things to do

Arizona's July Signature Events

Cool off in Arizona this July! From a firework spectacular to southern Arizona’s wine harvest celebration, there’s no shortage of ways to beat the heat statewide. We’ve put together a list of July special events and festivals around the state to inspire summer fun.

FLAGSTAFF: Heritage Festival

Museum of Northern Arizona's Heritage Festival is a weekend-long celebration of the beauty and uniqueness of all the Native People of the Colorado Plateau. An annual staple since 1930, the event provides visitors the opportunity to experience an artisan market, traditional performances and culinary delights—all led by cultural experts and with the scenic San Francisco Peaks in the background.
Info: (928) 774-5213, musnaz.org/all-upcoming-events/heritagefestival, info@musnaz.org

PHOENIX: Fabulous Phoenix Fourth

This patriotic festival features the largest aerial fireworks display in the Southwest, with two stages of entertainment by international recording artists, festival-style food, hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, a classic car display and a Kid's World with activities, carnival rides and inflatables. The free and non-alcoholic family event annually attracts more than 100,000 participants.
Info: (602) 534-3378, phoenix.gov/parks/special-events/fabphx4

ELGIN: HarvestFest at Sonoita Vineyards

Sonoita Vineyards' HarvestFest commemorates southern Arizona's bountiful harvest, and one of the biggest attractions of the day is the grape-stomping. Festival guests are invited to jump into a barrel of grapes for creative crushing with bare feet, while a rousing round of applause from the crowd chooses the grape-stomping champion. Other events include wine tastings, pairings and a horse-drawn vineyard tour.
Info: (520) 455-5893, sonoitavineyards.com/festivals, winery@sonoitavineyards.com

SIERRA VISTA: Southwest Wings Birding & Nature Festival

Arizona's longest-running nature festival, Southwest Wings is an educational celebration of the diversity of birds, mammals, reptiles and insects in their unique environment—the Sky Islands in southern Arizona. Serious birders and casual observers come together for field trips, displays, lectures, bat stalks, owl prowls, displays and arts and crafts.
Info: (520) 263-4507, swwings.org, admin@swwings.org