November 15–January 14 Arizona’s largest holiday drive-through light spectacular is coming to North Phoenix! This more-than-one-mile driving attraction immerses visitors in millions of holiday lights carefully synchronized to joyful holiday classics. A portion of profits will go to Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Advanced tickets $29.50+ per car; optional walking exhibit an additional $10 per car. 27701...

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

’Tis the season to be jolly with North Valley Symphony Orchestra, as they present a charming evening and matinee performance of seasonal favorites. $5. North Canyon High School Performing Arts Center, 1700 E. Union Hills Dr. 7 p.m. Dec. 16; 3 p.m. Dec. 17. northvalleysymphony.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

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