Downtown Phoenix Events: Sports, Festivals, Parades, and More

Uncover the best downtown Phoenix events. Our list includes top festivals, sporting events, and concerts. You will also learn more about annual parades, the weekly farmer's market, and more. 

Some of our top picks include Arizona Diamondbacks baseball Games, the downtown Donut Festival, and the First Friday Art Walk. Others include Phoenix Suns basketball games, Urban Ale Trail Week, and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Faire.

Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball Games

Date: Late March thru Early October (depending on playoffs)
Location: Chase Field at 401 East Jefferson Street

Jill and I love baseball and watching the Arizona Diamondbacks strike out their opponents is one of our favorite downtown Phoenix events. The team is always in the running for the playoffs and a blast to watch live and in person. Some of the teams they host throughout the year include the L.A. Dodgers, S.F. Giants, San Diego Padres, and the New York Yankees.

One of the reasons the games here are so great is the state-of-the-art stadium. It is incredibly well designed so there isn't a bad seat in the house. And, since many games are during the summer, when the Phoenix heat can be brutal, it has a moveable roof to keep it cool and comfy. The concession stands give you lots of options to choose from depending on what you want to eat or drink.

If you are in the mood for some food or a drink before or after the game, there are loads of fun places near it like Willie's Taco Joint and Crown Public House. There are also lots of public transportation options nearby too, so you don't have to bother trying to drive and park there. Just get ready to watch the 'Backs play some ball and have a great time at the ballpark!

Arizona Fall Fest

Date: Early November
Location: Margaret T. Hance Park at 1134 North Central Avenue

There is a reason that so many snowbirds fly south during the Fall, and this festival is just one of them. Featuring live music, great food, and drinks (including local beers!), sports areas, kid's areas, and over 200 vendors, you will see basically everything this state has to offer in one place.

We love to bring our out of town friends here since it is an experience like none other. It's one of the best downtown Phoenix events and you can even bring along your doggy!

Arizona Matsuri Festival

Date: Late February
Location: Steele Indian School Park at 300 East Indian School Road

Japanese culture is strong in Arizona and you will be able to see and experience it during this two-day festival. There will be live music, bonsai displays (the miniature trees), martial arts exhibits, and loads of food.

We personally love the massive drums played by many people and the beautiful dancing. Being that is it usually in early Spring, the weather is fantastic, and you can truly enjoy it.

Chinese Culture & Cuisine Festival

Date: Early to Mid-February
Location: Margaret T. Hance Park at 1134 North Central Avenue

Dim Sum, dancing, martial arts and so much more are on the menu at this great cultural event. This festival includes special areas for kids, live music, Koi fishponds, and even a table tennis competition!

This is a great way to learn about Chinese culture in Arizona and the influence they have had here, and continue to have, during your visit here. Make sure to take a selfie at the Chinese Costume Photo Booth! This is one of the top downtown Phoenix events that you will not want to miss!

Downtown Donut Festival

Date: Mid-November
Location: Margaret T. Hance Park at 1134 North Central Avenue

The best way to describe the Downtown Donut Festival is that is simply SCRUMPTIOUS!!!! Not only are there donuts galore, but there is also ice cream and drinks (for adults and kids) to help you enjoy the day.

If you need some more sustenance, there are food vendors too, so don't worry about that.

Live music and vendors always allows Jill and me to feel good about ourselves as we gain 5 lbs. each in one day and have no regrets....well...maybe the next day we have some regrets, but it is still worth it!

First Friday Art Walk, Downtown Phoenix

Date: First Friday of Each Month
Location: Suggested starting point is the Phoenix Art Museum to get a map.

Starting at 6 pm, and running until 10 pm, this is not only one of the largest of the downtown Phoenix events but is known of one of the largest in the whole USA! The walk is a self-guided tour all around the downtown area's galleries, artist's studios, and the best of Phoenix's museums too! There is also live music, food, and drink for you to enjoy.

There isn't a true designated pathway, but it is suggested you start at the Phoenix Art Museum if you want to get a map and talk to a volunteer for more information. Since there are over 70 places to visit, don't expect to see them all on one visit, take your time, figure out your plan, and just enjoy it. And, if you find something you love, feel free to purchase it and support the local artists and the community.

First Friday Art Walk, Roosevelt Row

Date: The First Friday of Every Month
Location: Roosevelt Row between 2nd and 5th Street

This is always a fun, and free, place to visit since you can just stroll down 3 blocks of the Roosevelt Row Art District. There are loads of vendors, attractions, and performers for you to see and enjoy. Something that we love is that it is also the same district where there are loads of amazing murals all around it. This event happens rain or shine all year long.

If you've never been around Roosevelt Row Art District, you are in for a treat. Not only will you be able to enjoy this fun event, but you can walk around the area and see loads of murals painted by local artists. They are truly amazing and many of them have themes about the local culture, history, and political views that will inspire and make you think deeply about what is happening here.

