August 28-30, 2026

Find out what’s happening this weekend in Phoenix, where art walks, major concerts, cultural celebrations, and can’t-miss sporting events are taking over the Valley. From Smuggler's Run: Carry On x Platform 18 and Les Miserables to The Fantasy Footballers Megalashow, and pool parties, live music, and family-friendly events, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. Explore the latest art exhibitions, cheer on your favorite teams, or plan a night out with top concerts and performances. For even more ideas, browse our full event calendar and check out our major annual events happening in 2026 here. 

We've also rounded up things to do in Phoenix this summer. Discover all the top events happening in August 2026 here. 

 

Smuggler's Run: Carry On x Platform 18

Sunday

Begin your journey aboard Carry On with cocktails and in-flight bites, then board a one-way motorcoach to Platform 18, where a connecting departure and the next chapter of your adventure await.

Boarding passes include a Carry On flight experience, transportation to Platform 18, cocktails, and snacks throughout the journey. Departure times occur every 90 minutes from 11 AM to 8 PM.

Carry On

 

La Mesa: Culture, Healing, and The Medicine of Food

Sunday

Join the ASU Art Museum for a community health panel exploring food as medicine, inspired by the exhibition Carmen Lomas Garza: Picturing the Familiar. This conversation brings together cultural practitioners and scholars—including Kitchen Curandera Felicia Ruiz, Chinese Chorizo Project founder Feng-Feng Yeh, and ASU nutrition expert Sonia Vega-Lopez—to share perspectives on traditional healing, foodways, and the role of cooking in community wellness. Guests can enjoy tamales as part of this celebration of nourishment, culture, and connection.

ASU Art Museum

 

Les Miserables

Friday through Sunday

Immerse yourself in the rich storytelling and powerful music of this timeless classic, set against the backdrop of a beautifully designed venue that enhances every moment of the performance. The intimate atmosphere of the Stephenson Theatre invites you to connect deeply with the characters and their struggles, making it a perfect night out for theatre lovers and newcomers alike.

The Phoenix Theatre Company

 

The Science of Sorcery - An Evening at Hogwarts

Friday

Uncover the science behind the seemingly impossible! From magical mysteries to curious creatures, Guests will be transported to a world of intrigue and delight—all inspired by the beloved series. Enjoy themed cocktails and tastings, hands-on activities and more, while exploring the secrets hidden within every spell, potion and enchanting phenomena.

Whether you're a devoted fan or simply looking for a unique night out, all witches, wizards and Muggles are welcome here.

Arizona Science Center

 

Valley Alley Swap

Sunday

Valley Alley Swap is a free monthly community hangout built around a simple idea: bring what you can. Take what you need.

Inspired by mutual aid, this is a space to share resources, swap stuff, meet your neighbors and make community care a little easier. Come with something to share. Come because you need something. Or just come hang out!

Downtown Phoenix

 

The Fantasy Footballers Megalashow

Friday

Kick off fantasy football season with the SiriusXM Presents: The Fantasy Footballers Megalashow at The Van Buren on Aug. 28. Catch the popular podcast hosts live as they deliver expert advice, bold predictions and plenty of laughs ahead of draft day.

The Van Buren

 

Mount Westmore

Friday

West Coast hip-hop legends Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, E-40 and Too $hort join forces as Mount Westmore at Desert Diamond Arena on Aug. 28. Get ready for a night packed with iconic hits from four artists who helped shape the sound of West Coast rap.

Desert Diamond Arena

 

Summer Dive-In Movies

Saturday

Make a splash at the Farimont Scottsdale Princess. Grab a floatie, kick back in the water, or lounge poolside for a cinematic experience like no other. The Princess brings the big screen to the "big blue" for a night of family-friendly entertainment, with a screening of Wreck It Ralph.

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

 


Day Trips from Phoenix

Friday through Sunday

Phoenix is a hub for a number of memorable day and weekend trips that allow you to explore Arizona for the day and be back in town by night, from Sedona and Prescott to Tucson and Camp Verde. Check our Day Trip Guide for more information.

 

 

Free Things to Do

Friday through Sunday

Many of the events featured on our blog are free, but if you're looking for more options, check out our Free and Cheap in Phoenix Guide.

Greater Phoenix

 

 

Family-Friendly Activities This Weekend

Discover the best family-friendly things to do in Phoenix—from interactive museums to outdoor adventures and kid-friendly eats. 

 

Mermaid Training at Tower Pool

Saturday

Dive into a world of underwater magic with Mermaid Training at Tower Pool! Kids will learn fun mermaid moves, practice swimming skills, and make a splash in an unforgettable aquatic adventure complete with tails, games, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

The Wigwam

 

 

Concerts & Performances This Weekend

Shows are taking place more often now, including theatre performances, comedy shows and concerts. Here's who you can see perform this weekend:

Friday:
Saturday:

Sunday:

 

 

Sports This Weekend

Phoenix is a premier sports destination, and our local teams are bringing the heat. The Valley also hosts major sports events. Here’s who you can cheer on this weekend:

Saturday
 

 

Art Exhibits This Weekend

Phoenix is home to the largest art museum in the southwestern United States. Ignite your mind with the creativity and inspiration you will find at our local cultural institutions. Here's the art exhibits you can see this weekend:

 

The Magical Flute: Beauty, Enchantment, and Power.

Through September 13, 2026

Experience the enduring impact of the world’s first wind instrument in The Magical Flute: Beauty, Enchantment, and Power. Explore more than 100 remarkable flutes from the dawn of music to the present day and celebrate the resounding influence of the flute on cultures from around the world. Discover how people across history have used flutes of all forms, shapes, sizes, and materials to express the rich human experience.

Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

 

Julia Child: A Recipe for Life

Through September 20, 2026

On display at Arizona Science Center, Julia Child: A Recipe for Life, explores the key ingredients in Julia’s personal journey, which became part of America’s culinary revolution, through a series of immersive experiences.

Arizona Science Center

 

Editor's Picks