The city of Goodyear will host a music and arts festival Saturday at the Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater, featuring five live bands, artisan vendors and food trucks as part of a broader push to build community gathering spaces.
The event is scheduled Saturday, March 21. 4 to 10 p.m. and will be headlined by pop-rock band Plain White T’s. Other performers include Hyperbella, Plum, Honeygirl and Sundressed, spanning genres from neo-soul and rock to country and indie.
Festivalgoers can also expect giant lawn games and a beer garden sponsored by Saddle Mountain Brewing Company.
City leaders say the event reflects ongoing efforts across the West Valley to create spaces that foster connection among residents.
“I think it's important to create a sense of community, and I think it's important people feel pride in their community,” said Joe Pizzillo in a recent address. “When they feel pride in their community, they like going out and enjoying the events we have.”
The festival comes as forecasters warn of dangerous heat across the region. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch through Sunday for parts of the West Valley, including Goodyear, with temperatures forcasted at 106 degrees.
Health officials say such conditions can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be life-threatening.
“Heat deaths are preventable,” said Dr. Nick Staab, chief medical officer for the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. “Last year’s decline in heat-related deaths shows that coordinated, community-based efforts work. But the danger of extreme heat remains very real.”
Officials urge residents attending outdoor events to drink plenty of water, wear lightweight clothing and avoid strenuous activity during peak afternoon heat.
City officials also noted that the Goodyear Library is available as a cooling center during regular hours. Animal welfare experts with the Arizona Humane Society advise limiting pets’ outdoor activity and avoiding hot pavement.
Authorities also warned never to leave children or pets in parked vehicles, where temperatures can quickly become deadly. Residents can find additional heat relief resources by calling 2-1-1 or visiting regional assistance websites.
Meet James James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.
Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.
Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English.
Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.
Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.
By 
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here