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Mark Your Calendars! Don't Miss These Top 25 Phoenix Festivals

Mark Your Calendars! Don’t Miss These Top 25 Phoenix Festivals

| Last Updated: June 2024

Phoenix may be known for its sunshine, but the city also has vibrant yearly festivals. Did you know Phoenix throws over 200 celebrations annually, catering to every interest imaginable? 

From sizzling food to pulsating music extravaganzas, there’s a Phoenix festival waiting to ignite your senses. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’ll find something that speaks to you on this list of the best Phoenix festivals. 

So, keep reading, and don’t miss out on the opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones during these festivals!

1. First Friday Art Walk 

Website: https://artlinkphx.org/

Address: 147 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Contact details: [email protected]

Duration: Every first Friday – 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM

The First Friday Art Walk is a self-guided art walk encompassing dozens of city blocks and nearly 100 businesses. Founded by Artlink, a nonprofit organization, it draws thousands of attendees every first Friday of the month.

The event centers around two key areas: Roosevelt Row and the Historic Grand Avenue. Roosevelt Row is known for its concentration of art galleries and studios, while Grand Avenue offers a mix of museums, theaters, and historical landmarks.  

Pro tip:
Since the First Friday Art Walk covers a lot of ground, comfortable shoes are a must. With so much to see and do, it’s also a good idea to grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants lining the streets.

2. Cactus League Spring Training

Website: https://cactusleague.com/

Address: 3600 N 51st Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85061, United States

Contact details: 866-275-5816

Duration: February to March

Cactus League Spring Training in Phoenix is an annual sporting event where you can see Major League Baseball teams gear up for the season with exhibition games played in a relaxed atmosphere.

The biggest draw is undoubtedly witnessing professional baseball players up close. You can watch batting practice, mingle with players for autographs, and experience the energy of a new season.

Pro tip:
Spring Training games often sell out, so plan and grab your tickets early.  Since several teams share stadiums, feel free to explore different venues.  

3. Arizona Renaissance Festival

Website: https://arizona.renfestinfo.com/

Address: Festival Village, 12601 E. Highway 60, Gold Canyon

Contact details: +15204632600

Duration: February to April

The Arizona Renaissance Festival transforms Gold Canyon, east of Phoenix, into a lively 16th-century village. It’s a full-fledged amusement park, a theater with 16 stages of continuous entertainment, an arts and crafts marketplace, and a jousting tournament.

Over 2,000 costumed characters roam the 50-acre festival grounds, creating a truly immersive experience. You can cheer on your favorite knight in the thrilling jousting competitions, be amazed by acrobats and jugglers, or watch hilarious comedy shows.  

Pro tip:
The Arizona Renaissance Festival can get crowded, especially on weekends, so to avoid long lines, purchase your tickets online in advance.  Don’t miss the jousting tournament and appreciate the exciting display of horsemanship and athleticism.

4. World Championship Hoop Dance Contest

Website: https://heard.org/event/world-championship-hoop-dance-contest/

Address: Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix

Contact details: [email protected]

Duration: March

The World Championship Hoop Dance Contest celebrates tradition and artistry annually at the Heard Museum. More than a competition, it’s a cornerstone for preserving the cultural significance of hoop dancing within indigenous communities.

Over 100 talented dancers from diverse tribal backgrounds compete for the coveted World Champion title. Hoop dancing has a rich history within indigenous cultures, and the competition serves as a platform to share these traditions with a broader audience. 

Pro tip:
Attending the Heard Museum’s World Championship Hoop Dance Contest is free, but arriving early is a good idea to secure a good viewing spot. You can also savor delicious food from on-site vendors, like frybread and tacos.

5. Innings Festival

Website: https://www.inningsfestival.com/

Address: Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe

Contact details: [email protected]

Duration: March

The Innings Festival is a two-day event that coincides with Major League Baseball’s spring training. If you’re a baseball fan, you can combine your love of music with the chance to rub shoulders with professional baseball players.

Three stages feature over 18 rock, pop, and indie music artists. Foodies will love the curated selection of vendors offering the best Southwestern cuisine, while baseball fans can participate in fun activities and potentially catch appearances by big league players.

Pro tip:
The Innings Festival takes place in Arizona during the spring, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes. Also, since the festival coincides with Spring Training, expect hotel prices to be higher in the Phoenix area.  

6. NASCAR Championship Weekend

Website: https://www.phoenixraceway.com/championship/

Address: Phoenix Raceway, 7602 S. Avondale Blvd., Avondale

Contact details: 866-408-7223

Duration: March

NASCAR Championship Weekend in Phoenix is a three-day adrenaline-pumping extravaganza for NASCAR fans. Held at the Phoenix Raceway, it’s the grand finale of the racing season, where champions across four series are crowned.

