Events
A Year-Round Guide for 2026
Phoenix, the capital of Arizona, is a city known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse events calendar. This desert metropolis hosts an array of events throughout the year, ranging from cultural festivals and music concerts to sports events and art exhibitions. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there’s always something exciting happening in Phoenix that showcases its unique charm and appeal. This guide will take you through the events occurring in Phoenix from January 2026 to December 2026, providing detailed information on what makes each event special, how to attend, and tips to enhance your experience.
January
Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction
Dates: January 17–25, 2026
Location: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Contact Information: Check the official Barrett-Jackson website for current ticket and event details.
Description: The Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction is one of the most famous collector car auctions in the world. It brings together classic cars, rare vehicles, luxury automobiles, automotive memorabilia, live auctions, and vendor exhibits.
Highlights and Features: Collector cars, live auction action, rare automobiles, automobilia, vendor displays, and VIP experiences.
Tickets: Prices vary by day and package. Purchase tickets through the official event website.
Insider Tips: Attend on a weekday for lighter crowds. Wear comfortable shoes because the event area is large.
Rock 'n' Roll Arizona Marathon
Dates: January 17–18, 2026
Location: Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale areas
Contact Information: Check the official Rock ’n’ Roll Running Series website for race registration and route details.
Description: The Rock ’n’ Roll Arizona Marathon combines running, live music, entertainment, and community energy across scenic Valley routes. It includes multiple race distances for different skill levels.
Highlights and Features: Marathon weekend, live bands, cheer zones, race expo, and finish-line festival.
Tickets: Registration fees vary by race distance and registration date.
Insider Tips: Book lodging early if you want to stay near the start or finish area.
Arizona Balloon Classic
Dates: January 16–18, 2026
Location: Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds, Chandler, AZ
Contact Information: Check the official Arizona Balloon Classic website for updated details.
Description: The Arizona Balloon Classic fills the desert sky with colorful hot air balloons, morning launches, evening balloon glows, food vendors, entertainment, and family activities.
Highlights and Features: Hot air balloon launches, balloon glows, food trucks, live entertainment, and family-friendly attractions.
Tickets: Ticket prices vary by day and package.
Insider Tips: Arrive early for morning balloon launches. Bring a jacket because January mornings can be cold in the desert.
February
Waste Management Phoenix Open
Dates: February 3–8, 2026
Location: TPC Scottsdale, 17020 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Contact Information: Check the official WM Phoenix Open website for ticket details.
Description: Known as “The Greatest Show on Grass,” the WM Phoenix Open is one of the most popular PGA TOUR events of the year. Fans come for championship golf, the famous 16th hole, hospitality venues, and the energetic Scottsdale atmosphere.
Highlights and Features: PGA TOUR golf, 16th hole stadium, fan zones, hospitality areas, and tournament-week entertainment.
Tickets: Ticket prices vary by day and access level.
Insider Tips: Use rideshare or event transportation when available because parking and traffic can be heavy.
Arizona Renaissance Festival
Dates: February 1–March 30, 2026
Location: Renaissance Festival Village, Gold Canyon, AZ
Contact Information: Check the official Arizona Renaissance Festival website for ticket and schedule updates.
Description: The Arizona Renaissance Festival takes visitors back in time with jousting, costumed performers, artisan markets, comedy shows, games, music, and themed food.
Highlights and Features: Jousting tournaments, live entertainment, artisan booths, games, costumes, and medieval-style food.
Tickets: Prices vary for adults, children, and special packages.
Insider Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, as most of the event is outdoors.
Cactus League Spring Training
Dates: February 20–March 24, 2026
Location: Stadiums across Greater Phoenix
Contact Information: Check the official Cactus League and team websites for game schedules.
Description: Cactus League Spring Training brings Major League Baseball teams to the Phoenix area for preseason games. Fans can enjoy intimate ballparks, warm weather, and a close-up look at MLB players.
Highlights and Features: MLB spring training games, 10 Valley stadiums, 15 teams, family-friendly ballparks, and player sightings.
Tickets: Prices vary by team, stadium, and matchup.
Insider Tips: Buy tickets early for weekend games and popular teams. Bring sunscreen and a hat for afternoon games.
