The Big Ideas Forum, discussing new technologies and their impact on our lives, begins  its fourth year. Discussions are held every other Thursday. Subjects announced in ACC’s monthly resource guide. Free. Anthem Community Center, 3701 W. Anthem Way, Anthem. 7–8:30 p.m. bigideasforum.info

Enjoy an opening artists’ reception for abstract encaustic artist Gabriella Aguilo and provocative pastel artist Katharine Gould. Works on display through Sept. 30. Free. Lanning, a Bryant Nagel Gallery, 431 SR 179, A1-2, at Hozho, Sedona. 5–8 p.m. 928-282-6865; lanninggallery.com

1st Fridays in the Galleries is an excellent way to browse some of the best art available in Arizona in the gorgeous shadow of the red rocks. Light refreshments and music available. Free. See website for featured receptions and special exhibits. 5–8 p.m. sedonagalleryassociation.com

Wine and appetizers are always best with fine art, and there’s no better way to enjoy all three than at an opening artist reception for Larry Yazzie at Sedona’s Turquoise Tortoise Gallery. Meet this esteemed, award-winning Navajo sculptor. Free. Turquoise Tortoise, a Bryant Nagel Gallery, 431 SR 179, A3, at Hozho, Sedona. 5–8 p.m. 928-282-2262;...

Explore the city by using ArtLink’s map feature or calendar listings to tour art galleries, cultural venues and more. Free. See website for details. 6–10 p.m. artlinkphx.org

Step into ArtLink’s final Artist Studio Tour of the year! This one features Coe House, Howland Studio and Studios at The Artery. $15. Start location TBD. 10 a.m.–noon. artlinkphx.org

You’ll ‘bearly’ be able to stand all the joy you will find at at the 14th Annual Teddy Bear Day in downtown Glendale! Stuffed with fun events, Bears & More, Gracie’s Marketplace and The Astrology Store will be selling teddy bears for $10; proceeds benefit local trauma teddy programs, first responders and emergency rooms. Free....

Join a celebration of Mexican Independence Day in Sedona’s Tlaquepaque. Fabulous food, music, dance, mariachis and entertainment for young and old. Free. Free trolley service from Sedona Municipal parking lot at 260 Schnebly Rd., Sedona. Tlaquepaque, 336 SR 179, Sedona. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. 928-282-4838; tlaq.com

The Arboretum at Flagstaff showcases AZ wineries and local eateries among the glorious gardens at The Arboretum. $35–$45. 4001 S. Woody Mountain Rd., Flagstaff. 1–5 p.m. thearb.org

Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein 200 years ago, at a time when books and tea went together like milk and honey. Step into the fun of the past at the English Rose Tea Room. Dress up in your favorite Victorian or gothic costume and hear a modern-day Mary read from her novel. Fifty percent of proceeds...