Things to Do in Arizona - September 2026

Hello Friends! ☀️🌵


You can feel it starting to shift, can't you? The evenings are finally cooling off enough to actually enjoy being outside again, and honestly, that's reason enough to celebrate. September in Arizona has a way of waking everyone back up after a long, hot summer.


This month's calendar is a good one. There are concerts happening under open skies, art festivals popping up around the Valley and beyond, and family-friendly events ranging from small-town county fairs to some bigger seasonal kickoffs. Basically, if you've been waiting for a reason to get out of the house on a weekend, September is handing you plenty of them.

I put together this month's roundup with a little bit of everything in mind, whether you're looking for live music, a reason to bring the kids, or just an evening out now that the heat isn't working against you. Scroll down and see what catches your eye.


And if you make it out to any of these, I'd genuinely love to hear how it went! Feel free to reply and let me know your favorites, or pass along ideas for what you'd like to see featured next time. Here's to enjoying Arizona now that it's finally starting to feel like Arizona again.



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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 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/



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/


 

 

September 4th -  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


 


September 4th -  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://dtphx.org/do/first-friday-1




September 4th –  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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Didn’t find anything of interest for this week – Check out the Facebook page Things to do in Arizona for even more ideas and updates.

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September 4th - September 7th  - Coconino County Fair -  Flagstaff - Ft. Tuthill County Fairgrounds - What a great way to spend Labor Day weekend - enjoy the traditional fair exhibits, cultural presentations, local entertainment and national headliners.  There will also be a demolition derby, 4-H livestock auction, magicians, clowns, a petting zoo, musical performances, carnival rides and exhibits, $5-10, $5 parking,  NEW THIS YEAR: Youth Day! On Friday, August 29 from 10 AM to 4 PM, kids ages 6-17 get in FREE! No ticket needed – just show up and have fun. Mark your calendars and don't miss this epic Friday deal!  Fri-Sat 10 am – 10 pm, Mon 10 am – 4 pm, 928-679-8000 or https://www.coconinocountyfair.com/




September 5th, September 12th, September 19th and September 26th -  Flashlight Nights – Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix. 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, 480-941-1225  http://www.dbg.org




September 5th -  37th Annual Fiesta Septiembre - Wickenburg - Fiesta de Septiembre kicks off Hispanic Heritage Month in Arizona, and recognizes the history of early Wickenburg Hispanic Pioneers!  The colorful event runs from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 View images and read cuentos (tales) to gain insight into the lives of ancestors. Hear the melodies of Mariachi Azteca De Oro and the rhythms of Barrio Latino, and watch the vibrant dances of the folklorico ensemble. There will also be a Kids Zona, food and drink stands, and an outdoor mercado. Join us for the party at the Wickenburg Community Center!

A salsa competition, guacamole competition, and margarita competition will also be held. Sample the offerings of multiple competitors and then cast your vote for the winner of the People's Choice Award.  https://www.wickenburgchamber.com/annual-events#FiestadeSeptiembre



September 5th -  10th Annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb - Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, Scottsdale - Join the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Fire Department in honoring the 343 firefighters, 60 police officers, and 10 EMS personnel who lost their lives on 9/11.The climb is not a timed race, but a way to remember and honor the fallen heroes. Participants will climb the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center.

  • The climb is open to all ages and abilities.
  • There will be water stations and rest areas along the way.
  • Spectators are welcome.

All proceeds benefit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.


The event takes place on Saturday, September 5, 2025 at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Registration opens at 4:00 PM and the climb begins at 7:00 PM.  Registration for the climb is required - $.  We will never forget. https://nfff.akaraisin.com/ui/saltriver26

 

 


September 5th and September 6th -  Prescott's Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show - Prescott - Step into the heart of Prescott and experience the magic of Prescott's Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show! The iconic Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza in downtown Prescott will come alive with creativity, delicious food, and community connections you won’t want to miss.

