Central Arizona
June 1 through 29
Parched: The Art of Water in the Southwest
Explore a thought-provoking exhibition where art, culture, and science converge to examine the Southwest’s complex relationship with water. Through powerful visual storytelling and diverse artistic mediums, the exhibit invites visitors to reflect on sovereignty, spirituality, and environmental justice while deepening understanding of water’s cultural significance across Indigenous and desert communities. Expect moving perspectives, meaningful dialogue, and an experience that lingers long after you leave. Times vary by day. $13 adults; $13 seniors; $10 children (6-17); free (museum members and children under 6). Price includes museum entry. S’edav Va’aki Museum (Formerly Pueblo Grande Museum), 4619 E. Washington Street, Phoenix.
June 4, June 18, July 2
Cooling Herbal Drinks and Hydrating Snacks Workshop
Discover how desert plants can nourish and cool the body during the hottest months of the year in this three-part, hands-on herbal workshop series. Explore the cultural significance and growing practices of traditional plants while creating refreshing herbal drinks and hydrating seasonal snacks. Bring curiosity, an appetite, and a love for Sonoran Desert wisdom as each gathering blends wellness, flavor, and community connection into a vibrant summer experience. Free, 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. Native Health Central, 4041 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix.
June 5
H20 Fest
Cool off with a splash-filled celebration of water, wellness, and summer fun at Gilbert’s lively H2O Fest. Families can dive into interactive activities, water slides, games, music, and hands-on learning that highlights the importance of protecting Arizona’s precious water resources. Bring the kids, embrace the sunshine, and enjoy an energizing day of community connection. 3 to 7 p.m., tickets $7. Mesquite Aquatic Center, 100 W. Mesquite Street, Gilbert.
June 13
Valley of the Sun JUNETEENTH Celebration 2026
Bring the family to enjoy a vibrant community celebration filled with live entertainment, arts and crafts, games, prizes, children’s activities and inspiring educational presentations. Discover gardening tips, explore local vendors and fine art displays, and take advantage of free health screenings. Community youth and student scholarship recipients are also honored during this longtime Phoenix tradition celebrating freedom, culture, and connection. Free. 5 to 9 p.m., Eastlake Park, 1549 E Jefferson Street, Phoenix.
June 13
Family Beach Bash
Cool off with an energetic summer celebration packed with water fun, beach-themed games, and family-friendly activities for all ages. Kids can splash, play, and explore while parents relax and soak up the lively atmosphere. Expect music, interactive entertainment, and plenty of sunny community spirit that transforms the desert into a playful beach party for the day. $5 for Surprise residents; $8 for non-residents. 9 to 11 a.m. Surprise Aquatic Center, 15831 N. Bullard Avenue, Surprise.
June 18
E-Mobility and Clean Energy Summit
Discover how Arizona is helping shape the future of transportation and clean power at this forward-looking Arizona Technology Council summit bringing together innovators, industry leaders, and sustainability advocates. Explore breakthroughs in electric mobility, battery technology, infrastructure, and renewable energy while connecting with changemakers driving smarter, cleaner solutions across the desert Southwest. $60 AZTC members; $75 non-members. Noon to 4:15 p.m. SkySong, the ASU Scottsdale Innovation Center, 1365 N. Scottsdale Road, Building 3, Scottsdale.
June 21
The Desert Grill: A Father’s Day Brunch
Treat Dad to a flavorful brunch experience inspired by the bold tastes of the Southwest. Savor chef-crafted dishes, smoky grilled favorites, and seasonal ingredients in a relaxed desert setting perfect for celebrating together. Whether gathering with family or raising a toast to father figures, this festive culinary outing blends delicious bites, warm hospitality, and the spirit of an Arizona summer weekend. Tickets $100. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix.
June 21
Make Music Phoenix
Celebrate the joy of music at the Heard Museum with an uplifting evening of live performances, community creativity, and cultural connection. Wander through interactive musical experiences, discover talented local artists, and enjoy the vibrant energy that fills the museum grounds. From rhythm and dance to spontaneous moments of collaboration, this lively gathering invites guests of all ages to explore the universal language of music. Free. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix.
