Looking for something different to do this July 4th weekend? FESTIVALS! Who doesn’t like a good festival?
Arizona’s summer heat is in full swing. Check out Arizona Central/Arizona Republic’s list of things to do during the July 4th weekend to stay out of the heat (or bask in it, if that’s your thing).
Here’s 49 of them! So there’s something for everyone. Check it out…
Find more picks by clicking this link: http://www.azcentral.com/story/entertainment/events/2016/06/28/july-festivals-metro-phoenix-arizona/86045280/
Contents
- 6/30-7/3: Lavender Festival at Red Rock Farms
- 7/1-3: Pinetop-Lakeside Fine Arts & Crafts show
- 7/1: Red White & Boom in Ahwatukee Foothills
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- 7/2: Jerome Art Walk
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- 7/2-3: Hopi Festival of Arts & Culture
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- 7/2-3: Pine-Strawberry Arts & Crafts Festival
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- 7/2: Scottsdale Fourth of July at WestWorld
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- 7/2: Red, White & Rawhide Fireworks Spectacular
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- 7/2-4: Independence Day Pool Party in downtown Phoenix
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- 7/2-4: Salt River Tubing’s Firecracker Bucks
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- 7/3: Third of July Fireworks Bash in Cave Creek
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- 7/3: Fireworks and Movie Night
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- 7/3: Anthem Independence Day Celebration
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- 7/3: Salute From the Shores of Lake Pleasant
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- 7/3: Independence Day Car Show and Fireworks Celebration
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- 7/3: Westgate Fireworks Fest
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- 7/3: Freedom Treasure Fest
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- Through 7/3: Summer Concert Series at McCormick-Stillman
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- 7/4: All-American Festival in Peoria
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- 7/4: Tempe Town Lake Festival
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- 7/4: Fabulous Phoenix Fourth
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- 7/4: Fourth at the Fountain
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- 7/4: Fire in the Sky in Gilbert
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- 7/4: Great American Fourth in Maricopa
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- 7/4: Fourth of July baseball game, celebration in Surprise
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- 7/4: Schnepf Farms Fourth of July
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- 7/4: July Fourth Fireworks Spectacular in Chandler
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- 7/4: Butterfly Wonderland
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- 7/4: Fourth of Zooly
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- 7/4: Star Spangled Fourth in Goodyear
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- 7/4: Firework Hike in Goodyear
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- 7/4: Tolleson’s Independence Day Celebration
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- 7/4: Hometown Fireworks Celebration in Apache Junction
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- 7/4: Fourth of July Celebration in Buckeye
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- 7/4: Republic Services Arizona Celebration of Freedom
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- 7/5-9: $4 for the Fourth
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- 7/7: Annual Indie AZ Fest
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- 7/9-10: Experience France
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- 7/9: Glendale’s Christmas in July
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- 7/15: Science with a Twist
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- 7/15-16: Camp Verde Cornfest
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- 7/16: Winter in July at Phoenix Zoo
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- 7/16-17: Arizona Get Outdoors Expo
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- 7/23: Real, Wild and Woody Beer Festival
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- Through 7/26: Summer Splash Tuesdays and Thursdays
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- 7/30: HarvestFest & Grape Stomp
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- 7/30-31: Garlic Festival
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- Through 9/3: Cool Summer Nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
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- Through 12/17: Ahwatukee Eats
6/30-7/3: Lavender Festival at Red Rock Farms
It’s harvesting season at Red Rock Farms in the rural town of Concho, in eastern Arizona. The farm’s 35,000 lavender plants are blooming just in time for the 13th annual Lavender Festival. The event will feature food and live music, with activities like lavender growing discussions, cooking demonstrations and tastings. The lavender shop will have plenty of botanical, aromatherapy and other products for sale.
Details: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday-Sunday, June 30-July 3. Red Rock Ranch, House 38, County Road 5309, Concho. $5. 626-353-8561, redrockfarms.com/2016-lavender-festival.
7/1-3: Pinetop-Lakeside Fine Arts & Crafts show
The High Country Art Gallery and Gift Shop has served the Pinetop arts community for over 30 years. Operated by the High Country Art Association, the organization hosts an annual 4th of July Arts and Crafts Festival. Tall trees provide ample shade as vendors from all over Arizona present everything from paintings and photography to metal work, sculptures, pottery, fabric art and jewelry.
