Annual Events & Festivals in Phoenix: From Waste Management Open to Barrett-Jackson Car Auction
Here Are Some of the Top Annual Events in the Valley of the Sun
Phoenix, Scottsdale and the rest of the Valley isn't just a place to live—it's a world-class destination for major sports, cultural, and lifestyle events. Every winter and spring, the Valley turns into a vibrant stage attracting visitors worldwide.
The event calendar kicks off with the legendary Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in January, followed immediately by the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in February—famously known as "The Greatest Show on Grass." Sports fans celebrate Cactus League Spring Training in March, where 15 MLB teams play in 10 modern stadiums across the metro area.And the Arizona State Fair occurs in the fall at the Arizona State Fairgrounds.
Culture and food lovers can also enjoy events like the Arizona Renaissance Festival, the Scottsdale Arts Festival, Restaurant Week, monthly First Friday Art Walks in Central Phoenix, and a variety of heritage festivals like the Phoenix Greek Festival and the Annual Italian Festival. These high-profile event seasons also provide a boosted market for local short-term rentals and boost the overall regional economy.
Quick Answer
What are the biggest annual events in Greater Phoenix? The WM Phoenix Open PGA Golf Tournament, MLB Cactus League Spring Training, Barrett-Jackson Car Auction, and Arizona State Fair lead the area's event calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When does Cactus League Spring Training take place?
o A: Spring Training runs annually from late February through late March across stadiums in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, and Surprise.
Q: What is the WM Phoenix Open?
o A: It is the most highly attended PGA Tour golf event in the world (typically drawing over half a million people each year), held annually at TPC Scottsdale every February.
Q: Do major events boost home values and vacation rental demand?
o A: Yes! High visitor turnout during Q1 drives seasonal rental yields and spotlights Phoenix real estate to out-of-state buyers.
