It is, understandably, not a very popular time of year to visit the desert regions of Arizona. Many of the big crowd-drawing events happen fall through spring. While it gets a bit quieter here, there are still things happening outside of the heat of the day.
Meanwhile, in Northern Arizona, there are outdoor concerts, markets, and festivals going on.
As always, there also are events you can join in online whatever the weather is like in your neck of the woods.
So here’s my handpicked list of intriguing things going-on throughout the state – as well as some you can join in anywhere! Stars* highlight discounts, extras, and other goodies!
Comedian, writer, and director Joey Clift (Cowlitz) talks with Heard Museum moderator Patty Talahongva (Hopi) about his inspiration, creative process, and using humor to discuss tough topics
*Special screening of Joey Clift’s animated short film POW!
Quijote is not looking forward to the 4th of July. (Custom bandanna by Gigraffe.)
ARIZONA
4th of July tip: For people or pets who don’t want to hear fireworks, keep in mind that “Fireworks of every kind are never permitted on Arizona state parks, state trust land, or federal lands.”
Just make sure you pick a park that’s far enough outside of town to be out of earshot!
“Spectacular violins, guitars, lutes, and bows show how exceptionally skilled makers elevated fine string instruments into timeless masterpieces that remain astonishing today.”
–Musical Instrument Museum
Guitar from the school of Mateo Sellas via Musical Instrument Museum
More than 70 of the string instruments from skilled European makers of the 16th to 19th century.
*While you’re at MIM, you can look into the conservation lab and see the behind-the-scenes work of musical instrument repair and preservation in progress!
Exhibition that features Arizona Highways photographer Jerry Jacka’s portraits of American Indian artists paired with examples of their artwork from the museum’s collection.
Included with admission
Basket collection via Heard Museum
Baskets from the Basha Collection of American Indian Art
Basketry by Western Apache, Yavapai, and Akimel O’odham weavers and contemporary photos of working basket weavers today.
Many of the baskets were woven in the early decades of the 20th century in Arizona, a time when weavers were fully exploring their art form, referencing design important to their lives and recognizing change.
Selection of work from artist and activist Keith Haring’s collaboration with Phoenix Art Museum for the 1986 exhibition “American Art of the 1980s.”
*PhxArt + Sol Summer Access Pass: Like a mini membership for the summer! Through August 31st, get unlimited general admission for 2 adults and youth under 17 for $75. (Pays for itself in 1-2 visits.)
Create your own compact, travel-ready sewing kit in this hands-on crafting session! Learn simple hand-sewing techniques and get tips on what essentials to include in a sewing kit.
For adults at any experience level.
Space is limited, so arrive early to secure your seat.
All materials provided, including fabric, thread, needles, buttons, and felt.
A mindful art exploration with a colorful array of materials – such as natural watercolors made from earth pigment, paper collage, colored pencils, and markers.
Taught by artist, author and coach Kristen Fagan
Everyone welcome
$44 registration fee / *$39 in advance (includes supplies)
“Step into a creative playground where your inner artist can play, explore, and flow.”
Using a saguaro as an example, learn about how color can transform everyday objects with foundational art techniques like underpainting, sketching, and using both flat and liner brushes.
By the end of the class, each artist will have their own unique prismatic saguaro painting!
Taught by animator-turned-painter Joshua Patrick Gridley
Everyone welcome
$45 registration fee / *$40 in advance (includes supplies)
Expert talk on the Wonders of Geology and the Geologic History of Arizona
Interactive talk on the origin of caves, canyons, landslides, sinkholes, and planet-altering forces, as well as how geologists protect and sustainably manage natural resources and mitigate potential hazards to public safety.
Part of the Science in Focus lecture series, which covers a wide range of topics from local experts in their field.
Twice a year, restaurants in Arizona offer a three-course prix-fixe menu for $33, $44 or $55 (plus beverages, tax, and tip).
Local eateries, as well as national chains.
