Plan Your Labor Day Weekend; Arizona Style
Satsang House Sedona Retreat, photo credit, Noah Gilman
By Lauren Wong
A much needed break is on the horizon! Having a three day weekend opens up so many opportunities, not only for relaxation, but for travel! If you’re from Arizona and are looking to spend your Labor Day weekend locally, here are some great events to look into.
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway, stay tuned for my next blog post.
When: Sept. 1 - 5
Where: Satsang House, Sedona
Cost: Starting at $999
photo credit, Noah Gilman
Bringing together ancient practices and teachings, Satsang House Sedona Retreats are there to help you reconnect with yourself. From self-care practices, to guided meditations, spiritual discourse, yoga, Drum Circles, Singing Bowl Meditations, and Kiva Ceremonies, your sole focus will be on renewing your mind, body, and spirit.
This 5-day retreat taking place over Labor Day weekend is focused on creating a purposeful life. They hone in on the fact that the pandemic has made us all pause and re-evaluate what is important to us and what gives us purpose. With life on pause, some of us were left feeling that we weren’t living a fulfilled life, so this retreat focuses on finding meaning and purpose as you move forward.
When: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sept. 2 - 5
Where: Wet Deck at W Scottsdale Hotel, Scottsdale
Cost: Free to hotel guests, VIP reservations call (602) 405-0099
Known as being the “hotel that never sleeps,” for its “work hard, party harder,” motto, the W Scottsdale is the perfect place to spend your Labor Day if you’re looking for a non-stop celebration.
Throughout the weekend there will be Star-Spangled Splash pool events accompanied by their resident DJ’s and signature cocktails. With the festivities extending to Monday, you can also catch a break if you need it. Their AWAY Spa and retreat to luxe accommodation rooms will still be available!
When: Sept. 2 - 5
Where: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Phoenix Tempe, Tempe
Cost: $50 membership (price varies depending on time of year)
For anyone who loves science fiction and fantasy, the CoKoCon Convention is a must! It’s back for its fifth year and is capping membership at 500 people, so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance.
During the multi-day event there will be an art show, dealers’ room (similar to Artists’ Alleys at comic cons), gaming, filk, room parties (for promotional events), etc. During the art show you’ll be able to buy or bid on different pieces at an auction. A broad programming track, full of panels, presentations, and other events will also be taking place with a focus on books and authors. The convention will be bringing Joseph Nassise, Linda Addison, Ave Rose, and S.J. Tucker as Guests of Honor. The full event schedule can be found on their website.
When: Sept. 2 - 5
Where: Tucson/Lazydays KOA Resort, Tucson
Cost: Price varies on rates and availability
Get ready for one last weekend of all things summer. Tucson/Lazydays KOA Resort features RVs, tent sites, and lodging options, which can be booked through their website.
The summer blast will feature a 30’ dual slip and slide, tie-dye, games, crafts, a limbo and hula hoop contest, glow train ride, candy bar bingo, and more. You’ll also get to enjoy a pancake breakfast and poolside frozen lemonade and soft pretzels.
When: Sept. 3 - 5
Where: International Kadampa Retreat Center - Grand Canyon
Cost: Starts at $90
Spend your Labor Day weekend with the sole intention of relaxing. With the Kaibab National Forest beside you, learn how to fully relax, (physically and mentally), at the Kadampa World Peace Temple.
Partake in guided meditation and learn how to maintain inner peace for when you leave this magical place and return back to your normal life. You’ll focus on developing peaceful and positive states of mind.
When: 5 - 9 a.m. Sept. 5
Where: Saguaro National Park (East), Tucson
Cost: $50
This year marks the 51st Saguaro National Park Labor Day Run! You can sign up for either the rolling 8-mile race or 5k. Both races will take you through the iconic cactus foothills of the Rincon Mountains located in the East part of the park.
750 runners will be able to participate in the race and post-race festivities that “embrace the spirit of the old Southwest.” The event has been featured once as a Runner’s World Race of the Month.
photo credit, Damion Alexander.
Awards for the top 3 finishers in 5 year age groups of the 8-miler, and 10 year age groups of the 5k will be presented around 8:45 a.m. Proceeds from the event will go to the Friends of Saguaro National Park.
When: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sept. 4 - 5
Where: Skysill Rooftop Lounge, Tempe
Cost: Free entry
Known for being the highest open-air rooftop bar in the Valley, Skysill Rooftop Lounge sits 18 stories above the city. You can just imagine the views that you’ll get as you sip your cocktail of choice in this luxury bar.
Labor Day brings you great deals at Skysill. They’ll be selling $5 Domestic Draft Beers and $25 Truly Buckets. Additionally, from 12 – 5 p.m. there will be a specialty BBQ menu and DJ. Tempe locals are in luck because they’ll get an additional 15% off food and beverages!
