Prescott, Arizona is a charming and vibrant city that is full of fun opportunities for locals and visitors alike. With summer coming in full swing, there is no shortage of exciting events and activities to enjoy. Here are five things to do in Prescott that will make your summer unforgettable.
The World’s Oldest Rodeo
June 28th – July 4th, 2023
For over 130 years, Prescott has been hosting the World’s Oldest Rodeo! This event, which takes place during July 4th week, is a must-see for anyone who loves rodeos or wants to experience a true American tradition. The rodeo features bull riding, bareback bronc riding, steer wrestling, and more. There are also parades, dances, and other family-friendly activities that you won’t want to miss.
One of the most popular events during the week is the downtown parade, which takes place on Saturday. The parade attracts visitors from all over the country and features a variety of floats, marching bands, and Western-themed displays. The parade is a testament to the town’s strong sense of community and Western heritage.
Another highlight of the week is the Boot Race, which takes place in the courthouse square. The Boot Race is a quirky event that is open to the public, and anyone can participate. Individuals must run a short distance while wearing cowboy boots, and the first person to cross the finish line wins. The Boot Race is a fun and exciting event that emphasizes the spirit of the rodeo and the town. Additionally, the rodeo also features an art fair where visitors can purchase unique handcrafted items to remember their Prescott experience.
World’s Oldest Rodeo
Pure Imagination Festival
May 21st, 2023
If you’re a fan of all things creative, you’ll want to check out the Pure Imagination Festival. This one-day event is held at the Watson Lake and is focused on showcasing the various ways that art can be expressed. You’ll find everything from painting and sculpture to music and theatre. This festival is a great opportunity to learn more about the arts and discover new forms of creative expression.
Pure Imagination Festival
Downtown Art Fairs
Starting May 13th, 2023
The courthouse square in Prescott, Arizona, is a hub of cultural activity, and some of the most exciting events that take place in the square are the art shows. The shows, which the city hosts throughout the year, typically feature local artists and artisans showcasing their paintings, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and other creations. The shows are open to the public, and visitors can browse the exhibits, meet the artists, and purchase works of art.
Each art show features a diverse range of styles and mediums, ensuring that there is something for everyone. You can view intricate hand-stitched quilts, beautifully painted landscapes, and unique sculptures made from driftwood, stone, or metal. The shows offer art enthusiasts an opportunity to appreciate and collect carefully crafted works of art that represent different perspectives and mediums, each conveying the artist’s unique message and vision.
Beyond the exhibits, the art shows at the courthouse also provide visitors with a chance to connect with the local community and engage with the bustling arts scene in Prescott. Visitors can interact with artists, exchanging ideas and learning about different techniques and mediums. They can also shop for souvenirs, gifts, and home decor items that could bring a touch of the Southwest to their homes. From art lovers to casual visitors to Prescott, the art shows at the courthouse have something for everyone.
Upcoming Events
- Mother’s Day May 13th, 2023
- Off Street Festival May 27th-29th, 2023
- Territorial Days Arts & Crafts Show, Sunday, June 10th-11th, 2023
- Prescott Rodeo Days Arts & Crafts Show July 1st-3rd, 2023
- Mountain Artists Guild Summer Fine Art Festival, Aug 5th-6th, 2023
- Faire on the Square, Sep 2nd-4th, 2023
Bluegrass Festival
June 24th- 25th, 2023
For lovers of music, the Bluegrass Festival is a must-see event. The festival celebrates American roots music and brings together music lovers from all over the country. The festival features local and national bluegrass bands, providing an opportunity to experience the vibrant music culture of the region. The festival gives attendees a chance to relax and enjoy high-quality music, and take part in activities that promote the arts.
The event features a variety of activities for attendees, including live music performances, workshops, and jam sessions. The headlining performers showcase their talents in front of large audiences, sharing their passion and love for the genre. The workshops provide a unique opportunity for attendees to learn from the best in the business. In addition to the music, there are food and vendor booths available, selling various snacks, souvenirs, and crafts.
The Prescott Bluegrass Festival is a family-friendly event, with a designated kids’ area where children can play, create their own music, and participate in other activities. The festival’s joyful atmosphere attracts a diverse crowd, including music lovers, families, and tourists. The festival is an excellent opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage and history of Prescott, while enjoying the soothing and uplifting sounds of bluegrass music.
Festival Schedule: Saturday 11am-9pm / 7pm-9pm Headliner performance / Sunday 11am-3pm
Farmers Markets
Every Saturday
Prescott is home to wonderful farmers markets. The Prescott Farmers Market has its own unique feel and selection of fresh produce, crafts, and other local products. The markets offer a great opportunity to explore the city’s offerings while connecting with the community. Enjoy live music, arts and crafts, and even food trucks.
Prescott Farmers Market
Prescott is a delightful place to enjoy summer events and activities. From the World’s Oldest Rodeo to the Bluegrass Festival, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Why not take advantage of the sunny, warm weather and spend some time exploring all that Prescott has to offer?
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