The sun is out and outdoor fun is in
By Amanda SavageFreelance Reporter, The VOICE
With the sun finally starting to shine through the fog of winter, students are trading in their Uggs and chic scarves for sundresses and suntan lotion.
Flowers blooming and the semester ending isn't the only great thing about Spring. The great weather brings about many diverse events and activities in the Valley to satisfy that summer itch every student is starting to feel.
From art walks to sporting events, there are a lot of things to look forward to in the Spring. So get off of Facebook, stop watching the Discovery Channel and get out and experience some things for yourself.
T.G.I.F.
A Phoenix favorite, First Friday's art walk is full of great art, political protesters, fun knickknacks from street vendors, and all kinds of quirky folks.
Centered downtown, there are plenty of unique restaurants, bars and attractions surrounding the walk, so you can make a day or night of it. The event takes place on the first Friday of every month. Take the light rail to Central and McDowell, and follow the herd.
A Gay Ol' Time
The Phoenix Lesbian and Gay Pride Committee is hosting their annual Pride Festival and Parade. The festival will be held over a two-day period (April 18-19) at Steele Indian School Park (at 3rd St. and Indian School Rd.) and will include an art walk and a marketplace with over 250 vendors supplying everything under the sun, from information on gay cruise lines to tie-dyed clothing.
A large food court will feature a variety of food and beverages. There will be numerous performers, from jazz to house DJ's, so there will be a little something for everyone all day. The actual parade is Saturday at 11a.m. It follows along 3rd St. and goes from Thomas Rd. to Indian School Rd.
There will also be a 5K fun run and a 3k walk at 9 a.m. on Sunday. Anyone can join and donations to the committee are gladly accepted. Gay or straight, this event is an experience everyone should have.
Sort of the Beach
Arizona is full of man-made lakes. We have the notorious Lake Havasu and, in the West Valley, the beautiful waters of Lake Pleasant, for boating, jet-skiing and partying. But if you are looking for a different scene, try out the lakes in the East Valley such as Apache, Saguaro, Bartlett and Roosevelt. Roosevelt is quite large, but the other lakes are smaller and offer beautiful scenery and a relaxing environment for fishing, camping and just hanging out. It is a hike, but it is definitely worth it.
