13 Arizona Winter Festivals You Can’t Miss That Celebrate Cool Weather Desert-Style
Cool, crisp air settles over the desert and suddenly the season feels ripe for celebration.
Winter in Arizona carries its own kind of magic, trading snowdrifts for sunlit days and starry nights that make every gathering feel vibrant and alive.
Festivals rise across the state with jousting knights, rodeo traditions, indie films, handcrafted art, and music that rolls through the canyons.
Each event brings its own flavor, shaped by the landscapes and communities that define Arizona’s spirit.
Some visitors come for the food, others for the culture, and many simply for the joy of stepping into a new place at the perfect time.
By the end of the season, it becomes clear that the desert knows exactly how to throw a party when the air turns cool and the days feel wide open.
1. Tucson Rodeo & Parade
Witness the world’s longest non-motorized parade as it winds through Tucson, showcasing horse-drawn coaches, wranglers on horseback, and folk dancers in vibrant traditional attire.
Scheduled for February 17-25, 2025, the event centers at the Tucson Rodeo Grounds, 4823 S 6th Ave, Tucson, AZ 85714, where professional rodeo competitions unfold daily.
Bareback riders cling to bucking broncos, steer wrestlers demonstrate raw strength, and bull riders test their courage in eight-second battles.
The parade itself stretches 2.5 miles and draws thousands of spectators who line the streets with folding chairs and coolers, soaking up the Old West spirit.
Families enjoy the relaxed vibe, with plenty of snack vendors and shaded spots to rest between events.
Evening performances under the lights bring extra excitement, and the crowd’s energy peaks during the final championship rounds.
Comfortable boots and sun protection are must-haves, as the desert sun can feel strong even in February.
2. Sedona International Film Festival
Film lovers gather in the red rock country of Sedona to experience over 150 independent international films across nine days of screenings, workshops, and filmmaker discussions.
Taking place from February 24 to March 3, 2025, the festival is headquartered at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre, 2030 W State Route 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336, a cozy venue that feels intimate and welcoming.
Documentaries tackle powerful topics, family films entertain younger viewers, and the Native American Film Series highlights stories often overlooked by mainstream cinema.
The Sustainable Film Series explores environmental themes, sparking conversations that continue long after the credits roll.
Q&A sessions give audiences a chance to hear directly from directors and actors, adding depth to the viewing experience.
Free workshops teach aspiring filmmakers about storytelling techniques, editing, and the business side of the industry.
Sedona’s walkable downtown makes it easy to grab coffee or lunch between screenings, and the crisp winter air feels refreshing after sitting in a dark theater.
3. Tucson Fourth Avenue Street Fair / Made in Tucson Market Art Fair
Over 350 artists, craftspeople, and food vendors transform Fourth Avenue into a vibrant open-air marketplace where creativity and community come together.
Happening from December 8-10, 2025, the fair stretches along Fourth Avenue between University Boulevard and 9th Street, Tucson, AZ 85705, creating a lively pedestrian zone.
Handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings, and textiles fill the booths, offering one-of-a-kind treasures that make perfect gifts or personal keepsakes.
Food trucks and stalls serve everything from tacos and BBQ to vegan treats and freshly squeezed lemonade, keeping energy levels high as visitors browse.
Live music stages feature local bands playing rock, folk, and blues, adding a soundtrack to the bustling atmosphere.
Kids enjoy the dedicated art area with face painting, balloon animals, and jugglers performing silly tricks.
The fair is completely free to attend, making it an accessible outing for families and budget-conscious shoppers alike.
4. Yuma Lettuce Days
Celebrate the humble lettuce and Yuma’s role as a major supplier of winter produce at this unique festival that blends agriculture, education, and family fun.
Held annually in late February and early March at the University of Arizona Yuma Agricultural Center Valley Farm, 6425 W 8th St, Yuma, AZ 85364, the event showcases the region’s farming heritage.
Vendor displays highlight the journey from seed to salad, and agricultural demonstrations teach visitors about irrigation, harvesting, and sustainable farming practices.
