4 of the Most Fun Events in Phoenix You CANNOT Miss in 2019
From lofty new year’s resolutions to the post-holiday season lull, the beginning of the year can often feel like a drag.
But you don’t have to wait for the temperature to heat up to enjoy some exciting activities. Sunny days and warm weather make Phoenix an ideal spot for big events, especially in the winter. The new year also brings with it a laundry list of fun activities here in the Valley. Here’s our guide to our favorite annual events you won’t want to miss.
1. Arizona Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon
Sunday, January 13th
You can ring in the new year right with the Arizona Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon. This annual January race attracts thousands of brave souls looking to run, sweat, and race to the finish line. For over 20 years, the Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon has been a celebration of the human spirit and good old-fashioned rock music. You can enjoy live music at every mile marker whether you’re there to cheer or race. The event concludes at Tempe Town Lake, where you’ll find a beer tent and more live music.
2. The Waste Management Open
January 28th – February 3rd
Forget about the Super Bowl. Super Bowl weekend may be all about football, but it doesn’t hold a candle to the Waste Management Open in Phoenix. Every year, TPC Scottsdale plays host to the rowdiest event in all of golf during an all-out five-day party. This PGA tournament attracts massive crowds and the biggest names in golf in late January and early February each year (single-day attendance regularly exceeds 200,000 people). From the raucous 16th hole to the after-hours Birds Nest concert, there are plenty of reasons to attend the greatest show on grass.
3. Barrett-Jackson
January 12th – 20th
What do Scottsdale, Palm Beach, and Las Vegas have in common? They all host the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction. Widely regarded as the world’s best collector car auction, Barrett-Jackson offers you a chance to get a sneak peek at some of the flashiest, fastest, and most expensive cars around. The weeklong event includes everything from old-school muscle cars to million-dollar sports cars. It’s even attracted the likes of celebrities such as Steven Tyler, Burt Reynolds, and Justin Bieber. The auction occurs every January, so you can put that holiday bonus to good use.
4. The Renaissance Festival
February 9th – March 31st
Brace yourselves, Game of Thrones fans. The Renaissance Festival is coming. The Renaissance Festival is a celebration of all things medieval. Every February through March, a remote area of Apache Junction transforms into a full-scale medieval village. You’ll find a bevy of entertainment, from singing nuns to fire eaters and jousters. Grab a turkey leg and your finest tunic, and take a trip to the past at this entertaining festival.
Want more #FrayLife approved winter activities? Check out these local ice skating rinks and show off your skills (or lack thereof).
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