Details: July 1-3. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. The Orchard at Charlie Clark’s, 1701 E. White Mountain Blvd., Pinetop. Free. 928-367-3916, highcountryartgallery.com/festivals.cfm.
7/1: Red White & Boom in Ahwatukee Foothills
The Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce event will be at Pecos Park this year. Activities include a pool playground, splash pad, kid zone and VIP lounge. Food, drinks (including alcohol) and summer treats like shaved ice, frozen lemonade, cotton candy, nachos, ice cream and kettle corn will be sold. Three bands will play before fireworks start at 9 p.m. The misted Boom! Room and Oasis Lounge include food, drinks and other amenities.
Details: 5-10 p.m. Friday, July 1. 17010 S. 48th St., Phoenix. Free; $5 general admission; $25 for Boom! Room or Oasis Lounge. 480-234-4232, red-white-boom.com.
7/2: Jerome Art Walk
Arizona summers don’t have to be spent in the confines of air-conditioned compartments. Travel and art aficionados alike will find reprieve from the heat at the Jerome Art Walk on the first Saturday of every month. A free shuttle whisks visitors around town to the galleries and studios. The aptly titled “Summer Under 100” display at Zen Mountain Gallery offers local artwork priced under $100 in honor of the cooler temps you’ll enjoy as you stroll.
Details: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, July 2. Jerome. Free. 928-649-2277, jeromeartwalk.com.
7/2-3: Hopi Festival of Arts & Culture
Since its inception in the 1930s, the annual Hopi Festival of Arts and Culture has grown to include more than 80 award-winning artists from Hopi villages in northern Arizona. Traditional musicians, artist demonstrators and authentic food vendors will be featured at the 83rd annual event. Performances include stories by Ed Kabotie, Hopi dance groups and lectures covering a range of cultural topics. Hopi artists will sell jewelry, kachinas, pottery, paintings, woodwork, baskets and textiles.
Details: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, July 2-3. Museum of Northern Arizona, 3101 N. Fort Valley Road, Flagstaff. $8-$12. 928-774-5213, musnaz.org.
7/2-3: Pine-Strawberry Arts & Crafts Festival
The Pine-Strawberry Arts and Crafts Guild’s second big festival of the year takes place during July 4 weekend. Festival-goers will find more than 80 vendor booths spread across the Pine Community Center Grounds, along with food and beverage options. The pancake breakfast, a favorite attraction, is provided by the Pine-Strawberry Fire Department.
Details: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, July 2. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, July 3. Pine Community Center, 3886 N. State Route 87. Free. 928-978-0469, pinestrawberryartscrafts.com.
7/2: Scottsdale Fourth of July at WestWorld
In WestWorld’s 300,000-square-foot, air-conditioned Tony Nelssen Equestrian Center, find a “Star Wars: The Fourth Awakens” activity zone, extreme trampoline shows by Guinness Book of World Record holders Flippenout, a bull riding competition, game trucks, pony rides, a petting zoo, live entertainment, a dance party, food and drinks.VIP tickets grant exclusive access to face painting, cornhole, and reserved open seating for the fireworks and the bull riding competition, as well as unlimited access to the VIP food and beverage stations. There will be an Olympic Village featuring all-ages games and activities such as old-fashioned picnic games, giant Jenga, and more. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m., and for $20 a carload, guests can park on the polo field to see the show. The polo field lot opens at 7 p.m.
Details: 3-9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 2. 16601 N. Pima Road. Free for ages 5 or younger, military and first responders; general admission: $12 in advance, $20 at the door, $6 in advance for Scottsdale residents; VIP: $35 in advance, $20 for kids 6-17 in advance, $45 at the door, $30 for kids at the door; $20 wristbands, $10 for each additional wristband for children 6 or older, $5 for age 5 or younger; $130 in advance for a Family Fun Pack of 2 VIP tickets, 2 kids VIP tickets and 2 wristbands; $5 parking. 866-977-6849, scottsdaleindependenceday.com.
