WESTERN WEEK: YOU’VE HEARD ABOUT THE OLD WEST. COME SEE IT.
During Western Week, Old Town Scottsdale transforms into an authentic old west experience, and a fun ride for the entire family. Connect with Old Town’s western history, up-close and in person, through western and Native American festivals, art walks, live performances, arts and crafts, the Hashknife Pony Express, and the Arizona Indian Festival. Come say howdy!
Stay up-to-date on all the fun and festivities by following us on Facebook or Instagram.
WESTERN WEEK: JANUARY 28 – FEBRUARY 5, 2023
The Old West is etched in our history like a pocket-knife carving on a mesquite tree. We’ve held tight to our past. It’s what makes this area so likeable. Every year, Western Week restokes the embers of our rich heritage and ensures our western legacy glows as brightly as it did a century ago. All are welcome to experience what can only be described as one “heck of a good time” – parades, the Hashknife Pony Express, Native American festivals, gold mining, live music, and museum exhibits.
Mark your calendars, slide into your best leather boots (or comfortable pair of sneakers), and ride out to see what all the fuss is about.
Stay up-to-date on all the fun and festivities by following us on Facebook or Instagram.
WESTERN WEEK: COMING SOON!
The Old West is etched in our history like a pocket-knife carving on a mesquite tree. We’ve held tight to our past. It’s what makes this area so likeable. Every year, Western Week restokes the embers of our rich heritage and ensures our western legacy glows as brightly as it did a century ago. All are welcome to experience what can only be described as one “heck of a good time” – parades, the Hashknife Pony Express, Native American festivals, gold mining, live music, and museum exhibits.
Please check back for updates and stay up-to-date on all the fun and festivities in Old Town by following us on Facebook or Instagram.
Scottsdale’s Community Historian, Joan Fudala, leads this special presentation which serves as a photo-rich history of the Parada from its origins to date. Held in the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust Theater/Auditorium, the event does not require registration but attendance is limited.
For more, call (480) 686-9539
The Scottsdale Gallery Association proudly presents its Western themed Gold Palette ArtWalk, which pays homage to the rich heritage and vibrant cultures of the American West. During the ArtWalk, guests will enjoy live music and dancing from Desert Dixie and participating galleries will present a variety of cowboy paintings.
For more, click HERE
Guests are invited to gather as this annual ride culminates on the steps of the Museum of the West, delivering more than 20,000 pieces of U.S. Mail. This traditional event begins with fanfare surrounding the arrival including entertainment such as live music, bands, line dancers, native American hoop dancers and Native American royalty, activities for the kids, food trucks, a presentation about the History of Hashknife, and more. The arrival of the Hashknife Pony Express, the oldest officially sanctioned Pony Express in the world, takes place at high noon.
Catch a special educational seminar on the Hashknife Pony Express happening inside the museum’s Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust Theater/Auditorium at 9:45 am and again at 10:45 am. Click here for more info or call (480) 686-9539.
For more, click HERE
With nearly 70 years of history under its belt the Scottsdale Parada del Sol Historic Parade and Trail’s End Festival rides into town with its “Cowboy Kickoff” theme – a nod to the fact Arizona is hosting the Super Bowl this month. The parade features more than 125 lively entries including colorful floats, mounted horse-riders, horse-drawn carriage, school marching bands, wagons and stagecoaches representing many cultures from Mexican to Native American to Arabian to Western. Immediately following the parade, the Historic Old Town District transforms into a massive Western-style block party with a kids’ zone, food trucks, merchandise vendors, and multiple stages with live entertainment including concerts from today’s popular bands to traditional performers.
For more, click HERE
Featuring an array of traditional arts and crafts, entertainment, foods, innovations and trends in cultural tourism experiences, this two-day cultural celebration honors the Arizona Indian community that is alive and well in Scottsdale! This inclusive inter-tribal event serves as a platform for tribal tourism to raise awareness about Arizona’s indigenous communities through fun and engaging experiences.
