Things to Do in Scottsdale – January 2026

– Scottsdale Events – January 2026 –

Well, 2026 is upon us, and now we’re heading into the high season. And with the high season comes lots of fun events all over the Valley. 

I’ve pulled a partial list of some fun things going on in and around Scottsdale this month:

• ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo – Ends January 16th – If you didn’t get to see the ZooLights during the holiday season, good news! It is still running until January 16th. Head over to the zoo and check out millions of twinkling lights and fun activities. 

• Maricopa County Home Shows – January 9th – 11th – The Home Show is back at the Arizona State Fairgrounds! It will feature over 1,000 home-related vendors, expert-led workshops and seminars, plus a full food court to keep you fueled throughout the day. Whether you’re planning a renovation or just looking for inspiration, you’ll find everything you need to elevate your Arizona home. This year will be the first year for Rainbow Ridge Reptiles & Exotics in the Plant Pavilion. 
• Arizona Wedding Show – January 10th – 11th – Getting married? Over 200 wedding-related vendors will be present to help you plan your big day! This all-things-wedding event is a perfect way to meet with vendors, get ideas, sample sweet and savory treats and take in the fashion shows highlighting the newest trends.
• Arizona Fine Art Expo – January 16th – March 29th – When the new year rolls around, you know that all of the great art expos are coming back to Scottsdale. This award-winning art show is one of them. Located in Scottsdale, you can immerse yourself and watch talented artists create as you explore. Season passes are available so you can return as often as you wish. An on-site cafe serves drinks, snacks, and food, and there will be live music in the Sculpture Garden on weekends. 
• Carefree Art & Wine Festival – January 16th – 18th – Over 155 juried artists will be showing their impressive creations at the Art and Wine Festival in downtown Carefree.  And if you would like some wine as you stroll, a tasting ticket and glass can be purchased onsite. Please note that tickets to enter are cash only and cash is preferred for the wine tasting option. 
• Rock ‘n’ Roll Half-Marathon – January 17th- 18th – The Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona event will be returning this month! This high-energy event brings live music to every mile of the course. Saturday kicks off with the 5K, followed by the 10K and the Half Marathon on Sunday. Runners will experience the best of the Valley as the course winds through parts of Scottsdale, Tempe, and Phoenix. Whether you’re racing or cheering from the sidelines, it’s an incredible way to experience our vibrant Arizona community.
• Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction – January 16th – 25th – Get ready for one of Scottsdale’s most iconic events, Barrett-Jackson! This world-class collector car auction showcases some of the most exclusive and stunning vehicles you’ll ever see. Don’t miss the kickoff concert on the 16th featuring headliner Cole Swindell.
• Celebration of Fine Art – January 17th – March 29th – 100 juried, emerging, established, and talented artists will be at the Arizona Fine Art Expo. Watch them create as you stroll through the tent. Your initial ticket serves as a season pass, so you can go back as much as you want during the 10 weeks! There is food on-site and free parking. 
• Arizona Concours d’Elegance – January 18th – The Concours d’Elegance collector car exhibition returns to the Scottsdale Civic Center on the 18th and stunning cars will be on display in hopes of winning the top prize.
• MLK Little League Tune-Up Clinic – January 19th – Ready to kick off Little League season? This three-hour clinic is perfect for young players aged 5-12. They’ll get hands-on practice at the incredible Salt River Fields baseball facilities. And here’s the best part, they’ll be coached by former MLB and Minor League players and coaches. This is a fantastic opportunity for your young athlete to learn from the pros right here in Arizona.
• Scottsdale Western Week – January 24th – February 1st – Scottsdale Western Week is such an exciting time in Old Town Scottsdale and is definitely one to attend. The week is packed with tons of activities, including the Golden Palette Art Walk, the AZ Indian Festival, performances, and more, including lasso lessons! The Pony Express lives on and on the 30th, the Hashknife Pony Express will ride into town at 11AM with mail to be delivered. To cap off the week, the Parada de Sol parade will take place on the 31st. This parade honors Native American culture and the Old West. It’s certainly not to be missed. 
• A Taste of AZ Food & Drink Festival – January 31st –  Calling all foodies! Head to Salt River Fields for an afternoon of sampling the best our local culinary scene has to offer. You’ll get to taste delicious bites and sip on craft beverages from some of the Valley’s most popular restaurants and purveyors.  It is likely to sell out, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance. (21+) Regular and VIP tickets are available. 

As always, this is a partial list. Please feel free to add any other January events in the comments section!