Changing Hands hosts #1 New York Times’ bestselling author Jodi Picoult with her new book, “A Spark of Light,” a novel about ordinary lives that intersect during a heart-stopping crisis. $35.48–40.48. Phoenix College Bulpitt Auditorium, 1202 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix. 7–9 p.m.

It’s Cartwright’s Modern Cuisine’s last tasting of the season! Guest chefs Tamara Stanger of Cotton & Copper, and Craig Plevack of Fire & Foraged join Chef Brett Vibber to showcase Organic Ocean’s wild seafood. Accompanied by local Arizona beer and wine tastings. $40 online; $45 at the door. 6710 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek....

Featuring music from the Harlem Renaissance era of the 1920s and ’30s, Ain't Misbehavin' stars five triple-threat actors who strut, strum and sing the songs made famous by Thomas “Fats” Waller. $37–45. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale, Stage 2. See website for showtimes. 480-499-8587.

Our Lady of Joy Preschool is hosting an open house to meet the teachers, observe classrooms and tour the school campus. 36811 N. Pima Rd., Carefree. 9:30–10:30 a.m. 480-595-6409

Get your hula on at Liberty Station Tavern, formerly Market Street Kitchen in DC Ranch! 20825 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale. 5 p.m. 480-278-7044;

Phoenix Astronomical Society is 70 years old! Kids of all ages will celebrate with demos, activities, lectures and other starry fun. Artwork from local schools and free raffles throughout the night followed by a star party to gaze through the galaxies. Free. Paradise Valley Community College Black Mountain Campus, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 5–10...

It’s happy hour with a wild side at the Phoenix Zoo! Guests 21 and older can sip and stroll select trails while enjoying craft brews, wine and food. Animal encounters, yard games, live music, entertainment and more! $10. 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix. 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Celebrate German-style with three days of live music, brats, and beer and extra fun like dachshund races, keg tappings, karaoke, carnival rides and more. Free. Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe. See website for schedule.

Opa! It’s the longest-running, largest ethnic festival in the Valley! Food, music, dancing, art, activities for children and more at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Community Center. $3; free for children under 12. 1973 E. Maryland Ave., Phoenix. 5 p.m. Oct. 12–8 p.m. Oct. 14.

Hundreds of Valley foodies, wine enthusiasts and the culinary curious will gather under the stars for a night of music, dancing and delectable tastings during the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s 18th Annual Taste of the Town. $65–85. Scottsdale Quarter, 15059 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale. 6–9:30 p.m.