Northern Arizona and the greater Phoenix area are dynamic regions brimming with sports, live entertainment, and cultural events. From Prescott Valley's local teams to the professional sports franchises of Phoenix, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. Whether you're a fan of high-stakes football, live theater, or thrilling motorsports, this guide covers an epic assortment of events in Prescott Valley and the surrounding Arizona region.
Northern Arizona Wranglers
The Northern Arizona Wranglers represent Prescott Valley in the Indoor Football League (IFL). The team was established in 2021 and quickly rose to prominence by clinching the IFL National Championship in 2022. Home games are held at the 5,100-seat Findlay Toyota Center, which opened in 2006. The Wranglers deliver high-paced football action that combines athletic skill with family-friendly fun.
The Phoenix Suns are one of the NBA's most iconic franchises, founded in 1968 as an expansion team. They've reached the NBA Finals three times (1976, 1993, 2021) and are known for their exciting style of play. Their home, the Footprint Center, opened in 1992 and can seat up to 18,422 fans. Located in downtown Phoenix, the venue also hosts concerts, comedy shows, and other popular events.
The Arizona Cardinals are the oldest continuously operated professional football team in the U.S., dating back to 1898. After relocating to Arizona in 1988, the team found its permanent home at State Farm Stadium in Glendale. Built in 2006, this modern stadium features a retractable roof and a seating capacity of 63,400. The Cardinals achieved a significant milestone in 2008 by winning the NFC Championship and appearing in Super Bowl XLIII.
The NHL's Arizona Coyotes bring the excitement of hockey to the desert. Originally founded as the Winnipeg Jets in 1972, the team relocated to Arizona in 1996. The Coyotes currently play at Mullett Arena in Tempe, a venue that opened in 2022 with a hockey capacity of around 5,000.
The Arizona Diamondbacks, often referred to as the D-backs, joined the MLB in 1998 as an expansion team. Their crowning achievement came in 2001 when they defeated the New York Yankees to win their first World Series. The team plays at Chase Field, which opened in 1998 and features a retractable roof and air conditioning, making it ideal for Arizona's summer heat.
Founded in 1997, the Phoenix Mercury is one of the WNBA's premier franchises. They have won three championships (2007, 2009, 2014) and are known for their star-studded rosters, including legends like Diana Taurasi. The Mercury shares the Footprint Center with the Phoenix Suns, providing fans with an electrifying basketball experience.
Phoenix Rising FC is a professional soccer team competing in the USL Championship. Established in 2014, the team plays at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Stadium, a venue built in 2017 with a capacity of 6,200. Known for their passionate fan base and impressive on-field performances, Rising FC is an essential part of the Arizona soccer scene.
The Phoenix Raceway, located in Avondale, is a world-class venue for motorsports enthusiasts. Opened in 1964, the 42,000-seat raceway is home to two annual NASCAR Cup Series races. The track is particularly famous for hosting the championship race each November, offering fans an adrenaline-filled experience.
Golf and PGA Events
Scottsdale is synonymous with premier golfing experiences, with TPC Scottsdale standing out. This world-renowned course hosts the WM Phoenix Open, a PGA Tour event that takes place every February. Dubbed "The Greatest Show on Grass," the tournament attracts thousands of fans to its lively 16th hole.
Theaters and Performing Arts
Since 1947, the Phoenix Symphony has been a cornerstone of the city's cultural scene. Performing at Symphony Hall, a venue with a seating capacity of 2,312 that opened in 1972, the symphony presents a wide range of concerts, from classical masterpieces to innovative contemporary works.
Ballet Arizona
Ballet Arizona was founded in 1986 and is known for its graceful performances of classic and modern ballets. The company regularly performs at Symphony Hall and other venues, enchanting audiences with productions like
The Nutcracker and
Cinderella.
Established in 1971, Arizona Opera performs in Phoenix and Tucson, bringing a mix of traditional and contemporary operatic productions to life. They are also a regular fixture at Symphony Hall, where they present captivating performances to enthusiastic audiences.
Festivals and Major Events
Prescott Film Festival
Since its inception in 2010, the Prescott Film Festival has celebrated independent cinema by showcasing films from around the globe. The festival includes workshops, filmmaker Q&A sessions, and special screenings, making it a must-attend for movie lovers.
Scottsdale Arts Festival
The Scottsdale Arts Festival is a three-day event held annually in March at the Scottsdale Civic Center. Established in 1971, this festival features visual art exhibits, live performances, and culinary experiences, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
Arizona State Fair
Dating back to 1884, the Arizona State Fair is a fall tradition that offers carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and live entertainment. Hosted at the Arizona State Fairgrounds in Phoenix, it's one of the largest state fairs in the country.
Lost Dutchman Days
This festival, held annually in Apache Junction, celebrates Arizona's rich mining history with rodeo events, live music, and family-friendly activities. It's a true showcase of Western heritage.
Venues to Explore
This Prescott Valley venue is a multi-purpose arena that opened in 2006. With Wranglers games, concerts by stars like Jon Pardi, and family events, the arena is a key entertainment hub for Northern Arizona.
State Farm Stadium
A jewel of Glendale, this stadium is known for hosting Super Bowls and concerts in addition to Arizona Cardinals games. Its retractable roof and innovative design make it one of the most advanced sports venues in the country.
Situated in the heart of downtown Phoenix, the Footprint Center is a hotspot for sports and entertainment, hosting everything from NBA and WNBA games to high-profile concerts from stars like J Balvin and Kylie Minogue.
Chase Field
Home to the Arizona Diamondbacks, this iconic Phoenix stadium also hosts college football games, concerts, and even professional wrestling events. With a seating capacity of 48,519, it's a must-visit for baseball enthusiasts.
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Whether you're cheering for your favorite team, enjoying a theatrical performance, or attending a festival, the Northern Arizona and Phoenix metro areas promise unforgettable live experiences.
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