7/2: Red, White & Rawhide Fireworks Spectacular
Rawhide Western Town & Event Center is celebrating Independence Day with live-action stunt shows, fireworks and a special dining menu. Frankie J (formerly of the Kumbia Kings), Latin and Tejano star Stefani Montiel and special guest Zavala will perform. The frontier town’s attractions and rides also will be open for the party.
Details: 4 p.m. Saturday, July 2. 5700 W. North Loop Road, Gila River Reservation. $15 in advance; $20 at the door; free for kids 5 or younger; $10 to park. 480-502-5600, www.rawhide.com.
7/2-4: Independence Day Pool Party in downtown Phoenix
Party poolside at Lustre Rooftop Bar at Hotel Palomar Phoenix. There will be live music from 2-6 p.m., a DJ from 8 p.m.-midnight and, on July 4, a rooftop view for fireworks after the Arizona Diamondbacks game.
Details: 2 p.m.-midnight, Saturday-Monday, July 2-4. 2 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix. $15. 480-478-1738, lustrerooftopbar.com/pool-events/events.htm.
7/2-4: Salt River Tubing’s Firecracker Bucks
Celebrate Independence Day by floating on the Lower Salt River and collecting trash in provided litter bags as you go. Salt River Tubing will kick off the holiday weekend with the award-winning “Bag it for Bucks” Take Pride in America event. They’ll be distributing “Firecracker Bucks” ― a $7 tube rental discount coupon for a future float ― as a token of appreciation for floaters’ conservation efforts when they trade in a full litter bag at the end of their float. The coupon is valid seven days a week beginning July 5-Sept. 2, 2016. KISSFM 104.7, LIVE 101.5 and KMLE Country 108 will have beach balls, prizes and live entertainment.
Details: 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Saturday-Monday, July 2-4; tubes rented until 2 p.m.; last shuttle bus at 6:30 p.m. Salt River Tubing & Recreation, 9200 N. Bush Highway, Mesa. $17, includes tube rental, shuttle service and parking ($20 minimum and valid ID for credit cards). 480-984-3305, saltrivertubing.com.
7/3: Third of July Fireworks Bash in Cave Creek
Harold’s Corral in Cave Creek is celebrating the nation’s birthday one day early with a Red, White & Boom firework show. The BBQ is set for 5:30 p.m., and face painting, shaved ice and a mobile game truck will also be available. The event also features live music. Fireworks begin after dark.
Details: 5 p.m. Sunday, July 3. Harold’s Corral, 6895 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. Free. 480-488-1906, haroldscorral.com.
7/3: Fireworks and Movie Night
People of all ages who would like to celebrate the Fourth of July one day early can enjoy a film before their fireworks. Enjoy a movie while sitting under the stars inside the main stadium, and then ooh and ahh during a spectacular fireworks display.
Details: 7 p.m., Sunday, July 3, Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale. Free admission; $10 to park. 480-270-5000, saltriverfields.com.
FOURTH OF JULY:Fireworks around Phoenix | Events around Arizona
7/3: Anthem Independence Day Celebration
The Anthem Independence Day Celebration promises a dazzling display of fireworks once the sun sets, but you can head out early and still find plenty to do at the annual event. Food vendors will be on hand, as well as music, dancing and activities including water slides and inflatable rides. Admission and parking are free, and you can purchase “all-you-can-ride” bracelets at the ACC Community Center for only $15.
Details: 6-10 p.m. Sunday, July 3. ACC Community Park, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem. Free. 623-742-6050, onlineatanthem.com/independence-day-celebration.
7/3: Salute From the Shores of Lake Pleasant
Watch fireworks lakeside at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort and Marina. Bring lawn chairs and coolers and claim a spot early. A Kid’s Zone will be open from 5-9 p.m. featuring water slides, bounce houses, a Euro Bungee Ride and more. There will be a DJ and food and drink vendors. Fireworks will launch from Vista Point beginning at 9 p.m. Just 45 minutes from downtown Phoenix, Pleasant Harbor is situated on the southeastern shores.
Details: 5-11 p.m. Sunday, July 3. 8708 W. Harbor Blvd., Peoria. Free activities; $15 parking. 928-501-5253, pleasantharbor.com and facebook.com/pleasantharborrvresort.
