If you’re looking at Phoenix events next 14 days, you’ve picked the absolute prime window to be in the Valley of the Sun. Seriously. The weather is hovering in that sweet spot of high 60s, the snowbirds are out in full force, and the "January rush" is hitting its peak.
Most people think Phoenix is just a desert with some cacti. Honestly? They’re missing out. Between January 16 and January 30, 2026, the city basically turns into a massive, open-air playground for car collectors, golf fanatics, and people who just want to hear some live music.
Let’s get into what’s actually happening. No fluff, just the stuff you’ll actually want to put on your calendar.
The Big One: Barrett-Jackson and the Car Mania
If you aren't at WestWorld of Scottsdale between January 17 and January 25, are you even in Arizona? The 55th Annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction is the crown jewel of the month.
It’s not just for people with million-dollar bank accounts. It’s a vibe. You’ve got the smell of high-octane fuel, the thrill of the "no-reserve" auctions, and more celebrities than a Hollywood red carpet. Tickets usually range from $20 for a basic day pass to hundreds for the VIP treatment.
Kinda wild, but it’s basically a massive carnival for gearheads. Even if you aren't buying a 1969 Shelby Mustang, walking the tents is an experience in itself.
✨ Don't miss: The Lil Wayne Tracklist for Tha Carter 3: What Most People Get Wrong
Live Music You Actually Want to Hear
The next two weeks are packed. Like, really packed.
If you’re into the local scene, there is a cool benefit concert at the Rhythm Room on January 17. It’s raising money for the Tucson Folk Festival, and you’ll get 15 Arizona bands for one ticket. It’s cheap, it’s local, and the Rhythm Room is one of those gritty, authentic venues that makes you feel like you've discovered a secret.
For the bigger names, here’s what’s on the radar:
- January 16: Justin Bieber Night at The Van Buren (perfect if you’re looking to dance and not take life too seriously).
- January 24: Parker McCollum is taking over Desert Diamond Arena. If you like country music with a bit of an edge, this is your spot.
- January 28: K-pop fans, get ready. TWICE is hitting the Mortgage Matchup Center (the arena formerly known as Phoenix Suns Arena). These shows are high-energy and usually sell out fast.
- January 30: Ray Volpe at The Van Buren if you need your bass fix.
Sports and the "Pre-Open" Hype
The Waste Management Phoenix Open doesn't officially kick off until early February, but the energy is already building. You’ll start seeing the setup at TPC Scottsdale.
But for stuff you can actually watch right now:
The Phoenix Suns have a heavy home stand at the Mortgage Matchup Center.
🔗 Read more: Songs by Tyler Childers: What Most People Get Wrong
- January 25: vs. Miami Heat.
- January 27: vs. Brooklyn Nets.
- January 29: vs. Detroit Pistons.
- January 30: vs. Cleveland Cavaliers.
Basketball in downtown Phoenix is an experience. The arena is surrounded by bars like Bitter & Twisted and The Churchill, so you can make a whole night of it.
Also, don't sleep on the Arizona State Sun Devils. The hockey team is playing North Dakota at Mullett Arena on January 23. If you’ve never seen a game at the Mullett, it’s intimate, loud, and way more fun than a standard NHL arena because you're right on top of the ice.
Culture, Arts, and Random Gems
If you want something a bit more refined, the Herberger Theater Center is running "Jane Anger" from January 16 through February 1. It’s a comedy about Shakespeare and the plague—oddly relevant, right?
For the families, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix is doing a Free School Fair and Family Fun Night on January 21. It’s a great way to let the kids burn off energy without breaking the bank.
And for the shoppers? The Scottsdale Waterfront Fine Art & Wine Festival starts on January 30. It’s exactly what it sounds like: walking along the canal, looking at expensive art, and sipping on Arizona wine. It’s very "Scottsdale," but in a good way.
💡 You might also like: Questions From Black Card Revoked: The Culture Test That Might Just Get You Roasted
Quick List of Other Notable Dates:
- January 17-18: The Phoenix Gun Show at the Arizona State Fairgrounds.
- January 19: GoldFord at The Van Buren.
- January 24: Diplo’s Run Club 5K at Margaret T. Hance Park. Yes, a 5K organized by the DJ. It’s basically a race followed by a party.
Actionable Tips for Navigating Phoenix Right Now
Traffic is going to be a nightmare around North Scottsdale because of Barrett-Jackson. Basically, avoid the Loop 101 and Pima Road if you aren't headed to the auction.
If you're going to a Suns game, take the Light Rail. It’s free with your game ticket, and you won’t have to pay $40 for parking in a cramped garage.
Phoenix events next 14 days are diverse, but they fill up fast. Book your restaurant reservations now. Places like Pizzeria Bianco or any of the spots in Old Town Scottsdale will be slammed.
Next Steps for Your Trip:
- Secure Barrett-Jackson tickets online immediately if you plan to go on the weekend; gate prices are always higher.
- Download the Valley Metro app to use the Light Rail for downtown events—it saves time and sanity.
- Check the bag policy for Desert Diamond Arena and the Mortgage Matchup Center; they are strictly clear-bag only.
- Dress in layers. It’ll be 68 degrees at 2:00 PM and 42 degrees the second the sun goes down.