March
Heard Museum Indian Fair & Market
Dates: March 7–8, 2026
Location: Heard Museum, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Heard Museum website for admission and event details.
Description: The Heard Museum Indian Fair & Market is one of Phoenix’s most respected cultural events, featuring Native artists, handmade jewelry, pottery, textiles, paintings, sculptures, and live performances.
Highlights and Features: Native art market, artist booths, cultural performances, museum exhibits, and traditional craftsmanship.
Tickets: Admission prices vary.
Insider Tips: Arrive early for the best selection if you plan to purchase artwork.
Spring Tempe Festival of the Arts
Dates: March 13–15, 2026
Location: Downtown Tempe, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Downtown Tempe website for event updates.
Description: The Spring Tempe Festival of the Arts brings artists, makers, vendors, food, music, and street performers to Mill Avenue and downtown Tempe.
Highlights and Features: Artist booths, handmade goods, food vendors, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.
Tickets: Typically free to attend; purchases vary by vendor.
Insider Tips: Use light rail or nearby parking garages to avoid street congestion.
M3F Festival
Dates: March 6–7, 2026
Location: Steele Indian School Park, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the official M3F Festival website for lineup and ticket details.
Description: M3F Music Festival is a nonprofit music festival featuring national and local artists, food vendors, art installations, and a community-focused mission.
Highlights and Features: Live music, multiple stages, art installations, local food, and festival activities.
Tickets: Festival passes vary by tier.
Insider Tips: Review the set times in advance and bring comfortable shoes for walking between stages.
April
NCAA Women’s Final Four
Dates: April 2–4, 2026
Location: Mortgage Matchup Center, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the NCAA and venue websites for ticket information.
Description: Phoenix hosts the NCAA Women’s Final Four in 2026, bringing championship college basketball, national attention, fan events, and downtown excitement to the city.
Highlights and Features: National semifinal and championship games, fan activities, downtown events, and college basketball energy.
Tickets: Prices vary by session and package.
Insider Tips: Stay downtown if you want easy access to games, restaurants, and fan activities.
Maricopa County Fair
Dates: April 3–12, 2026
Location: Arizona State Fairgrounds, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Maricopa County Fair website for schedule and pricing.
Description: The Maricopa County Fair is a classic family event with carnival rides, fair food, livestock exhibits, games, entertainment, and community attractions.
Highlights and Features: Carnival rides, livestock shows, concerts, fair food, games, and family attractions.
Tickets: Admission and ride prices vary.
Insider Tips: Visit earlier in the day for smaller crowds and more comfortable weather.
Country Thunder Arizona
Dates: April 9–12, 2026
Location: Country Thunder Grounds, Florence, AZ
Contact Information: Check the official Country Thunder website for passes and lineup information.
Description: Country Thunder Arizona is one of the region’s biggest country music festivals, featuring major artists, camping, food vendors, and a full weekend of live entertainment.
Highlights and Features: Country music performances, camping, food vendors, festival grounds, and multi-day entertainment.
Tickets: Single-day and weekend passes may be available.
Insider Tips: Book camping and lodging early because festival weekends can sell out quickly.
May
Spring Arizona Restaurant Week
Dates: May 15–24, 2026
Location: Participating restaurants across Greater Phoenix and Arizona
Contact Information: Check the Arizona Restaurant Week website for participating restaurants and menus.
Description: Spring Arizona Restaurant Week gives diners the chance to enjoy special prix-fixe menus at restaurants across the state. It is one of the best times to try new restaurants in Phoenix.
Highlights and Features: Special menus, chef-driven dishes, prix-fixe dining, local restaurants, and culinary experiences.
Tickets: No event ticket required; menu prices vary by restaurant.
Insider Tips: Make reservations early for popular restaurants and weekend dining times.
Phoenix Mercury Home Opener
Dates: May 2026
Location: Mortgage Matchup Center, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Phoenix Mercury website for official schedule and ticket details.
Description: The Phoenix Mercury begin their WNBA home schedule in May, bringing professional basketball and a lively game-day atmosphere to downtown Phoenix.
Highlights and Features: WNBA basketball, fan promotions, downtown dining, and live sports excitement.
Tickets: Prices vary by seat and matchup.