7/3: Independence Day Car Show and Fireworks Celebration
Spiffy wheels and fireworks are the highlights of this annual event presented by Art of Noize. View a car show from 5-8 p.m. while enjoying drinks and food at the onsite bar and restaurant. Fireworks start at 9 p.m., and then an award presentation will be held for the Unique Top 20 and one-of-a-kind “Best Of” cars.
Details: 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Sunday, July 3. Victory Lane Sports Park, 22603 N. 43rd Ave., Glendale. $20 to enter car; $4 general admission, free for kids under 12. 623-581-6000, artofnoize.com.
7/3: Westgate Fireworks Fest
Westgate Entertainment District will have a free and family-friendly fest featuring two music stages, an open-air beer garden (from which 25 percent of sales benefit the nonprofit 100 Club of Arizona) and Grab and Go Dinner Deals from more than 20 restaurants. Fountain Park will feature a splash pad, face painting, music, games and prizes. At WaterDance Plaza, local musicians Ryan Sims, Hillbilly Deluxe and Shallow Water will perform rock, alternative, country and pop music. A fireworks show starts at 9 p.m. After the show, festivities will continue at the late-night bars. Blankets and lawn chairs are welcome, and free parking is available in all lots around the district.
Details: 5-9:30 p.m. Sunday, July 3. Loop 101 and Glendale Avenue, Glendale. Free. 623-385-7502, westgateaz.com/america.
7/3: Freedom Treasure Fest
Magic Bird Festivals’ “Freedom Treasure Fest” at Roadhouse biker bar is an Independence Day event that coincides with Cave Creek’s annual fireworks display. An assortment of artist and vendor booths will showcase boutique apparel, handcrafted jewelry, re-purposed home decor, Native American crafts and more. Food and drink will be available for purchase courtesy of the Roadhouse, which will also be hosting live music and firework show views from its new, nearly 6,000-square-foot patio.
Details: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday, July 3. Roadhouse, 6900 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. Free. 480-488-3300, www.hideawayroadhouse.com.
Through 7/3: Summer Concert Series at McCormick-Stillman
The popular summer concert series at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale runs every Sunday until July 3, enjoy free concerts in the park. Bring a blanket or chair and experience a variety of local bands. Train and carousel rides are available during all concerts. Food is available for purchase.
Details: 7:30-9 p.m. Sundays through July 3. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Road, Scottsdale. Free. 480-312-2312, scottsdaleaz.gov/events.
7/4: All-American Festival in Peoria
Celebrate the nation’s birthday at the All-American Festival at the Peoria Sports Complex. The event features family-friendly activities like a water zone, a kids zone, eating contests, a cornhole tournament, live entertainment and more. Fireworks begin around 9:15 p.m., weather permitting.
Details: 5-10 p.m. Monday, July 4. Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria. $7 per person until June 30; $10 day of event; free for ages 12 and under. 623-773-8700, peoriasportscomplex.com.
7/4: Tempe Town Lake Festival
Kiwanis Club of Tempe will present its 65th Annual Fireworks Spectacular show from Mill Avenue Bridge in Tempe. The show, which will begin around 9:15 p.m., is choreographed to a variety of music, including patriotic, pop and country. The event also features plenty of live music, a Cox Communications Family Fun Fest and more.
Details: Gates open 5 p.m., Monday, July 4. Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe. $5 general admission. 480-350-5189, tempe4th.com.
7/4: Fabulous Phoenix Fourth
The 31st annual event will feature one of the largest fireworks displays in the Southwest. The free family event annually attracts 100,000-plus participants. The event features two stages of local entertainers, a variety of vendors offering festival-style food and beverages, arts and crafts, interactive exhibits, a classic car display and plenty of fun activities for kids.
Details: 6-10 p.m., Monday, July 4. Steele Indian School Park, Third St. and Indian School Road, Phoenix. Free. 602-534-3378, phoenix.gov/parks.
7/4: Fourth at the Fountain
Head to Fountain Hills on the Fourth of July to celebrate the nation’s birthday in style, with music, games, entertainment for the kids, a beer garden, plenty of food and of course a majestic fireworks display over the park’s signature lake.
