Must-see Arizona events: 18 local favorites to add to your calendar

I’ve been riding bikes my whole life and running Support Bikers with my wife Angie, so I’ve covered events all across the country. Arizona Bike Week in Scottsdale is hands down the event I’d recommend – it’s the Southwest’s largest motorcycle rally and happens every April 2nd-6th at WestWorld of Scottsdale.

What makes it memorable is the sheer scale and variety packed into those five days. You’ve got nightly concerts, custom bike shows, charity rides, and a massive vendor marketplace all in one spot. The desert backdrop makes for incredible riding weather in April, and the Arizona biker community really comes together for this one.

I list it prominently on Support Bikers because it delivers everything serious riders want – great bikes, good people, and that authentic biker camaraderie I didn’t fully understand until I worked at Six Bends Harley dealership. The timing in early April hits that sweet spot where the weather’s perfect for riding but not blazing hot yet.

Having two CVO Fatboys myself, I can tell you there’s nothing quite like rolling into Scottsdale with thousands of other riders for this rally. It’s become a must-attend event in our biker community calendar.

After setting up glamping sites across Arizona for major events, I’d recommend the Lightning in a Bottle pre-parties that happen around Phoenix in early spring. These smaller gatherings capture the magic of the main California festival but with Arizona’s perfect desert backdrop.

What made it memorable was watching attendees experience luxury camping for the first time in our bell tents against those dramatic Sonoran Desert sunsets. We had guests tell us they’d never imagined camping could feel this comfortable – real mattresses, weatherproof canvas, and that 24-foot height that makes you feel like you’re in a desert palace.

The timing is crucial – usually March or April when temperatures hit that sweet spot of 75-80°F days and cool 55°F evenings. We’ve learned from our festival work that Arizona’s spring weather is absolutely perfect for canvas tents, unlike the brutal summer heat that can make any outdoor event miserable.

The community aspect reminds me of our early days doing smaller events before we scaled to places like Bonnaroo. There’s something special about intimate gatherings where everyone’s finding this lifted outdoor experience together, especially when you wake up to those incredible Arizona mountain views.

One can’t-miss Arizona festival is Dreamy Draw Music Festival, held in late October or early November at the Scottsdale Civic Center. It’s the best time of year for a festival in AZ, with sunny days and cool nights, and the weather makes it perfect for an outdoor music experience.

The setting is gorgeous, with grassy lawns, and the location couldn’t be better. You can easily grab dinner or keep the night going in Old Town Scottsdale, which is just a short walk away. The lineup always delivers, with national acts and artists with a uniquely Southwest “outlaw” indie rock/Americana sound, while also giving local Arizona artists the chance to share the stage, which stands out and is a really cool way to discover new music.

One of my favorite memories was seeing Lord Huron live in 2023. Watching them perform under the desert sky at such a beautiful venue is something I’ll never forget. With amazing food, unique vendors (even tattoo artists!), and ticket options that are super reasonable, Dreamy Draw really captures the Arizona vibe.

One local event I highly recommend in Arizona is the Arizona Renaissance Festival held in Gold Canyon. It’s an immersive experience that transports you back in time with knights, artisans, performers, and interactive games. The creativity and energy of the festival make it incredibly memorable—there are jousting tournaments, live music, and themed food that really bring the era to life. I loved wandering through the artisan village, discovering handcrafted jewelry and leather goods, and even joining in on a few of the playful games and contests. The performers are so engaging that it doesn’t feel like you’re just watching—you become part of the story. It typically takes place on weekends from February through March, which is perfect because the weather is mild and enjoyable compared to the summer heat. It’s one of those events that leaves you with both fun memories and unique souvenirs.

I absolutely recommend the Scottsdale ArtWalk, which takes place every Thursday evening year-round in the Arts District. I stumbled upon this gem during my first winter in Arizona, and it completely changed how I view the local art scene. What makes this event so special is the incredible diversity of galleries that open their doors simultaneously. I’ve discovered everything from contemporary Native American sculptures to avant-garde installations that challenge your perspective.

