What to see at Scottsdale's Canal Convergence before it ends
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A magical stroll by the waterfront, thanks to Canal Convergence. Photo: Gitanjali Poonia.
Of all the dazzling installations at Canal Convergence, I keep coming back to "KaKtos," a forest of 10 giant inflatable cactuses by Australian studio Amigo & Amigo.
Why it matters: It's playful, colorful and wonderfully strange.
The vibe: A cactus is such a familiar Scottsdale sight, but seeing these oversized versions glowing beside the canal, with their reflections shimmering in the water, is like a surreal desert mirage.
Another worthy stop is "The Way the West Was Sold," a cash-free blackjack game run by Old West snake-oil salesmen.
- You can wager trinkets, stories or favors.
- If you keep walking down the canal, you will encounter the game again, except this time, vintage TVs show other people playing.
- You can sit on a couch and watch the live feed. Just like that, you're a part of this art piece.
If you go: Time your walk to catch the "Western Fire Garden" shows at 6:30, 7:30 or 8:30pm, when the glowing desert scene comes alive with fire and music.
The big picture: This year's free festival celebrates "Western Nature" with 11 light-based artworks, nightly fire shows, performances and hands-on activities along the Scottsdale Waterfront.
- It runs through Nov. 15.