August 14-16, 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 Matilda The Musical and Carcara Chef's Dinner Series to Sip + Shop Summer Market Series, 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. 

 

Matilda The Musical

Friday through Sunday

Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical is the captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.

Herberger Theater Center

 

Phoenix Mercury vs. Portland Fire

Sunday

Catch the Phoenix Mercury at home on Aug. 16 for an extra-special night. Newly acquired guard Kelsey Plum will play her first home game, and Mercury legend Diana Taurasi will be inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor.

Mortgage Matchup Center

 

Sip + Shop Summer Market Series at Hotel Valley Ho

Friday and Saturday

Join the foodie festivities this summer at Hotel Valley Ho, Scottsdale’s iconic midcentury hotel. Enjoy Celebrity Chef Dinners on Fridays. Shop local purveyors and sample wine, beer, spirits and chef-made bites at the free Saturday market.

Hotel Valley Ho

 

August Tipsy Tea at The Camby

Saturday

Discover Tipsy Tea at Bees Knees, where elegant afternoon tea meets playful speakeasy flair, lively music, and spirited fun. Don your finest, raise a glass, and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon where refinement meets revelry.

The Camby, Autograph Collection

 

Saxophone Date Night Dinner

Saturday

Casa de Julia Restaurant Bar brings live saxophone to the heart of downtown Phoenix every other Saturday evening. Expect soulful sets, handcrafted cocktails, and authentic Mexican cuisine—all in the center of the action, just steps from Mortgage Matchup Center

Casa De Julia

 

On a Sunday Afternoon: Saturday Love

Saturday

OASA presents Saturday Love at The Van Buren on August 15, bringing the oldies, old school, backyard vibes, and familia energy to Downtown Phoenix. Music by Mr. PHX, Concept, and J Steele, hosted by J Rivas Jr and Bobby Anthony. 

The Van Buren

 

Carcara Chef's Dinner Series

Saturday

Join Executive Sous Chef Jon Young for an unforgettable five-course dining experience celebrating the bold flavors and culinary heritage of the Sonoran Desert. Each course showcases Arizona-sourced and Indigenous-inspired ingredients, expertly paired with world-class wines from California, France, South Africa, and beyond.

Carcara at Sheraton Phoenix Downtown

 

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:

Sunday
 

 

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

 

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