Yelp Tucson is inviting locals to turn their love of food and community into hands-on experiences with its monthlong Dinner Party Series, a lineup of free events at beloved local businesses through the end of August.

The series features nine free events at locally owned businesses, designed to help Tucson foodies connect and give back to the community. Any Yelp account holder over 21 can RSVP on the Yelp website.

Yelp describes the event as a “deconstructed dinner party” where guests will partake in events that highlight various elements of hosting.

From salsa-making and drink sampling at Guadalajara Grill to enjoying dog-friendly treats at Bark ‘n Berry, each event offers a different way to engage with the community.

All participating business partners are locally owned businesses, many of them women and minority owned. The series also marks 20 years of Yelp's Elite Squad, made up of users recognized for their reviews, photos, and engagement.

Participation in the series also supports Interfaith Community Services’ fall food drive, with each event doubling as an opportunity to donate.

“We are really excited. We’ve had it on our calendar for a while, so we are pretty pumped about this opportunity,” Prep & Pastry General Manager Hannah Frisina told Tucson Spotlight.

Di Luna Candles and Goods is partnering with Prep & Pastry to host a candle-painting experience on Aug. 21 and Aug. 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Attendees should RSVP for only one date, as spots at the “Wicks, Drinks and Delights” events are limited.

The menu will include bite-sized appetizers like fruit skewers, caprese skewers and charcuterie.

Celena Santa Cruz, owner of Bark ‘n Berry dog ice cream parlor, reached out to Yelp after seeing a similar ice cream social event in Phoenix.

“I knew we needed one here,” Santa Cruz said.

Bark ‘n Berry is kicking off its participation in the series with a drop-in “Ice Cream Pawty” on Aug. 24, featuring a doggy ice cream bar, photo opportunities and more.

During Bark ‘n Berry’s “Cones for Canines” event, from Aug. 27 to 31, pet owners can receive a complimentary order of scoops and toppings for their pup.

During the events, customers can learn more about the store and the work it does with the community. Bark ‘n Berry opened on March 1 and has regularly hosted toy drives and fundraisers for various rescue groups.

“It’s one of our biggest collaborations we have done so far,” Santa Cruz said. “It’s going to be hectic and really, really fun.”

The series also includes events at Bloom Maven near the MSA Annex, Tinajas Wine & Beer in the Foothills and Guadalajara Grill’s Marana and Broadway locations.

For those looking to brush up on their hosting skills, Bloom Maven is hosting a “Feast and Foliage” tablescape experience on Aug. 20. Owner and design maven Akiko Senda will share her secrets for tablescape and centerpiece ideas. Attendees will enjoy light refreshments and leave with fresh tips and creative tricks to help elevate any gathering.

Tinajas’ “Wine & Bites” event is running through Aug. 15, with attendees invited to drop in and enjoy two free 3-ounce pours and two pre-selected snacks.

On Aug. 25, Tinajas is hosting a “Palate Play” wine night from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., featuring sips, social vibes and light bites.

On Saturday, Guadalajara Grill at Arizona Pavilions will host “Loterias, Libations and Bites,” where guests will sample foods and play a game of Mexican bingo.

The series will wrap up on Aug. 30, with a salsa and tequila tasting at Guadalajara’s Broadway location. Attendees will get an inside look into the process of making the restaurant’s legendary salsa.

Yelp hopes to help bridge the digital divide with the events and help community members learn more about local businesses while gaining in-person skills from industry experts.

The events do not include a plus-one. Attendees can find details and RSVP for individual events on the Yelp website.

Macy Hernandez is a journalism and business administration major at the University of Arizona and Tucson Spotlight intern. Contact her at macyhernandez@arizona.edu.

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