The atmosphere buzzes with energy as artists mingle with visitors, sharing stories behind their creations. The timing couldn’t be more perfect either. Arizona’s winter weather creates ideal conditions for strolling between galleries, and the event runs from 7 to 9 PM when the desert air feels refreshing rather than scorching. I’ve made it a monthly tradition because each visit reveals new exhibitions and artists. The best part? It’s completely free. You can spend hours exploring world-class art without spending a dime, though I often end up purchasing pieces from local artists I’ve connected with. This event captures Arizona’s thriving creative spirit in a way that typical tourist attractions simply cannot match.

In my time in Arizona, I have been to many festivals, but my favorite and what I would recommend is the Prescott Frontier Days Rodeo in July. It is known as the oldest rodeo in the world, dating back to 1888, and it continues to carry that history in all the performances that they do. The town of Prescott changes during rodeo week with parades, dances, and events that bring thousands together.

What made it memorable was how tradition and entertainment have a chance to come together in a way that is authentic. You can watch bull riding, bronc busting, and barrel racing next to families who have been coming for generations. The grandstands fill with over 5,000 fans and the excitement builds wedge by wedge after every rider enters the arena. Prescott Frontier Days Rodeo captures what Arizona’s western heritage stands for and should be on your must-experience list. You will not be disappointed, I promise!

I highly recommend the Tucson Festival of Books, which usually happens in early March. As a book lover, I was completely in my element. I browsed through stalls from hundreds of authors and publishers, finding both new reads and old favorites. I attended a few author panels and was captivated by their stories and insights. The festival has a lively, community feel, with food trucks and live entertainment scattered across the University of Arizona campus. It was a perfect weekend for anyone who appreciates the written word, and I discovered so many new authors to follow. It’s a truly inspiring event that celebrates storytelling in all its forms.

You should absolutely go to the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl Balloon Spree in Scottsdale. It’s usually held at the end of December as part of the Fiesta Bowl festivities. I went last year and the sight of dozens of hot air balloons lighting up the evening sky was truly magical. I walked among the massive, tethered balloons as they glowed against the darkness, creating a spectacular display. The pilots were friendly and eager to chat about their balloons. There was also live music and food, which added to the festive atmosphere. It was a beautiful and serene experience that felt completely different from a typical festival, and the “field glow” is a memory I won’t soon forget.

One unforgettable Arizona event I always recommend is the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, held annually in late February. It’s not just a horse show—it’s a celebration of heritage, elegance, and community. With over 2,000 horses competing and thousands of spectators from around the world, the atmosphere is electric yet deeply rooted in tradition.

What made it memorable for me was the blend of artistry and athleticism—watching these majestic animals perform with precision while learning about the centuries-old lineage behind each breed. Beyond the arena, the event features cultural exhibits, shopping, and charity galas that bring together locals and global enthusiasts alike.

It’s also a great example of how Arizona honors its Western roots while embracing international flair. Whether you’re a horse lover or just curious about regional culture, this event offers a unique lens into craftsmanship, competition, and community pride.

As a frequent traveler to Arizona, I have been to several events, but my favorite is the Chandler Ostrich Festival. It’s a fun, quirky event that ties back to the town’s history with ostrich ranching. The main attraction is, of course, the ostrich races, which are unbelievably unpredictable and fun to watch. There is no experience like watching jockeys ride these enormous birds around a track.

The whole atmosphere is filled with so much energy, with live music from popular bands, carnival rides and all the food you can think of on the street. The festival does a great job of mixing its historical undertones with modern entertainment for an unforgettable experience for anyone. It takes place over two weekends in March and it is truly a unique piece of Arizona culture.

I always suggest heading to the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show each February. It’s a huge deal, one of the biggest gem and mineral events globally. The whole city changes for it – hotels, convention centers, and even parking lots become spots filled with crystals, fossils, and cool stones.
What makes it special is the vibe; you get to meet collectors, scientists, artists, and families, all interested in the same thing. Walking among rows of minerals from everywhere is interesting and impressive. It feels like you’re in a living museum. The show really captures Arizona’s natural beauty, international reach, and community feel.

I have been to Arizona six times already, the last one being last year. If there is one festival I would recommend, it would be the Fiesta Bowl Parade in Phoenix. It typically occurs at the end of December, the morning prior to the Fiesta Bowl Game, and it is as if the whole city comes out just for it.

