Things to Do in Arizona - August 2026

Hello Friends! ☀️🌵


Fresh off the press—here’s your guide to fun things happening across Arizona this August! I hope you're staying cool and finding time to enjoy the season. This month’s lineup includes everything from free concerts and art studio tours to rodeos and birding festivals—something for everyone!


I'd love to hear from you! If you check out any of these events (or know of others I should feature), please drop me a note.


A quick reminder—I've been a full-time real estate agent for over 30 years, and I’d love to help you or someone you know with buying or selling a home. You can always explore listings at www.OnlineArizonaHomes.com.



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Enjoy your August adventures!



I love getting feedback, so please let me know if you enjoyed any of these activities or if there are others that you think I should include.  Have a great August!


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 Event dates, times and locations are subject to change. Some events require tickets or may charge fees for attendance. Please check with event organizers before attending.

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***Ongoing - Snowbowl's Scenic Gondola Ride -Snowbowl, Flagstaff - Take in the dramatic scenery of northern Arizona from a bird's eye view by riding Snowbowl's Scenic Gondola Ride. From the top, enjoy glimpses of the Grand Canyon, panoramic scenery of the Red Rocks in Sedona, and the impressive volcanic field around Flagstaff. Enjoy interpretive talks, hikes, rounds of disc golf, or treat yourself to lunch with a view at Agassiz Lodge Restaurant. The chairlift ride is 25 minutes each way, offering great opportunities for photography, wildlife observation, or just enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the San Francisco Peaks. When lunchtime rolls around, make your way back to the base area for a delicious home-style meal! A free disc golf course and many hiking trails are available at the base of the chairlift and around the peaks, as well.DAILY: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Starting at $20.00pp 928-779-1951 or http://www.arizonasnowbowl.com

At this elevated mountain location, the thin air enhances the vibrant colors of the sunset, creating an even more intense and mesmerizing display. You'll have the chance to bask in the golden hour glow from one of the most unique vantage points in the state.

‘TheSunset Gondola Rides are available on select Fridays and Saturdays during the summer season. Hop aboard the Arizona Gondola and embark on a scenic journey. With lift tickets starting as low as $32 when purchased online and in advance, it's an affordable way to enjoy this extraordinary experience. https://www.snowbowl.ski/sunset-gondola-rides/





July 31st - August 9th - Arizona Chef’s Week - This is the 2nd annual Arizona Chef’s Week — an exciting event celebrating local chefs, seasonal flavors, and bold creativity across the Phoenix area.

From July 31– August 9th, participating locally owned, independent restaurants will serve up exclusive, three-course prix fixe menus priced at $55 or $66 per person. But this isn’t just another restaurant week — this is your chance to experience one-of-a-kind dishes crafted just for this event.

  • 🌟 What Makes It Special?
  • Exclusive Menus: Each restaurant creates a custom three-course menu available for this week only. No repeats, no substitutions — just fresh ideas and bold new flavors.
  • Locally Owned. Chef-Driven. This event highlights Arizona’s independent restaurants and the culinary talent behind them.
  • Fixed Pricing: Enjoy high-end dining experiences at accessible, fixed prices — $55 or $66 per person.
  • Limited-Time Only: Once it’s over, it’s gone. These menus are designed to be enjoyed during Chef’s Week and then retired.
    https://arizonachefsweek.com/





August 1  - HarvestFest 2026 at Sonoita Vineyards - Sonoita, Sonoita Vineyards Welcome to the HARVESTFEST 2026 at Sonoita Vineyards! On August 1st, from 10-5pm, Grape Stomping at 1pm, for a day of fun, wine, and celebration at 290 Elgin Canelo Rd. A great way for us to kick-off the Harvest Season! This is a grand festival, with hundreds of guests participating in the activities including grape stomping competitions, taste the latest releases from our local wineries, enjoy live music, and savor delicious food from our vendors. Artisinal and Craft Vendors will also be here. This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to discover new favorites and mingle with fellow wine enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on this exciting festival – mark your calendars and get ready to raise a glass!  10am - 5pm $10 - $30.00  https://www.sonoitavineyards.com/event/harvestfest-2026-at-sonoita-vineyards/





August 1st - Slide the Rails - McCormick Skillman Railway Park, Scottsdale - Cool down. Slide up. Summer fun at the Railroad Park!

