A day of fun, March 19 will bring people together with great food, classic cars, and one-of-a-kind entertainment with “little doggy” races. The event was postponed last year because of COVID-19.
The Chihuahua Festival and Lil’ Doggy Races,
10 a.m.-1 p.m.
One of the more popular events in the region returns with a few new twists. The event will focus more on pet and adoption services with Pinal County Animal Services, but the fun part is the small breeds of dogs competing for the Fastest on Four Little Legs trophy and prize money — $250 for first place.
Entry fee is a monetary donation or canned goods that will go to the Maricopa Pantry, which often provides pet food for families. The first 15 who register through the Eventbrite.com link will automatically be eligible to “compete.” Anyone who registers at the event itself has to qualify for the final spot — that means running and getting the best time out of two attempts.
Two dogs at a time will compete; best two of three, per race. This year’s twist, adding obstacles and “distractions” to level out the field. The final race will be best three out of five.
“What makes the race unique is that there’s not a specific type of person who owns a little dog!” says David Trujillo, operations manager, Ak-Chin Entertainment Center. “The reaction is awesome as they scream and yell and cheer on the dogs, and you can actually see the pure joy on their face. It’s also cool to watch people size dogs up and give their opinions on how they will do, and it’s always a toss-up no matter what you think. The dogs do their own thing!”
So “big dogs” don’t feel left out, there is always a costume contest open to any dog for a $100 prize.
Central Arizona Food Truck Battle,
11 a.m.-3 p.m.
In this event, high profile and local favorites will “battle” through food sales and through the judges.
The judges will be local restaurant owners and sponsors. Twenty trucks are projected to be a part of this event with trophies for People’s Choice and Judges’ Choice. As part of the strategy, trucks will have to figure out whether they want to push out higher volume at a cheaper cost, or go high dollar with their most popular item.
Accounting Advocates, a local tax service firm, will ensure fairness and track sales. It will be imperative for the trucks to get their following to support them.
The Maricopa Real Estate Co. and Nova Home Loans are title event sponsors.
“We’ve seen the smiles the trucks bring, and it is just awesome to be able to have such a variety where there’s something for everyone,” says Brady Murray, The Maricopa Real Estate Co.
Pinal County Business Expo,
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
This event is for all entrepreneurs looking to connect with the community and to network. Artisans, crafters, direct marketing businesses also are invited to promote their work.
“It will give everyone an opportunity to showcase themselves, develop some new relationships with fellow business owners and potential customers,” says Angel Raymond of AA Raymond Law. AA Raymond Law is the title sponsor for the event.
Each registering business will receive space up to a 12×12 canopy. They will be allowed to sell or just give away marketing prizes. Nonprofits will be allowed at no cost provided they bring activities, games or “swag” for the children.
Also, local networking groups will be given the opportunity to pull together and be involved as sponsors, showcasing what they are doing to promote business and shop local initiatives.
Those entrepreneurs and business owners looking to register can go online to www.eventbrite.com.
Central Arizona Car and Bike Show,
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Classic cars, motorcycles, muscle cars, lowriders, modified streetcars, classic trucks and the most unique will be showcased. This event draws the best of the best from the region. Reed Classic Motor Company will host it — along with a few car clubs as part of the judging process.
Best in Show will receive $500 in cash along with the trophy. Organizers are in the process of creating the different categories. All categories will have a cash prize and trophy.
Title sponsors for the event are 911 Air Repair and AZ Quality Plumbing.
Luis Ascencio, owner of AZ Quality Plumbing, says, “I am a fan of the lowriders and classic cars, and these shows can be inspiring for a guy like me who is looking forward to the days when I can cruise in style!”
Check-ins will begin at 7 a.m. Those who pre-register will get a discount and a breakfast empanada from OG’z Food Truck and free coffee from Honeycutt Coffee. Registrations are on www.eventbrite.com.