Phoenix Raceway offers a fan experience with live music, driver appearances, and even the chance to sign the starting line on race day on Sunday. It’s an excellent opportunity to rub shoulders with fellow racing enthusiasts and soak up the crowd’s energy.

Pro tip:
Tickets, especially for the Cup Series Championship, sell out fast, so book yours well. Explore the midway, with interactive exhibits, merchandise booths, and delicious food options to fuel your race day.

7. Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market

Website: https://heard.org/event/fair/

Address: Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix

Contact details: [email protected]

Duration: March

The Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market (IF&M) is one of the largest American Indian art markets in the world. It attracts nearly 15,000 visitors and features over 600 talented artists from 116 tribal affiliations across the United States and Canada.

What makes the IF&M special is the chance to connect with and purchase art directly from these incredible artists. You’ll find various traditional and contemporary pieces in multiple mediums, including jewelry, textiles, pottery, paintings, and sculptures.

Pro tip:
The Heard Museum Guild members can enter early at 8:30 AM on Saturday, while general admission starts at 9:30 AM on both days. Don’t miss the Youth Art Show & Sale, showcasing works by Native American students in grades 7 through 12.

8. Arizona Aloha Festival

Website: https://www.azalohafest.org/

Address: Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe

Contact details: [email protected]

Duration: March

The Arizona Aloha Festival is a two-day event at Tempe Town Lake that celebrates the cultures of Hawaii and the South Pacific. At Hale Mana’o, visitors can learn about Hawaiian and Polynesian history and traditions through lectures and storytelling.

The Festival offers a vibrant Island Marketplace with unique arts and crafts from the South Pacific. Visitors can also enjoy authentic island dishes at the festival’s food court, including Kalua Pig, haupia, and Spam Musubi.

Pro tip:
Consider arriving early or using alternative transportation like biking or ride-sharing, as parking fills up quickly. Additionally, you can learn hula moves or play the ukulele at Aunty Aloha’s Ukulele Corner.

9. M3F Music Festival

Website: https://m3ffest.com/

Address: Margaret T. Hance Park, 1202 N. Third St., Phoenix

Contact details: [email protected]

Duration: March

The M3F Music Festival is a two-day festival focused on giving back to the community. Every dollar earned supports local Arizona charities in the arts, community development, education, and environmental fields. 

M3F festival features a diverse lineup of indie, pop, R&B, and EDM acts. It also offers food trucks, vendors, and a designated Kid Zone to entertain everyone.

Pro tip:
Parking can fill up quickly, so consider ridesharing or taking public transportation to the venue. Don’t just stick to the main stage – discover new artists on the more miniature stages and soak in the vibrant community atmosphere.

10. Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival

Website: https://ostrichfestival.com/

Address: Tumbleweed Park, 745 E. Germann Road, Chandler

Contact details: 480-588-8497

Duration: March

The Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival celebrates the city’s unique history of ostrich ranching, which included raising these birds within city limits. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the Chandler community.

The festival features a variety of ostrich-themed activities, including races. There’s live music with national and regional performers, a carnival midway with rides and games, delicious festival food, and upscale arts and crafts.  

Pro tip:
The festival offers a discounted Family Pack, including admission for two adults and two children, plus ride wristbands. Check out the ostrich races—it’s not every day you get to see these flightless birds compete for speed!

11. Maricopa County Fair 

Website: https://maricopacountyfair.org/

Address: Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix

Contact details: 602-252-0717

Duration: April

The Maricopa County Fair annually celebrates agriculture, tradition, and community. The fair features various exhibits showcasing everything from livestock and crops to arts and crafts. 

There are also carnival rides, games, and food vendors, making it a fun-filled event for all ages. One of the fair’s highlights is the rodeo, which attracts professional cowboys and cowgirls nationwide.

Pro tip:
Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the Arizona sun can be intense. Check out the giant pumpkin contest, a fun tradition where participants compete to grow the biggest pumpkin.

12. Rainbows Festival

Website: https://phoenixpride.org/events/rainbows-festival/

Address: Historic Heritage Square, 115 N. Sixth St., Phoenix

Contact details: 602-277-7433

Duration: April to May

The Rainbows Festival is a vibrant celebration of Phoenix’s LGBTQ+ community, drawing over 25,000 attendees annually. It’s the second-largest LGBTQ+ event in Arizona after the annual Phoenix Pride Festival.

This free, two-day event features over 150 vendors and sponsors showcasing their products and services. Live entertainment fills two stages throughout the weekend, creating a fun and inclusive atmosphere. 

Pro tip:
Wear your most colorful outfit, embrace the spirit of the rainbow, and be open to meeting new people. Explore the diverse vendors, enjoy the live entertainment, and savor the delicious food trucks.