Get ready to make a splash at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park’s coolest summer event, Slide the Rails!
Join us on Saturday, August 1 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a morning packed with water-filled fun for the whole family.

We’re turning the park into a mini water park, complete with:

  • Giant inflatable water slides
  • Splash zones & foam pit
  • Water balloon activities
  • And more ways to stay cool!
  • Your $10 wristband includes unlimited access to all water attractions as well as train and carousel rides throughout the event. Children 2 and under are free.

Don’t forget your swimsuit, sunscreen, and towels!  Slide the Rails is the perfect way to beat the heat and celebrate summer!

Wristbands on sale now and available for pick up only at Stillman-Station.  https://www.therailroadpark.com/event/slide-the-rails/





Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29th  -  Flashlight Nights – Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix.  Every Saturday in August!  Grab your flashlight and get your glow on! Experience the desert after dark with hands-on activities, live dance and musical performances, cool treats, a farmers’ market and more. Perfect for a “cool” summer date night or family adventure.  Please bring a flashlight and wear comfortable walking shoes, 7 pm on  Saturdays in August, 480-941-1225  http://www.dbg.org




August 1st and August 2nd - 2026 Flagstaff Chili Festival - Flagstaff - Thorpe Park  2 Days of Chili Cooking Competition and public tasting. Saturday 10:30 am to 3:30 pm Sunday 9:30 am to 2:30 pm  ADMISSION $10.00 per tasting kit.  https://www.azchili.com/





August 1st - August 2nd  -  Prescott Fine Art and Wine Festival - Prescott - Courthouse Plaza - This juried art show features  120 artisans from throughout the West displaying and demonstrating work in painting, ceramic, metal art, woodworking, glass, fiber and jewelry.  There will be  live music. Enjoy a beautiful wine garden featuring regional wine makers. Sat. 9 am – 5 pm, Sun 9 am – 4 pm, 928-445-2510 or www.mountainartistsguild.org

 




August 5th - August 8th - Southwest Wings Birding and Nature Summer Festival - The Mall at Sierra Vista - The Summer festival is the big event with free programs, wildlife exhibits, vendors, guided trips and a keynote buffet. Southwest Wings is an educational celebration of the diversity of birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects, in their environment; the sky islands in southern Arizona. The unique confluence of three climate zones ensures that the species count is high and many are only found in this area of the United States. They average about 200 bird species each festival. The high elevation location guarantees moderate temperatures during the field trips. They offer small group trips limited to a maximum of ten people plus a guide. Admission is free - Field trips have fees.  https://www.swwings.org/




August 6th - August 8th - Annual Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering - Prescott - Yavapai College Performance Hall - Spread out over three days and multiple venues more than 70 poets and old-time singers celebrate the oral traditions of the working cowboy, with a blend of traditional and contemporary poetry and music.  There will be  free multiple daytime sessions and  evening shows are $25 - $35.00 for headline performances, 928-776-2000 or 877-928-4253 or http://azcowboypoets.org






August 7th –  Artlink First Friday Phoenix - Downtown Phoenix - Enjoy the spirit and culture of downtown Phoenix as you mingle with thousands of other residents and visitors. Tour art galleries, venues, and related spaces from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. every First Friday of the month. (Note: each art space has their own hours.) There is even a First Friday Trolley to help you get around!   Free. https://artlinkphx.org/firstfridays/


August 7th –  First Friday Artwalk – Flagstaff- Downtown Flagstaff.  This is one of Northern Arizona’s premier arts events.  On the first Friday of each month the art galleries and businesses of downtown Flagstaff stay open from 4-8pm.  There are special arts exhibits, live music and more.  https://downtownflagstaff.org/events/first-friday-art-walk




