The weekend is bringing vintage shopping, special menus, Broadway spectacle and two exceptional nights of jazz to the Valley. Whether you want to refresh your home, plan a memorable dinner or get the family out for an afternoon, here are eight things worth putting on your calendar from Friday, September 18 through Sunday, September 20.
1. Start Arizona Restaurant Week Close to Home
Fall Arizona Restaurant Week begins Friday, giving diners 10 days to explore prix fixe menus at restaurants across the Valley. Participating restaurants are offering menus priced at $33, $44 or $55, making this a good excuse to revisit a favorite or finally try somewhere new. The current lineup includes Windsor in North Central Phoenix, along with restaurants throughout Phoenix and Scottsdale.
When: Friday, September 18 through Sunday, September 27
Where: Participating restaurants across the Valley
Details: Explore Arizona Restaurant Week
2. Hunt for Vintage Finds at Junk in the Trunk
Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market returns to WestWorld for a full weekend of vintage furniture, one-of-a-kind home décor, clothing, handmade goods and plenty of inspiration. More than 130 small businesses and artists are expected, and serious shoppers can get an early start with Friday night VIP admission or Saturday early entry.
When: Friday, September 18, 4–9 p.m.; Saturday, September 19, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sunday, September 20, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road
Details: Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market
3. See The Phantom of the Opera at ASU Gammage
The chandelier rises again as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera returns to ASU Gammage. The landmark musical pairs its sweeping score with grand sets, elaborate costumes and one of the most recognizable stories in musical theater. Weekend performances include both matinee and evening options.
When: Performances Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20
Where: ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe
Details: View performances and tickets
4. Hear Chucho Valdés at the Musical Instrument Museum
Spend Friday night with one of the defining figures in modern Afro-Cuban jazz. Pianist and bandleader Chucho Valdés brings his Royal Quartet to the Musical Instrument Museum for two performances. His six-decade career includes seven Grammy Awards, six Latin Grammy Awards and recognition as a 2025 NEA Jazz Master.
When: Friday, September 18 at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.
Where: Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd.
Details: Chucho Valdés Royal Quartet
5. See esperanza spalding Live
The Musical Instrument Museum’s outstanding jazz weekend continues Saturday with esperanza spalding. The Grammy-winning bassist, singer and composer is known for music that moves freely between jazz, funk, soul and experimental sound. It is an intimate setting for one of the most inventive musicians working today.
When: Saturday, September 19 at 6 p.m.
Where: Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd.
Details: View the MIM concert calendar
6. Catch the Final Weekend of Julia Child: A Recipe for Life
This is the last chance to see the Arizona Science Center’s immersive exhibition celebrating Julia Child. The experience follows her journey from Paris to cookbook author and television icon while exploring the curiosity, experimentation and persistence behind her influence on American cooking. The exhibition is included with general admission.
When: Through Sunday, September 20
Where: Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St.
Details: Julia Child: A Recipe for Life
7. Experience the Arabian National Breeder Finals
Some of the world’s finest Arabian horses take center stage during the Arabian National Breeder Finals. The prestigious competition brings breeders, trainers and equestrian enthusiasts to Scottsdale for a showcase devoted to the breed’s beauty, movement and tradition. Saturday is the final day.
When: Wednesday, September 16 through Saturday, September 19
Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road
Details: Arabian National Breeder Finals
8. Meet David and Ashley Eckstein at The Poisoned Pen
Former Major League Baseball player and World Series MVP David Eckstein and actor, entrepreneur and author Ashley Eckstein will appear together at The Poisoned Pen. David will discuss Just Right, while Ashley will discuss Lucky 22, which she co-authored with Samantha Chase. The in-store event is ticketed.
When: Saturday, September 19 from 4–5:30 p.m.
Where: The Poisoned Pen Bookstore, 4014 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale
Details: David and Ashley Eckstein at The Poisoned Pen
Make a Weekend of It
Start with vintage shopping, book a Restaurant Week dinner and save Sunday for a show or museum visit. With several popular events launching or ending this weekend, advance reservations and tickets are a smart move.
Event details can change. Check with each organizer before heading out.
Looking for more events? Make sure to get your tickets to the Scottsdale Polo Party 2026 at WestWorld!