13. Spring Arizona Restaurant Week 

Website: https://arizonarestaurantweek.com/

Address: 3333 E. Camelback Rd., Ste 285, Phoenix, AZ 85018

Contact details: 602-307-9134

Duration: May

Spring Arizona Restaurant Week (ARW) celebrates the state’s diverse culinary scene in Phoenix and Arizona. It’s a foodie’s dream, offering a chance to explore over 150 restaurants participating statewide at discounted prices. 

Participating restaurants create special three-course prix-fixe menus for ten days at fixed prices of $33, $44, or $55, sometimes per couple. The prix-fixe menus showcase the creativity and seasonal ingredients Arizona’s chefs excel with. 

Pro tip:
The list of participating restaurants and their menus are usually unveiled around May 1st, so browse the menus beforehand to target restaurants that pique your interest and make reservations early, as popular spots fill up quickly.

14. Phoenix Fan Fusion

Website: https://phoenixfanfusion.com/

Address: Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. Third St, Phoenix

Contact details: +16026354306

Duration: June

Phoenix Fan Fusion is a three-day annual event for fans of all things fiction, encompassing comics, anime, gaming, and more. Families with young children and seasoned enthusiasts come together to celebrate their fandoms.

There are panels featuring comic book creators, voice actors, and other celebrities. Attendees can also participate in art contests, cosplay competitions, and tabletop gaming tournaments. 

Pro tip:
Purchase your tickets and badges in advance. Whether you’re a seasoned costume crafter or a cosplay newbie, dressing up as your favorite character is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the event’s atmosphere and connect with other fans. 

15. Desert Botanical Garden Flashlight Tours

Website: https://dbg.org/activity-flashlight-tour-at-home/

Address: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix

Contact details: 480-941-1225

Duration: June to September

Desert Botanical Garden Flashlight Nights is a summertime event where visitors explore the Garden after dark with flashlights. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the desert in a new way, focusing on the sights, sounds, and mysteries at night.

Visitors can walk along the trails illuminated by their flashlights, discovering the nocturnal animals that emerge after sunset and the unique night-blooming plants. Interactive exhibits and activities are also set up throughout the Garden.

Pro tip:
Bring your flashlight, although a limited number are available for borrowing at the Garden. Remember to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, and bring your sense of adventure.

16. Phoenix Rising FC 

Website: https://www.phxrisingfc.com/

Address: Casino Arizona Field, 19593 S. 48th St., Chandler

Contact details: 623-594-9606

Duration: April to October

The USL’s Phoenix Rising FC takes the field at Wild Horse Pass for its regular season schedule. Fans would come out to cheer on their local team, the Phoenix Rising, in a vibrant stadium atmosphere. 

The team played throughout the USL Championship season, typically from spring to fall. The crowd’s energy, the sport’s fast-paced nature, and the opportunity to cheer on your local team all contribute to a fun and memorable outing.

Pro tip:
Arrive early to soak in the pre-game atmosphere. Many stadiums have vendors selling food, drinks, and fan sections with music and games.

17. Phoenix Mercury Games

Website: https://mercury.wnba.com/

Address: Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix

Contact details: https://www.nba.com/suns/guest-services

Duration: May to September

Three-time WNBA champions, the Phoenix Mercury, are a beloved summer tradition downtown. Fans can catch Olympic gold medalists Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner, and Skylar Diggins-Smith in action on the home court all summer.

The Phoenix Mercury Games is the team’s season-long schedule of home games. The team battles against other WNBA teams at their home court, the Footprint Center.

Pro tip:
The Footprint Center offers various concessions and entertainment options before the game starts. You can grab food and drinks, participate in fan activities, and get pumped up for the game.

18. World Atlatl Day 

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/calendar/parks/4753

Address: 4619 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, United States

Contact details: 602-495-0901

Duration: June

World Atlatl Day is a fun and educational event held annually at the S’edav Va’aki Museum. It celebrates the atlatl, a throwing device for hunting, predating the bow and arrow.

Visitors can learn about the history and use of the atlatl, with demonstrations by a primitive skills group, S.A.L.T. (Study of Ancient Lifeways and Technologies). The museum offers free admission and attractions during World Atlatl Day every June 2.

Pro tip:
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for throwing motions. Participate in the athletic throwing experience, and you might even surprise yourself with accuracy.

19. Arizona State Fair

Website: https://azstatefair.com/

Address: Arizona State Fair & Coliseum, 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix

Contact details: 602-252-6771

Duration: October

The Arizona State Fair is a massive celebration of Arizona’s culture, agriculture, and community. Its history dates back to 1884, and it’s one of the largest state fairs in the country, attracting over a million visitors each year.

