Prescott Festivals
Prescott hosts a variety of festivals year-round, from music and film to mountain bike races, cowboy poetry, fine art, Celtic heritage, and the World’s Oldest Rodeo®. No matter the season, there’s something happening in Prescott.
Prescott Frontier Days® & World’s Oldest Rodeo®
2026 dates: –
Founded in 1888, Prescott Frontier Days® is home to the World’s Oldest Rodeo®. The 139th annual rodeo returns for Independence Week 2026 with eight performances, professional rodeo athletes, specialty acts, rodeo dances, the downtown parade, mutton bustin’, and family-friendly Western tradition.
- 2026 theme: Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom
- Rodeo Parade: Saturday, July 4, 2026 at 9:00 AM
- Events include bull riding, saddle bronc, bareback, roping, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and mutton bustin’
Prescott Bluegrass Festival
2026 dates: – · Free admission
The 45th Annual Prescott Bluegrass Festival brings a full weekend of free outdoor music to downtown Prescott, with bands, jamming around the plaza, vendors, food tents, raffles, and an evening headliner concert.
- Saturday music begins after 10:45 AM opening ceremonies
- Saturday evening headliner concert: 6:00 PM–8:00 PM
- Sunday performances run from 11:00 AM–3:00 PM
Whiskey Off-Road Mountain Bike Race
2026 event:
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Next announced dates:
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Prescott’s signature mountain bike weekend starts in historic Whiskey Row and sends riders into the scenic trails of Prescott National Forest. The event typically includes backcountry races, criterium racing, a Bike & Gear Expo, live music, a beer garden, and kids’ ride events.
- Courses through downtown Prescott and forest trails
- Bike & Gear Expo and community events
- A lively spring weekend for riders and spectators
Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering
2026 dates: –
The 38th Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering celebrates Western heritage through cowboy poetry, storytelling, music, humor, and heartfelt stories of ranch life. Daytime sessions often include free performances, while evening shows are ticketed.
- Cowboy poetry, music, and storytelling
- Held at Yavapai College Performing Arts Center
- 2026 tickets scheduled to begin June 2, 2026
Prescott Highland Games & Celtic Faire
2026 dates: –
Celebrate Scottish and Celtic culture at Watson Lake with Highland athletics, pipes and drums, Highland dance, clans, vendors, food, heritage demonstrations, and family-friendly entertainment.
- Traditional Highland athletic events
- Pipes, drums, dancing, clans, and Celtic music
- Held at scenic Watson Lake Park
Prescott Film Festival
2026 dates: –
The 16th Annual Prescott Film Festival returns for its “Sweet 16” celebration with six days of independent cinema, documentaries, international features, shorts, filmmaker events, workshops, and special screenings.
- Independent films, documentaries, shorts, and international features
- Filmmaker Q&A sessions and educational workshops
- Special events and big-screen community screenings
Prescott Plein Air Festival: Art in the Pines
2026 dates:
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Gala Reception & Art Sale:
Art in the Pines invites juried artists to paint Prescott’s lakes, forests, historic architecture, and Western landscapes outdoors. Visitors can watch the creative process unfold, then view and purchase fresh work during the exhibition and gala sale.
- Festival painting dates: August 26–30, 2026
- Gala Reception and Art Sale: Sunday, August 30, 1:00 PM–4:00 PM
- Exhibition continues through September 11, 2026
MORE THINGS TO DO IN PRESCOTT
The Blazin’ M Ranch - A Western Themed Frontier Town, Dinner, and A Show
Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with f … More
Join us at the Blazin’ M Ranch for an evening of western activities, dinner and an unforgettable show! The Blazin’ M Ranch features an authentic Western Themed Town located in Cottonwood, Arizona. You’ll find fun family activities and the best chicken and ribs in Arizona, along with foil-wrapped potato, cowboy beans, our prickly pear coleslaw, flying biscuits and a delicious homemade dessert.
After dinner the Blazin’ M Cowboys entertain ya’ with their award-winning musical talents mixed with cowboy poetry and humor with a 1 hour show from 7:30pm - 8:30pm!
Family-Friendly | Dinner Included | Live Entertainment
Prescott Ebike Rentals & Tours
Lakeside Tours by Watson Lake on The Peavine and Iron King Trail! If you are looking for something fun to do in Prescott, you have come to the right place. Let our E-bikes take you on an adventure!
Some of Our Reviews:- The highlight of our … More
Lakeside Tours by Watson Lake on The Peavine and Iron King Trail! If you are looking for something fun to do in Prescott, you have come to the right place. Let our E-bikes take you on an adventure!
