Ah, July. The temperatures here in the Valley are sticking to the triple digits and climbing. Venturing outside is becoming less of a choice and more of an “only when necessary” debate.

However, there are still plenty of events to check out during this month that are worth leaving your house for. Don’t worry, we’ve picked plenty of things to do that will still keep you cool (while having a great time). There’s a lot going on this month.

Sunday, July 1

– What better way to kick off the month of July than with a free, fun pool party in early celebration of the Fourth of July? Lustre Rooftop Bar is offering a rooftop barbecue, cocktail specials, and guest DJs. Plus, no cover. Starts at 11 am.

– Kevin Hart is making his way to the Valley on his “Irresponsible Tour” – featuring all new comedy that is worth checking out. Tickets are still available starting at $35 and the show is at the Talking Stick Arena, 8 pm.

Monday, July 2

– Catch a feature film (with a twist) at the Crescent Ballroom. Hosts and comedians Michael Turner and Anwar Newton select a film and provide live comical commentary as you watch as a part of “Bad Movie Mondays”. Starts at 10 pm and is free of charge.

Tuesday, July 3

– Tap into your inner artist and hang out at Off the Cuff in Glendale for a two-hour acrylic painting class. All art supplies are provided. Early bird pricing is $30, general admission is $45.

Wednesday, July 4

– You can’t go wrong celebrating the fourth at one of the largest fireworks displays in the valley. The “Fabulous Phoenix 4th” is going on its 33rd year at Steele Indian School Park and is one of the best places to be. Admission is free, with vendors selling food and beverage and live performances on two stages. The event runs from 6pm-10pm, with fireworks starting at approximately 9:30 pm.

– Another big 4th of July event is the 67th annual Tempe Town Lake Festival. Watching the fireworks over the lake is something spectacular to see. Of course, there is plenty of food for sale and even beverage gardens that adults can enjoy. General admission is $5, or you can buy a “VIP Garden ticket” that includes a view of the fireworks show in a misted area, barbeque dinner, and two drink tickets for $60.  The event runs from 5-10:45 pm, with fireworks beginning around 9:20 pm.

Thursday, July 5

– Hang out at Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy and see comedian Langston Kerman (Adam Devine’s House Party, Insecure) perform. Tickets are only $16 for a night of laughs starting at 7:30 pm.

Friday, July 6

– We feel slightly obligated to post about First Friday whenever we write for the Month Ahead…because it’s a fun, free event supporting local art, and you really can’t go wrong. The Art Museum is open to all, there are food vendors, and of course, music and art adorning the sides of nearly every sidewalk. From 6pm-10pm.

– Can you say you’ve ever done Goat Yoga? Well, if you head to this Goat Yoga event starting at 7 pm, you can say you have. Goat Yoga has become increasingly popular, so get your downward dog on… ft goats. Oh, did we mention this one has a Hedgehog that will balance on you too? $15 for the class.

Saturday, July 7

– Celebrate Frida Kahlo’s birthday weekend with a party, gallery show, and Mercado at Mucho Más Art Studio. There will be free make-and-take art (printmaking, brush lettering), food trucks – and much more! The event may be free, but RSVP on the site so they can prepare the art supplies.

– Enjoy a night of classic #emo songs and moody jams at “Emo Nite” hosted by Crescent Ballroom. We guarantee everyone will be singing along. Tickets are $10.

Sunday, July 8

– Participate in a “Sunday Funday” pool party hosted by BLK Live in Scottsdale. Featuring mimosa, bloody mary, and slushy specials, it’s a great way to beat the heat. No cover, starts at noon.

– Crescent Ballroom is determined to keep you cool at their “Beat the Heat” event, featuring a handful of live bands and good vibes. Tickets between $10-15, depending on when you buy them.

Monday, July 9

– Catch “Coming to America” – the first movie being shown as part of a new film series coming to FilmBar presented by Zia Records. The series features cult movie favorites and giveaways from Zia, too! Showing starts at 7:00 pm, tickets are $9.95.

– Rock and soul lovers, get yourself over to Valley Bar to see Waker – a seven-piece band from Nashville with a growing following. Tickets are $12, show starts at 8 pm.

Tuesday, July 10

– California musician Bodie (now a Phoenician as of 2015) is coming off of a huge performance at Goldrush Music Festival and aims to spread a message of positivity all around. Tickets are between $10-12, the show starts at 8 pm.

Wednesday, July 11

– Havana Nights are calling your name – hang out at Dave and Busters from 7 pm to midnight and enjoy a variety of dances, from the salsa to the cha-cha. Lessons take place from 7 pm-8 pm, and then the party begins. The event is 21+ with a $5 cover.

– Get your yoga on with a view at Lustre Rooftop Bar, presented by Sutra Studios. Free, but make sure you enroll online here as registration is required.

Thursday, July 12

– Love yourself some indie music? Get your groove on at the Rebel Lounge starting at 9:00 pm. For just $5, attend “Modular Disco” and hear DJs mix sets inspired by Daft Punk, Cut Copy, and more.

Friday, July 13

– Head up to local SunUp Brewing Company for “A Midsummer Night’s Feast” – their seasonal beer dinner that includes a four-course meal and five beers. Tickets are only $35. The event goes from 6-9pm.

– The Haymarket Squares are a great dynamic punkgrass band formed right here in Arizona, and they’re performing at Last Exit Live for just $10, so definitely take the time to go support them! The show starts at 9 pm.

Saturday, July 14

– Enjoy a full day of festivities at the Musical Instrument Museum celebrating Arizona Music. Celebrate Arizona’s rich culture with events from 9am-5pm, including a Native American musical performance and Mexican Folkloric performance. It’s definitely worth a visit.

