Some of the best local restaurants are prepped to wow event-goers with exceptional tastes of the Valley. Music by Elvis Before Noon. $100 in advance; $125 at the door. 9701 E. Bell Rd., Scottsdale. 6 to 10 p.m. ndpsaints.org

It’s time for families and veterans at Cave Creek Museum with fun, fascinating and exciting programs guaranteed to interest all ages. Free for museum members; $5 for non-members. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Dr., Cave Creek. 1:30 to 3 p.m. RSVP 480-488-2764; cavecreekmuseum.org

Enjoy blacksmith demos, watch a run of the Golden Reef Stamp Mill, pan for gold, bid for fun and amazing silent auction items, then settle down for a delicious all-you-can-eat chuck wagon dinner while tapping your toes to the stylings of cowboy balladeer Mike Ewing. $55 per person. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Dr.,...

Benefiting Special Olympics Arizona, this event brings tasty food, celebrity chefs and local personalities together for a culinary paradise. $60–$100. The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, 6902 E. Greenway Pkwy., Scottsdale. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. phxcooks.com

Learn more about the history of chocolate and cacao and how it can improve your health. Raw vegan chef and author Haley Cloud will present a live demonstration and chocolate truffle samples. Space is limited. $10. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Rd., Cave Creek. 2 to 3 p.m. RSVP 480-488-2286; dfla.org

November 16 Galleries will be full of energy as multiple world-class painters, sculptors and other artisans give live demonstrations. Free. Scottsdale Art District, Main St. from Scottsdale Rd. to Goldwater Blvd. and north on Marshall Way. 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. scottsdalegalleries.com

Industry has had a significant impact on indigenous people and their sacred lands. Cable television channel Viceland’s series “Abandoned and Rise” visits Arizona to investigate the role industry has played in indigenous communities. Rise host Sarain Fox will join viewers for a discussion after the screening. Members $4; non-members $7. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art,...

Nov. 17–19 It’s time again for Arizona’s largest and longest-running artist studio tour. Take a self-guided tour through the studios of some of Arizona’s most talented artists. Free. See website for map locations. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 480-575-6624; hiddeninthehills.org

November 17, 18 Hand-forged sterling silver jewelry from local artist Jennifer Hanscom is infused with positive energy and intentions and will be featured at this unique trunk show. No admission. Etania Jewelry & Boutique, 6140 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek. 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 602-429-0505.

November 18–26 Mythical mermaids are coming to OdySea Aquarium! Check website for hours and admission. OdySea Aquarium, 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale. 480-291-8000; odyseaaquarium.com