A water lantern festival, a celebrity softball game and a spirits and cocktail festival, all in one weekend? It might not be summer yet, but with all of the fun activities that are set to sweep the Valley this weekend, it might as well be. Check out our roundup of the 10 best things to do in Phoenix this weekend, April 26 through April 28, here:
Friday
Arizona Diamondbacks v. Chicago Cubs
The hometown favorite Arizona Diamondbacks battle the Chicago Cubs in this lively weekender series. Ticket prices vary. For more information on this event, click here.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in Concert
Finally, an event where muggles can embrace their inner witches and wizards! In this sound-inspired experience, the Phoenix Symphony puts the beloved sounds and tunes of the wizarding world on full display, as they perform the score of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the fourth installment in the film and book series. Ticket prices vary. For more information on this event, click here.
Saturday
Arizona Craft Spirits and Cocktail Festival
Looking to sample more than 150 high-end cocktails and spirits, from whiskey and vodka to moonshine and mezcal? Then mark your calendars for the Arizona Craft Spirits and Cocktail Festival, a full-scale festival event that features dynamic performances and live music shows, games and giveaways, and plenty of opportunity to mix and mingle with folks on every side of the state’s cocktail community. General admission tickets are $26; the event will run from 3 to 9 p.m. at Dr. AJ Chandler Park. For more information on this event, click here.
IN FLUX Tours
Six cities across the Phoenix metropolitan area—Chandler, Glendale, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe—issued a collective call for artists as part of the IN FLUX initiative in its newest cycle of creating temporary public artworks in a wide variety of locations throughout the Valley. The locations range from art centers, libraries and government buildings, to public plazas and plinths. The artworks from Cycle 8's cohort of artists vary in material, size and style for an exciting range of site-specific experiences. The work will be on public display for one year, beginning in April 2019. For those who want an early viewing, guided tours will take place on April 27, as part of International Sculpture Day festivities. Admission tickets are $15 to $25. For more information on this event, click here.
Wet Electric Music Festival
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the country’s largest waterpark music festival is creating seismic vibrations of sound with the first full round of artists, including: Benny Benassi, RL Grime, What So Not, Bonnie x Clyde, Bruno Furlan, Sonny Foderam, Taiki Nulight, Tails, VNSSA and Will Clarke, with more artists to come. Admission ticket prices start at $49. For more information on this event – which is held at Big Surf – click here.
Larry Fitzgerald Double Play Celebrity Softball Game
Larry Fitzgerald is coming back for another season of football with the Arizona Cardinals. And as per usual, he’s up to his usual antics as he prepares for his annual celebrity softball game at Salt River Fields. Fans will enjoy watching their favorite athletes and celebrities showcase their softball skills while the little ones take part in the free kid’s sone that will feature face painting, balloon art and temporary tattoos. Admission tickets are $20. For more information on this event, click here.
World Bazaar PHX
World Bazaar PHX returns with more culture, cuisine and community than ever! Experience more than 60 different vendors selling food, art and handmade goods from around the world at this free event. Enjoy live music and dance performances from Africa, Asia and Latin America, with both new and returning acts. This event is free and will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information on this event, click here.
Jeff Dunham
International comedy sensation comic/ventriloquist Jeff Dunham has performed in front of sold-out audiences worldwide showcasing the undeniable power of induced laughter. Dunham, along with his cast of hilarious characters, are set to embark on a new tour. The show is packed with new surprises and old favorites. Ticket prices vary and the show will take place at Talking Stick Resort Arena at 5 p.m. For more information on this event, click here.
Sunday
Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market
The wondrous world of vintage markets and extensive antiquing returns to WestWorld this weekend with the Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market. This space serves as the perfect opportunity to get to know some of finest curators in antique goodies and arts, while still having the opportunity to shop until you drop. The event will take place all weekend; ticket prices range from $8 to $65. For more information on this event, click here.
Water Lantern Festival
The Water Lantern Festival is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As the sun begins to set on the evening sky, the Water Lantern Festival begins to shine as the lanterns are launched and attendees light the water together. Admission tickets are $25 for adults; kids are free. The event will take place at Kiwanis Park. For more information, click here.