For more, click HERE
This 43,000-square-foot museum offers an encyclopedia of Western art, featuring regularly changing and permanent exhibits of Western and Native American art and artifacts, entertaining events, and informative programs that bring the West’s heritage, culture and community to life.
In addition to offering residents and visitors free admission to the museum, Western Spirit hosts multiple History and Stories of the Hashknife Pony Express educational seminars, held in the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust Theater/Auditorium. Attendance is free and seminar times are as follows:
Friday, February 3 – 9:45 am and 10:45 am
Saturday, February 4 – 9:45 am and 10:45 am
For more, click HERE
In the late 1890s, Edward S. Curtis (1868-1952) saw a way to use his talent as a photographer to help Indigenous Peoples preserve and maintain their cultures and traditions. For three decades, Curtis traveled the length and breadth of the American West, Western Canada, and Alaska, taking thousands of photographs of Native Americans. Postcards, illustrated magazine articles, books for young readers, lecture series, a “musicale,” and the very first feature-length film with an all-Indigenous cast, In the Land of the Head-Hunters (1914). Curtis’s project—what would become the 20 volumes of The North American Indian—would become the most ambitious ethnographic enterprise ever undertaken in the United States. Come see this stunning exhibition for yourself!
For more, click HERE
This incredible event offers guests an opportunity to taste traditional and fusion foods and cocktails prepared by Native Chefs while enjoying Native American arts and artists in a glamorous cocktail party setting. The evening presents a rich tapestry of Native Arizona through its history, food, people, music, and culture, and aims to bring together multiple Native communities to highlight and celebrate the contributions of Arizona’s Native Peoples.
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT
Enjoy a selection of the freshest produce of the season, indigenous specialties of the West, flowers, free-range beef, eggs, local cheeses, freshly baked artisan breads, jams and more from local purveyors.
During your visit to the market, get into the Western Spirit by enjoying a Wild West Show at the Old Town Scottsdale Rodeo Museum right next door. Watch as World Champion Showman Johnny Hotshot thrills with a rowdy, cowboy-style display of trick shooting (with safe “balloon buster” blanks), gun spinning, trick roping and whip cracking. Free and fun for all ages. Shows at 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM.
For more, click HERE
Light and Legacy: The Art and Techniques of Edward Curtis
Now through Sunday, April 30
Daily; closed Mondays
3830 N Marshall Way, Scottsdale AZ 85251
FREE, With Museum Admission
In the late 1890s, Edward S. Curtis (1868-1952) saw a way to use his talent as a photographer to help Indigenous Peoples preserve and maintain their cultures and traditions. For three decades, Curtis traveled the length and breadth of the American West, Western Canada, and Alaska, taking thousands of photographs of Native Americans. Postcards, illustrated magazine articles, books for young readers, lecture series, a “musicale,” and the very first feature-length film with an all-Indigenous cast, In the Land of the Head-Hunters (1914). Curtis’s project—what would become the 20 volumes of The North American Indian—would become the most ambitious ethnographic enterprise ever undertaken in the United States. Come see this stunning exhibition for yourself!
For more, click HERE
Western Week Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market
Saturdays; January 28 and February 4
8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
FREE
Enjoy a selection of the freshest produce of the season, indigenous specialties of the West, flowers, free-range beef, eggs, local cheeses, freshly baked artisan breads, jams and more from local purveyors.
For more, click HERE
Puzzle Rides: Wild West Heist
Saturday, January 28 – Sunday, February 5
Times Vary
$69 Per Person
John Dillinger was arrested in Tucson in 1934, and rumor has it that money was hidden in the West’s Most Western Town – Scottsdale. You could strike it rich! We’ll take you back to a day when anyone could be deputized, and you’ll have to solve a series of clues to find each location on the route. You’ll have 90 minutes to follow the trail and clues they left behind to see If you can recover the missing loot before time runs out! Registration Required. Limited Seating. Difficulty level: Moderate. Length: 75-90 minutes.