August 7th –  First Friday in the Galleries - Sedona - On the 1st Friday of each month, from 5:00 - 8:00 pm, members of the Sedona Gallery Association offer a unique monthly showcase highlighting artists, special exhibits, and art events. These special art receptions give locals and Sedona visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy light refreshments while beginning their weekends with an exploration of Sedona’s exciting art scene. https://sedonamonthly.com/events/1st-friday-in-the-galleries-2/



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August 7th -  2026 Free Summer Concert Series – .Chandler Center for the Arts – Enjoy an evening with JD Nash and the Rash of Cash!!  Delivering gritty, danceable music with a sharp storytelling edge, The Rash of Cash combines raw Southwestern rock energy with heartfelt songwriting, making every performance a raucous yet deeply resonant experience. The performance is great for fans of the Drive-By Truckers, Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit, and the Old 97’s.  

Cool off at this FREE Summer Concert series, sponsored by Intel, held on the Mainstage. Enjoy pre-concert festivities, flash ticket offers, 50/50 raffle and specialty drinks at each performance in the series. Doors open one hour before show time. All seats are no charge with general seating on a first-come-first-served basis. The concert starts at 7:30pm . https://www.chandlercenter.org/events/free-summer-concert-jd-nash-and-rash-cash



August 7th - August 9th - 15th Annual Bisbee Pirate Weekend - Bisbee - Hosted by the ever-merry Pirates of the Sky Islands, the event includes three rollicking days of mischief, music, and merriment. This high-spirited gathering has become one of Bisbee’s largest and longest-running festivals. Landlocked though we may be, Bisbee turns full port as pirates and mermaids of all ages drop anchor to join the fun.  Events include the Maritime Marketplace! With a day of family-friendly fun, thrills, and nautical nonsense as we transform City Park into a pirate's paradise! This event is packed with live performances, rollicking music, sea-worthy vendors, mermaids...and surprises around every corner. Dress in your best buccaneer attire and strut your stuff in the Costume Contest, or come as you are and soak in the festive spirit.

Whether you're a daring rogue or a curious sailor, there's something for everyone. So hoist the colors, gather your crew, and join us for a day of high-seas hijinks you won’t forget!  For more info about all 3 days go to:  https://www.bisbeepirateweekend.com/



Aug.8, 15, 22 and 29th  -  Flashlight Nights – Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix.  Every Saturday in August!  Grab your flashlight and get your glow on! Experience the desert after dark with hands-on activities, live dance and musical performances, cool treats, a farmers’ market and more. Perfect for a “cool” summer date night or family adventure.  Please bring a flashlight and wear comfortable walking shoes, 7 pm on  Saturdays in August, 480-941-1225  http://www.dbg.org



August 12th - August 16th – Southeast Arizona Birding Festival - Tucson - Double Tree by Hilton Hotels - Come to this festival for exciting monsoon birding, field trips & workshops with renowned leaders.  There will be socials and dinner programs (fees vary) as well as free Nature Expo and  kids’ activities.   https://tucsonbirds.org/festival/




August 14th -  2026 Free Summer Concert Series – Chandler Center for the Arts, Christie Huff - Medio Pinto - Medio Pinto Band is a world music and Latin fusion band fueled by Latin soul, alegría, and a deep connection to their Latin American roots. Founded by Venezuelan musicians with a deep love for the rhythms and traditions of Latin America. Based in Phoenix, AZ, they create original music and reimagine covers, blending the rhythms, traditions, and instruments of Latin America into a sound that is entirely their own.   Cool off at our FREE Summer Concert series, sponsored by Intel, held on the Mainstage. Enjoy pre-concert festivities, flash ticket offers, 50/50 raffle and specialty drinks at each performance in the series. Doors open one hour before show time.  

 Seating is on a first come/first served basis. The concert starts at 7:30pm.   https://www.chandlercenter.org/events/free-summer-concert-medio-pinto




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  •  If there is an event that you think that we should know about email me at David@OnlineArizonaHomes.com or visit our Facebook page and post a comment.