Primarily focused on the Phoenix area with a few outliers in Sedona and Tucson.
The Fall 2025 restaurants and menus will be announced by September 1st.
*Year-round deal:Blanco has all-day happy hour on Tuesdays! It includes specials on tacos, burgers, and appetizers, as well as frozen margaritas, wine, and beer.
The Living Room, Chandler
Some independent past participants of Restaurant Week that we’ve enjoyed:
Clay pot by Juana Leno (1978) in the Tucson Museum of Art collection. Via TMA.
• Northern AZ •
“The curated works highlight the unique heritages and traditions of individual Indigenous artists and Tribes, yet convey the collective themes that unify all of humanity.”
Flagstaff at Theatrikos Theatre Company (Doris Harper-White Community Playhouse)
Flagstaff International Film Festival’s year-round screening initiative featuring acclaimed films from major film festivals.
July film: Thelma
October film: TBD
In partnership with Los Angeles CineFest, Queer Here Cinema, Worldwide Women’s Film Festival, Show Low Film Festival, Prescott Film Festival, and Sedona International Film Festival
Specialty tour examining the Riordans’ art collection and the Arts and Crafts Movement-inspired design of their home
Tickets go on sale July 15. Reserve via the State Parks’ website or call 928-779-4395.
Accessibility: If you are unable to climb stairs or stand for an hour, contact the park (928-779-4395) to arrange for accommodations.
*Park entrance fee is waived with a guided tour reservation.
$22 per ticket (Advanced purchase is required.)
“The Flagstaff International Film Festival is an annual celebration of film’s power to inspire and entertain. Set against Flagstaff’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, this August festival showcases Flagstaff as a cultural hub and stands as a must-attend event for anyone passionate about the art of cinema.”
Designed to give attendees insight into the filmmaking process and an opportunity to interact with industry professionals and like-minded enthusiasts.
Screenings of a wide range of innovative independent films from local, national, and international filmmakers
Q+A sessions, workshops, and networking events
8/16: Screenwriting Workshop. Learn how to transform your ideas into compelling scripts by understanding essential screenwriting elements including structure, character development, dialogue, and pacing.
$42 per single-day ticket (includes ticketing fees)
Performance at a previous festival, via Hopi Arts + Education Association
“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.”
Expanding on an online exhibition, this three-dimensional, IRL iteration showcases items from the University of Arizona Poetry Center’s rare book collection that stretch the meaning of what a book can be!
Running concurrently: Personal Paperback, Bisbee photographer John Charley’s larger-than-life photos of individual books that reveal connections with their owners.
Free
UPDATE: The Poetry Center is closed for a construction project until August 4.
Sculpture by Joe Benedict via Tucson Botanical Gardens.
Tucson in Ironwood Gallery + Baldwin Gallery at Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Desert Textures: now – August 17. New Work by Dan Weisz and Ana Laura Gonzalez.
Camouflage: July 19 – September 28. Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA) global juried exhibition celebrating the remarkable survival strategies of wildlife. Includes contemporary art quilts created by 36 artists from eight countries!
Talk by Grace Auclair-Lee dispelling the myths around what the “frontier women” of the American West wore
Women of the time were homemakers, wranglers, ranchers, and more – and had to do it all while dressing in a way that skillfully managed the era’s strict expectations of modesty
Celebration inspired by The Meading Room’s Old No. 9, a spicy wine made by fermenting real, fresh roasted Hatch green chiles!
Live music by Tucson-based Latin Band Ruta Verbena
Local food trucks / vendors, frozen green chile margaritas, and fresh chiles roasted on-site!
*ANYWHERE: Video of Ruta Verbena’s set at Tucson Jazz Festival earlier this year.
Free entry
Double check event details with the organizer or venue. I’ve tried to make this as accurate as possible, but things can change!
I’ve linked to some Etsy shops and items that I felt were interesting and relevant. As an affiliate, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase after following one of my affiliate links.
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