western week

April 10 to April 18: Scottsdale Western Week

In honor of Old Town Scottsdale’s distinctive history and heritage, Western Week has returned, running from Saturday, April 10, through Sunday, April 18. Visitors who attend Western Week can expect to experience and learn how the town has evolved over 130 years with educational activities and entertainment surrounding its wild west past and Native American influences.  

Modifications have been made to the annual event to ensure safety, while welcoming guests to celebrate and recognize the Western culture that is still very much alive in Scottsdale today.

To kick off the celebration on Saturday, the Scottsdale Art Auction will be featuring more than 350 items to bid on including western and wildlife paintings and contemporary sculptural pieces from the likes of American and Western artists (you can see a sneak peek here). 

If auctions aren’t your forte, check out the Rodeo Museum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. all week long. The museum will showcase never-before-seen artifacts from Old Town’s rich rodeo history, like vintage rodeo magazines and photographs dating back to the 50’s. The museum will also showcase original artwork and posters from Parada del Sol and Kenneth M. Freeman, the “Rembrandt of Rodeo.”

On Thursday night, you can take a stroll on the Gold Palette ArtWalk, an art experience highlighting the theme of the west with 28 exhibits, including the popular Wilde Meyer Gallery and enjoy a live performance by local country and rock band, Desert Dixie. 

Old Town’s own farmer’s market will make an appearance in the week’s lineup for its 11th season on Saturday, April 17. The market features more than 100 local growers and specialty food producers including wild-caught shrimp courtesy of the Wild Shrimp Co., organic and pesticide-free produce from Blue Sky Organic Farms, and fresh-baked artisan bread presented by Noble Bread. Shoppers will also find a variety of seasonal specialties like cider, various natural meats, free-range eggs, cheese, jams and much more. 

Regulars of Western Week will be excited to hear the oldest express in the world will return, courtesy of Hashknife Pony Express, which will be making its appearance on Friday. The express will continue tradition by delivering 20,000 pieces of US mail at noon to Scottsdale Stadium.

To see the full list of events and learn more about Western Week, click here

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