Save the Dates:
September 5, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
September 6th, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

What to Expect:

  • 100+ Talented Vendors: Explore a delightful array of handcrafted treasures perfect for your home or as unique gifts.
  • Delicious Food: Savor mouthwatering dishes from a variety of local food vendors.
  • Downtown Charm: Soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Prescott’s historic Courthouse Plaza

https://www.prescott.org/




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September 5th and September 6th - Showdown in Tombstone - Tombstone - Step Back in Time at the Annual Showdown in Tombstone!  Get ready for a weekend of Wild West fun at the Annual Showdown in Tombstone! Enjoy free street entertainment all weekend long, including 1880s fashion shows, thrilling gunfight reenactments, raffles, and the ever-popular Vigilante Hanging Tree.  Whether you come dressed as a gunslinger, a saloon lady, or just a curious visitor, you’ll be treated to unforgettable performances by some of the best Old West re-enactors around—bringing the spirit of Tombstone’s past to life!  And if you’re feeling brave (or mischievous), step up to the hanging scaffold where the Tombstone Vigilantes will be ready to “hang” you or a friend—just for fun, of course!  For more information, give Steve a call at (520) 559-1445.  https://www.showdownintombstone.com/

 

 

September 5th and September 6th - Pine Strawberry Arts and Crafts Festival - Join the Fun at the Pine Community Center! Enjoy a lively weekend at the Pine Community Center grounds with over 80 unique booths to explore! You'll find approximately 27 booths indoors, with the rest set up outside—many with their own charming shelters.


🥞 Start Your Day with Pancakes!
Don't miss the delicious Pancake Breakfast starting at 8 AM each day, courtesy of the Mountain Village Foundation—a wonderful nonprofit supporting Pine families year-round.


🍔 Food & Drink Galore
Fuel up with a variety of food and beverage vendors throughout the weekend, ready to keep you refreshed and satisfied while you shop and explore.


🕗 Event Hours:
Saturday: 8 AM – 5 PM
Sunday: 8 AM – 4 PM
Admission is FREE!  https://pinestrawberryartscrafts.com/arts-and-crafts-festivals





September 5th - September 7th - Flagstaff Art in the Park - Experience Flagstaff Art in the Park on Labor Day weekend at Wheeler Park in downtown Flagstaff. Festival features fabulous art shown by artists, live music, awesome food, kids activities, beer garden and more!  Enjoy Flagstaff’s longest standing, locally owned and operated fine arts festival! Flagstaff Art in the Park, where art and community come together in the cool pines of Northern Arizona.  https://flagstaffartinthepark.com/



 

September 8th – September 13th – Annual Navajo Nation Fair – Navajo Nation Fairgrounds, Window Rock – This celebration of the Navajo Nation includes rodeos, horse racing, a parade, Pow Wows, live concerts, traditional song & dance, fry bread contests, BBQs, exhibits, arts and crafts and more!  $  928 871-6647 or https://nnfair.org/





September 10th - 13th -  25th Annual Healing Fields - Tempe Town Lake - All are invited to walk through the ordered rows of flags posted at Tempe Beach Park from the 9th to the 11th of September.  A flag is flown in memory of the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives as a result of the attacks on 9/11/2001. Event Times:


Stand Up Flags – Healing Field® Tribute 5:46AM 9/10/26: Thursday, September 10th at 5:46AM. (we will begin to gather at 5:30am) Volunteers are welcome to participate! 


Freedom Concert: Saturday, September 12th from 6:30 -8:30PM – Patriotic songs in the Park.


Tunnel to Towers 5k Run/Walk: – Sunday, September 13th at 7:30AM. 5k run at the Tempe Beach Park. Click here for registration info.


Healing Field® Tribute: The 25th anniversary of September 11th will be Friday September 11th. The ceremony will begin at 5:46am which is the time that the first plane hit the first tower. We will read the names of the victims at the conclusion of this ceremony. The public is invited to join us in reading the names. More info will be available as we get closer to the event.


Candlelight Vigil: Friday, September 11th 7:00PM.  Ceremony, speakers, candlelight vigil – candles will be placed at the base of the flags. More info will be available as we get closer to the event.