For more, click HERE
Bourbon, Boots, and Belle’s
Saturday, January 28 – Sunday, February 5
Times Vary
7212 E. Main St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$40 Per Person
Discover the vibe and flavors of a Nashville Honky-Tonk at Belle’s Nashville Kitchen. You will experience the Best of Belle’s popular homemade signature infusions, craft cocktails, and unique culinary creations. From Kool-Aid fried pickles to Nashville hot chicken, your taste buds will be tantalized. We’ll even show you how to make an Old Fashioned and how we mix it up to put the Belle’s twist on tradition. The perfect experience for any occasion to kick back and enjoy the flavors of Nashville in Scottsdale.
For more, click HERE
Western Week Candle Making Class
Saturday, January 28 – Sunday, February 5
Times Vary
7227 E. First Ave., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$45 per person (normally $50)
Making candles is a relaxing and creative way to spend an hour in Old Town. Pick from four different Arizona-inspired keepsake jars and customize your fragrance using delightful, desert scents like succulents, bourbon, cactus sea salt, and leather. These jars were designed to represent our beautiful state of Arizona, highlighting the state’s iconic and Western features, from leather-clad cowboys to citrus groves to the desert during a monsoon.
For more, click HERE
Western Week: Earring Making Workshop
Sunday, January 29
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
3965 N. Brown Ave., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$39 Per Person
Come make your very own hand painted Western earrings. In this workshop you’ll learn techniques to stain your earrings using paints, as well as how to attach antique bronze French hooks to give them the perfect finishing touch. Includes one pair of earrings and all materials. Reservations are required, limited seating.
For more, click HERE
For questions, e-mail katiekahoun@gmail.com
Western Week ArtWalk Invitational
Thursday, February 2
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
7160 Main Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
FREE
Prints by Fritz Scholder (1937-2005), fine art photography by Werner Segarra, graphite drawings by Clayton Porter, and paintings and augmented-reality works by James Angel are featured in the Western ArtWalk Invitational at Gebert Contemporary.
For more, click HERE
The Best of The West Tour
Saturday, February 4 and Sunday, February 5
9:00 am
$95 Per Person
There’s plenty to discover in Old Town Scottsdale, from its rich cultural heritage to its unique historic buildings. On the “Best of the West” Experience, the expert guides at JoyRidesAZ Scottsdale Tours will take you on a journey through Old Town in an open-air vehicle. You’ll enjoy special access to the city’s best Western sites and cultural attractions.
For more, click HERE
Western Week – Wine & Paint
Saturday, February 4
3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
7010 E. Main St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$40 Per Person
Join us for Western Week as we paint the star of the Sonoran Desert, “Arty Saguaro!” You will be taught the painting step-by-step by one of our awesome instructors and listen to some great music along the way. All materials included. Registration required.
For more, click HERE
An Indigenous Experience:
Native American Arts & Culture
Saturday, February 4
Times Vary
Call 480-664-4822 for details
7215 E. Main St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$35 Per Person (Adults) | $29 Per Person (Ages 5-10)
Experience the stories, arts, and culture of Arizona’s Native American tribes at the Native Art Market in Old Town Scottsdale. You will explore Native dance, learn about tribal customs, and see the amazing craftsmanship of more than 200 Native artisans. After the cultural performance, you’ll enjoy a craft-making project to create an authentic memento of your visit, such as a dream catcher or beaded bracelet. Join us and learn about Arizona’s Native peoples and their amazing stories!
For more, click HERE
Western Bracelet Workshop
Saturday, January 29
4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
3965 N Brown Ave, Scottsdale AZ 85251
$39 Per Person
Join Crafting Goddesses and make your own beautiful western bracelet. Perfect for everyone of all craft levels. All Materials Included. Registration Required. Limited Seating.
For more, click HERE
Los Lobos
Saturday, January 29
8:00 pm
7380 E Second St, Scottsdale AZ 85251
$40 – $65 Per Person
Over the last five decades, the East Los Angeles-bred band Los Lobos has made an indelible mark on music history by exploring an enormous diversity of genres—rock ’n’ roll and R&B, surf music and soul, mariachi and música norteña, punk rock and country—and building a boldly unpredictable sound all their own. On their new album, Native Sons, the multi-Grammy® winners map their musical DNA by covering a kaleidoscopic selection of songs from their homeland, ultimately creating a crucial snapshot of Los Angeles’s musical heritage. Supporting act: Lisa Morales.
