Sedona Cultural Park is the place to be from May to October. This spectacular outdoor 5,000 seat amphitheater presents such stars as Vince Gill, LeAnn Rimes and Norah Jones plus music festivals and Sedona Jazz on the Rocks. Performing arts under the stars in red rock country is unforgettable. Check Sedona Cultural Park website for events that coincide with your visit to Sedona and also for what can and cannot be brought into the Park for events.

The Cultural Park also rates a day visit. Picnic tables are free to visitors year-round and the compelling Generations sculpture garden presents a series of human figures interspersed along the wooded trails. And this is a good place to set off on a hike- the easy Centennial Trail starts at the Ramada at the farthest parking area. The moderate Girdner Trail (3 miles one way) also begins at this point. Be sure to have a Red Rock Pass for your car and carry plenty of water.

Sedona Cultural Park is located in West Sedona on Cultural Park Place off Hwy 89A.

Tip: The West Gateway Visitor Center is on the left as you turn onto Cultural Park Place.

The Shakespeare Sedona Institute, a summer theatre training program, brings the Bard’s characters to life. You can view this season’s talented cast on stage at Red Rock High School on Upper Red Rock Loop Rd. An added bonus is the reasonable ticket prices.

Canyon Moon Theatre Company is a happening venue all year. This professional regional theatre company presents everything from poetry slams and acting classes to musical events and Broadway plays. They are located in West Sedona in the Old Marketplace on Hwy89A.

Chamber music enthusiasts are entertained fall through spring, including a week-long festival, by Chamber Music Sedona. Artists such as Carlos Nakai and the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center have appeared in previous concerts. Most performances are held in St. John Vianney Church at 180 Soldier’s Pass Rd.

If your visit to Sedona coincides with the annual Sedona Independent Film Festival you are in luck. Participants can view independent films produced around the world, sit with the experts in cutting-edge workshops and meet and celebrate with other film aficionados. The 2004 festival and workshop are planned for March 5 – March 7.