Stand Down The Field – Monday, September 14th at 6:00AM. Volunteers welcome and encouraged to help!

https://tempehealingfield.org/about/




 

September 12th, September 19th and September 26th -  Flashlight Nights – Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix. 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, 480-941-1225  http://www.dbg.org



 



September 12th –    Annual Teddy Bear Day - Downtown Glendale – Who doesn’t love Teddy Bears?  Enjoy a “Beary” special day at the 20th annual Teddy Bear Day on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, in Downtown Glendale, AZ. This FREE family event  features make-and-take crafts, bear-themed activities, and treats across Catlin Court and Old Towne Districts.  Start at the Arizona Information Center Booth (5836 W Palmaire Ave) to grab an event map. This year, meet Charlie the Bear from 10 AM to noon—bring your camera for a photo!  Hop on the event shuttle, sponsored by Interstate Packaging, Inc., to visit boutique stores, enjoy special offers, and participate in activities like decorating a chocolate bear at Cerreta Candy Company and watching Arizona Search Dogs demos at Bears & More.  Support the Trauma Teddy Program by purchasing safety-approved teddy bears for $12 at Bears & More (7146 N 58th Drive), which will be donated to local first responders to comfort children in traumatic situations. Don’t miss this beary special day in Historic Downtown Glendale!

  10 am - 4 pm  More info 623-930-4500 or http://www.visitglendale.com




September 12th - Star Party at Homolovi State Park - Winslow -  Homolovi State Park Visitor Center Museum and Observatory Cost: Calling all stargazers! Come out for a night under the stars at Homolovi State Park's Visitor Center Museum and Observatory. There will be a guest speaker and presentation. Telescope viewing will follow the presentation.  These astronomy events are free with park admission. The Winslow Homolovi Observatory has a 14" telescope and modern TV monitors, so you can see nebulas, distant stars, and even galaxies!Free with park admission  Starts at 6:00pm.  https://azstateparks.com/homolovi/events/star-party-homolovi



 

September 15th - October 15th - Viva Tucson! Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration  - Tucson celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a month-long festival of food, music, art, and culture. From September 15th to October 15th, you can immerse yourself in the unique Hispanic culture of Tucson. Visit the ¡Viva Tucson! website for more information. https://www.visittucson.org/viva/hispanic-heritage-month-events/



 

September 18th -  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/




September 18th - September 20th -  20th Annual Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass and Acoustic Music Festival - Flagstaff - Pepsi Amphitheater – Three days of great music with workshops and a band contest with more than $2000 in prizes!  On Saturday night there is a barn dance.  Family friendly with kids activities, jamming, and on-site camping, $$ Fri 11am – 8 pm, Sat. 9 am – 7 pm, Sun 9 am – 5 pm, 928-525-1695  or https://pickininthepines.org/




September 18th - September 27th - Annual Arizona Restaurant Week  - Throughout Arizona -  Over 200 restaurants throughout the state will be offering three-course meals at special prices of between $33.00 - $55.00 per person excluding drinks, taxes and tips.   These meals will be featuring some of the best specialties of the chefs. See which restaurants are participating at: www.ArizonaRestaurantWeek.com

 

 


September 19th and September 26th -  Flashlight Nights – Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix. 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, 480-941-1225  http://www.dbg.org




September 19th - Corn Maze Opening Day - Willcox, Apple Annie’s - The Farm: 6405 W. Williams Rd
Open Daily 9:00-4:00 through October 31.  Get ready to be blown away by our 12.5-acre corn maze with over 600,000 stalks! Open every day from 9:00am to 4:00pm, our maze offers two levels of difficulty, so you can choose to take it easy or challenge yourself to a corn-tastic adventure. Bring your family and friends and see who can make it to the finish line first! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get lost in excitement!  https://appleannies.com/event-calendar/




September 19th - September 20th - 28th Annual Prescott Indian Art Market - Prescott - Sharlot Hall Museum - Discover the Best in Native Art. Visitors will have the opportunity to view and purchase authentic, handmade artwork, including oil paintings, beadwork, pottery, and weaving, all rigorously juried to meet the high standards of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990. Each piece is a testament to the talent, skill, and cultural heritage of Native American artists. Offering the public a rare chance to acquire exquisite and original art.  The weekend will also include live music and dance performances, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Native American culture. Art demonstrations and community art experiences will further engage visitors of all ages, promising an enriching experience on the museum’s historic grounds.  Free for members, $10.00 for non-members.  https://sharlothallmuseum.org/piam/

September 19th - September  20th -  Oktoberfest on Mount Lemmon - Mt Lemmon - Enjoy a festival of German food and live German music in the forest at Mount Lemmon Ski Valley. Weekends from 11:30am to 4:30pm https://mountlemmonlodge.com/celebrate-oktoberfest-at-mount-lemmon-lodge/