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Aug 15, 22 and 29th  -  Flashlight Nights – Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix.  Every Saturday in August!  Grab your flashlight and get your glow on! Experience the desert after dark with hands-on activities, live dance and musical performances, cool treats, a farmers’ market and more. Perfect for a “cool” summer date night or family adventure.  Please bring a flashlight and wear comfortable walking shoes, 7 pm on  Saturdays in August, 480-941-1225  http://www.dbg.org





August 19th - August 22nd  -  World's Oldest Continuous Rodeo - August Doin's Rodeo - Payson -  For over  130 years, Payson, Arizona has been celebrating the history and tradition of Pro-Rodeo. It is held the third weekend in August and  it is considered the country's Best Small Rodeo. Experience the sport of the Old West! Some of the world's greatest professional cowboys and cowgirls compete for cash and prizes. $ https://www.paysonprorodeo.com/worlds-oldest-continuous-rodeo





Aug. 20th - Celebration of All Things S-cuk Son / Tucson The 251st Anniversary.  Free event - Hosted by the Presidio Museum and the Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block.  While the Tucson basin has been inhabited for thousands of years, the formal inception date of the City of Tucson is August 20th, 1775. Today, we use this date to celebrate our rich TucSonorense culture and its many inhabitants. Did you know the name Tucson originates from the native O’odham word “s -cuk ṣon” which means “at the base of the black hill”? 6-10pm  Learn more at  https://tucsonpresidio.com/





August 21st - Third Friday Art Affaire - The Finer Arts Gallery - 6137 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 85331 - Mark your calendar for a special evening of creativity and connection— this Art Social takes place every third Friday from 5 PM to 7 PM.   Come meet the talented artists behind the work, deepen your appreciation for the arts, and maybe even find that perfect piece to take home. Light refreshments will be served, and all are welcome!  https://www.thefinerartsgallery.com/





August 21st - Free Family Summer Saturday:  Meet Molly & Rosie!  Learning through Adventure  - Arizona PBS Family Day - Heard Museum, Phoenix - Molly of Denali is the first nationally distributed children’s show in the U.S. to feature a Native American lead. Created with Alaska Native writers and advisors, the series celebrates Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions. Rosie’s Rules follows 5-year-old Mexican-American Rosie Fuentes as she explores how the world works with curiosity, questions, and heart.

The event also highlights the museum’s Billie Jane Baguley Library and Archives and the exhibition Storyteller: The Photography of Jerry Jacka, which explores themes of adventure, culture, and visual storytelling. Families can meet Molly and Rosie, create art, take part in hands-on activities, and explore the museum together.  10am - 4pm  https://heard.org/event/ffss-august-2025/




August 21st -  2026 Free Summer Concert Series – .Chandler Center for the Arts – Stalicho the Band - Stilicho plays traditional Irish music in the style of the great stalwarts The Clancy Brothers, Dubliners, Corries, Planxty, and countless unnamed poets whose songs are passed down through oral tradition from generation to generation. You’ll be transported to the Emerald Isle with their soaring vocals and energetic compositions. Cool off at this FREE Summer Concert series, sponsored by Intel, held on the Mainstage. Enjoy pre-concert festivities, flash ticket offers, 50/50 raffle and specialty drinks at each performance in the series. Doors open one hour before show time. All seats are no charge with general seating on a first-come-first-served basis. The concert starts at 7:30pm . https://www.chandlercenter.org/events/free-summer-concert-stilicho-band




August 21st - September 6th - 43rd Annual Grand Canyon Music Festival - Shrine of the Ages Auditorium - Grand Canyon Village. Annual series of evening concerts featuring musicians from around the country, from jazz to classical. 7:30 pm - $20.00/adult.  https://grandcanyonmusicfest.org/




August 22nd - August 23rd  -  Annual Flagstaff Open Studios - Flagstaff - Featuring more than 60 studios, the self-guided studio tour spotlights a variety of art media.  You can  meet local art stars, including painters, sculptors, fiber arts, glass works, jewelers, photographers, stained glass, weavers and hands-on art projects for children, 10 am - 5 pm, 928-779-2300 or www.Flagstaff-Arts.org





