Things to Do in Scottsdale in March 2026: Guide
Things to do in Scottsdale in March 2026: rodeo, art week, cultural festivals, live music, and Old Town nightlife — plus desert tours to fill out your trip.
Wondering what to do in Scottsdale this March? You picked a great month. March in Scottsdale means near-perfect weather and a packed calendar — rodeo, world-class art, cultural festivals, live music, and lively Old Town nightlife. Whether you’re here with family, planning a romantic weekend, or out with friends, here are the standout things to do in Scottsdale in March 2026, plus an easy way to add a little desert adventure to the trip.
Rodeo Scottsdale (Parada del Sol)
Feel the real Western spirit at Rodeo Scottsdale. This PRCA rodeo brings top athletes to the arena for bull riding, barrel racing, and family-friendly entertainment in the heart of the Arizona desert.
- Dates: March 5–8, 2026
- Location: WestWorld of Scottsdale, Equidome Arena
- Highlights: Bull riding, barrel racing, mutton bustin’, and more
Scottsdale Art Week
A premier four-day art and design fair, Scottsdale Art Week gathers galleries from around the world for exhibitions, artist talks, and immersive programming — a major moment on the city’s cultural calendar.
- Dates: March 19–22, 2026
- Location: WestWorld of Scottsdale
- What to expect: Global art, cultural programming, and immersive experiences
Persian New Year Festival
Celebrate Nowruz at the annual Persian New Year Festival, a lively, family-friendly day of authentic food, live music, traditional dance, and cultural exhibits.
- Date: March 7, 2026
- What to expect: Food, music, dance, and cultural displays
- Vibe: Festive and welcoming for all ages
St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Bar Crawl
Wear green and explore Old Town at the St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Bar Crawl. It’s an easy way for adults to sample the city’s nightlife, hopping between pubs and tasting rooms with drink specials and a festive crowd.
- Date: March 14, 2026
- Location: Old Town Scottsdale entertainment district
- Highlights: Drink specials, festive atmosphere, access to top bars
Arizona Musicfest Concerts
For a more refined evening, Arizona Musicfest presents a series of live performances spanning classical, jazz, and pop tributes at venues across the city. With shows throughout the month, you can almost always find a performance to suit your taste.
| Performance Type | Tentative Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Classical Showcase | March 1, 2026 | Various Scottsdale venues |
| Pop Music Tribute | March 15, 2026 | Various Scottsdale venues |
| Jazz Ensemble | March 19, 2026 | Various Scottsdale venues |
| Festival Orchestra Finale | March 21, 2026 | Various Scottsdale venues |
Get Outside in the Sonoran Desert
March weather is made for the outdoors, and the desert is at its best. Beyond the festivals, one of the most memorable things to do in Scottsdale is heading out on a guided desert ATV and sand-buggy tour. You ride it, you don’t run it, so it suits every age and fitness level — and it’s an easy half-day between events. Want golden-hour views to cap a March evening? Our sunset desert tours are tough to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for March 2026 Scottsdale events?
Buy through each event’s official website or a trusted ticket seller. For big draws like Rodeo Scottsdale and Scottsdale Art Week, purchase early to secure your spot.
What outdoor activities happen in Scottsdale in March?
Plenty — the weather is ideal. Beyond festivals, you can visit the Desert Botanical Garden, catch Cactus League spring training, hike the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, or take a guided desert tour.
What’s worth doing in Old Town Scottsdale in March?
Old Town is lively with galleries during Scottsdale Art Week, the St. Patrick’s Day bar crawl, plus shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms — a great area for a day or night out.
Looking to add desert adventure to your March itinerary? Book a guided desert tour or call (480) 837-3966, and we’ll help you plan around the events.
