To experience the true essence of Japanese culture, visit the Arizona Matsuri Festival of Japan in downtown Phoenix every February. This popular event is one of the biggest Japanese festivals in the US, featuring over 60 vendors offering food and merchandise and exhibits by local schools, universities, and organizations.
This event has four stages to witness thrilling performances, including Taiko drumming, martial arts displays, and traditional Japanese dance shows. The best part? It's completely free, and there are plenty of activities for people of all ages to enjoy. This is an incredible opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Japan's vibrant culture and make unforgettable memories.
If you're looking for a fun and exciting family adventure, the Renaissance Festival is an event you won't want to miss. Held annually in February and March, this festival transports you back in time to a 16th-century village filled with mermaids, maidens, and magical moments. With so much to see and do, you'll feel like you're a part of a 30-acre circus, an arts and crafts fair, a jousting tournament, and a feast all at once.
Over 200 shops sell handmade items like blown glass, leather goods, and jewelry, where you can watch artisans create masterpieces right before your eyes. And with 16 stages of nonstop entertainment featuring music, dance, comedy, falconry, and acrobatics, there's something for everyone. Make sure to catch the three daily jousting tournaments or the Exclusive Pleasure Feast fit for royalty.
Head over to the Arizona State Fair, where you'll check out a racetrack and the impressive Veterans Memorial Coliseum, a huge indoor arena with 14,870 seats that hosts all sorts of concerts and sporting events throughout the year.
Let's remember the Arizona State Fair itself. It's one of the top five fairs in the country and an absolute must-visit if you're in the area. You'll experience the community's rich and diverse cultures, celebrate the present, and explore the future all in one place. It will be an unforgettable experience you won't want to miss out on.
Take a break from your usual routine and check out Barktoberfest. You and your furry friend can enjoy various activities, including unique crafts, pet games, a costume contest, and even a dog wash.
The best part? All proceeds from the festival go to support Friends For Life Animal Rescue Shelter, which has been voted Arizona's best animal shelter. This event has been running for 23 years, becoming one of Gilbert's longest-running annual festivals. So, come out and celebrate Halloween with your four-legged friend while supporting a great cause.
Join the Oktoberfest hosted by Four Peaks & Tempe Sister Cities. This event is a tradition in Tempe that has been going strong for 50 years and is full of entertainment for all ages. Enjoy German food and beer while listening to music from rock to pop to German polka.
Take part in contests, the Runnin' for the Brats 10k, 5k, and 1k race, and even check out the carnival. You will be satisfied with the variety of available food options, from the Oktoberfest German food stands to food trucks and vendors. Take advantage of this fun-filled weekend that benefits the work of Tempe Sister Cities.
Celebrate the anniversary of the paving of Gilbert Road at the annual Gilbert Days festival. This 3-day extravaganza takes place every November and features a rodeo, parade, and carnival. The best part? It's just a quick 30-minute drive from Phoenix.
One of the proudest achievements is the Gilbert Days Royalty Court. These individuals devote countless hours promoting the Town of Gilbert and our Gilbert Days Events. They are thrilled to see thousands of Arizonans and out-of-state visitors attend the Gilbert Days events yearly. Join in for a celebration of Western heritage and community spirit.
Explore the unique experience combining music, food, and community by visiting the M3F Music Festival. By attending the Festival, you're not only enjoying great music and food, but you're also making a difference in your community. Enjoy and experience the energy and enthusiasm of people coming together in the name of music, culture, and charity.
One of the Festival's standout features is the Ponderosa Vendor Village, which offers a cool and refreshing break from the desert heat. Here, you can find local vendors selling everything from swag to snacks, all inspired by the Ponderosa forests of Northern Arizona. Of course, every festival is complete with delicious food and drinks. M3F has you covered there, too, with a selection of local food trucks offering vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. And remember the amazing mixologists who will be whipping up some delicious drinks.
Come and experience the rich history and culture of Greece. You can enjoy the best Greek food, music, dancing, jewelry, art, grocery items, and activities for children. They cordially invite you to tour the stunning Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral at your own pace. You will be amazed by the stunning faceted glass windows that tell the story of Christ and his disciples.
The folk dance groups are unique. Made up of talented children from kindergarten to college age, these seven groups perform multiple times each day. The Little Lambs are especially cute as they parade in their adorable costumes. And make sure to attend the daily dance lessons; everyone is welcome to join in the fun as the live Greek band plays the music.
Are you ready to experience the excitement of the World's Oldest Rodeo? Prescott Frontier Days brings together the world's best athletes every June for an unforgettable event.
From bull riding to calf roping and barrel racing, you'll witness incredible feats of strength and agility. And remember the trick riders and rodeo clowns who keep the crowd entertained. Make sure to mark your calendar for this summer's event and join us for a thrilling evening at the rodeo grounds.
Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival is going to be amazing this year. Funergy will present nightly costume contests, and everyone is welcome to participate. Show off your best costume and win a prize.
Over 20 hot air balloons from around the country will be at the festival, and each will be a trick-or-treat station. That means you'll be able to get candy and treats all night long. They even have over 4,000 pounds of candy ready for the kids. If that wasn't enough, Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Ride Co. offers hot air balloon rides for the whole family. What a fantastic way to see everything from above.