Cooking demonstrations feature chefs turning fresh greens into delicious dishes, offering recipe ideas that attendees can recreate at home.
Children’s exhibits include hands-on activities like planting seeds, petting farm animals, and learning about the science behind crop growth.
Live entertainment keeps the mood upbeat, with local musicians and performers taking the stage throughout the day.
Parking is plentiful, and the open fields provide plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the mild weather.
5. Chandler Ostrich Festival
Ostrich races might sound unusual, but they’re the highlight of this quirky festival that combines family entertainment with a nod to Chandler’s agricultural past.
Taking place March 6–8, 2026 at Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S McQueen Rd, Chandler, AZ 85286, the event draws thousands of visitors eager to see these giant birds in action.
Jockeys perch atop the ostriches as they sprint around the track, creating a spectacle that’s equal parts thrilling and hilarious.
Carnival rides spin and twirl, offering classic fair fun for kids and adults who aren’t afraid of heights.
Food vendors serve corn dogs, funnel cakes, and other festival favorites, while local restaurants set up booths to share their specialties.
Live music stages feature country, rock, and pop acts, keeping the energy high from morning until evening.
Craft vendors display handmade goods, and a petting zoo lets little ones interact with farm animals in a safe, supervised setting.
6. Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show
Arabian horses take center stage at this world-renowned competition that draws breeders, trainers, and equestrian enthusiasts from across the globe.
Scheduled for February 12–22, 2026, the show unfolds at WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260, a sprawling facility designed for large-scale equestrian events.
Riders in formal attire guide their horses through precision routines, showcasing grace, power, and the unique beauty of the Arabian breed.
Spectators can wander through the barns to meet the horses up close, chat with owners, and learn about training techniques.
Vendor booths sell equestrian gear, art, and jewelry inspired by horse culture, making it easy to find a special souvenir.
Evening performances feature dramatic costume classes where horses and riders don elaborate outfits that sparkle under the arena lights.
Admission fees vary by day, with multi-day passes offering the best value for those who want to soak up the entire experience.
7. Fountain Hills Great Fair
Art takes over Fountain Park for three days of browsing, buying, and appreciating the work of talented artists from across the Southwest.
Scheduled for February 20-22, 2026, the fair is located at Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, AZ right next to the town’s famous fountain that shoots water 560 feet into the air.
Painters, sculptors, jewelers, and photographers display their creations in white tents that line the park’s pathways, creating a gallery-like atmosphere outdoors.
Visitors can watch live demonstrations as artists sketch portraits, throw pottery, or craft metalwork, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.
Food trucks and beverage stands keep everyone fueled, with options ranging from gourmet sandwiches to fresh lemonade.
The park’s shaded areas provide relief from the sun, and benches scattered throughout make it easy to rest and people-watch.
Admission is free, and the relaxed pace encourages lingering and striking up conversations with the artists themselves.
8. Tucson Festival Of Books
Book lovers unite on the University of Arizona campus for two days of author talks, panel discussions, book signings, and literary celebrations.
Held March 14–15, 2026, the festival spreads across the campus at 101 N. Stone Ave., Tucson, AZ 85701, transforming the grounds into a hub for readers and writers.
More than 400 authors participate, representing genres from mystery and romance to science fiction and memoir.
Children’s activities include storytelling sessions, puppet shows, and hands-on craft projects that inspire young imaginations.
Food trucks and local vendors set up shop, offering tacos, BBQ, ice cream, and other treats to keep attendees satisfied.
The Science City area engages curious minds with interactive exhibits and experiments, blending STEM learning with literary fun.
Parking can be tricky, so arriving via public transit or carpooling helps avoid frustration, and the campus is easy to navigate on foot once you arrive.
9. Flagstaff Winterfest
Flagstaff’s mountain setting brings real winter weather, and Winterfest celebrates the season with snow sports, live music, and cozy community gatherings.
Running January 23–25, 2026, many events take place at downtown Flagstaff locations, including Heritage Square, 1 E Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, where outdoor concerts and activities draw crowds.
