THINGS TO DO AROUND ARIZONA
Historic Milton Walking Tour
Take part in this 90-minute guided walk from Riordan Mansion to explore the Arizona Lumber and Timber Company property and the town site of Milton. Look at the buildings that remain and see historic photos of what was once there. Recommended for age 12 and older. Call for reservations: 928-779-4395.
Details: 2:30-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, 409 W. Riordan Road, Flagstaff. $15 (does not include regular tour admission to Riordan Mansion). azstateparks.com/riordan -mansion.
Lake Havasu City Gem and Mineral Show
Fulfill a fascination with gemstones, or figure out what it is about shiny rocks that attract so much attention, at this annual show. Visitors will find minerals, fossils and more in their natural state. Those looking for something with a little bling can check out the handmade jewelry and art objects. There also will be demonstrations, hourly raffles and kids’ games.
Details: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11. Lake Havasu Aquatic Center, 100 Park Ave., Lake Havasu City. $2. 510-872-7070, www.lakehavasugms.org/show.html.
Colorado River Crossing Hot Air Balloon Festival
Come see some of the most colorful and one-of-akind balloons from across the West and Southwest at this family-friendly festival. The three-day event features a mass ascension each morning and a Desert Balloon Glow on Saturday night.
Details: Friday-Sunday, Nov. 16-18. Times vary; check website for full schedule. Locations: Yuma West Wetlands Park, First Street and 12th Avenue; Desert Sun Stadium, 3500 S. Avenue A; and McGraw/Gila Vista Practice Field, Kennedy Lane and 24th Street, Yuma. Morning launch admission is one or more non-perishable food items. Glow admission is $2 per person and one or more non-perishable food items. crcballoons.com.
El Tour de Tucson
Held each year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, El Tour is a fundraising event that attracts about 9,000 cyclists of all ages and skill levels. Choose from main-event distances of 25, 50, 75 or 100 miles or a Fun Ride of 1, 4 or 10 miles; the 1/4-mile activity course is another option.
Details: Race times vary; first race starts at 7 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 17. Start locations also vary, check registration link for info. Register at perimeterbicy cling.com/el-tour-de-tucson.
Flag Retirement Ceremony
Fort Verde State Historic Park and American Legion Post #135 will be hosting the annual flag retirement ceremony on Saturday, November 17, 2018. This ceremony respectfully disposes of American flags that have served their purpose and can no longer be flown. Feel free to drop off flags to be retired at the park.
Details: 11 a.m.-noon Saturday, Nov. 17. Fort Verde State Historic Park, 125 E. Hollamon St., Camp Verde. $7 per vehicle. azstateparks.com/fort-verde.
Sand, Water, RV Expo
Lake Havasu City is a mecca for fans of off-roading, RVing and boating. The 2018 Sand, Water, RV Expo captures the spirit of these activities and offers the opportunity to shop for the latest off-road vehicles, trucks, sand rails, ATVs, UTVs, 4x4s, buggies, golf carts, motorcycles, electric vehicles, mobility scooters, RVs, toy haulers, travel trailers, fifth wheels, power boats, pontoons, personal watercraft, kayaks, paddleboards, bicycles and camping/hunting equipment.
Details: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 18. Lake Havasu State Park, 699 London Bridge Road, Lake Havasu City. $5 per person, free for age 6 and younger. azstateparks.com/ lake-havasu.