Insider Tips: Arrive early to enjoy pregame activities and nearby restaurants.
Arizona Bridal & Wedding Expo
Dates: May 2–3, 2026
Location: Arizona State Fairgrounds, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the official Bridal & Wedding Expo website for admission details.
Description: The Arizona Bridal & Wedding Expo brings wedding vendors, planners, photographers, venues, florists, fashion shows, and planning resources together in one place.
Highlights and Features: Wedding vendors, fashion shows, giveaways, planning resources, and vendor consultations.
Tickets: Free passes may be available in advance; door prices may vary.
Insider Tips: Bring a notebook or phone checklist to compare vendors and collect ideas.
June
602 Day
Date: June 2, 2026
Location: Greater Phoenix
Contact Information: Check local Phoenix event calendars for participating businesses and events.
Description: 602 Day celebrates Phoenix pride and the city’s original area code with local deals, community events, food specials, music, and neighborhood activities.
Highlights and Features: Local business deals, city pride events, food specials, music, and community celebrations.
Tickets: Many events are free; pricing varies by venue.
Insider Tips: Follow local businesses and downtown Phoenix organizations for event announcements.
Phoenix Fan Fusion
Dates: June 5–7, 2026
Location: Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the official Phoenix Fan Fusion website for passes and guest announcements.
Description: Phoenix Fan Fusion is one of the Valley’s biggest pop culture events, featuring comics, anime, gaming, cosplay, celebrity guests, panels, creators, and a large exhibitor hall.
Highlights and Features: Celebrity panels, cosplay, comics, gaming, vendors, workshops, and fan experiences.
Tickets: Passes vary by day and package.
Insider Tips: Plan your schedule in advance and arrive early for popular panels or celebrity appearances.
Ed Sheeran at State Farm Stadium
Date: June 13, 2026
Location: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ
Contact Information: Check the venue and official ticketing platforms for current information.
Description: Ed Sheeran brings a major stadium concert to the Phoenix area, offering fans a large-scale live music experience at State Farm Stadium.
Highlights and Features: Stadium concert, live music, major touring production, and fan atmosphere.
Tickets: Prices vary by seat and demand.
Insider Tips: Allow extra travel time for stadium traffic and parking.
July
Fabulous Phoenix 4th
Date: July 4, 2026
Location: Steele Indian School Park, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the City of Phoenix website for event updates.
Description: Fabulous Phoenix 4th is one of the largest Independence Day celebrations in the Southwest, featuring fireworks, food vendors, entertainment, family activities, and a patriotic community atmosphere.
Highlights and Features: Fireworks, live entertainment, food vendors, family activities, and community celebration.
Tickets: Free admission.
Insider Tips: Arrive early for a good viewing spot and use public transportation when possible.
Evanescence at Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
Date: July 15, 2026
Location: Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the venue or official ticketing platforms for current details.
Description: Evanescence brings a powerful rock performance to Phoenix in July, making it one of the month’s major live music events.
Highlights and Features: Live rock concert, outdoor amphitheatre setting, touring production, and fan-favorite songs.
Tickets: Prices vary by seat and availability.
Insider Tips: Summer concerts can be hot, so stay hydrated and check venue bag policies before arriving.
Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball Games
Dates: Various dates in July 2026
Location: Chase Field, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Arizona Diamondbacks schedule for game dates and promotions.
Description: July is a great month to catch an Arizona Diamondbacks game at Chase Field, where fans can enjoy Major League Baseball in a climate-controlled downtown stadium.
Highlights and Features: MLB games, family promotions, downtown restaurants, team merchandise, and summer baseball.
Tickets: Prices vary by game, seat, and opponent.
Insider Tips: Look for promotional nights, family ticket packages, and giveaway games.
August
2026 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships
Dates: August 6–9, 2026
Location: Mortgage Matchup Center, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the venue and USA Gymnastics websites for ticket details.
Description: The 2026 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships bring elite gymnastics competition to downtown Phoenix, featuring top athletes competing at a national level.
Highlights and Features: Elite gymnastics, national competition, family-friendly sports entertainment, and championship atmosphere.
Tickets: Prices vary by session and seating.