Some of Our Reviews:- The highlight of our trip
- Bikes are in great condition
- Great way to experience ebikes
- Loved the entire experience
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly | Excellent Service | Scenic Ride
Private Arizona Wine Tasting Tour, A Divine Vine
Prescott - Territorial Arizona's Capital City - Day Tour from Phoenix
Northern Arizona Private Wine Tour south of Sedona - Verde Valley Wineries
Tour Sedona’s Verde Valley wineries on this private wine tour in Sedona. You and your group (max 14) will be driven in a luxury limo- think Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit- so no one needs to worry about logistics or driving. You’ll visit three vineyards, where tastings are inclu … More
Tour Sedona’s Verde Valley wineries on this private wine tour in Sedona. You and your group (max 14) will be driven in a luxury limo- think Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit- so no one needs to worry about logistics or driving. You’ll visit three vineyards, where tastings are included in the price. Lunch is also included, so you can relax and enjoy this trip with everything taken care of for you.
Private Off Road Adventure Tours in the Prescott National Forest
Family-Friendly | Scenic Ride
From Phoenix: Tour to Prescott and Whiskey Row
Escape the desert heat and head to the mile-high town of Prescott, Arizona. Visit the famous Sharlot Hall Museum and delve into Arizona's territorial past. Walk through the original Governor's Mansion and learn about the first settlers and miners in the Arizona mountains.
Visit … More
Escape the desert heat and head to the mile-high town of Prescott, Arizona. Visit the famous Sharlot Hall Museum and delve into Arizona's territorial past. Walk through the original Governor's Mansion and learn about the first settlers and miners in the Arizona mountains.
Visit Whiskey Row and enjoy great food, spirits, and a shot of whiskey if you prefer. Imbibe at the same famed bar that Doc Holliday himself leaned on. Explore antique shops, Arizona and western-themed galleries, and saloons.
Mutli-Attraction Tours
ATV Rentals in Sedona and Cottonwood
Adventurous and independent travelers who don't want to be constrained by a guided tour will love this full-day ATV rental. Starting from Sedona or Cottonwood, you'll have your own ATV to use for six hours. You'll be given a map so you know where to go and the itinerary is up to you. Dr … More
Adventurous and independent travelers who don't want to be constrained by a guided tour will love this full-day ATV rental. Starting from Sedona or Cottonwood, you'll have your own ATV to use for six hours. You'll be given a map so you know where to go and the itinerary is up to you. Drive to Sycamore Canyon and Sedona Red Rocks, or stop for a hike and a picnic.
Family-Friendly
Full-Day Guided Kayak Fishing Down the N. Verde River from Cottonwood
Fishing on Arizona's Verde River offers the opportunity to catch some really awesome fish, but if you don't know the best spots to go to, you may come back empty handed. This Verde River Kayak Fishing Full-Day Experience from Cottonwood takes you down river with a guide and in a kayak, … More
Fishing on Arizona's Verde River offers the opportunity to catch some really awesome fish, but if you don't know the best spots to go to, you may come back empty handed. This Verde River Kayak Fishing Full-Day Experience from Cottonwood takes you down river with a guide and in a kayak, so you not only get to fish in great spots, but you also get closer to the fish, too.
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Water Activities
Montezuma Castle, Jerome and Sedona Day Tour From Scottdale or Phoenix
Jerome History Walk
Sedona with Jerome and Montezuma Castle One-Day Van Tour from Phoenix
Family-Friendly | Beautiful Scenery
1.5 Hour Horseback Ride
PRIVATE Guided River kayaking on the Verde River Cottonwood, AZ (Private Group)
Explore Arizona’s Verde River with a dedicated guide on this private kayak tour. Depart from a designated pickup point in a UTV and enjoy an off-road adventure on the way to the launch point. Sit atop your kayak and enjoy a guided tour through the river, taking in the landscapes along t … More
Explore Arizona’s Verde River with a dedicated guide on this private kayak tour. Depart from a designated pickup point in a UTV and enjoy an off-road adventure on the way to the launch point. Sit atop your kayak and enjoy a guided tour through the river, taking in the landscapes along the way. Enjoy stops at several water holes to swim and cool off before heading back.
Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly
Prescott Night Hike and Stargazing
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided
Granite Mountain Guides
Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly | Incredible Staff | Safe Environment | Beautiful Scenery | Individualized | Accommodating | Exceptional Experience | Covid-19 Precautions Taken
Downtown Food Walking Tour with Tastings
Discover Prescott through its flavors on a guided walking food tour in the heart of Arizona’s historic downtown. Meet at Courthouse Plaza and set off on an easy-paced walk that blends local history with generous tastings at a handpicked mix of restaurants and specialty shops.
