Scottsdale’s Signature Soirees: Unforgettable Events & Happenings
Whether you’re escaping chilly weather or already make Scottsdale an annual destination, we’ve got your exclusive guide to the area’s best events. During your stay, plan to attend your favorite functions or discover exciting happenings like the Barrett Jackson Car Auction, WM Phoenix Open Golf Tournament, Arabian Horse Show, Polo Championships, Fashion Week, Spring Training, and so much more! For the best access, be sure to book your stay with us at MZLUX — perfect for families and large groups (between 3 condos we can sleep up to 12 guests) — which is an easy drive from Scottsdale Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor. Distance (minutes) below is from MZLUX Scottsdale.
Barrett Jackson Car Auction (20 minutes)
January & October at WestWorld of Scottsdale
Get ready for a car-lover's paradise! The Barrett-Jackson Car Auction kicks off our prime destination season in January, drawing enthusiasts and gearheads alike. With near-perfect weather and pristine roads, it's the ultimate spot for convertible cruising — whether driving or spectating. At this thrilling showcase of collector cars, witness record-breaking auctions, with over $207 million in sales at the 2024 Scottsdale event. And even if you're not a car enthusiast, it's still a fantastic week of people-watching and admiring the showroom's impressive rides. So grab your car-loving friends or plan a couples trip and soak up the excitement — remember ladies, there's always a spa nearby if you need a break from the cars!
WM Phoenix Open Golf Tournament (20 minutes)
February at TPC Scottsdale
The Waste Management Phoenix Open — known as the People’s Open and the Greatest Show on Grass — is one of the most-attended golf tournaments in the US. The TPC Scottsdale course is adjacent to Fairmont Princess Resort, and nearby venues offer shuttle services to the tournament, including The Vig at McDowell Mountain. Before or after the tournament, kick off your day at TPC Scottsdale’s Toro Restaurant and Rum Bar or explore the nearby Scottsdale Quarter mall. Don't miss the Coors Light Birds Nest, a massive 48,000-square-foot party tent next door, featuring four nights of concerts and parties headlined by chart-topping artists. Known for its electric atmosphere, the WM Phoenix Open promises lively crowds and celebratory vibes, especially around the infamous 16th Hole. Extend your stay to enjoy Super Bowl Sunday festivities, or better yet, plan a golf trip before or after the tournament and experience the famous course without the crowds.
Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show (20 minutes)
February at WestWorld of Scottsdale
Scottsdale is renowned in the equestrian world as a hub for Arabian horses, boasting the world's largest annual horse show. Originating in 1955 at the Arizona Biltmore with just 50 horses, the event has burgeoned into a spectacle at WestWorld, featuring nearly 2,400 horses alongside top owners, breeders, and trainers every February. This premier gathering offers a prime opportunity to witness these majestic creatures renowned for their stunning coats, unique facial features, graceful trot, and high tail carriage. Drawing hundreds of thousands of attendees, including celebrities like Shania Twain, from across the globe, this 11-day event showcases the finest Arabians, some commanding six-figure prices and esteemed for their stud fees. Beyond the equine showcases, the event serves as a fundraiser for the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona, which has contributed millions to local charities. Alongside the performances, visitors can explore a bustling shopping expo adjacent to the main arena, featuring over 300 artisans offering an array of unique goods, from fine art and crafts to clothing and jewelry.
April at WestWorld of Scottsdale
Arizona Bike Week is a five-day celebration of motorcycles and music. The Southwest's largest bike rally features after-hour parties, stunt shows, bike shows, factory demo rides, a massive vendor village and local bands performing day and night in the PowerYard. You’ll find hundreds of vendors, builders, dealers and manufacturers, offering all the best elements of the powersports industry. Arizona Bike Week is one of the few women-owned rallies in the country.
Arizona Fashion Weeks
September - November at Multiple Locations
The locals refer to the fall as “Fashion Season” in Scottsdale. Beginning with Scottsdale Fashion Week in late September, Phoenix Fashion Week toward the end of October, and Arizona Fashion Week at the end of October through the beginning of November, the Valley is chock full of unique style. This extravaganza of fashion events includes runway shows, designer meet-and-greets, networking, shopping and more. Bringing together the community to showcase local talent, these three fashion weeks are a fantastic opportunity for guests to experience everything Arizona designers, stylists, models, and hair and makeup artists have to offer.
Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships (20 minutes)
October at WestWorld Scottsdale
The Wales Polo Team captain hails it as 'the best polo event in the world,' while The Arizona Republic dubs it 'polo for the masses' - and they're absolutely right. It's the perfect excuse to don a fascinator or derby hat and immerse yourself in the glamor of this unforgettable affair. Picture a sprawling field of dreams, where horses, cars, and high fashion converge to create one of the classiest events of the year, held annually in October. So, what can you expect at this polo extravaganza? Endless stretches of grass beneath your feet, Champagne flowing freely in every tent, and a variety of ticket options to suit every taste. Whether you opt for general admission, the Barrett-Jackson Champagne & Jazz Lounge, or our personal favorite, the Molina Fine Jewelers Drivers & Players VIP Lounge, prepare to be swept away by the opulence. Witness thrilling polo matches, catch a sneak peek of the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction and Phoenix Fashion Week, and don't miss the chance to snap a photo with a polo player — it's a bucket list moment you won't want to miss. Whether you're seeking luxury, leisure, or a bit of both, there's a place for everyone at America's most-attended polo event. It's the ultimate girls' trip destination - so start planning and coordinating your outfits now!
Spring Training (walkable)
February - March at Scottsdale Stadium (1 mile), Salt River Fields (10 minutes)
Each year, Scottsdale and the Valley of the Sun eagerly welcome the beloved tradition of Spring Training. With 15 teams, over 200 games, and two million attendees flocking to 10 stadiums in just 34 days, it's an unmissable event for friends, families, and baseball enthusiasts alike. Experience the magic of America's favorite pastime under the warm Scottsdale sun in a more intimate setting than regular-season games. We highly recommend making Scottsdale your home base for Spring Training, where you can catch the San Francisco Giants at Scottsdale Stadium or the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies at Salt River Fields. With all Cactus League teams rotating through these stadiums, you're guaranteed to cheer for your favorite team! Salt River Fields, just a 15-minute drive from Presidio Retreat luxury rental, stands as the only Major League Baseball facility built on Native American land, with nods to the local heritage throughout the stadium. Additionally, Scottsdale Stadium in Old Town recently underwent significant upgrades, ensuring an equally unforgettable experience.
March is by far the busiest month for hotel and vacation rental bookings in Scottsdale, thanks to its perfect weather and spring break allure. But fear not, it's never too late to kickstart your getaway plans. Dive into the exhilarating experience of Spring Training, perfect for families, couples, or a guys' weekend getaway - complete with a few rounds of golf, of course.
Discover the abundance of activities awaiting you in Scottsdale! We highly recommend securing your stay with us well in advance, preferably four-to-six months ahead, to secure the best nightly rates. MZLUX stands as your ultimate destination in downtown Scottsdale, offering the perfect location to immerse yourself in all that Scottsdale has to offer.
*Visit event websites to confirm actual event dates as they may vary year-to-year.