Insider Tips: Choose session tickets based on the events or athletes you most want to see.
Megan Moroney Concert
Date: August 11, 2026
Location: Desert Diamond Arena, Glendale, AZ
Contact Information: Check the venue and official ticketing platforms for current details.
Description: Country artist Megan Moroney performs in the Phoenix area as part of the 2026 concert calendar, bringing modern country music to Desert Diamond Arena.
Highlights and Features: Country music concert, arena production, live vocals, and fan-favorite songs.
Tickets: Prices vary by seat and availability.
Insider Tips: Arrive early for parking and check arena entry policies before the show.
Train Concert
Date: August 21, 2026
Location: Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the venue and official ticketing platforms for ticket details.
Description: Train performs at Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, giving Phoenix fans an outdoor summer concert experience with well-known hits and a lively crowd.
Highlights and Features: Outdoor concert, pop-rock performance, amphitheatre setting, and summer live music.
Tickets: Prices vary by seat and demand.
Insider Tips: Bring water if allowed by venue policy and prepare for warm evening temperatures.
September
Fall Arizona Restaurant Week
Dates: September 18–27, 2026
Location: Participating restaurants across Greater Phoenix and Arizona
Contact Information: Check the Arizona Restaurant Week website for restaurant menus.
Description: Fall Arizona Restaurant Week returns with special prix-fixe menus at restaurants throughout the state. It is a great way to explore Phoenix’s dining scene.
Highlights and Features: Restaurant specials, prix-fixe menus, chef-driven meals, local dining, and seasonal flavors.
Tickets: No event ticket required; prices vary by restaurant.
Insider Tips: Make reservations as soon as menus are released.
Arizona Cardinals Home Opener
Dates: Early September 2026, exact date TBD
Location: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Arizona Cardinals schedule for confirmed game details.
Description: The Arizona Cardinals home opener marks the start of NFL season energy in the Phoenix area, drawing fans to State Farm Stadium for football, tailgating, and game-day excitement.
Highlights and Features: NFL football, tailgating, fan gear, stadium atmosphere, and live sports action.
Tickets: Prices vary by seat, opponent, and demand.
Insider Tips: Plan parking and travel early because game-day traffic around the stadium can be heavy.
Goldrush Music Festival
Dates: September 11–12, 2026
Location: Rawhide Western Town, Chandler, AZ
Contact Information: Check the official festival website for lineup and ticket details.
Description: Goldrush Music Festival combines electronic music, western-themed festival design, immersive stages, and a high-energy crowd at Rawhide Western Town.
Highlights and Features: Electronic music, themed stages, festival production, food vendors, and nightlife atmosphere.
Tickets: Festival passes vary by tier.
Insider Tips: Review the lineup and set times before arrival, and plan transportation in advance.
October
Arizona State Fair
Dates: October 1–November 1, 2026
Location: Arizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Arizona State Fair website for admission, concerts, and ride information.
Description: The Arizona State Fair is one of Phoenix’s biggest annual traditions, featuring carnival rides, concerts, fair food, livestock exhibits, games, competitions, and family attractions.
Highlights and Features: Carnival rides, concerts, fair food, games, exhibits, animals, and family entertainment.
Tickets: Admission, ride passes, and concert pricing vary.
Insider Tips: Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds and look for discount days.
Phoenix Pride Festival
Dates: Mid-October 2026, exact dates TBD
Location: Steele Indian School Park, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the official Phoenix Pride website for schedule and ticket updates.
Description: Phoenix Pride Festival celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with live entertainment, vendor booths, community organizations, food, performances, and a welcoming festival atmosphere.
Highlights and Features: Live performances, community booths, vendors, food, entertainment, and Pride celebrations.
Tickets: Prices vary by day and package.
Insider Tips: Arrive early for popular performances and bring sunscreen for daytime festival hours.
2026 NASCAR Playoff Weekend
Dates: October 16–18, 2026
Location: Phoenix Raceway, Avondale, AZ
Contact Information: Check Phoenix Raceway for ticket and race schedule details.
Description: NASCAR Playoff Weekend brings high-speed racing and motorsports excitement to Phoenix Raceway, attracting racing fans from across the region.
