Top 10 Valley Events in July & August

Through September 13
PHOENIX Magazine Summer Cocktail Camp

This summer, spend your Sunday afternoons sipping some of the coolest drinks in town. Editor-in-chief Craig Outhier is hosting a 14-week, rotating event featuring the Valley’s top mixologists. These skilled professionals will showcase their expertise by crafting their signature cocktails. 1-3 p.m. $50 + fees. Visit tickets.phoenixmag.com for a complete list of locations and to purchase tickets.

Through September 26
Flashlight Nights

Bring the family to experience a magical nighttime adventure with the Desert Botanical Garden’s series of self-paced flashlight tours. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the desert night, filled with the beauty of night-blooming flowers and the sounds of flying predators, slithering snakes and insects scurrying in their natural habitat. Saturdays only. Check website for available times. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix, 480-941-1225, dbg.org

August 9
John Mellencamp

The singer-songwriter dropped the “Cougar” from his name decades ago. However, he is hitting the road for a tour with a playlist of classic songs he hasn’t performed since he was known by that name, including “R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.,” “I Need a Lover” and “Ain’t Even Done with the Night.” 8 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, 602-254-7200, livenation.com

August 19
Noah Kahan

If you saw Noah Kahan perform on Saturday Night Live earlier this year, then you know why he’s having a moment right now. His voice and lyrics appeal to country fans, but they’re arranged in a style that pop fans love. Most importantly, he just knows how to tell a great story. 6:30 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 602-514-8400, dbacks.com

July 4
Scottsdale 4th of July

Everybody loves fireworks, but watching them on a scorching hot Arizona evening is no fun for anyone. Luckily, you can enjoy one of the state’s largest pyrotechnic displays in comfortable air conditioning. There’s also plenty of fabulous family fun, including a bull-riding rodeo, mutton busting for the kids, a slider eating contest, old-fashioned cakewalks and fantastic food. The festivities start at 5 p.m., and the fireworks begin around 9 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, scottsdale4th.com

July 23-26
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents the Greatest Show on Earth

The classic three-ring circus has been reimagined with even more death-defying performances than ever before. Highlights include the Double Wheel of Destiny, where performers jump rope on wheels that move through the air, acrobats flying through the sky and a bicycle troupe performing mind-blowing stunts. Check website for times and ticket prices. Mortgage Matchup Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 602-379-7800, mortgagematchupcenter.com

August 11
Megan Moroney

There are those country music fans who think that Ella Langley’s massive hit “Choosin’ Texas” is about Riley Green choosing Megan Moroney over her. But then there are some fans who think Moroney’s breakup song “Wish I Didn’t” is also about Green. Who knows the truth? But listening to Moroney’s latest album, Cloud 9, is a lot more fun when you think she is spilling the tea. 7 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. Desert Diamond Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale, desertdiamondarena.com

August 6-9
2026 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships

Some of the best junior and senior gymnasts will be competing in Downtown Phoenix for a national title as well as a spot on the U.S. National Team for a chance to compete in this year’s World Championships in Rotterdam. Check website for time and ticket prices. Mortgage Matchup Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, 602-379-7800, mortgagematchupcenter.com

August 8-9
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire

Did you ever wish that your toy trucks could come to life? In this family-friendly event, Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, Boneshaker, Bigfoot and the firetruck HW 5-Alarm will smash cars right before your eyes. There will also be a laser light show, dance parties and giveaways. Check website for ticket prices and showtimes. Desert Diamond Arena, 29400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale, 623-772-3200, desertdiamondarena.com

July 12-26
Taste in Tempe  

It’s much too hot to cook, so why not give yourself a break while exploring Tempe’s burgeoning culinary scene? Participating eateries are offering customers specially crafted prix fixe menus so you can find your new favorite restaurant. Visit tempetourism.com for more details and a list of restaurants.