June 27
After Dark in the Park
Experience the desert after sunset with an evening of outdoor adventure, stargazing, and nature discovery under the night sky. Explore local parks in a whole new way through guided activities, wildlife encounters, and family-friendly fun designed to connect visitors with the Sonoran Desert after dark. Enjoy a drone show at 8:45 p.m. Bring curiosity, comfortable shoes, and a sense of wonder for this unique nighttime escape. Free. 6 to 9 p.m. Deer Valley Park, 19602 N. 19th Avenue, Phoenix.
July through August
Shemer Art Center: Adult Art Classes
Escape the summer heat and step into a cool, creative center where art lovers can explore new techniques and spark fresh inspiration throughout the summer. From painting and mixed media to hands-on workshops led by local artists, these classes invite beginners and experienced creatives alike to experiment, learn, and create. Discover a welcoming space to slow down, connect with community, and let imagination flourish during the height of the desert summer. Adults 18 and over. Prices, dates, and times vary by course. 5005 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix.
July 4
Fabulous Phoenix 4th
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an evening of community spirit, live entertainment, and a dazzling fireworks display lighting up the desert sky. Families can spread out on the grass, enjoy festive food and activities, and soak in the energy of one of the Valley’s signature summer celebrations. Bring lawn chairs, gather friends and neighbors, and revel in this milestone patriotic gathering filled with music, color, and summertime fun. Free. 6 to 10 p.m., fireworks start at 9:15 p.m. Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix.
July 9
2026 SRP Water Conservation Expo
Discover practical ways to make every drop count at this interactive virtual event focused on smart water stewardship in the desert. Learn how Arizona’s canal systems and surface water management shape daily life while exploring easy conservation upgrades for your yard. Participants can access discounts on smart irrigation tools, sprinklers, and nozzles designed to help landscapes thrive while using less water during the summer heat. Free. Noon to 1 p.m. Virtual event.
Northern Arizona
May through December 2026
Heritage Festival
Step into a rolling celebration of Arizona’s legendary stretch of the Mother Road as communities across the state honor 100 years of roadside Americana, neon nostalgia, classic cars, local art, music, and desert adventure. Discover quirky small towns, historic diners, lively festivals, and stories that capture the enduring spirit of Route 66. Events and locations vary throughout 2026. Discover Arizona (and other State’s events) at route66centennial.org.
June 6-7
Flagstaff Hullabaloo
Bring the family and revel in one of Northern Arizona’s most delightfully quirky community celebrations, where giant puppets roam the park, bikes become rolling art, and costumes are enthusiastically encouraged. Expect live music, circus-style performances, local food and craft vendors, playful parades, and an atmosphere that feels equal parts creative carnival and hometown gathering. Kids can bounce, dance, and explore while adults enjoy craft brews, colorful performances, and the joyful energy that fills Flagstaff’s cool mountain air. Tickets range from $9.56 for kids to $24.03 for adults (service fee included). VIP tickets are available. **Admission is free for the first 250 people each day with three non-perishable food items to benefit Flagstaff Family Food Center. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday. Wheeler Park, 212 W. Aspen Avenue, Flagstaff.
June 13
Watershed Cleanup Series
Roll up your sleeves and discover the power of community stewardship during this hands-on outdoor cleanup dedicated to restoring watershed health. Volunteers will help remove litter, clear invasive plants, and improve natural water flow while enjoying fresh air and meaningful connection to the landscape. Bring the family, spend time outdoors, and leave knowing you helped protect local ecosystems and waterways for future generations. 9 to 11 a.m., exact location to be determined. Flagstaff.
June 13
Flagstaff Native Herb Fest 2026
Celebrate the healing power of plants at this vibrant gathering devoted to herbs, wellness, and natural living. Explore artisan vendors, discover herbal remedies, enjoy hands-on demonstrations, and connect with a community passionate about holistic health and sustainable practices. Bring your curiosity, sip herbal teas, and explore fresh ways to nourish body, mind, and spirit. Cost includes all workshops. $65 for Willow Bend members, $80 for the public. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Willow Bend Environmental Education Center, 703 E. Sawmill Road, Flagstaff.
