457-3929 or visit http://www.tombstonehelldoradodays.com/

Oct. 17, Bisbee 1000 Stair Climb

The 19th annual Bisbee 1000 can be a challenging competitive run or a casual walk exploring 1,000 of Bisbee’s stairs. Pledge the event, win prizes and help restore the historic steps while improving your health. The KWCD Ice Man, “the event within the event,” involves carrying a block of ice up 153 stairs in less than 30 seconds – fun to participate in or just to watch!

Race begins at 9 a.m. at the Iron Man Statue in Tombstone Canyon. For more information, call 520-432-1585 or visit www.bisbee1000.com

Oct. 17 & 18, Cochise County Cycling Classic, Douglas

Ultra cycling event in Cochise County’s high desert landscape of Dragoon and Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona. 45-, 92-, 157 and 252-mile rides Perimeter Bicycling Association of America, Inc. Cyclist participating in the 157- and 25- mile rides must have their own support crews. Benefits DARC.

Riders take of at 2 a.m., 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. in Douglas, Arizona and tour the county. For more info, call 520-745-2033 or visit the Perimeter Bicycling Association’s website.

Oct. 22-25, Border Town Cowboy Action Shoot, Tombstone

Cowboy Action Shooting Arizona State Championship. Shooting competition, food and vendors.

Admission is free for spectators. For more information visit http://www.bordertowncas.com/ or www.tombstonechamber.com.

http://www.bensonvisitorcenter.com/

22nd Cochise County Cycling Classic

For all you bicycling fans out there, the Cochise County Cycling Classic in Douglas is an amazing event! The longest ride in this perimeter cycling event is a whopping 252 miles. Cyclists train long and hard to test their endurance in this ride.

This year, there’s also something for the beginners and those who want to just ride for fun. The the Perimeter Bicycling Association announced the addition of a four-mile Fun Ride to the 2009 Cochise County Cycling Classic.

And for something in between, there are the 157-, 92- or 45-mile rides.

The events take place on Saturday, October 17, 2009. Die hard long distance riders will start at 2 a.m. and the other rides will start between 6 and 8:30 a.m.

Ready to sign up? Get your gear and your support crew together and sign up now!

For information on places to stay, contact the Douglas Visitor Center at 520-417-7344. This is a busy weekend in Cochise County, so book your hotel rooms early. You can visit the Cochise County website for more information on hotels in the surrounding area.

Beer, wine, cowboy heritage, the county fair and art in the park!

Sept. 19, Bisbee Blues Festival

Sponsored by Old Bisbee Music, the Fourth Annual Bisbee Blues Festival will feature live blues from a variety of bands. Food and beverages will be available. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

Details: 11a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 19. For more info, visit www.bisbeebluesfest.com, or call the Bisbee Chamber of Commerce at 520-432-5421.

Sept. 19, 5^th Annual Sierra Vista Fiddle Contest

Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the sounds of good old-fashioned fiddle music at the 5th Annual Sierra Vista Fiddle Contest. The event even features a solar powered sound system. Watch fiddlers compete for more than $3,000 in cash prizes. It will feature the “Pot O’ Gold Playoff” Celtic music competition. The contest is organized by and benefits the non-profit Cochise County Youth Orchestra.

Details: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 19 at Veterans Memorial Park, 3105 E. Fry Blvd. in Sierra Vista. Admission is free. Visit www.ccyo.info and click on “fiddle contest” for more information.

Sept. 25, 21^st Annual Elks Oktoberfest

Authentic German food and music, games for kids, dancing. Wine and beer are available.

Details: 4-10 p.m., Sept. 25 at the Elks Lodge, #1 Elks Lane, Sierra Vista. Admission is free. For more information, call 520-458-2065.

September 24-27, Cochise County Fair, Douglas

Enjoy carnival rides, 4-H demonstrations, livestock auctions, collegiate rodeo, bull riding, food concessions, retail booths, animal exhibits, arts and crafts, and live entertainment.

Details: 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Thursday through Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday at the Cochise County Fairgrounds, Leslie Canyon Road in Douglas. Admission is $6 got adults; $3 for seniors (age 60+) & children (age 6-17); Free for children (age 0-5). For more info: Cochise County Fair Association, 520-364-3819 or www.cochisefair.org.

October

Oct. 1-4 Rex Allen Days, Cowboy Hall of Fame Ceremony & Banquet

The Cowboy Hall of Fame is the kick-off for the Rex Allen Days celebration. Western fun, Willcox style, this event honors their hometown hero. Rex Allen gained fame as a singer, cowboy movie star and narrator for Walt Disney Productions. This year will celebrate 20 years of Rex Allen Days, and the First Annual Western Heritage Award will be presented. Activities for Rex Allen Days include a parade, rodeo, General Orlando B. Willcox International turtle race, cowboy dances, a country music concert and more.

Details: Full days of fun at the Willcox Community Center and in Willcox. Admission varies for each event. For more info, contact the Willcox Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, 520-384-2272 or visit the Rex Allen Museum website. You can also see the full schedule of events.

Oct. 2 & 3, Bisbee Turquoise Hunt

The annual Turquoise Hunt will take place in what locals call “Number 7,” the Queen Mine’s dump. For two hours each day, rock hounds can scour the earth for the rarest and, some would say, most valuable “Bisbee Turquoise” along with other minerals.

For more info, contact the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum at 520-432-7071.

Oct. 3 & 4, 38th Annual Art in the Park, Sierra Vista

This is one of the Southwest’s largest outdoor arts and crafts fairs, attracting more than 200 vendors.  Fine art, sculpture, fountains, jewelry, clothing and much more!

Details: Oct. 3 & 4; Sat. 9 am – 6 pm, Sun. 9 am – 4 pm. at Veterans Memorial Park, 3105 E. Fry Blvd. in Sierra Vista. Admission is free. Call 520-3378-1763 for more information or visit the website at www.huachuca-art.com.