September 24th - September 27th-  Cochise County Fair - Douglas - Experience the vibrant spirit of Cochise County at the annual Cochise County Fair! Held in Douglas, Arizona, this lively event celebrates the rich culture and community of our region. From thrilling carnival rides and games to mouth-watering food vendors offering local favorites, there's something for everyone. Explore the bustling exhibit halls showcasing arts, crafts, agriculture, and livestock from talented locals. Live entertainment, including music performances and special shows, adds to the festive atmosphere. Join us for a weekend of family-friendly fun and unforgettable memories at the Cochise County Fair!  https://www.cochise-county-fair.com/



 


September 24th – October 3rd - Ballet Under the Stars -  Ballet Arizona is starting off its season with these FREE outdoors events.  They feature a variety of pieces from classical to contemporary.  This year’s events are:

Thursday, September 24th – Fountain Park, Fountain Hills  7:00PM

Friday , September 25th  -  Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater, Goodyear   7:00PM

Saturday, September 26th – Steele Indian School Park, Phoenix 7:00PM

Thursday, October 1st – Sahuaro Ranch Historic Park - Glendale -7:00PM

Friday, October 2nd - Tumbleweed Park, Chandler - 7PM

Saturday ,October 3rd - Centennial Plaza Park, Peoria - 7:00PM

For more info go to: http://www.balletaz.org



 



September 25th  – October 4th -  37th Annual Flagstaff Festival of Science – “Driven by Curiosity” 

  • 10 days of free events and programs
  • Featuring technology leader Kirk Dunsavage, whose talk explores the intersection of science, engineering, and the human spirit of exploration
  • Hands-on workshops, interactive discussions, and more
  • Learn about ancient cultures, the environment, wildlife, and more
  • Events held throughout northern Arizona

Reserve your tickets today!  The keynote tickets are now available. Don't miss out on this exciting event! Learn more at https://scifest.org/

September 25th - September 26th - Annual Salsa Fest - Safford - Safford Town Square Calling all salsa lovers! The  annual NatureSweet Tomatoes SalsaFest is back on September 25 - 26th  at Safford Fireman's Park. This year's event promises to be even more exciting, with new competitions, live music, and more.Here's what you can expect:

 

  • Salsa competitions: Amateur and professional salsa makers will compete for cash prizes and the title of "Salsa King or Queen."
  • Live music: Enjoy live music from local and regional bands all weekend long.
  • Vendors: Browse a variety of vendors selling food, drinks, and salsa-related merchandise.
  • Family activities: There will be plenty of activities for kids of all ages, including a petting zoo, face painting, and a kids' salsa competition.
  • Community connections: Mingle with fellow salsa lovers and make new friends.

 

Get your tickets today and don't miss out on the fun.   928 428-1570 or https://azsalsafest.com/


September 25th  -  September 26th -   Annual "Standin' on the Corner" Park Festival - Winslow - The 26th Annual "Standin' on the Corner" Festival will be held on September 25-26, 2026 in Winslow, Arizona. The festival is named after the song by The Eagles, which was inspired by the corner of 2nd Street and Kinsley Avenue in Winslow.  The festival features live music from a variety of genres, including rock, country, blues, and folk. There will also be arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and a beer garden. On Saturday, there will be a horseshoe tournament and a live auction.  The festival is a great way to celebrate the music and history of Winslow. It is also a great opportunity to meet new people and enjoy a fun-filled weekend..  https://www.standinonthecorner.org/



  

September 26th -  Flashlight Nights – Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix. 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, 480-941-1225  http://www.dbg.org


September 26th - September  27th -  Oktoberfest on Mount Lemmon - Mt Lemmon - Enjoy a festival of German food and live German music in the forest at Mount Lemmon Ski Valley. Weekends from 11:30am to 4:30pm https://mountlemmonlodge.com/celebrate-oktoberfest-at-mount-lemmon-lodge/



September 26th  - Ongoing to November 22nd  - Fall Butterfly Exhibit - Phoenix - Desert Botanical Gardens - Butterflies are back and better than ever at the 3,200 square foot Butterfly Pavilion located near the Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Loop Trail. The new exhibit features hundreds of live, fluttering butterflies among the desert landscapes and stunning views of the Papago Butte, as well as a caterpillar nursery and emergence chamber. It promises to be delightful, magical and educational for children and adults.   Included with paid admission.  9:30 am - 5:00 pm daily. https://dbg.org/events/fall-butterflies/2026-09-26/


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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