Things to do this weekend - 4th of July edition

Crank up the AC and cue the fireworks— the Valley is bringing the heat and the fun this Fourth of July weekend. Whether you're chasing stars and stripes or just trying to stay cool, we’ve rounded up the best ways to celebrate July 4–6 across metro Phoenix.

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Feature stories

BeStitched. What began as a stress-relieving hobby for Lisa Kessler led to the founding of BeStitched Needlepoint, a thriving Scottsdale shop she opened in 2011 after leaving the corporate world. Read her story here.

Honoring the true heroes. While apple pie and hot dogs are Fourth of July staples, Hospice of the Valley celebrates the true heroes — veterans — by honoring them with heartfelt tributes, birthday celebrations, and meaningful recognition for their service. Learn more here.

Wellness on water. Tapping into the growing interest in wellness and mindfulness, Desert Paddleboards is offering a fresh take on mindfulness by bringing sound healing out onto the water. Read their story here.

Christmas in July. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Organ Stop Pizza, where twinkling lights, holiday cheer and the Mighty Wurlitzer Pipe Organ are setting the stage for the restaurant’s annual Christmas in July celebration. Get all the details here.

Community news and notes

Community support and success. The Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center is reaching new heights this year—both literally and figuratively—thanks to generous community support and a dynamic new partnership. Learn more here.

SUSD welcomes a new leadership role. As families plan for the school year ahead, SUSD is introducing a familiar face stepping into a new leadership role in: Dr. Christine Bonow, the district's new Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education. Her story is uniquely SUSD. Read more about her here.

Salt River Tubing. If you're looking to cool off and have fun outdoors this summer, floating the Salt River is a perfect Arizona adventure. With beautiful desert scenery, wild horses, and refreshing waters winding through the Tonto National Forest, it’s an ideal day trip. Learn more here.

Summer camp with impact. A new summer camp in Scottsdale is combining fitness-focused fun with community impact. Camp Motion, held at Scottsdale Camelback Resort, runs through Aug. 1 and offers one-week day camp sessions for children ages 4 to 12. Proceeds from Camp Motion benefit the Bounce Big Foundation, a nonprofit that provides free sports and literacy programs to children in underserved communities.

Learn more here.

Mark your calendar. The Mesa Arts Center has announced a jam-packed 2025–2026 Performing Live season, featuring a diverse lineup of music, theater, comedy, and cultural events that includes icons like John Cleese, Penn & Teller, Stanley Clarke, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Get the details here.

Summer art events. The summer arts scene is sizzling at The Finer Arts Gallery in Cave Creek, with two big events in July, including one on July 5. Find out more here.

Limitless summer activities. From moonlit paddles to patriotic fireworks, Mesa’s summer events lineup promises plenty of fun for residents and visitors alike. Visit Mesa has rolled out its #CityLimitlessSummer campaign, featuring free events, live music, and unique ways to enjoy the season. Learn more here.

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