Photo Credit: Scottsdale Progress
January transforms the Valley into Arizona’s cultural epicenter, offering art enthusiasts and culture seekers an impressive lineup of world-class events. Whether you’re a serious collector or simply appreciate creativity in all its forms, this month delivers something extraordinary across Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Tempe.
Parada del Sol & Trail’s End Festival (January 31, Scottsdale)
This over 70-year Scottsdale tradition celebrates the city’s Western heritage with a festival that captures the spirit of the Old West. Held in Old Town Scottsdale, this beloved event connects residents and visitors to the cultural roots that shaped Scottsdale’s identity, featuring Western art, crafts, and entertainment that honor Arizona’s frontier legacy. The Parada del Sol has been a cornerstone of Scottsdale’s cultural calendar for generations, reminding us that beneath the city’s modern sophistication lies a rich cowboy heritage. From authentic Western artwork to traditional crafts and performances, this festival offers a uniquely Arizona cultural experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Million Dollar Quartet (Through January, Phoenix)
Phoenix Theatre Company brings the magic of rock and roll’s most legendary recording session to life with Million Dollar Quartet. Inspired by the historic 1956 impromptu jam session that brought Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis together at Sun Records in Memphis, this electrifying musical features iconic hits including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Great Balls of Fire,” and “Folsom Prison Blues.” Located at 1825 N. Central Avenue, the production captures a moment when four future legends created musical history. Tickets start at $60 for an unforgettable evening celebrating American music heritage.
Tempe Blooms (January 24-25, Tempe)
Downtown Tempe welcomes spring early with this vibrant festival celebrating flowers, gardens, and outdoor living. The perfect antidote to winter doldrums, Tempe Blooms showcases local nurseries, landscape designers, and garden artists while offering workshops and demonstrations for green thumbs and aspiring gardeners alike. The festival transforms downtown Tempe into a botanical showcase, proving that January in Arizona means year-round growing season and outdoor entertainment.
Scottsdale Waterfront Fine Art & Wine Festival (January 30 – February 1, Scottsdale)
Capping off the month, this 15th annual juried art festival along the Scottsdale Waterfront combines visual arts with Arizona’s growing wine culture. Over 100 artists showcase striking bronzes, dazzling glass creations, breathtaking photography, and handcrafted jewelry alongside curated wine tastings and live music. The scenic canal setting creates an elegant atmosphere for discovering new artists while enjoying Arizona’s beautiful winter weather.
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction (January 17-25, Scottsdale)
While technically automotive-focused, Barrett-Jackson has evolved into a nine-day cultural phenomenon at WestWorld that celebrates American craftsmanship, design, and history. The event kicks off with the Rock The Block concert on January 16, featuring country superstar Cole Swindell and Chase Rice. Beyond the world-class collector cars crossing the auction block, Barrett-Jackson showcases custom paint artistry, vintage automotive design, and the mechanical artistry that defines American car culture. It’s a celebration of form, function, and the creative passion that transforms vehicles into rolling works of art.
January proves once again why the Valley has earned its reputation as the West’s premier destination for arts and culture. With events running throughout the month across multiple cities, there’s never been a better time to explore the creative heart of the desert.