Sunday, July 15

– Why not take a tour of iconic architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and desert laboratory? During the summer, Arizona residents get 50% off Insight tour prices with code “AZRESIDENT” (proof of residency required when picking up tickets). It’s a great way to see behind the scenes into the famed architect’s estate.

– The use of essential oils has become increasingly popular as they can help with a variety of ailments. Take a class for $20 and learn how to make your own – you get to take home a head tension roller, pest-away spray, and some bath salts.

Monday, July 16

– Indie pop band Foster the People comes to the Marquee for a show starting at 7 pm. General admission tickets start at $29.50.

Tuesday, July 17

– Stop into Valley Bar for “Operation Indie” – an Indie music trivia night where you can put your knowledge to the test and compete for a variety of prizes from Stateside Presents and Zia Records! Free to join.

– The Artisanals are a SC-based band that brings a great rock sound to the stage and has already toured with Band of Horses. Tickets to see them at the Rebel Lounge at 8 pm are between $8-10.

Wednesday, July 18

– FilmBar airs “Valley Girl” as a part of their monthly celebration to honor women in film. The movie was directed by Martha Coolage and stars Deborah Foreman and Nicolas Cage. Tickets are $10 and the showing starts at 7:30 pm.

Thursday, July 19

– Soccer fans can catch an exciting match between Mexico’s Club América and Manchester United F.C. at the University of Phoenix Stadium. This match is part of Manchester’s 2018 summer tour. Kickoff starts at 7 pm, and tickets start at $27.

– Unknown Mortal Orchestra brings psychedelic rock tunes that bring a creative vibe and disco feel. Synthesizer fans will appreciate their unique sound. Tickets are $20 and the show starts at 8 pm.

Friday, July 20

– You can still snag tickets to see the Soul2Soul World Tour, featuring powerhouse couple Tim McGraw and Faith Hill performing the best of country. Tickets start at $24.75.

– Craft Rave is back! Changing Hands Bookstore in Phoenix hosts five hours of nonstop crafting, featuring instruction from the artisans themselves. Of course, there’s beers, wine, and coffee for sale. Admission is $4, crafts vary by price. 6-11pm.

Saturday, July 21

– Short Leash Hot Dogs is presenting “The Wurst Festival Ever” – where you can help decide on the best wiener, meet local chefs, drink some beer, and have an all-around good time. Tickets are $10.

– Iconic acapella group Pentatonix makes their way to Ak-Chin Pavilion for a concert starting at 8 pm. The show also features special guests Echosmith and Calum Scott. Tickets starting at $18.75.

Sunday, July 22

– Get to the ballpark for a day game starting at 1:10 pm as the D-backs takes on one of the division rivals, the Colorado Rockies. It’s also mascot Baxter’s birthday. Tickets starting at $19.

Monday, July 23

– Streetlight Manifesto brings their punk rock/ska punk sounds to the Marquee starting at 8 pm. General admission starts at $18.00.

Tuesday, July 24

– Did somebody say Taco Tuesday? From 2pm-close, enjoy $2 tacos at Joyride Taco House and $5 margaritas.

– American indie rock band Car Seat Headrest (known for their cult online following) makes their way to the Van Buren for a show featuring Naked Giants. Tickets start at $22, show starts at 8 pm.

Wednesday, July 25

– American rapper and singer Logic comes to Ak-Chin pavilion along with a rising name in the rap scene, NF. Tickets start at $18.75, show starts at 7 pm.

– Make your own fresh flower arrangement while sipping some wine at “Bouquets and Cabernets” at GenuWine Arizona. Includes all the supplies you need. Tickets start at $64.

Thursday, July 26

– The Art Museum invites you to “Slow Art and Mindfulness,” where guided meditation is used to connect to the moment and understand the pieces of art on a deeper level. Free with purchase of museum admission. Starts at 12 pm.

– Dirty Water Club was a music night started in London – join various garage rock bands at Crescent Ballroom for the American Version, which promises to bring the same level of crazy and grimy rock and roll vibes. $5 advance tickets, $7 day of show. Starts at 7:30 pm.

Friday, July 27

– Hang out at the Linger Longer Lounge for a special “Christmas in July” celebration. Festivities for the day include an ugly sweater party and contest from 8-11pm. They’re also hosting a gift drive, so if you bring a food or toiletry item you receive a free drink on the house!

Saturday, July 28

– Harry Potter Fans can unite at Changing Hands in Phoenix for the third annual Harry Potter Party, going from 8-11pm. The $10 allows you admission – you’re encouraged to wear a costume and enjoy the Potter-inspired menu.

– Runners may not feel like they can be outside right now (understandably) – which is why a virtual race is great. The 2018 Dash for the Donuts is a race you can complete from anywhere you choose – the treadmill, the track – wherever keeps you cool. Once finished, you get to submit your time and receive a medal in the mail. $18 to register.

Sunday, July 29

– Don’t miss out on any wrestling action – snag tickets to see WWE presents: NXT Live at Comerica Theatre starting at 5 pm. Tickets start at $20.

– Hang out at Stand Up Live for a “New Faces of Comedy” show – where aspiring comedians get the stage for five minutes to try and make you laugh. General admission is $5.

Monday, July 30

– Country music icon Shania Twain graces the valley with her presence, bringing the Now tour to Comerica Theatre. Tickets start as low as $25.20.

Tuesday, July 31

– Ak-chin pavilion has a ton of concerts this summer, including the 311 & Offspring tour, starting at 7 pm. General admission tickets are $27.50. Both bands deliver powerful rock vocals that have made them popular for years.