Ov … More
Discover Prescott through its flavors on a guided walking food tour in the heart of Arizona’s historic downtown. Meet at Courthouse Plaza and set off on an easy-paced walk that blends local history with generous tastings at a handpicked mix of restaurants and specialty shops.
Over roughly 3 hours, you’ll visit 4–5 venues—including tucked-away local spots and alleyway gems—to sample a variety of bites and sweets. Expect a rotating lineup of specialty food samples with highlights such as pizza tastings, artisan chocolates and desserts, plus olive oil and balsamic vinegar tastings. Along the way, your guide shares stories about Prescott’s past and points out notable sights as you explore the Courthouse Plaza area and surrounding streets.
2 Hours Water to Wine Kayak Trip from Cottonwood
The perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, this tour combines a kayaking excursion with wine tasting in Arizona’s Verde Valley. Paddle down the Verde River in a kayak and stop at a vineyard for a sommelier-led tasting. Feel safe with a guide who can offer paddling and safety t … More
The perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, this tour combines a kayaking excursion with wine tasting in Arizona’s Verde Valley. Paddle down the Verde River in a kayak and stop at a vineyard for a sommelier-led tasting. Feel safe with a guide who can offer paddling and safety tips, as well as sharing information on the river’s flora and fauna.
Water Activities
Prescott City Highlights Tour with Museum Entry
Mutli-Attraction Tours
Grape Train Escape: Wine Tasting and Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure
Savor the flavors of the diverse vineyards of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond. The Verde Canyon Railroad's Grape Train Escape treats passengers to select wines from the Southwest accompanied by specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres while winemakers discuss earache wineries terroir and … More
Savor the flavors of the diverse vineyards of Arizona's Verde Valley and beyond. The Verde Canyon Railroad's Grape Train Escape treats passengers to select wines from the Southwest accompanied by specialty cheeses and hors d'oeuvres while winemakers discuss earache wineries terroir and techniques.
Prescott History Tour
Step back in time on Prescott's streets where history isn't just told, it's experienced. Unlike typical tours that offer surface-level facts, this immersive journey brings you face-to-face with Arizona's territorial capital through vivid storytelling that happens right where history unf … More
Step back in time on Prescott's streets where history isn't just told, it's experienced. Unlike typical tours that offer surface-level facts, this immersive journey brings you face-to-face with Arizona's territorial capital through vivid storytelling that happens right where history unfolded.
Walk the very streets where the Great Whiskey Row Fire of 1900 raged as your guide recreates the drama of ordinary citizens becoming heroes. Feel the urgency as flames engulfed building after building, and witness the remarkable resilience of a community determined to rebuild their beloved town.
From the historic courthouse plaza to the elegant Victorian mansions of Nob Hill, discover meticulously researched tales of famous figures and everyday pioneers. Each story reveals how Prescott shaped Arizona's identity and connects you to a past that guidebooks simply can't capture. This is a transformative journey that will forever change how you see the American West.
Family-Friendly
Prescott Private Day Tour with Transportation
Mutli-Attraction Tours | Private Groups | Family-Friendly
Copper Canyon Hummer Tour
General Admission to Verde Valley Archaeology Center
Family-Friendly
Kayak Tour on the Verde River
Immerse yourself in Arizona’s beautiful scenery—and enjoy a new way to explore—on this family-friendly kayaking tour along the Verde River. Pick between several departure times, grab your safety gear, and set off in a shuttle to the river with just a small group for company. This beginn … More
Immerse yourself in Arizona’s beautiful scenery—and enjoy a new way to explore—on this family-friendly kayaking tour along the Verde River. Pick between several departure times, grab your safety gear, and set off in a shuttle to the river with just a small group for company. This beginner-friendly tour includes a relaxing paddle down a 3.1-mile (5-kilometer) stretch of this river, and the chance to take on gentle mini rapids.
Water Activities | Family-Friendly
Guided Horseback Tour only 30 mins from Sedona
Go horseback riding in Arizona during this small-group tour in Cottonwood, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. Meet your guide and set out on a tour through the Alcantara Vineyards. Cross the water where the Verde River and Oak Creek meet, and get up close to see ancient Apache ruins. … More
Go horseback riding in Arizona during this small-group tour in Cottonwood, approximately 30 minutes from Sedona. Meet your guide and set out on a tour through the Alcantara Vineyards. Cross the water where the Verde River and Oak Creek meet, and get up close to see ancient Apache ruins. Admire panoramic mountain views during this scenic excursion. No prior experience is necessary.
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided