How I Discovered WITCO - The Evolution of a Love Affair
Presented by Sven Kirsten
Peppered with a plethora of Polynesian pop imagery, Sven Kirsten will whisk you to Witco-Land. His initial discovery of Witco led Sven to open his seminal BOOK OF TIKI with a Witco home bar photograph, and inspired the publication of his book TIKI MODERN – the definitive history of this way-out wood-whittling workshop. With previously unseen sketches, catalog pictures, and photos of crazy Witco collections, this presentation will be a joy ride for Witco fans as well as newcomers to this genre.
A love of visuals inspired Sven Kirsten to collect and photograph the remnants of the forgotten culture of Polynesian pop in America, leading him to identify the Tiki as its icon. In 2000, he published his findings in The Book of Tiki, which presented all aspects of Tiki style — its design, graphics, architecture, social culture, culinary and cocktail mixology — and put Tiki firmly on the map of American pop culture. Kirsten followed with Tiki Modern, Tiki Pop, The Art of Tiki and now his most recent book, Palm Springs Tiki.
Hotel Valley Ho Magical History Tour
Presented by Ace Bailey
Did you know that Hotel Valley Ho was once a Hollywood hideaway? In its heyday, the hotel was host to Bing Crosby, Tony Curtis, Janet Leigh, Natalie Wood, and Zsa Zsa Gabor, among others! Designed by acclaimed architectural firm Edward L. Varney Associates, Hotel Valley Ho is considered one of the best-preserved Mid-Century Modern hotels in the country. Explore the hotel’s classic design elements during a 90-minute walking tour of the buildings and grounds with resident historian Ace Bailey.
Ace Bailey has worked in the arts and tourism fields for over 20 years. Prior to establishing Ultimate Art & Cultural Tours she designed and conducted art tours both locally and throughout the Southwest, Seattle, and the Northwest. In 2010, Ace was appointed to the Scottsdale Tourism Development Commission. Currently she hosts the Magical History Tour at the Hotel Valley Ho.
"Hair of the Dog" Bloody Marys & Mimosas
Join us for Bloody Marys & Mimosas in the morning on the SPA DECK!
Mid-Century Modern Bouffants & BeeHives
Presented by Miss Holly Dawn
It is true: the higher the hair, the closer to the Tiki Gods. In this hands-on class, learn how to build volume for your tresses, no matter hair type and length, with the power of teasing and hairspray. Miss Tiki Oasis 2025, Holly Dawn, will also share other ways hair can be made BIG from wiglets, bun fillers, french twist etc. Each student will be able to follow along and do their own hair - please arrive with dry locks!
Miss Holly Dawn, your Miss Tiki Oasis 2025, has been a professional dancer, singer, and actor in the vintage community for 15 years. With a love for retro styles, a taste for good rum, and a passion for that Aloha Spirit, Holly has been hosting local, monthly events in San Diego since 2022. Ask her about her favorite Tiki bar–she’s been to nearly 100!
Before the Birds Sang Words - The Story of Walt Disney's Enchanted Tiki Room
Presented by Ken Bruce
When Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room debuted at Disneyland in 1963 it introduced the magic of Audio-Animatronic technology to the world. This relaxing attraction envelops guests in a colorful menagerie of exotic birds, flowers, Tikis, and catchy sing-along melodies. Join us as we peel back the Tiki Room’s bamboo curtains and take a peek at the blood, sweat, tears, innovation and spell-weaving on a grand scale that led to the creation of this ground-breaking attraction at Disneyland.
Ken Bruce is a two-time Emmy Award-winning animation director and storyboard artist. His story work has appeared in Toy Story 3, UP, Shrek, The Simpsons, Family Guy, and more. A lifelong fan of classic Disney animation and theme park history, his first visit to Disneyland at age five was a formative event, permanently searing into his brain a deep appreciation for the masterfully immersive worlds that Disney and his team of Imagineers dreamed up for a completely new kind of amusement park.
Tropical Tasting #1
During this sit-down event, Arizona Tiki Oasis has curated a unique collection of rum and other spirit brands that are perfect for tropical cocktails! Interact with makers representing new products and some of our old favorites (brand list updated closer to event). Choose between Two Sessions per day – each Tropical Tasting Day (Fri/Sat) is different! Includes your very own complimentary tasting glass! This event is 21+
Arizona Polynesia
Presented by Scott Schell (aka Dustycajun)
Join us for a visually striking and information-packed tour of all things Tiki and Polynesian in Arizona, the Land of the Sun. We will explore the myriad of Tiki and Polynesian style restaurants, bars, hotels, apartments, and homes that once dotted the state. Learn about the famous Tiki carvers, architects, and entertainers who contributed to the scene. We will also review the current Tiki establishments you can explore during your trip to Arizona Tiki Oasis.
With initial inspiration from Sven Kirsten's original "Book of Tiki," Scott Schell, aka Dustycajun, has been an enthusiastic Tiki ephemera collector and researcher for over 25 years. Highlights from Scott's collection have been featured in many Tiki book projects and he contributed several artifacts that were displayed at the "Tiki Pop" exhibit at Quai Branly Museum, Paris.
Vermouth in Paradise: The Unsung Hero of Tropical Cocktails
Presented by Adam Rains
Step into the unexpected world where vermouth meets Tiki! Explore vermouth’s fascinating journey from its 18th-century Italian origins to its essential role in early tropical cocktails. Discover how bartenders like Don the Beachcomber and Trader Vic subtly used vermouth in recipes such as the Cobra’s Fang, and even riffs on the Mai Tai, to add depth, spice, and balance. We’ll taste, mix, and reimagine Tiki classics with vermouth—proving that this “aperitivo spirit” belongs in paradise as much as it does in Piedmont.
Adam Rains is the Head Minister of Tiki & Tiki-Tipples, Explorer, Head Bartender, Chief Administer of Potions & Cocktail Assemblage at the Golden Tiki in Las Vegas. He is the Tiki Rasputin; a Solid Citizen of the Second Tier; Smells of Mutton & Rum, Chicken & Gin; Tiki Attaché & Benefactor to the Arts of the Intoxicant!
Tropical Tasting #2
During this sit-down event, Arizona Tiki Oasis has curated a unique collection of rum and other spirit brands that are perfect for tropical cocktails! Interact with makers representing new products and some of our old favorites (brand list updated closer to event). Choose between Two Sessions per day – each Tropical Tasting Day (Fri/Sat) is different! Includes your very own complimentary tasting glass! This event is 21+
Labubus: A Mid-Mod Origin Story
Presented by Ms Leisure (aka Britnay Ferguson)
Labubus have taken the world by storm; in fact, they are so popular that getting one is nearly impossible. Yet these rubber-faced art dolls aren’t entirely original. This talk explores the history of rubber-face dolls from the 1950s-60s–including those made by the Atlanta-based, female-owned Rushton Company–and examines how these creepy-cute mid-century toys paved the way for today’s Labubu craze.
Ms. Leisure is an Atlanta-based puppeteer and mid-mod enthusiast. She is a regular speaker at Dragon Con, where she weaves together narratives of pop culture, science, and history. As an active member of Atlanta’s puppetry community, Ms. Leisure has fabricated puppets for numerous productions. Her passion for puppets extends to mid-century rubber-faced dolls and their surprising connection to the modern Labubu craze.
What the Rum?! Pairing Rums with the Perfect Cocktails
Presented by Captain David
Having a rum conundrum? Have you been gifted a new bottle of rum and wondered what to shake it with? Maybe there’s a bottle collecting dust in the back of your liquor cabinet that you’ve never known how to use? Never fear, Captain David is here with this fascinating and informative seminar which will dive into simple classic Tiki Cocktail recipes and unpack which rums pair best and why.
With over 20 years of hospitality and bar experience, Captain David has been recognized as one of the premier bartenders in Arizona. Widely recognized for his diverse knowledge of classic, mid-century and tropical cocktails, David (in partnership with Dana Mule of HULA'S Modern Tiki) created The Captain's Cabin in 2018. The Captain's Cabin has received several national accolades as one of the best places to grab a cocktail in the U.S.
The Aloha Coat: History of Sandwich Isles Sportswear
Presented by Kenn Watson
Little information has been compiled on the men’s fashion line Sandwich Isles Sportswear from the Malia brand of Honolulu, until now. Kenn Watson has excavated long forgotten archives and collected first-hand family stories to reveal the rich and colorful past of Malia (also known as Malia-Hawaii and Malia-Honolulu) the brand behind the beloved Aloha Coat. Watson will take you on a journey to the “Isle with Tropical Style” where he will share all the history of this unique Hawaiian fashion brand with special focus on the Sandwich Isles Sportswear line. Attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite Aloha Sportscoats or other Malia designed clothing for a colorful group photo!
Sponsored by
Kenn Watson is a devoted father and husband, creative designer, adventurous carver of wood, and an enthusiastic collector of Aloha fashions from the 1960s and 70s. He has taken his passion for all of these characteristics and blended them into a compelling exploration of the Aloha Coat. His research has led him to befriend the founding family of the Malia-Hawaii brand and become the de facto expert on the Sandwich Isles brand.
Delights of the Desert
Presented by Julio "Jules" Gutierrez
Be inspired by desert life and culture with Julio "Jules" Gutierrez, AKA Chuntikis. Chuntikis shares his knowledge of spirits from the desert, including agaves, bacanora, sotol, and more. He discusses the unique tastes of desert spirits and shares tips about how to use them in delicious tropical cocktails. As a first generation Mexican-American with roots descending from the Sonoran Desert, this taste adventure includes suggestions of desert locations to visit where you can find your own (Tiki) oasis. Note: must be 21+ to attend. Includes cocktail samples.
Sponsored by
Julio "Jules" Gutierrez is a passionate curator, mixologist, and cultural enthusiast. Drawing upon his Mexican heritage, Gutierrez created a pop-up bar, Chuntikis, in Long Beach, California where he blends vibrant tropical cocktail culture with a deep appreciation for Latino and immigrant history. Through Chuntikis, Gutierrez showcases his storytelling and celebrates his Mexican and Native roots, providing an immersive sensory experience. His notable media coverage includes: inclusion on the Imbibe 75 list; local LA Fox 11 News; Long Beach Post; Spectrum News; KCRW ‘Good Food’; and more.
Pathways to the Pacific: Asian American Tiki culture
Presented by Jason Doo
Join this enlightening seminar on the significant contributions of Asian Americans to Tiki culture. Doo will explore how Asian Americans, particularly those working in Tiki bars and Chinese restaurants, popularized tropical cocktails in suburban America. Discover the pivotal role suburban Chinese restaurants played in introducing the general public to Tiki culture, blending strong drinks and unique presentation with Cantonese cuisine. This seminar highlights the cultural fusion that created iconic Tiki experiences, celebrating the creativity and influence of Asian Americans from the dark age of Tiki through today.
Sponsored by
Chef Jason Doo owns Wusong Tiki Bar in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Growing up in his parents' Chinese American restaurant, he was surrounded by classic Tiki culture. After working in Michelin-starred restaurants and in Asia, he returned home to open Wusong Tiki Bar. It has been named one of Boston’s best bars, one of People Magazine’s most beautiful restaurants, and a top Massachusetts restaurant by Condé Nast Traveler Magazine, and is the leading non-package distributor of Jamaican rum in the USA.
The Secret of the Seven Cocktails
Presented by Scott "Cush" Cushman
Scott "Cush" Cushman is ready to reveal all the secrets! Want to whip up the perfect cocktail in your home bar? Want to have a deeper understanding of cocktail archetypes? In this seminar, Cush unlocks the "Secret of the Seven Cocktails" (with samples!), explores the history of how each of the seven cocktails came to be, and unveils how you can use these blueprints to create perfect tropical libations. Note: must be 21+ to attend. Includes cocktail samples.
Sponsored by
After leaving his job as head of beverage for a large LA based bar company, Scott "Cush" Cushman started his show Dr. Cush's Exotic Drinks on YouTube and hosted MIX Cocktail Hour on the Hungry Channel. He invites the world to his virtual bar three nights a week to discuss history, technique and recipes. Cushman has won several bartending awards and has taught mixology for over 10 years.
Tropical Tasting #1
Sponsored by HULA’s Modern Tiki
Tropical Tasting #1 - Arizona Tiki Oasis has curated a unique collection of liquid delights! Interact with makers representing new products and some of our old favorites. Featuring Jim Beam Pineapple Bourbon Whiskey, Liquid Alchemist Natural Cocktail Syrups, Mount Gay Rum, Ron Barcelo, Tequila Corrido, & Kona Bar Chocolates. Includes your very own complimentary tasting glass!
This event is 21+.
Skipper Kent and Stephen Crane: Unsung heroes of Tiki Empires
Presented by Scott Schell (aka Dustycajun)
Learn how authentic South Seas adventurer and Tiki bar pioneer Frank "Skipper" Kent enabled Stephen Crane to become the successor to the title of Tiki King of America. Kent opened The Skipper, Zombie Village, and Skipper Kent's, going toe to toe with Trader Vic in the Bay Area and beyond. Kent eventually opened seven establishments. The Skipper then set up Crane to expand across America competing with Vic and Don the Beachcomber, opening seven over-the-top restaurants attached to a major hotel chain.
Sponsored by
Scott Schell, aka Dustycajun, has been an enthusiastic Tiki ephemera collector and researcher for over 25 years, inspired by Sven Kirsten's original Book of Tiki. Highlights from Scott's collection have been featured in many Tiki book projects and he contributed a number of artifacts displayed at the Tiki Pop exhibit at Quai Branly Museum, Paris.
Sexitecture: Female Architects of the Southwest
Presented by CyndeLicious
Sexitecture envelops your body, delights your senses, and tickles your fancy! Learn about the world of Southwest architecture through the feminist lens of CyndeLicious’ all-seeing eye! CyndeLicious will take you on a tour of still standing, historic buildings designed by women architects of the Southwest, including Mary Colter, Judith Chafee, Anne Rysdale, Annie Graham Rockfellow and others!
CyndeLicious is an eternal student of architectural history and is currently studying to become a licensed architect. CyndeLicious is a former pin-up photo model winning many contests in Los Angeles and San Francisco including Glamourcon's Bettie Page Look-Alike Contest! CyndeLicious has a degree in Architecture at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and a Master’s degree in City and Regional Planning. She is currently serving on the board of directors of the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).
Hotel Valley Ho Magical history Tour
Presented by Ace Bailey
Did you know that Hotel Valley Ho was once a Hollywood hideaway? In its heyday, the hotel was host to Bing Crosby, Tony Curtis, Janet Leigh, Natalie Wood, and Zsa Zsa Gabor, among others! Designed by acclaimed architectural firm Edward L. Varney Associates, Hotel Valley Ho is considered one of the best-preserved Mid-Century Modern hotels in the country. Explore the hotel’s classic design elements during a 90-minute walking tour of the buildings and grounds with resident historian Ace Bailey.
Ace Bailey has worked in the arts and tourism fields for over 20 years. Prior to establishing Ultimate Art & Cultural Tours she designed and conducted art tours both locally and throughout the Southwest, Seattle, and the Northwest. In 2010, Ace was appointed to the Scottsdale Tourism Development Commission. Currently she hosts the Magical History Tour at the Hotel Valley Ho.
Tiki Topper: Creating a Tropical Headpiece
Presented by Kristen James & Jenniffer Watson
Create your own tropical headpiece in a fun, hands-on workshop led by designers Kristen James (aka Piña Colletta) and Jenniffer Watson. Choose between a clip or headband style and enjoy a vibrant selection of artificial tropical flowers, drink umbrellas, and stir sticks to make a fabulous wearable creation. Supplies such as glue guns, glue sticks, clips, felt pads, flowers, and other accessories will be provided. Attendees are welcome to bring their own swizzlesticks or other embellishments to personalize their design!
Kristen James and Jenniffer Watson are excited to share their hands-on crafty knowledge at Arizona Tiki Oasis. James’ passion for Tiki culture began on her honeymoon in Hawaii 20 years ago, sparking her collection of Tiki masks, floral creations and more. Watson is currently bringing her fresh creativity to planning her own Tiki-themed wedding. Together, they’ll teach you how to craft your own unique tropical inspired headpiece, perfect for adding that special flair to any occasion!
Palm Springs Tiki: Digging deep into the desert
Presented by Sven Kirsten
For every image selected for a visual book like Palm Springs Tiki there are a dozen more that don't make it. For every tall Tiki tale there are side stories that get cut for space reasons. Follow Sven Kirsten down the unpublished paths of Palm Springs Polynesia with stories like: The Wondrous World of Theme Restaurant Designers Pat & Lou Sawyer; The Silly Socialite Stylings of the Palm Springs set featuring the Chi Chi's Hat Parade; Murder and Mayhem in Motel Land with Ken Kimes’ Killer Family; and more!
Sponsored by
A love of visuals inspired Sven Kirsten to collect and photograph the remnants of the forgotten culture of Polynesian pop in America, leading him to identify the Tiki as its icon. In 2000, he published his findings in The Book of Tiki, which presented all aspects of Tiki style — its design, graphics, architecture, social culture, culinary and cocktail mixology — and put Tiki firmly on the map of American pop culture. Kirsten followed with Tiki Modern, Tiki Pop, The Art of Tiki and now his most recent book, Palm Springs Tiki.
Tropical Tasting #2
Sponsored by HULA’s Modern Tiki
Tropical Tasting #2 - Arizona Tiki Oasis has curated a unique collection of liquid delights! Interact with makers representing new products and some of our old favorites. Featuring Jim Beam Pineapple Bourbon Whiskey, Liquid Alchemist Natural Cocktail Syrups, Mount Gay Rum, Ron Barcelo, Tequila Corrido, & Kona Bar Chocolates. Includes your very own complimentary tasting glass!
This event is 21+.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO HOST A SEMINAR AT AZTO 2026?
Seminars are all ages except for those noted as 21+
Please note that no ‘babes in arms’ are allowed in 21+ seminars
Purchasing seminar tickets are ala carte - you do not have to purchase an evening resort pass to attend our daytime seminars.
