Phoenix AZ, January 13, 2026

The Valley of the Sun is alive with diverse events, showcasing Phoenix’s vibrant spirit. From the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction to enchanting ZooLights and free concerts, opportunities for engagement and entertainment abound. These gatherings demonstrate community initiative and enrich local culture, making this week a golden opportunity for residents and visitors alike to participate in the festive offerings throughout the city.

Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix Ignites: Discover This Week’s Premier Valley Events

As January unfolds, the Valley of the Sun bursts with opportunities for engagement and entertainment, showcasing the vibrant spirit of Phoenix through diverse local events.

Phoenix continues to demonstrate its dynamic character through a robust calendar of events, a testament to the collective efforts of local organizers, community leaders, and private enterprises. The capacity for individuals and groups to initiate and execute such varied gatherings underscores a thriving environment where personal initiative meets civic innovation. This week, residents and visitors alike can experience the rich tapestry of the Valley’s offerings, from world-renowned auto auctions to captivating light displays and enriching musical performances. Such events not only provide entertainment but also foster a strong sense of community and contribute significantly to the local economy, often with efficient coordination that highlights the benefits of focused, local-level stewardship.

The array of activities available reflects Phoenix’s dedication to creating spaces for individual achievement and shared experiences, illustrating how a responsive civic landscape can encourage a blossoming of cultural and recreational opportunities for all. These curated events serve as prime examples of how localized efforts, coupled with community engagement, can cultivate a truly vibrant metropolitan area.

Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction: A Global Automotive Showcase

One of the most anticipated events this week is the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction, a flagship event for collector car enthusiasts worldwide. This annual nine-day automotive lifestyle event is considered the season opener for the collector car hobby. Running from January 18 through January 26 at WestWorld of Scottsdale, it attracts casual fans and major car collectors. The auction provides attendees with the chance to bid on rare and historic vehicles.

The Barrett-Jackson auction is known for its vibrant atmosphere and high-energy auctions, offering an extensive array of vehicles, from classic muscle cars to contemporary supercars. It also features additional activities such as thrill rides, symposiums, and a vast exhibitor marketplace. Family Day on Saturday, January 18, offers free admission for children 12 years and younger with a ticketed adult and includes activities from STEM-focused organizations. This event is a powerful demonstration of private partnership driving significant community engagement and economic activity within the Scottsdale area.

ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo: A Beloved Holiday Tradition

Another cherished attraction continuing into this week is ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo, a favorite holiday tradition for the Valley. This event transforms the Phoenix Zoo into a winter wonderland with over four million twinkling lights, more than two miles of glimmering tree-lined trails, and dozens of life-like animal lanterns. It runs through January 16.

Visitors can relax by firepits while enjoying s’mores and hot cocoa, swing into fun at the Glow Garden, and capture photos with Santa, creating lasting holiday memories. A unique experience, “Cruise ZooLights,” is scheduled for Sunday, January 18, allowing guests to drive through an immersive light tunnel and experience the light displays from their cars, requiring a separate ticket. This community-focused event is an example of local institutions providing widespread enjoyment and fostering shared experiences for families across the region.

Music at Trinity: Enriching Downtown Phoenix with Free Concerts

For those seeking cultural enrichment, the 2025-2026 Concert Series at Trinity Cathedral in downtown Phoenix offers a range of free and low-cost music performances in an acoustically renowned setting. Under the direction of Erik W. Goldstrom, Music at Trinity presents diverse musical offerings.

While specific performances for January 12-18 are part of the larger 2025-2026 series, the availability of free concerts like “The Peel Memorial Organ Concert with Kimberly Marshall” on February 1, 2026, highlights the cathedral’s commitment to making quality musical experiences accessible to the community. This initiative exemplifies civic involvement and the power of local institutions to enhance the cultural fabric of Phoenix without relying on extensive public funding, offering choices to individuals to engage with the arts.

Additional Valley Events This Week

Beyond these highlights, the Valley is bustling with a curated list of weekly public events and attractions. For instance, “Disney on Ice” is scheduled from January 15-18 at the Mortgage Matchup Center, promising stunning choreography and special effects. The “Arizona Fine Art Expo” runs from January 16 through March 29 in Scottsdale, where attendees can meet and observe nationally acclaimed artists at work in 124 studios. Furthermore, the “33rd Annual Winter Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival” takes place from January 16-18, featuring over 155 juried fine artisans. These events, driven by a mix of private ventures and local artistic communities, contribute to the diverse leisure options available, reflecting personal initiatives flourishing in a supportive environment.

Conclusion

This week in Phoenix, the confluence of diverse events—from the high-octane Barrett-Jackson auction to the family-friendly ZooLights and culturally rich concerts—underscores the vibrant and dynamic spirit of the Valley. These gatherings are not merely entertainment; they are a powerful demonstration of individual initiative, private partnerships, and robust community engagement at work. By actively participating in and supporting these local initiatives, Phoenicians not only enrich their own lives but also contribute to the ongoing growth and prosperity of our community. We encourage everyone to explore these opportunities, experience the best of Phoenix, and continue fostering the civic innovation that makes our city truly unique.

FAQ

What are some of the main events happening in Phoenix this week, January 12-18?

Some of the main events happening in Phoenix this week include the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction (January 18-26), ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo (through January 16), and the ongoing 2025-2026 Concert Series at Trinity Cathedral. Other events include “Disney on Ice” (January 15-18), the “Arizona Fine Art Expo” (January 16-March 29), and the “33rd Annual Winter Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival” (January 16-18).

Where is the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction taking place and what are its dates?

The Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction is taking place at WestWorld of Scottsdale, running from January 18 through January 26.

When does ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo conclude this season?

ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo concludes on January 16.

Are there any free music events this week in Phoenix?

The 2025-2026 Concert Series at Trinity Cathedral in downtown Phoenix offers a range of free and low-cost music performances. While specific concerts for January 12-18 are part of the larger series, the cathedral is committed to making quality musical experiences accessible. For example, “The Peel Memorial Organ Concert with Kimberly Marshall” on February 1, 2026, is a free event within this series.

What kind of event is “Disney on Ice” and when is it happening?

“Disney on Ice” is a show featuring stunning choreography and special effects. It is scheduled from January 15-18 at the Mortgage Matchup Center.

What is the Arizona Fine Art Expo?

The Arizona Fine Art Expo runs from January 16 through March 29 in Scottsdale. Attendees can meet and observe nationally acclaimed artists at work in 124 studios.

Key Features of Phoenix Valley Events (January 12-18)

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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.