The Ultimate Guide to Phoenix’s Must-See Events: Winter, Spring & Early Summer

Planning a trip to Phoenix? You picked the right time. From January through early summer, the Valley absolutely comes alive with festivals, sports, parades, and cultural events that draw thousands of travelers every year. Whether you’re here for sunshine, food, music, art, or iconic Arizona traditions, this guide will help you time your trip and make the most of your stay.

Below is a breakdown of the biggest upcoming events—perfect for planning a holiday, a long weekend, or even a full-on spring escape.

January: Kicking Off the Year With Iconic Phoenix Experiences

Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade (January – Annual)

The year begins with one of Phoenix’s most colorful traditions. Expect festive floats, marching bands, performers, and local pride on full display. It’s family-friendly, high-energy, and the perfect welcome to winter in the desert.

Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction (Mid–Late January)

Calling all gearheads, collectors, and anyone who appreciates a pristine classic car. This world-famous auction brings rare vehicles, celebrity appearances, and jaw-dropping showcases. Even if you’re not bidding, attending is an experience.

February: Sports, Festivals & Peak Desert Weather

WM Phoenix Open (February 2–8)

The “Greatest Show on Grass” is basically the Super Bowl of PGA events. It’s loud, lively, and unlike any golf tournament you’ve ever seen—especially the iconic 16th hole. Even non-golfers show up for the energy.

Phoenix Pride Festival (February 13–16)

Celebrate love, identity, and community at one of the Southwest’s most vibrant Pride events. Expect live music, dance areas, food vendors, a parade, and an atmosphere that radiates joy.

Cactus League Spring Training (Feb 20–March 24, 2026)

Baseball fans: this is your season. Fifteen MLB teams train across the Valley, making it easy to catch games, meet players, and experience baseball without the stadium crowds and prices.

Arizona Renaissance Festival(January 31 & Weekends Through March 29, 2026)

Step back into a world of jousting knights, artisan shops, giant turkey legs, and whimsical entertainment. It’s part fantasy, part history, and all fun.

Arizona Tennis Classic (March 9–15, 2026)

Top-ranked players, perfect weather, and an intimate atmosphere make this tournament a must for tennis lovers. It’s one of Phoenix’s most underrated sports events.

Phoenix Film Festival (March – Various Dates)

This indie-forward festival is a favorite among filmmakers and film lovers. Catch premieres, Q&As, and screenings that highlight local and global talent.

Rainbows Festival (Late March)

One of the largest LGBTQIA+ celebrations in the state, Rainbows Festival features live entertainment, food, and local vendors. It’s a warm-weather celebration that feels like the kickoff to spring in Phoenix.

May–June: Geek Culture, Arts, and Summer Kickoff

Phoenix Fan Fusion (May around Memorial Day & Potential June 5–7 Date Shift)**

Cosplay, comics, celebrity panels, gaming, workshops—you name it. This is Arizona’s biggest pop-culture celebration, drawing thousands of fans from around the world.

LepreCon (Mother’s Day Weekend)

This long-running science fiction and fantasy convention is packed with artists, authors, workshops, and niche fandom fun.

Tempe Festival of the Arts (May / June)

Historic downtown Tempe transforms into a walkable arts district with hundreds of artists, live music, food vendors, and locally crafted goods. A perfect half-day adventure.

Spring Favorites You Don’t Want to Miss

Arizona Dragon Boat Festival (Spring – Various Dates)

Held at Tempe Town Lake, this energetic cultural event showcases racing teams, traditional performances, food, and community activities. It’s visually stunning and completely free to attend.

Arizona Aloha Festival (Spring – Various Dates)

Celebrate Hawaiian and Polynesian culture with traditional music, hula performances, island cuisine, and vendor markets. It truly feels like a mini-vacation within your vacation.

Ready to Plan Your Trip? Phoenix Has an Event for Everyone

Whether you’re chasing live sports, cultural celebrations, food festivals, or artsy weekend vibes, Phoenix delivers something unforgettable every season. Pair these events with perfect weather, incredible dining, and endless outdoor adventures, and you’ve got the ideal getaway.

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