Visit Boyce Thompson Arboretum for the desert's Fall Foliage Festival

The turning of the leaves draws leaf peepers from all over the country to the New England States each October.

But did you know that you can also see the turning of the leaves at Boyce Thompson Arboretum, an Arizona State park 55 miles east of Phoenix?

The leaves turn later in the desert than they do in New England, usually in November, and the peak time for the colorful Chinese pistachios, sycamores, and others comes around Thanksgiving.

The arboretum hosts a two-day Fall festival Thanksgiving weekend featuring live music, arts and crafts booths under the trees, and that typical New England treat, hot spiced cider to warm your innards as you wander the Arboretum's grounds and enjoy the scenery.

The festival takes place from 11 AM to 3 PM November 26-27 at the Arboretum, 37615 U.S. Highway 60, Superior. $9 adults, $4.50 kids ages 5 to 12, free for kids 4 and younger. Call (520) 689-2811 for more info. or go online to the Arboretum's website.