Aug  22nd and 29th  -  Flashlight Nights – Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix.  Every Saturday in August!  Grab your flashlight and get your glow on! Experience the desert after dark with hands-on activities, live dance and musical performances, cool treats, a farmers’ market and more. Perfect for a “cool” summer date night or family adventure.  Please bring a flashlight and wear comfortable walking shoes, 7 pm on  Saturdays in August, 480-941-1225  http://www.dbg.org




August 26th - August 29th - 84th Annual Apache County Fair - Apache County Fairgrounds, St. Johns -  The Apache County Fair, EST. 1942 showcases the agricultural, cultural, and artistic talents of this close-knit community. As one of the last free fairs, it remains a cherished tradition that reflects the community’s  commitment to inclusivity and community spirit. It includes a carnival, vendors and displays, kids’ zone and food court. https://www.visitarizona.com/events/84th-annual-apache-county-fair




August 28th - August 30th – Annual Prickly Pear Festival – Superior – Head east to the mining town of Superior for a day filled with everything Prickly Pear.  There is a morning hike in the desert and a breakfast with prickly pear syrup.  Vendors will be selling prickly pear foods and wares.  You can learn how to use Prickly pears in your own cooking!   Admission is free.   520 689-0200  

https://pricklypearfestsuperior.com/

 


Aug 29th  -  Flashlight Nights – Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix.  Every Saturday in August!  Grab your flashlight and get your glow on! Experience the desert after dark with hands-on activities, live dance and musical performances, cool treats, a farmers’ market and more. Perfect for a “cool” summer date night or family adventure.  Please bring a flashlight and wear comfortable walking shoes, 7 pm on  Saturdays in August, 480-941-1225  http://www.dbg.org



August 29th and August 30th  - Annual Hopi Arts and Cultural Festival - Flagstaff Mall -  The only all Hopi art festival in Northern Arizona, The Hopi Arts & Cultural Festival began in 2010 to assist artisans in selling their arts and crafts following a major recession. It was also an avenue to help introduce their artistic ability and Native culture to the public. The Hopi Festival brings to Flagstaff public education by way of art, traditional social dances and information on Hopi culture. The event is a bridge that allows the City of Flagstaff and surrounding communities to come together  and learn from one another through unity, happiness, and stewardship of the earth from all people of different walks of life.  https://hopifestival.com




August 29th - August 30th -   Annual Family Cornfest, Arts & Crafts Fair - Phoenix - El Zaribah Shrine Auditorium -This fair takes place indoors with plenty of air conditioning so that you can take your time viewing the  60 arts & crafts exhibitors.  You can buy fresh sweet corn, enjoy a meal with corn ($) and listen to music.  Free admission and parking.   602-231-0300 or www.el-zaribah.org


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Didn’t find anything of interest for this week? For even more ideas and updates…  join our 64,000+ member group.

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If there is an event that you think we should know about, email me at David@OnlineArizonaHomes.com



That’s a wrap, friends! 🎉


But don’t worry—the fun doesn’t stop here! Be sure to join our  "Things to Do in Arizona Group" , where you can see even more awesome events as they pop up, jump in, share your own finds, browse what others have discovered👍✨


And, if you or someone you know needs help buying or selling a home, I’m always here! 🏡 Give me a call at 602-763-6363 or send me an email at David@OnlineArizonaHomes.com—I’d love to help!!


Have a fantastic August!



Cheers,


David 🌵☀️



📞 Call me at 602-763-6363
📧 Email: David@OnlineArizonaHomes.com


P.S. Spread the adventure! If friends or family want in on these monthly discoveries, just send them my way.


David Thomas, Realtor®


ABR, ePro, CDPE, SFR (Short Sale and Foreclosure Certification)
HomeSmart Elite Group
602-763-6363

David@OnlineArizonaHomes.com
www.OnlineArizonaHomes.com