Michael’s Cafe has become known as a central Phoenix destination for both soul food and live music. But wait, there’s more. Michael’s is hosting two July events that will surely delight the taste buds of all in attendance.

Michael’s presents Mix & Mingle Wine Tasting with jazz by DJ Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m. Wines include Canyon Oaks Moscato, Anakena Chardonnay, Cellarmaster’s Riesling, Fizz56 Brachetto Spumante and Gnarly Head Authentic Red. Cheese, crackers, fruit, salad, chocolate meatballs and more will be available for pairings. Cost is $20 in advance and $30 at the door. Save your spot and RSVP here.

Michael’s is hosting the first-ever “Best BBQ in the Valley Challenge” July 29 from 4 to 8 p.m. Bring your grilling gear, your finest marinades, your meat (beef, pork and chicken categories) and find a spot in the parking lot. Judging will be based on taste and presentation with 1st, 2nd and 3rd place cash prizes as well as one overall People’s Choice Award. Cost is $25 to enter and includes booth, table and tasting utensils for setup. For more information, call Tyrone at Michael’s Cafe at (602) 248-2233.

For more information on Michael’s menu, karaoke, live music and other specials, visit the website or follow them on Facebook.

Although it’s an entire season away, we have news regarding the Arizona State Fair that will be the topic of conversation for months to come.

The 2012 fair is scheduled set for October 12 through November 4 with the fair’s annual concert series scheduled for various nights of the week.

This is your chance to see artists from all genres live at the Veteran’s Memorial Colosseum for free (general admission section) with the purchase of fair admission. Upgraded tickets are also available.

This year’s artists have just been released, here’s the lineup:

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Unless you know someone in the Valley with a time machine disguised as a 1981 DeLorean or plan on buying a pair of Nike’s $37,000 Marty McFly shoes, we recommend you celebrate the past as well as the future by attending “Mack’s Back to the Future” party Saturday.

The event, hosted by Iguana Mack’s in Chandler, will commemorate the staff, drink specials and games that made the East Valley roadhouse famous over the past 10 years, while welcoming a new menu and a new look under the new management.

Participate in live lizard races, beer pong, flip cup, beer chugging, cornhole and hoverboard racing (you wish) beginning at 11 a.m. Prizes will be given away all day. Live music by local bands (sorry, not The Pinheads) kicks off at noon, followed by a patio barbecue and drink specials beginning at 1 p.m. Guest DJ’s, drink specials and games will continue until close (which, of course, is when need the time machine).

So, set your Casio digital calculator watches because the past, er, the party is something you won’t want to miss.

Civic Space Park's summer concert series (and yoga) take place every Thursday through August. Photo courtesy of the City of Phoenix.

Hot summer evenings mix well with dinner out, shopping and, of course, music (not to mention cocktails). So, when the unforgiving sun begins to set and talk of dinner ensues, remember this season provides a unique opportunity to catch live music in a variety of unique venues. Behold the local concert series list:

Civic Space Park: Enjoy yoga and live music for free every Thursday through August. Yoga for all ages takes place from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and live music from 7:30 to 9 p.m. June dates feature reggae, jazz and R&B.

Desert Ridge Marketplace: Artists perform Fridays and Saturdays from 7 to 10 p.m. on the District Stage or from 7 to 9 p.m. at the AMC Fountain. With genres ranging from Irish celtic to alternative (and instruments including the accordion and keyboard) the variety here will suit even the most eclectic tastes.

Tempe Marketplace: Artists perform Fridays and Saturdays from 7 to 10 p.m. on the District Stage or from 7 to 9 p.m. at the B&N Fountain. Whether it’s jazz, funk or acoustic guitar you’re after, you will find it here (and possibly discover a new favorite). »READ MORE