Highlights and Features: NASCAR racing, fan zones, motorsports entertainment, driver appearances, and race-day energy.
Tickets: Prices vary by seating and package.
Insider Tips: Plan extra time for traffic and parking near the raceway.
November
Arizona State Fair
Dates: Through November 1, 2026
Location: Arizona State Fairgrounds, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Arizona State Fair website for final-weekend programming.
Description: The Arizona State Fair continues into early November with rides, food, games, entertainment, exhibits, and family-friendly attractions.
Highlights and Features: Fair rides, food stands, games, concerts, livestock exhibits, and community entertainment.
Tickets: Admission and ride pricing vary.
Insider Tips: The final weekend can be busy, so buy tickets in advance when available.
Phoenix Veterans Day Parade
Date: November 11, 2026
Location: Central Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Honoring America’s Veterans website for route and event information.
Description: The Phoenix Veterans Day Parade honors military veterans and their families with floats, marching bands, community groups, patriotic displays, and public tributes.
Highlights and Features: Parade floats, marching bands, veterans’ tributes, community groups, and family-friendly viewing.
Tickets: Free to attend.
Insider Tips: Arrive early for the best viewing spots and bring water if the weather is warm.
Charles Schwab Cup Championship
Dates: November 12–15, 2026
Location: Phoenix Country Club, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the official tournament website for ticket details.
Description: The Charles Schwab Cup Championship brings top PGA TOUR Champions players to Phoenix Country Club for a major season-ending golf event.
Highlights and Features: Professional golf, championship competition, fan viewing areas, and Phoenix Country Club setting.
Tickets: Prices vary by day and package.
Insider Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and check course maps before arriving.
December
Fall Tempe Festival of the Arts
Dates: December 4–6, 2026
Location: Downtown Tempe, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Downtown Tempe website for vendor and event details.
Description: The Fall Tempe Festival of the Arts closes the year with artists, makers, street performers, food vendors, music, and holiday-season shopping in downtown Tempe.
Highlights and Features: Art booths, handmade goods, food vendors, live entertainment, and holiday shopping.
Tickets: Typically free to attend; purchases vary by vendor.
Insider Tips: Visit early in the day for easier parking and the best vendor selection.
Las Noches de las Luminarias
Dates: Late November–December 2026, exact dates TBD
Location: Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, AZ
Contact Information: Check the Desert Botanical Garden website for confirmed dates and tickets.
Description: Las Noches de las Luminarias is one of Phoenix’s most beloved holiday traditions, featuring glowing luminaria paths, sparkling lights, live music, festive food, and a peaceful desert garden setting.
Highlights and Features: Luminaria-lit trails, holiday lights, live entertainment, desert scenery, and seasonal treats.
Tickets: Advance reservations are usually recommended; prices vary by date and time.
Insider Tips: Book early for weekend dates and arrive during your ticketed entry window.
Rate Bowl
Dates: Late December 2026, exact date TBD
Location: Phoenix area, location TBD
Contact Information: Check the official bowl game website for final date, venue, and ticket information.
Description: The Rate Bowl is part of the college football bowl season and brings fans, teams, and game-day excitement to the Phoenix area in late December.
Highlights and Features: College football, bowl game atmosphere, fan activities, team spirit, and holiday-season sports.
Tickets: Prices vary by seat and availability.
Insider Tips: Confirm the venue before booking hotels or transportation, as final details may be announced closer to the event.
Purchasing Tickets
Tickets for most events can be purchased online through the event’s official website or on-site. It’s advisable to buy tickets in advance, especially for popular events.
Getting to Event Locations
Phoenix offers various transportation options, including public transit, rideshare services, and ample parking facilities. Check the event’s website for specific transportation recommendations and parking details.
Where to Stay
Phoenix has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly motels. Book your stay early during major events to secure the best rates and availability
Insider Tips
Best Times to Attend
Weekdays or early event hours typically offer fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience. For events with multiple days or sessions, consider attending on less popular days.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Respect local customs and be mindful of cultural sensitivities, especially at events celebrating cultural heritage. Dress appropriately for the occasion and be courteous to fellow attendees.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
While attending events, take time to explore other attractions in Phoenix, such as the Heard Museum, Camelback Mountain, and local eateries.
