The Top 8 Annual Events in Phoenix

With more than 300 days of sun, over 200 golf courses, and some of the best spas in the country, Phoenix is known for fun, sun, and relaxation. But as the fifth-largest city in the country, Phoenix is also home to annual world-class events and festivals that add to its vibrancy. No matter when you choose to visit the city, there’s sure to be something fun and interesting to do. Need help planning? Grab your calendar and see if you can head to the Southwest to visit these events.*

What: Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction
When: January

Courtesy Explore Scottsdale

Scottsdale has become the place for car lovers. The city hosts several luxury car auctions, including the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction, an eight-day event that ranks as one of the world's most popular events of this kind. The event sees nearly 2,000 cars cross the block, with some selling in the seven figures. Even if you're not in the market for a rare Ferrari or classic Ford Mustang, it's a great chance to view some iconic cars.

What: World Championship Hoop Dance Contest
When: February

Hoop dancing has its roots in the healing ceremonies and traditions of many Indigenous communities. Today, it is an artistic way to celebrate Indigenous culture. The Heard Museum, which specializes in American Indian art, is fittingly the host of the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest. The event features dancers of all ages, who use as many as 50 hoops to tell a story through performance.

What: Waste Management Open
When: February

Courtesy Visit Phoenix

Known as The People's Open, the Waste Management Phoenix Open is considered one of the most festive stops on the PGA tour. Each February, the top golfers in the world showcase their talents, but for the average fan, the tournament is about fun, people-watching, and entertainment. The tournament's 16th hole, which has grandstands for some 3,700 spectators, as well as luxury boxes, is legendary on the tour for its boisterous atmosphere. The event also presents top country and rock acts in concert each night.

What: Baseball Spring Training
When: Late February through end of March

Since 1947, Phoenix has taken visitors out to the ballgame as host of the Cactus League for Major League Baseball spring training. Today, 15 teams prepare for the season at 10 stadiums throughout the Valley of the Sun. From late February to the end of March, some 300,000 visitors typically make the pilgrimage to the desert to see teams like the Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, Milwaukee Brewers, and, of course, the Arizona Diamondbacks, play ball.

What: Arizona Restaurant Week
When: May and September

For 10 days each May and September, Arizona Restaurant Week features dozens of restaurants offering special three-course menus at reduced prices. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy five-star dining on a three-star budget. Participating restaurants run the gamut from local gems offering Southwestern and Mexican fare, to chef-driven bistros featuring innovative cuisine. Many top resort restaurants also join in. Reservations are a must, and the earlier you make them, the more likely you'll score that top table you're eyeing.

What: Canal Convergence
When: November

Courtesy Explore Scottsdale

During the first half of November, Scottsdale spotlights its robust public art program through the Canal Convergence event. The free, 10-day public art showcase at the Scottsdale Waterfront is an outdoor, immersive art experience focused on light-based, large-scale works. Artists from around the globe are featured, along with educational workshops, family-friendly activities, food trucks, and a beer and wine garden.

What: The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships
When: November

Courtesy Explore Scottsdale

Dress to impress at The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, a major tournament that's just as competitive for its people-watching. The city's most fashionable try and best each other with over-the-top outfits at this expansive event which also includes exotic car displays, concerts, wine tastings, and luxury brand booths.

What: Las Noches de las Luminarias
When: December

Courtesy Visit Phoenix

If you're in Phoenix during the holidays, Las Noches de las Luminarias at Desert Botanical Garden is the gift to give yourself. The botanical gardens are beautiful throughout the year but become even more magical with some 700 luminarias placed throughout its paths. With the addition of twinkle lights in the trees, musical acts performing throughout the garden, and fire pits to enjoy a glass of wine or hot chocolate, you'll easily get into the holiday spirit. Advance ticket purchase is necessary.

Where to Stay:

Orange sands, fire-red sunsets, and green fairways are just some of the colors you’ll find in your trip to the deserts of Arizona. Marriott’s Canyon Villas places you in the northern part of the state’s largest city in the Desert Ridge area. 

Or enjoy the beauty of the Sonoran Desert when you select a stay at Sheraton Desert Oasis or The Westin Kierland Villas in Scottsdale. No matter which resort you choose, you’ll be surrounded by the unforgettable desert.