Phoenix, AZ, January 8, 2026
As January unfolds, the Phoenix metropolitan area is alive with community events that reflect local initiative and engagement. Highlights include the Arizona Wine Festival, Tempe Blooms, and Disney on Ice, all showcasing cultural heritage, artistic expression, and family-friendly entertainment. With an emphasis on supporting local entrepreneurship and artists, these gatherings illustrate the vibrant community spirit that defines the Valley. Residents are encouraged to participate in these enriching experiences to foster connections and enhance local culture.
Phoenix, AZ – As the new year unfolds, the Phoenix metropolitan area is once again showcasing its dynamic spirit and robust community engagement. January in the Valley is vibrant, offering a diverse array of events that highlight local initiative, individual achievement, and the enduring benefits of a thriving civic landscape. From cultural celebrations to family-friendly entertainment and burgeoning local businesses, the month is packed with opportunities for residents to connect, celebrate, and support the growth of their community.
The lineup of events this January underscores the power of local organizers and private enterprises in fostering community vitality. Rather than relying solely on large-scale governmental directives, these gatherings are often the result of dedicated citizens and visionary entrepreneurs who take the initiative to create enriching experiences for everyone. This organic growth of community-led activities reinforces the idea that when bureaucracy is limited, innovation and engagement flourish, leading to a more vibrant and connected Valley.
Celebrating Arizona’s Rich Heritage at the Arizona Wine Festival
One of January’s premier attractions is the Arizona Wine Festival, an event that exemplifies the thriving spirit of local entrepreneurship and agricultural achievement within the state. Scheduled for January 24th and 25th, 2026, at Heritage Square in downtown Phoenix, this festival is a testament to the dedication of Arizona’s vintners. It’s more than just a tasting; it’s a celebration of the personal initiative taken by local wineries to produce high-quality wines, contributing significantly to Arizona’s economic and cultural tapestry.
A Toast to Local Enterprise and Innovation
The Arizona Wine Festival will feature 20 Arizona wineries, offering attendees a chance to sample the diverse flavors cultivated right here in the state. Beyond the wine, the festival supports a broader ecosystem of local talent, with 70 artist, craft, and artisan vendors showcasing their unique creations, alongside an array of food trucks providing culinary delights. This gathering creates a vibrant marketplace, driven by the personal achievements of small business owners and artists. New additions this year, such as barrel tastings with six different wineries and a grape stomp competition, encourage direct engagement and highlight the innovative spirit of the industry. These activities not only entertain but also educate, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complex process of winemaking and the entrepreneurial journey behind each bottle. Attendees can secure their experience with pre-sale tickets for $35 on Saturday and $30 on Sunday, which include a commemorative wine glass and 10 tasting tickets, representing an investment in local industry and community events.
Tempe Blooms: A Canvas of Community Creativity
Just a short distance away, Tempe will be transformed into an award-winning floral wonderland with the return of Tempe Blooms on January 24th and 25th, 2026. This free, two-day event, hosted by Arizona Flower Market in partnership with the Downtown Tempe Authority, is a shining example of how civic innovation and collaborative efforts can beautifully enhance public spaces. The festival’s success, having attracted over 80,000 attendees in its inaugural year (2024), demonstrates the community’s enthusiastic embrace of art and natural beauty when presented through accessible and engaging initiatives.
Fostering Artistic Expression and Local Commerce
Downtown Tempe will feature 21 large-scale floral installations, meticulously crafted by talented local designers, turning the urban landscape into a breathtaking exhibit of natural artistry. Complementing these floral displays, 10 local artists will be creating live murals, inspired by the theme “Growth in Bloom,” fostering an environment where artistic expression is celebrated and accessible to all. The event also champions local commerce through its “Flowerful Market,” where over 70 local vendors offer floral-inspired products, providing a platform for individual entrepreneurs to showcase their handcrafted goods. With rotating live music performances across 10 locations, floral design seminars, a build-your-own bouquet bar, and a dedicated kids area, Tempe Blooms is a multifaceted event that encourages civic involvement and offers diverse opportunities for personal enjoyment and learning.
Disney on Ice Presents Let’s Dance!: Cherished Family Entertainment
For families seeking cherished entertainment, Disney on Ice presents “Let’s Dance!” at the Mortgage Matchup Center (formerly PHX Arena) in Phoenix from January 15th to 18th, 2026. This event offers a unique opportunity for families to create lasting memories, underscoring the importance of diverse entertainment options that cater to all ages within the community. The availability of multiple show times throughout the weekend, including morning and afternoon performances, reflects a commitment to accessibility for busy families.
Diverse Offerings for All Ages
The “Let’s Dance!” theme promises a captivating experience with beloved Disney characters performing on ice. Beyond the main show, character experiences are available, offering an enhanced opportunity for engagement for those with a separate ticket and a show ticket, for guests aged two and above. It’s important to note that all guests aged two and older require a ticket for entry, and costumes are reserved for guests under 14 years old, ensuring a comfortable and appropriate environment for all attendees. Such events, often driven by large-scale private organizations, contribute significantly to the local economy and provide valuable leisure opportunities that enrich the lives of Phoenix residents.