Snow sculpture contests showcase artistic talent, with teams carving intricate designs out of packed snow and ice.
Sledding hills offer free fun for kids, who race down slopes on sleds, tubes, and even cardboard boxes.
Hot cocoa stands serve steaming cups topped with marshmallows, providing warmth after chilly outdoor adventures.
Local breweries and restaurants host special events, from beer tastings to themed dinners that highlight winter comfort foods.
The festival’s schedule includes dog sled demonstrations, ice skating, and stargazing sessions that take advantage of Flagstaff’s dark sky status.
10. Lost Dutchman Days
Apache Junction honors its Wild West heritage with a festival that blends rodeo action, parades, and community spirit in the shadow of the Superstition Mountains.
Scheduled for late February 2026, the event centers at 1590 E Lost Dutchman Blvd & Tomahawk Road, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, and spreads to nearby locations throughout town.
Rodeo competitions feature bull riding, barrel racing, and team roping, showcasing the skills of cowboys and cowgirls from across the region.
A pancake breakfast kicks off the festivities, with volunteers flipping flapjacks and serving sausage to fuel attendees for the day ahead.
The parade marches through downtown, with floats, marching bands, and classic cars rolling past cheering spectators.
Craft vendors sell Western-themed goods, from leather belts to turquoise jewelry, and food stalls offer BBQ, kettle corn, and cold drinks.
Live country music fills the air, and dance floors invite boot-scooters to show off their moves under the desert sun.
11. Arizona Renaissance Festival
Step back in time to a bustling medieval village where knights clash in thrilling jousting matches and jesters roam freely among the crowds.
Running from February 1 to March 30, 2025, this festival takes place at 12601 E US Highway 60, Gold Canyon, AZ 85118, transforming the desert into a lively old-world marketplace.
Visitors can browse handcrafted goods from artisans, watch acrobats flip through the air, and catch comedy shows that bring belly laughs to all ages.
Food stalls serve up turkey legs, meat pies, and sweet treats that taste like they came straight from a castle kitchen.
Kids love the interactive games and the chance to meet costumed characters, while adults appreciate the craft beer garden and live music stages.
Weekends get crowded, so arriving early helps secure parking and gives more time to explore the sprawling grounds.
Costumes are encouraged but not required, adding to the playful, immersive atmosphere that makes every visit feel like an adventure.
12. Tempe Festival Of The Arts
Downtown Tempe transforms into an open-air gallery where artists from across the country set up booths to share their paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more.
Held twice a year, the winter edition takes place December 5–7, 2025 along Mill Avenue between 3rd Street and 10th Street, Tempe, AZ 85281, creating a pedestrian-friendly zone.
Juried artists display high-quality work, and visitors can purchase pieces directly from the creators, making each purchase feel personal and meaningful.
Street performers entertain with music, magic tricks, and acrobatics, adding spontaneous bursts of energy to the browsing experience.
Restaurants and cafes along Mill Avenue offer patio seating, perfect for taking a break and watching the crowds flow by.
The festival runs from morning until evening, and the atmosphere shifts as the sun sets, with string lights illuminating the booths and the temperature cooling to a comfortable level.
Parking garages nearby make access easy, and the event is free to attend.
13. Glendale Glitters
Over 1.6 million lights transform downtown Glendale into a glowing winter wonderland that feels magical from the moment the sun goes down.
Running from late November through December 31st, the display centers around Murphy Park, 5850 W Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301, where trees, buildings, and pathways sparkle with color.
Families stroll through the illuminated streets, stopping to take photos and admire the creative light designs that change slightly each year.
Food trucks park nearby, offering hot chocolate, tamales, and other treats that taste even better in the cool evening air.
Live music performances take place on select nights, with local bands and choirs performing holiday favorites and contemporary hits.
Shops and restaurants in the historic downtown district stay open late during Glitters, making it easy to combine sightseeing with shopping or dinner.
The event is free, and the lights stay on until 11 p.m. most nights, giving visitors plenty of time to enjoy the display.