July 18
Corn Fest
Savor the flavors and fun of summer at this lively small-town festival packed with roasted corn, local food, music, games, and community spirit. Families can stroll vendor booths, enjoy entertainment, and soak up the festive atmosphere while savoring one of the season’s most beloved harvest traditions. Bring friends, bring your appetite, and revel in a joyful day that captures the playful charm of summer in the Verde Valley. Free. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Camp Verde Community Center Gym, 51 E. Hollamon Street, Camp Verde.
July 24 to 26
Sedona Hummingbird Festival
Get lost in the dazzling world of hummingbirds during this beloved summer multi-day gathering celebrating the tiny pollinators that bring color and energy to the Southwest. Bird lovers, photographers, gardeners, and families can enjoy guided experiences, educational talks, and close-up encounters with these remarkable aerial acrobats. Surrounded by Sedona’s red rock beauty, the festival offers a joyful opportunity to connect with nature, wildlife conservation, and the magic of migration season. Free to visit the Hummingbird Central and the Hummingbird Hangout. Prices for seminars and offsite activities vary. Times vary. Sedona Performing Arts Center, 995 Upper Red Rock Loop Road, Sedona.
Southern Arizona
June 10
WRRC Water Webinar: Global Water Bankruptcy: Living Beyond our Hydrological Means in the Post-Crisis Era
Explore the future of water in the Southwest and beyond during this thought-provoking webinar featuring Kaveh Madani. Discover bold ideas, emerging solutions, and global perspectives on water resilience while gaining fresh insight into how communities can adapt, conserve, and reimagine a more sustainable relationship with water. Noon to 1:15 p.m. Webinar. Visit website for more details.
June 10
Art & Appetizers: Artfully Crafted Gifts That Tell a Story for Dads and Grads
Discover creative gifts with heart during an art-filled gathering celebrating handmade craftsmanship, local flavor, and meaningful storytelling. Browse unique works from talented artists and makers while enjoying light bites and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for finding something memorable for dads, grads, and loved ones. This festive experience blends creativity, community, and thoughtful shopping into an inspiring cultural outing. Free. 3 to 5 p.m. Southern Arizona Arts Guild 1745 E. River Road, Ste 135 Tucson
June 16
Sacred Water Speaks Webinar
Dive into an inspiring virtual conversation exploring the spiritual, cultural, and ecological importance of water through Indigenous perspectives and storytelling. Participants will discover deeper connections between communities and waterways while reflecting on stewardship, resilience, and reciprocity in the desert Southwest. This engaging webinar invites thoughtful dialogue and fresh insight into the living relationships that sustain both people and landscapes. Free. Advanced registration required. Noon to 1 p.m. Online.
June 21
Signs of the Season Phenology Walk
Stroll along the Santa Cruz River on a guided nature walk exploring the seasonal rhythms of the Sonoran Desert. Discover how plants, wildlife, and weather patterns reveal subtle shifts throughout the year while enjoying the beauty and biodiversity of this treasured riparian landscape. Bring curiosity, comfortable shoes, and a love of the outdoors for an experience connecting science, observation, and desert wonder. Free. 8 a.m. Wheeler Taft Abbett Sr. Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drive, Tucson.
July 11
Watershed Management Group: Living Lab & Learning Center Tour
Explore how innovation and sustainability come together during this behind-the-scenes tour of a unique desert learning space designed to inspire water-wise living. Wander through demonstration gardens, discover creative conservation strategies, and learn how thoughtful design can support healthier ecosystems in the Southwest. Perfect for curious gardeners, sustainability enthusiasts, and lifelong learners eager to gather fresh ideas for thriving in the Sonoran Desert. Pay what you can, up to $20. Registration required. 8 to 10 a.m. 1137 N. Dodge Boulevard, Tucson.
July 31
Momentos
Step into an evening of reflection, creativity, and conversation centered on the theme of “Poetry and the Everyday” within the Another Frame exhibition featuring works by Lola Álvarez Bravo, Mariana Yampolsky, Graciela Iturbide, and Flor Garduño. Guests are invited to join a semi-guided discussion exploring how ordinary moments become extraordinary through photography and storytelling while connecting with fellow art lovers in an intimate museum setting. Pay-What-You-Wish admission. 5 to 8 p.m. Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Avenue, Tucson.