Combined with the First Friday in the heart of the downtown area, these are two of the best monthly downtown Phoenix events. 

M3F Music Festival: Downtown Phoenix Events

Date: Early March
Location: Margaret T. Hance Park at 1134 North Central Avenue

This is one of the truly great downtown Phoenix events if you want to rock out and party for 3 straight days in the spring. There are multiple stages, music of all styles from both local and national musicians, loads of places to hang out and dance, and a special kids' area.

Something that Jill and I really appreciate about it is that it is 100% non-profit and benefits downtown organizations. So not only do we get to have an awesome weekend, but we are also helping people in need at the same time! 

Phoenix Famtastical Festival

Date: September
Location: Numerous stages surrounding Cesar Chavez Plaza.

This is a perfect family-friendly event every fall since it truly is Famtastical! During this one-day event, you and your kiddies will get the chance to meet some of their favorite heroes.

Some of the ones that have appeared in the past include Tiana, Spiderman, Moana, Ariel, and others.

There are also lots of vendors, musical acts, snow slides, ninja competitions and even cooking demonstrations! There truly is something for everyone, no matter their age! These are just some of the reasons it's one of the best family-friendly downtown Phoenix events every year.

Phoenix Mercury Women's Basketball Games

Date: Mid-May thru Mid-September
Location: The Talking Stick Resort Arena at 201 East Jefferson Street

Winners of 3 WNBA Championships, the Phoenix Mercury always offers some of the best downtown Phoenix events. The team runs a fast-paced offense, and a smothering defense, which keeps them in contention for the WNBA trophy year after year. Some of their most famous players both past and present include All-Star Candice Dupree, the unstoppable Brittney Griner, and the 2004 & 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winner, Diana Taurasi.

If you've never been to the Talking Stick Resort Arena, you are in for a treat. It is designed so that every seat is the best in the house, the crowd noise is awesome, and the Mercury is totally inspired by everyone in the stands. If you really want to have some fun, and maybe gain a few pounds, make sure to check out the "All-You-Can-Eat-Seats!" and other game day deals and promotions. They also offer discounts to students and military.

Phoenix Suns Basketball Games

Date: Late October thru mid-April
Location: Talking Stick Resort Arena at 201 East Jefferson Street

The run and gun Phoenix Suns are also one of the great downtown Phoenix events. Although it has been a long time since the Suns made it to the NBA Championship, they are building a strong base and getting ready to move up and battle for the top spot.

They play in the Western Conference, so they often hot teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Golden State Warrior. Some of their former players include Hall of Famers and two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash, 1992 Olympic Gold Medal winner and Hall of Famer Charles Barkley, and others.

Since the Suns play at the Talking Stick Resort Arena, you will get a great seat no matter where you sit. The crowds are always lively and loud, and you'll love the game. It's always one of our favorite downtown Phoenix events. 

PHX Vegan Fest

Dates: Late February
Location: Margaret T. Hance Park at 1134 North Central Avenue

This festival prides itself on being truly 100% vegan without any questions at all. So, even if you are a meat eater, we'd suggest checking it out since you will probably be very surprised at how delicious vegan food can be when prepared with love and talent.

Aram and I have gone, and we have had some really delicious meals. There is the cliché of "It tastes just like meat!" but it is true. Along with the food, there are two music stages, cooking demonstrations, and a special area just for kids. 

Roosevelt Row Pie Social

Dates: Early November
Location: Margaret T. Hance Park at 1134 North Central Avenue

Who doesn't love pie? No one we've ever met, and this one-day event is the perfect place to get your fill. More than 20 different pie makers, and makers of other treats, will be in attendance to help you get your sweet tooth satisfied. And, if you just want to walk around and check out the choices, this is a free event, so you are welcome to just stroll around. 

Treat your sweet tooth to a wonderful day of pie, fun, and a chance to make all kinds of new friends.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Faire

Date: The weekend of St. Patrick's Day
Location: 3rd Street and Sheridan.

This one-day event is full of everything the Irish culture has to offer you. This includes a classic parade full of dancers, performers, bag pipers, and more. The parade usually starts at 10 a.m. We do recommend you arrive early as it is very popular.

After the parade, make sure to take time to eat tasty food, drink great beer, and enjoy all the festivities that are happening on the three stages.

You'll be saying "Slainte!" all day long. 

Urban Ale Trail Week: Downtown Phoenix Events

Date: Early October
Location: Numerous bars and restaurants in downtown Phoenix

The fun Fall event has been going strong for over 50 years now and just keeps getting better! Totaling more than 20 breweries and restaurants from around the city, you'll be able to try some of their rare and unique beers as well as some favorites.

There are also some of the best restaurants serving food and will match perfectly with the beers you choose.

The best part about it is the deep discounts you will get to try a variety of beers and food. 

It's one of the most popular downtown Phoenix events, so make sure to come down for a day or two during the week!

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