There are thrilling amusement rides for all ages, from heart-stopping coasters to classic carousels. Over 100 food vendors tempt taste buds with unique and classic fair fare, from deep-fried Oreos to juicy turkey legs.

Pro tip:
Check out the fair’s website to see the schedule of events and exhibits you will want to attend. You can also snag tickets in advance for popular events or discounted entry.

20. Four Peaks Oktoberfest

Website: https://fourpeaksoktoberfest.com/

Address: Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe

Contact details: 480-798-0200

Duration: October

The Four Peaks Oktoberfest is a three-day celebration of German culture organized by Four Peaks Brewing Company and Tempe Sister Cities. The festival transforms Tempe Beach Park into a traditional Bavarian setting. 

Attendees can indulge in German beers, including Four Peaks’ Oktoberfest brew, a Marzen-style lager. Various German foods, like brats and sausages, are also available, and live music provides entertainment throughout the weekend.

Pro tip:
Try the Four Peaks Oktoberfest Marzen-style lager. It’s explicitly brewed for the event and is a perfect way to experience an authentic German Oktoberfest beer.

21. Phoenix Pride Festival & Parade 

Website: https://phoenixpride.org/events/pride-festival/

Address: Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix

Contact details: 602-277-7433

Duration: October

The Phoenix Pride Festival & Parade is a two-day celebration held annually in Phoenix to honor the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Over 55,000 people attend the festival yearly, featuring over 150 entertaining performances across six stages. 

Phoenix Pride hosts an event with over 300 vendors showcasing food, shopping options, and informative booths about LGBTQ+ resources. The event raises Phoenix Pride Community Programs funds and educates the public about LGBTQ+ issues.

Pro tip:
Check out the official Phoenix Pride website for the festival schedule and map in advance. This will help you prioritize which stages, booths, and events you don’t want to miss. 

22. Phoenix Greek Festival

Website: https://phoenixgreekfestival.org/

Address: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 1973 E. Maryland Ave., Phoenix

Contact details: 602-525-0345

Duration: October

The Phoenix Greek Festival is a three-day annual event celebrating Greek culture through food, music, dance, and traditions. It’s been a Phoenix tradition for over 60 years and offers a fun and flavorful way to immerse yourself in Greek life.

The participating restaurants offer authentic dishes like gyros, roasted lamb, moussaka, and lemon chicken. The Agora marketplace has vendors selling jewelry, clothing, and specialty food items.

Pro tip:
Since the festival is quite popular, especially during peak hours,  go early for lunch on the first day to avoid long lines for food. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking and browsing.

23. Schnepf Farms Pumpkin & Chili Party 

Website: https://www.pumpkinandchiliparty.com/

Address: Schnepf Farms, 24810 S. Rittenhouse Road, Queen Creek

Contact details: 480-987-3100 press 0

Duration: October

The Schnepf Farms Pumpkin & Chili Party is Arizona’s premier family festival, known for its wide variety of activities and attractions spread across a real working farm. Schnepf Farms transforms into a haven for chili lovers. 

Vendors offer all sorts of chili concoctions that satisfy every taste bud. The festival also boasts a massive corn maze, exciting carnival rides, hayrides, pig races, and fireworks on Friday and Saturday nights.

Pro tip:
Since the festival gets crowded, especially on weekends, purchasing your tickets online beforehand is best. Be sure to navigate the challenging corn maze! It’s a great way to test your teamwork skills and create lasting memories with your group.

24. Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival

Website: https://azspooktacular.com/

Address: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road. Scottsdale

Contact details: 480-270-5000

Duration: October

The Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival is a three-day Halloween event at Salt River Fields. It’s a fun-filled family experience that combines the majesty of over twenty hot air balloons lighting up the night sky with festive Halloween activities.

The hot air balloons also become giant trick-or-treat stations handing out a whopping 4,000 pounds of candy. There’s also a free Kids Zone with inflatables to keep the little ones entertained and a spooky trail for those who dare.

Pro tip:
If you want a unique experience, consider purchasing a tethered balloon ride. Since it’s a Halloween event, remember to come in costume.

25. Mikiztli Dia de los Muertos Phoenix Festival

Website: http://diadelosmuertosphx.com/

Address: Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix

Contact details: [email protected]

Duration: October

The Mikiztli Dia de los Muertos Phoenix Festival is a vibrant celebration of Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead. It’s the longest-running festival that honors and remembers deceased loved ones through a joyous and colorful lens. 

The event features traditional music, dance performances, and a community altar for ancestral offerings. There’s also an artists’ market and engaging kids’ activities to keep cultural traditions alive.

Pro tip:
Since this is a celebration of life and remembrance, consider bringing a photo or memento of a loved one you’ve lost to place on the community altar.  It’s a small but meaningful gesture that personalizes your experience at the festival.
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