Get creative this fall with these Arizona art festivals, tours and walks. Mark your calendars—these arts-centric events are ones you won’t want to miss!
This story is from our special edition IN AZ 2024 issue. Read the full issue online here for more inside intel on where to stay, dine and everything in between IN AZ this season and all year round.
Canal Convergence Scottsdale
The Scottsdale Waterfront is a beautiful spot for an evening stroll, but it gets even more exciting during the annual Canal Convergence. This 10-night art festival happens every November and is free to the public. Made possible by the city of Scottsdale, Canal Convergence features light-up art installations by artists from around the world. The internationally recognized festival not only features art but also live music, dancing, activities and ticketed workshops. Free activities include print-your-own patches, playing dress-up with upcycled clothes, make-your-own paper masks, painting containers and learning about the science of rainbows. Participate in paid workshops, such as silk painting, mixed-media art classes, “play-with-junk” classes that turn garbage into art, making monster dolls and more. Enjoy food trucks as well as a beer and wine garden. This event is great for families and adults, giving everyone a chance to explore their artistic side. www.canalconvergence.com
First Friday Art Walk
Full of unique murals and local boutiques, bars and restaurants, Roosevelt Row in downtown Phoenix is known for its artsy community. The area is especially brought to life during First Friday Art Walk, which is held every first Friday of the month. The city of Phoenix closes the road at Roosevelt Street to make space for pedestrians, food trucks and booths that sell a variety of art, from prints, jewelry, apparel, crafts and more. Bands and musicians set up on street corners to play live music to passing crowds. Additionally, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and Heard Museum are free during First Fridays, as well as the Phoenix Art Museum on select First Fridays. Parking is limited, but the event is right next to the light rail and is in a highly walkable area. The festival is open from 6 p.m.–10 p.m., but some vendors, bars and restaurants are open later. www.visitphoenix.com
Fountain Festival of Fine Arts & Crafts
The Fountain Festival of Fine Arts & Crafts in the city of Fountain Hills happens twice a year in the spring and fall. Usually held over a November weekend during the fall season, the 2024 festival will be the event’s 50th anniversary. Enjoy live music and food vendors while you check off your holiday shopping list from booths showcasing arts and crafts from over 500 local and international artists, whose work ranges from sculpture and painting to clothing, jewelry and more. The festival is held at the intersection of Avenue of the Fountains and Saguaro Boulevard, where the street is closed off for the event. www.fhchamber.com
Kierland Fine Art & Wine Festival
The Kierland Fine Art & Wine Festival is a weekend event in October and February that celebrates fine art and wine. Main Street at Kierland Commons in Scottsdale is transformed into an outdoor gallery. Booths line the street displaying original artwork from over 100 artists from around the world. Guests can shop or simply enjoy perusing the art. Fifteen of Arizona’s best wineries participate in beer and wine tastings for guests over 21. Live musicians play at the event, making for a lovely festival experience for all of your senses. The festival is free to the public and guests can purchase beer or wine tasting passes. www.kierlandcommons.com
Prescott Area Artist Studio Tour
Visit artists at work in their private studios during the fall Prescott Area Artist Studio Tour. The Quad Cities of Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley and Dewey/Humboldt host this yearly event in October to boost visibility and raise funds for local children’s art programs. All weekend, guests can enjoy a self-guided tour of the cities and observe artisans perfecting their craft. In 2023, more than 60 artists participated across 45 studios and five art centers. Art pieces are also raffled off, and ticket proceeds benefit the event’s chosen nonprofit. The tour is free to participate in and is a great way to discover new artists and support small businesses. www.prescottstudiotour.com
Scottsdale ArtWalk
Scottsdale ArtWalk is held every Thursday night in Old Town Scottsdale. Meander through the walkable historic Arts District and pop into art galleries to support local galleries and artists. Restaurants in the area are open late, and there are plenty of options for a delicious meal before or after the event. The many bars in the area also make for a drink stop in between galleries. Throughout the year, the ArtWalk also adopts themes to support Native American art, celebrate Western Week and spread holiday cheer. www.scottsdalegalleries.com
Sedona Arts Festival
The Sedona Arts Festival is an annual fine art show held the second week of October to support artists and build community. Every year since 1989, Sedona has held the festival to promote Sedona’s place as a leading cultural community for art in the Southwest. The festival showcases over 125 artists every year in a variety of different mediums, while financially supporting local art programs and youth scholarships. Guests can wander the event while enjoying live music, food and libations and gorgeous October weather in Sedona. www.sedonaartsfestival.org
Tempe Fall Festival of the Arts
The Tempe Fall Festival of the Arts is one of the largest and oldest festivals in the Southwest, having operated for over 50 years. Up to 350 artists across 17 different art categories set up booths on Mill Avenue each spring and fall. Browse and purchase artwork as well as drinks and food, including beer and wine for guests over 21. The event is also perfect for children, featuring a Kids Block where they can participate in art activities and K–12 artists can enter the Young Artist Exhibition for a chance to win a cash prize and sell their art. Leashed dogs are also welcome to attend the festival. www.tempefestivalofthearts.com
*Dates and times listed are subject to change. Please check the respective websites for the most up-to-date information and availability.