For more, click HERE
Historic Old Town Walking Tour
January 31 – February 4
(TIMES VARY; SEE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO)
FREE
Taking a leisurely stroll throughout Old Town’s historic district on a City of Scottsdale guided tour. Learn about the history of the area, as well as the significance of the most iconic landmarks, public art and points of interest found in this charming district.
For more, click HERE
Desert Terrarium Workshop
Thursday, February 3
6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
4200 N Craftsman Ct, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$65 Per Person
Grab a friend and create a living garden filled with succulents, cacti, and desert elements (cholla skeletons). These open air terrariums are long lasting and require minimal care, pretty much a win-win for any level green thumb!Aside from getting to work with everyone’s favorite desert plants we will answer some frequently asked questions and go over key pointers so you will be able to take care of your desert garden and keep your terrarium looking great! All tools, materials, and plants provided. Registration Required. Limited Seating. Design level: Beginner.
For more, click HERE
Western Week Painting: Saguaro in Bloom
Sunday, February 6
11:00 am to 1:00 pm
7010 E Main St, Scottsdale AZ 85251
$40 Per Person
Join us for Western Week as we paint the star of the Sonoran Desert, “Saguaro in Bloom”! You will be taught the painting step-by-step by one of our awesome instructors and listen to some great music along the way. All Materials Included. Registration Required.
For more, click HERE
Parada del Sol Rodeo
Thursday, March 10 – Sunday, March 13
Times Vary
16601 N. Pima Road
$10 Per Person (General Admission) | $55 Per Person (Box Seats)
The Parada del Sol is a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) sanctioned rodeo. This four-day event consists of four, action-packed performances. As one of the oldest, officially sanctioned rodeos in the country, the Parada del Sol Rodeo event includes bull riding, wrestling, calf roping, and barrel racing, along with other family fun!
For more, click HERE
Belle’s Nashville Kitchen
Saturday, January 28 – Sunday, February 5
Times Vary – See Website for More Info
7212 E Main St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
For more, click HERE
Rusty Spur Saloon
Saturday, January 28 – Sunday, February 5
Times Vary – See Website for More Info
7245 E Main St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
For more, click HERE
Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row
Thursday, February 2
Times Vary – See Website for More Info
4420 N Saddlebag Trail, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
For more, click HERE
Join us for a five-day Old West-style football pre-game party! In partnership with ESPN, the event will serve as the backdrop for much of the network’s pre-game coverage of Super Bowl LVII, which will be played at State Farm Stadium in Glendale. Over the course of this five-day period, multiple ESPN programs, including NFL Live and Sunday NFL Countdown, will be shot live from the Historic Old Town ESPN Main Street Tailgate. Held along Main St., between Scottsdale Rd. and Brown Ave, in Old Town, the all-ages pre-game party will feature tailgate-style games, live entertainment, food and beverages for sale, and plenty of swag and giveaway items.
For more, click HERE
Parking
Parking in Old Town is FREE! On-street parking has no meters or fees, just time limitations. Click here for an interactive map of Old Town parking garages and lots.
Western Week Safety Plan
As the city of Scottsdale moves forward with the Western Week event schedule this year, the city and its partners will be doing everything possible to keep attendees and visitors safe. Including requiring each event adhere to CDC and ADHS safety guidelines and a city-approved safety plan that details the numerous safety precautions that must be in place.
Key elements of the safety plan for Western Week events include:
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Face coverings that cover the mouth and nose are required at all times unless sitting down
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6 feet or more of physical distancing required; if a distance of 6 feet can not be maintained, a face covering that covers the mouth and nose is required
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Safety Enforcement Staff on site actively monitoring physical distancing
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High-touch areas cleaned continuously throughout the event or activity
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Multiple hand sanitizer stands available at each event or activity
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Restrooms and hand washing stations at or near each event or activity