By local contributor
Yesenia Mata
Every year, from late January through early February, the vibrant heart of Old Town Scottsdale transforms into a lively celebration of the American West during Scottsdale Western Week. From the arrival of a special mail delivery by the Pony Express to events like the Parada del Sol Parade and Arizona Indian Festival, Western Week is a family-friendly celebration of Scottsdale's Western heritage.
Western Week Events & Festivals
Western Week kicks off with the arrival of a special mail delivery courtesy of the Pony Express. Riders gallop through Old Town, ending their long ride from Williams, Arizona, at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West where live music and roping demonstrations entertain guests. This annual ride honors the legendary horse-and-rider mail delivery system from the late 19th century that helped connect the American West.
On Saturday, the Parada del Sol Parade ambles down Scottsdale Road showcasing colorful horse-drawn floats, marching bands, Western entertainers and more. Following the parade, the Trail’s End Festival transforms Old Town into a giant Western block party with live music stages, a Kidz Zone, and plenty of food vendors and artisan booths.
Also taking place during Western Week, the Arizona Indian Festival celebrates Arizona's Indigenous communities through traditional dances, storytelling, arts and crafts, and food – all held on the lush lawns of the Scottsdale Civic Center.
Other Western Week festivities include Western Week ArtWalk, workshops, culinary demonstrations, film screenings and much more.
Western Week and Beyond
Western Week is a great time to immerse yourself in Scottsdale's colorful heritage, but Old Town celebrates the area's pioneer spirit year-round. During and after Western Week, you’ll find outstanding exhibitions of Western and Native American art at the Smithsonian-Affiliate Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. You also can browse Old Town's distinctive shops, like Mavericks and Rancher Hat Bar, to spruce up your Western wardrobe, discover Native American arts and craftwork at Native Art Market, explore upscale Western art in the galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way, or scoot your boots to live entertainment 365 days a year at The Rusty Spur, Scottsdale's oldest cowboy saloon.
Stay & Dine
Old Town is home to more than 15 outstanding lodging options that put you within easy walking distance of all the Western Week festivities. You'll also find dozens of restaurants in Old Town, from casual, family-friendly spots like Sugar Bowl, Brat Haus and Daily Dose to elevated experiences at Cafe Monarch, FnB, Virtu Honest Craft and The Ends.