I arrived at around 8:00 a.m. and found a place on Central Avenue near Camelback. Shortly after I got there, the parade began. There were numerous floats, balloons, college and high school marching bands, community groups and so much more. Because I got there a little early, I was able to find a good spot in the crowd since it was packed. Parking was challenging; however, the light rail dropped me off a couple of blocks away from the parade route, which was helpful. What made it even more memorable was the energy of the thousands of people lining the street and the mix of local and national groups performing nonstop for damn near two hours.

Since it is nearing October, it’s timely that I would recommend to anyone visiting Arizona the Arizona State Fair in Phoenix. It is an annual event celebrated in October and is accompanied with concerts, carnival rides, rodeo shows, and both classy and outlandish food.

The reason why the fair is memorable is the fact that it can provide everyone with something. The families can spend the day enjoying the rides and animals, while others can watch big-name artists or exciting rodeo events. The combination of lights, sounds, and smells of food gives the grounds energy that makes the fair a tradition that has to be repeated every year.

On one of the occasions, I was with friends and we had fun on rides and then went to watch a live concert in the evening. We spent the night enjoying funnel cakes and fireworks. Such a combination of experiences turned this day into a memory and demonstrated why this number of people come back every fall.

The Arizona Matsuri Festival in Phoenix is something one would never forget due to its grandeur and ambiance. Each year in the month of February, it attracts over 70,000 visitors, filling Heritage Square with color, sound, and motion. I recall that I had entered the crowd, heard the steady beat of the taiko drums, and families had passed between tea ceremonies and martial arts shows. This mixture of power and tradition entertained people, and they could spend hours in that manner. It demonstrated that a cultural event could be both entertaining and informative at the same time.

Of most concern to me is the detail. Being an endodontist, each day I am exposed to microscopes and fine instruments, and I simply could not help but relate that to the accuracy I observed in the artists. One character was completed by a calligrapher in slightly under half a minute, and dozens of cranes were being folded by children who were nearby. It was at that time that I realized mastery, be it in art or in healthcare, is built up through discipline and repetition. Nobody talks about speed when it comes to excellence; it is a matter of discipline, and that was a lesson I will never forget.

I have attended numerous events and festivals in Arizona, but the one that I would suggest is the Sedona International Film Festival. This annual event runs in late February through early March and features independent filmmakers from around the world, giving audiences opportunities to experience movies that typically do not get shown in commercial theaters. It features different genres, from documentaries to short films and international features, with plenty of selections so that everyone who loves cinema will find something to enjoy.

It is memorable due to how accessible the actual festival is. Screenings are typically smaller in size and audience members may interact directly with individuals who made the films. It is not uncommon to talk to directors or actors after a screening, and that sort of interaction will give you a solid picture as to how creative they were. The time of the year is also a contributing factor to the appeal of the festival as it takes place during a time when the weather is desirable.

One event I always recommend in Arizona is the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction in Scottsdale, which usually happens every January. The first time I went, I was amazed by the energy of the crowd and the mix of rare cars and serious buyers—it felt like more than an auction, it was a whole experience. What stood out most was how many conversations I had with people who also loved Arizona for its lifestyle and real estate opportunities. If you’re looking for something memorable and full of connection, this event is definitely worth attending.

One of Arizona’s most culturally significant events is the All Souls Procession and Día de los Muertos celebration in Tucson. This community-driven gathering typically takes place in early November and brings together thousands of people to honor loved ones who have passed on.

What makes this event truly special is how it weaves together multiple cultural traditions while remaining authentically rooted in the Southwest. The combination of art, music, and community creates an atmosphere that’s both reflective and celebratory.

The procession through downtown Tucson culminates in a ceremonial fire, symbolizing transformation and remembrance. For anyone interested in experiencing Arizona’s rich cultural landscape, this event showcases our state’s unique heritage and the way our communities come together to honor important traditions.

If you’re looking for something to do in Arizona, I suggest the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market in Phoenix, which happens each March. It’s a huge gathering for Native American artists from all over, with both old and new creations on display, like jewelry, clothing, and pottery.

What’s great is how it really immerses you in Indigenous culture and skills, and it shows respect for designs that are eco-friendly and connected to the place. I was really impressed by how the fair links the past and present, honoring old knowledge while supporting artists who keep traditions alive through their work with natural materials, landscapes, and cultural strength. If you care about design, culture, or protecting the environment, this is something you won’t forget.