Local music favorites to help celebrate Tempe’s 150th birthday

PHOENIX – Tempe turns 150 this year, and there’s going to be quite a party.

The Tempe 150 Sesquicentennial Celebration is set for noon-6 p.m. on Nov. 7 with free festivities on the south side of Tempe Town Lake at Tempe Beach Park and Tempe Art Park.

Technically, Tempe wasn’t incorporated until 1894, according to the East Valley suburb’s website. But 1871, when Charles Hayden built the first building on his homestead, is commonly accepted as the year the city was established.

The celebration includes concerts at each park, featuring big names from the city’s rich musical history, along with plenty of hands-on activities for all ages.

Punk legends the Meat Puppets top the bill in the 5 p.m. slot on the Tempe Favorites Stage at Tempe Beach Park. They’ll be preceded by Hans Olson (noon), Sandra Bassett Band (with a Stevie Wonder tribute set, 1 p.m.), Walt Richardson (2 p.m.), The Sugar Thieves (3 p.m.) and Banana Gun (4 p.m.).

Music on the Americana Stage at Tempe Arts Park will range from bluegrass to mariachi to jazz.

Both parks will have food and drink vendors.

Visit the event’s website for more details.

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