Economic Vibrancy and Local Business Initiatives
Beyond structured festivals and shows, January also brings promising developments for local commerce, illustrating the steady pulse of economic growth and individual achievement in the Valley. These smaller, yet significant, initiatives demonstrate how private investment and entrepreneurial spirit are key drivers of community development.
Godfather’s Pizza and Pollack Tempe Cinemas: Driving Local Growth
The East Valley is seeing new commercial growth with Godfather’s Pizza preparing to open in a new development at Queen Creek Road and Signal Butte Road. This Nebraska-based pizza chain’s expansion into the area signifies confidence in the local economy and offers new choices for residents, representing the positive impact of personal initiative in business. Similarly, Pollack Tempe Cinemas continues to be a notable example of an enduring local business. As a locally owned and operated community theater in Tempe, it provides an affordable entertainment option, with regularly priced movies at just $3.50. The anticipation of upgrades and a grand reopening for Pollack Cinemas, even amidst an uncertain cinema scene in Tempe, highlights the resilience and adaptability of local businesses striving to serve their community. These ventures, whether new or undergoing revitalization, are vital components of the local economic landscape, offering employment and leisure activities shaped by private endeavor.
Conclusion
January in the Phoenix Valley is a testament to the power of community and individual initiative. From the sophisticated offerings of the Arizona Wine Festival to the artistic vibrancy of Tempe Blooms and the family appeal of Disney on Ice, these events are more than just entertainment; they are reflections of a proactive community. The continuous development of local businesses, such as the upcoming Godfather’s Pizza and the enduring Pollack Tempe Cinemas, further solidifies the region’s commitment to growth and diverse opportunities. We encourage all residents to engage with these local events, support our entrepreneurial spirit, and contribute to the flourishing civic landscape that makes Phoenix a truly special place to live. Your participation not only enriches your personal experience but also strengthens the fabric of our interconnected community, fostering an environment where innovation and shared prosperity can thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What are the dates for the Arizona Wine Festival in January 2026?
- The Arizona Wine Festival is scheduled for January 24th and 25th, 2026.
- Where is the Arizona Wine Festival located?
- The Arizona Wine Festival takes place at Heritage Square, 113 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004.
- What new activities are featured at the Arizona Wine Festival this year?
- New activities at the Arizona Wine Festival include barrel tastings with 6 different wineries and a grape stomp competition.
- When is Tempe Blooms happening in January 2026?
- Tempe Blooms is scheduled for January 24th and 25th, 2026.
- What can attendees expect at Tempe Blooms?
- Attendees can expect 21 large-scale floral installations crafted by local designers, 10 live mural creations by local artists, over 70 local vendors, rotating live music, floral design seminars, a build-your-own bouquet bar, and a dedicated kids area.
- Is Tempe Blooms a free event?
- Yes, Tempe Blooms is a free event.
- When is Disney on Ice presents Let’s Dance! in Phoenix?
- Disney on Ice presents Let’s Dance! runs from January 15th to 18th, 2026.
- Where is Disney on Ice being held in Phoenix?
- Disney on Ice presents Let’s Dance! is being held at the Mortgage Matchup Center (formerly PHX Arena) in Phoenix, AZ.
- What is the price for movies at Pollack Tempe Cinemas?
- Regularly priced movies at Pollack Tempe Cinemas are $3.50, with some exceptions.
- Where is a new Godfather’s Pizza location preparing to open in the East Valley?
- Godfather’s Pizza is preparing to open in a new development at Queen Creek Road and Signal Butte Road in the East Valley.
Key Features of January Events in the Valley
| Event | Dates (January 2026) | Location | Key Features | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona Wine Festival | 24-25 | Heritage Square, Phoenix | 20 Arizona Wineries, 70 vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, barrel tastings, grape stomp competition. | State-level |
| Tempe Blooms | 24-25 | Downtown Tempe | 21 large-scale floral installations, 10 live mural creations, 70+ local vendors, live music, floral design seminars, kids area. Free event. | Local |
| Disney on Ice presents Let’s Dance! | 15-18 | Mortgage Matchup Center, Phoenix | Family-friendly ice show with Disney characters, character experiences available (separate ticket required). | Local |
| Godfather’s Pizza Opening | (Preparing to open) | Queen Creek Road and Signal Butte Road, East Valley | New Nebraska-based pizza chain location, part of new commercial development. | Local |
| Pollack Tempe Cinemas | Ongoing (Mr. Wonderful (Feature Film) – CIFF 2026 on Jan 24) | Tempe, AZ | Locally owned, $3.50 regularly priced movies, anticipated upgrades. | Local |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