Details: 5-10 p.m. Monday, July 4. Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. Free. 480-816-5100, fh.az.gov.
7/4: Fire in the Sky in Gilbert
Gilbert is the home to Fire in the Sky, a Fourth of July celebration with events at two locations. At Central Christian Church, vendors will sell hot dogs, nachos, snow cones and more, and there will also be music, free beach balls, a watermelon-eating contest and a canned goods drive. At Gilbert Youth Soccer Complex, enjoy three inflatable water slides, food vendors and a DJ. Fireworks launch at 9 p.m.
Details: 6 p.m. Monday, July 4. Central Christian Church, 965 E. Germann Road, Gilbert; Gilbert Youth Soccer Complex, 4260 S. Greenfield Road, Gilbert. Free. gilbertaz.gov.
7/4: Great American Fourth in Maricopa
The skies over Maricopa will glow with rocket red glare at this annual Independence Day celebration. Food vendors, entertainment and a kid’s water zone will keep families busy until the fireworks start shortly after 9 p.m. Before the display, check out presentation of colors by Honor Guard, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Miss City of Maricopa and Miss City of Maricopa’s Outstanding Teen, and the national anthem.
Details: 6-10 p.m. Monday, July 4. Copper Sky Regional Park, 44345 W. Martin Luther King Blvd., Maricopa. Free; $5 unlimited ride wristbands. 520-568-9098, maricopa-az.gov/web/gab-event-info.
7/4: Fourth of July baseball game, celebration in Surprise
It doesn’t get any more American than summer and baseball. The Seattle Mariners and the 2015 World Series champion Kansas City Royals help commemorate Independence Day this year at this 33rd annual Independence Day celebration. Admission is free with a canned food donation, and fireworks will follow the game.
Details: 5:30 p.m. Monday, July 4. Surprise Recreation Campus, 15850 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise. Free with canned food donation; event is limited to the first 10,000 fans. 623-222-2000, surpriseaz.gov/491/Special-Events.
7/4: Schnepf Farms Fourth of July
Schnepf Farms is set to deliver more than just fireworks and food at this year’s celebration. Amusement rides, waterslides and hayrides across the festival grounds will entertain during the day, while a DJ and light show keep the celebration going at night. Festival-goers can cap off the evening with an outdoor movie following the fireworks extravaganza around 9 p.m. A VIP experience is available for an additional fee, and includes a BBQ dinner in the air-conditioned barn, an unlimited-ride wristband, bottled water, and premier seats for the fireworks.
Details: 4-10 p.m. Monday, July 4. Schnepf Farms, 24610 South Rittenhouse Rd., Queen Creek. $20 per carload; $12 unlimited ride wristbands; $45 VIP. 480-987-3100, schnepffarms.com.
7/4: July Fourth Fireworks Spectacular in Chandler
Chandler is celebrating American heritage with a good ol’ fashioned fireworks show at Tumbleweed Park. Along with food and other vendors, the event will also feature a VIP area for the first time. Only 300 VIP passes are available, but ticketholders will enjoy unlimited food and non-alcoholic drinks from San Tan Brewery, a private cash bar for 21-and-older guests, and tables and chairs to dine at during the fireworks.
Details: 4-10:30 p.m. Monday, July 4. Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Rd., Chandler. $5 parking per vehicle; free general admission; $20 adult VIP, $10 kids VIP. 480-782-2735, chandleraz.gov.
7/4: Butterfly Wonderland
Dress in red, white and blue, or, for military personnel, bring valid ID to receive $3 off admission, up to $12 off per party, to Butterfly Wonderland on Independence Day. There will be live music, complementary face painting and curator talks, not to mention plenty of red, white and blue butterflies. Butterfly princesses will be there to take pictures with visitors.
Details: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, July 4. 9500 E. Via de Ventura, Salt River Reservation. 480-800-3000, butterflywonderland.com.
7/4: Fourth of Zooly
The Phoenix Zoo hosts an evening of family fun in honor of Independence Day. In addition to a catered barbecue dinner, guests can enjoy free carousel rides, an inflatable bounce house and slide, special animal appearances and live entertainment by Studio 8. At 9 p.m., head to a VIP area at the back of the zoo for a great view of the Tempe Town Lake Fireworks Spectacular. Beer and wine can be purchased at dinner and during the fireworks, and treats will be provided during the show. Guests do not need to bring chairs, but high chairs and booster seats will not be provided.
Details: 7-10 p.m. Monday, July 4. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix. $45; $35 children 3-12; free for children 2 and under (reservations required). 602-273-1341, phoenixzoo.org.
7/4: Star Spangled Fourth in Goodyear
The city of Goodyear’s annual event includes live music by the Groove Merchants, inflatable water slides and bounces houses (tickets needed), corn hole, a hot dog eating contest, a Pie in the Face trivia contest, games, prizes, giveaways and more. For a fee, fill up on an All-American Cookout. The event concludes with a 20-minute fireworks spectacular.
Details: 6 p.m. Monday, July 4. Goodyear Ballpark, 1933 S. Ballpark Way, Goodyear. Free admission; $10 cookout for adults, $5 cookout for children 12 and under; $5 for 3 ride tickets, $10 wristband for unlimited rides. 623-882-3120, www.goodyearbp.com/events/star-spangled-4th.
7/4: Firework Hike in Goodyear
Take a short night hike to see Fourth of July fireworks across the Valley from Estrella Mountain Regional Park. Bring water, wear closed-toed shoes and meet at the Nature Center. Attendees will be entered into a raffle to win a four-pack of tickets to Wet ‘n’ Wild Water Park in Glendale.
Details: 8-10 p.m. Monday, July 4. Estrella Mountain Regional Park, 14805 W. Vineyard Avenue, Goodyear. $6 per vehicle. 623-932-3811, maricopacountyparks.net.
7/4: Tolleson’s Independence Day Celebration
Tolleson is holding a free event at Veterans Park with water slides, watermelons, food and craft vendor, and a fireworks display. Registration is required to participate in apple pie, licorice and fruit roll-up eating contests. Apple pie and licorice eating contestants must be 18 or older, and contestants in the fruit roll-up contest must be 6-17 years old.
Details: 4-9:30 p.m. Monday, July 4. 8601 W. Van Buren St. Free. 623-474-4992, tollesonaz.org/events.
7/4: Hometown Fireworks Celebration in Apache Junction
Apache Junction is holding an all-day celebration starting with a co-ed sand volleyball tournament at 8 a.m. at Superstition Shadows Aquatic Center and ending with a fireworks show at 8:30 p.m. at Apache Junction High School’s track and field stadium, Davis Field. There also will be public swimming at the aquatic center from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; a bicycle, wagon and tricycle decorating contest at 6:30 p.m.; free watermelons; live entertainment starting at 6:30 p.m. with Reign-N-Country; and game booths that will benefit local nonprofits. A kids zone will feature bounce houses, water slides, games and more.
Details: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-9:15 p.m. Monday, July 4. AJHS Davis Field, 2525 S. Ironwood Dr., Apache Junction. Superstition Shadows Aquatic Center, 1091 W. Southern Ave., Apache Junction. Free; fees apply for game booths; free swimming for volleyball players, $1.50 per child, $2.50 per adult. 480-983-2181, ajcity.net/events.
7/4: Fourth of July Celebration in Buckeye
At the city of Buckeye’s event, a kids zone with water rides and bounce houses will be open to those who purchase wristbands. Play checkers and eat watermelon for free, or buy hot dogs, buffalo dogs, walking tacos and shaved ice. Glow sticks and bracelets will be sold by Friends of the Recreation Center, with proceeds benefiting youth scholarships. Rage-N-River will play country music until the fireworks start at 9 p.m.
Details: 6-9:30 p.m.; doors open at 5:30 p.m. Monday, July 4. Youngker High School, 3000 S. Apache Road, Buckeye. Free; $5 wristbands. 623-349-6322, buckeyeaz.gov/events.
7/4: Republic Services Arizona Celebration of Freedom
Mesa’s celebration includes a memorial to Arizona’s fallen soldiers from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, a showcase of military vehicles, and an arts and culture showcase of patriotic crafts and displays. A Revolutionary War re-enactment will take place at 6:45 p.m., and a naturalization ceremony will be held at 7 p.m. At America’s Heritage Lane and Independence Hall, take a civics quiz, walk through national monuments and see historical figures, and watch a historical flag presentation. A Yankee Doodle Kids’ Zone will have carnival-style and inflatable games. A Celebration Splash Zone will have inflatable water features, soak zones and a fire truck spraying water. A tailgate zone will feature music and games. Enjoy live performances on multiple music stages, as well as food and drink booths. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.
Details: 6-10 p.m. Monday, July 4. Mesa Amphitheater and Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St., and along Center Street between Second Street and University Drive. Free. 480-644-2069, azcelebrationoffreedom.org.
7/5-9: $4 for the Fourth
Visit Phoenix’s 1,500-year-old prehistoric Hohokam archaeological site to get a feel of life in the Salt River Valley hundreds of years ago. For the Fourth of July holiday week, the Pueblo Grande Museum is offering discounted admission of $4 for adults and seniors. The museum is a Local First Arizona member, and the holiday promotion coincides with the 11th annual National Independents Week, which encourages people to support locally owned businesses.
Details: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, July 5-9. Pueblo Grande Museum, 4619 E. Washington St., Phoenix. $4; $3 children 6-17; free for 5 or younger. 602-495-0901, pueblogrande.com.
7/7: Annual Indie AZ Fest
Indie AZ Fest continues to celebrate the local film community with its second annual event. This year’s festival will once again showcase local filmmakers and will also include a meet and greet with actor Mel Novak and former Playboy Playmate Charlotte Kemp. The organization will also be donating 10 percent of profits to the Agnes’ Centers for Domestic Solutions charity.
Details: 7-10 p.m. Thursday, July 7. Tempe Pollack Cinemas, 1825 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe. Ticket Prices coming soon. indieazfest.com.
7/9-10: Experience France
You don’t have to wait for Disney’s live-action take on the classic fairy tale “Beauty and the Beast” to get a taste of France. While the film isn’t scheduled to hit theaters until 2017, the Musical Instrument Museum invites you to be their guest at the fifth annual celebration of French music and culture, Experience France. The two-day event boasts live musical performances, French merchandise at the museum store, and a French-inspired menu at the café.
Details: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 9-10. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. Included with museum admission ($20). 480-478-6000, mim.org/events/experience-france-7.
7/9: Glendale’s Christmas in July
Enjoy Christmas-themed activities in the middle of summer during the 10th annual Christmas in July event in Glendale. The day includes holiday crafts, sweet treats and great deals in Old Towne and Catlin Court, along with a visit with Santa Claus. Start the festivities at Glendale Visitor Center by picking up an event map; the first 250 visitors will get a holiday gift item.
Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, July 9. Glendale Visitor Center, 5800 W. Glenn Drive, Suite 140, Glendale. Free. 877-800-2601, visitglendale.com.
7/15: Science with a Twist
The Arizona Science Center is giving the 21 and over crowd something new to do on Friday nights. Science with a Twist is a monthly event that includes a cash bar, music, hands-on activities, and of course, live science demonstrations. The monthly themes between now and the end of the year include H20, unWINEd, Coffee Chemistry, Cirque de Science, Fantastic Feasts and Fire and Ice.
Details: 6-10 p.m. Friday, July 15. Every third Friday. Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St., Phoenix. $10 members, $12 non-members. 602-716-2000, azscience.org.
7/15-16: Camp Verde Cornfest
The 25th annual event showcases plenty of fresh roasted sweet corn, as well as vendors, music, a craft fair, children’s games and activities and other highlights. For an additional cost, patrons can visit the Fort Verde Historical State Park, where they will feature a vintage baseball game, workshops and presentations. There will also be free birding excursions on Saturday.
Details: 3-10 p.m. Saturday, July 15. 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday, July 16. Downtown Camp Verde. Free admission to the festival, costs for other activities. 928-593-0364, campverdepromotions.org.
7/16: Winter in July at Phoenix Zoo
The temperatures might be in the triple digits, but at Winter in July the Phoenix Zoo will look and feel like a winter wonderland. Guests can cool down in more than 50 tons of snow, splash in the wet and wild play areas and watch the animals enjoy icy summertime treats. A highlight is when Reba, the resident Asian elephant, enjoys a cool shower from the Phoenix Fire Department.
Details: 7-11 a.m. Saturday, July 16. Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix. $20 for ages 14 and up, $14 for ages 3-13, free for ages 2 and younger. 602-286-3800, phoenixzoo.org.
7/16-17: Arizona Get Outdoors Expo
Have you been on the prowl for the ultimate outdoor experience? Look no further than the Arizona Get Outdoors Expo. Family-friendly fun and adventure await with outdoor education and safety clinics, a 3D archery range, catch-and-release fishing ponds, RV and boat exhibits, and the latest in hunting, fishing and camping gear. And best of all, you won’t have to rough it in the climate-controlled confines of the WestWorld of Scottsdale.
Details: July 16-17. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale. $15-$20. 866-977-6849, ktar.com/shortal/azsportsmansexpo.
7/23: Real, Wild and Woody Beer Festival
The summertime beer festival highlights unique offerings like cask ales, wild beers and barrel-aged brews, as well as some high-ABV (alcohol by volume) beers. Participating breweries include Fate, Dubina, Thunder Canyon, Wren House, SunUp, Dragoon and Goldwater. Tickets include 20 beer samples and small bites from local restaurants and breweries. Designated drivers can enjoy the small bites.
Details: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, July 23. Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. Third St., Phoenix. $57 for general admission. $25 for designated drivers. 480-586-6711, realwildandwoody.com.
Through 7/26: Summer Splash Tuesdays and Thursdays
Parents can take kids to splash pads at Desert Ridge Marketplace and Tempe Marketplace for free fun this summer. Children can meet superheroes and princess, dance to music, play games, collect prizes and keep cool by splashing around. They’ll meet characters including Captain America, Batman, Superman, Elsa, Anna, a Storm Trooper and Princess Leia and can get a free downloadable photo.
- 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesdays, June 7-July 26. Desert Ridge Marketplace, Loop 101 and Tatum Boulevard in Phoenix. Free. shopdesertridge.com/summer.
- 6-7:30 p.m. Thursdays, June 2-30. Tempe Marketplace, Loop 202 and McClintock Drive. Free. tempemarketplace.com/summer.
7/30: HarvestFest & Grape Stomp
Enjoy southern Arizona wine country at this festival, with tours of the winery and vineyards, six wine tastings and four wine and food parings. VIP ticket holders have access to a VIP lounge, bathroom and parking, a lunch voucher, private tours, massages and an afterparty.
Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, July 30. Sonoita Vineyards, 290 Elgin Canelo Rd., Elgin. $20 for general admission, $75 for VIP. 520-455-5893, sonoitavineyards.com.
7/30-31: Garlic Festival
Make sure to bring some gum after you experience this fragrant event, which features dishes such as garlic-lime pulled pork and roasted garlic chocolate-chip cookies. Roasted garlic can be added to any sandwich. The event will also feature craft vendors, a farmers market and live bands. Proceeds benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.
Details: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 30 and 31. Triangle T Guest Ranch, 4190 W. Dragoon Road, Dragoon. 520-586-7533, azretreatcenter.com.
Through 9/3: Cool Summer Nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Cool Summer Nights, a program from Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum’s popular summer program, starts on May 21 with events each Saturday through Sept. 2. Each night is themed to make it a blast for kids, too.
Details: Through Sept. 3. On Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road, Tucson. Event free with Museum admission. $19.50; $17.50 seniors; $15.50 youth 13-17; $6 children 4-12; free for children 3 and under. 520-883-1380, desertmuseum.org.
Through 12/17: Ahwatukee Eats
Look for more than 10 food trucks, vendors, a kids zone, live music and Disney princesses. The event also highlights a different Valley charity each month. Ahwatukee Eats generally runs on the third Saturday of each month through Dec. 17.
Details: 5-9 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month. Horizon Community Learning Center, 16233 S. 48th St., Phoenix. Free admission. ahwatukeeeats.com.
Anthony Sandoval and Alison Stanton contributed to this article.
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