9 Main Events to See in Phoenix & Scottsdale in June-July
Founding Fathers of Hip-Hop
Hamilton
June 25-July 28
For nearly a decade, theatergoers everywhere have been talking about Lin-Manuel Miranda’s award-winning hybrid of hip-hop, Broadway musicals and a history lesson about the titular Founding Fathers’ role in building America. If you still haven’t seen the show, don’t throw away your shot when it returns to Tempe for a long engagement. Call for times and ticket prices. Gammage Auditorium, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe, (480) 965-3434, asugammage.com
America Is 248 Years Young
Scottsdale 4th of July
July 4
Do you love fireworks but hate the heat? Good news: You can watch one of the state’s largest pyrotechnic displays from the comfort of your air-conditioned vehicle. You can also enjoy other great family-friendly activities inside WestWorld, including a bull-riding rodeo, mutton busting for children, a dog show, old-fashioned cakewalks and fabulous food. The festivities begin at 5 p.m., and the fireworks start at 9 p.m. Check the website for ticket prices. WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, scottsdale4th.com
ROCK ON
The 4th Phoenix Heritage Mineral Show
June 1-2
Experience the beauty of Earth’s treasures at this annual showcase. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply curious about the fascinating world of geology, this expo invites guests to shop for unique pieces and explore minerals, gems, fossils and jewelry from around the world. Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Phoenix Shrine Auditorium, 552 N. 40th St., Phoenix, msaaz.org
Say ‘I Do’
Arizona Wedding Show
June 9
There’s no need to trek all over town in the summer heat to plan the perfect wedding when the biggest bridal show in the United States is in Phoenix. More than 200 vendors will be in attendance, along with master planner Kim Horn, to help you choose everything from your DJ to where to spend your honeymoon. 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., $12-$15, Phoenix Convention Center (north building, lower level), 100 N. 3rd St., Phoenix, (480)236-7987, arizonaweddingshow.com
Three Decades of “Ecstasy”
Sarah McLachlan
June 4
The Canadian singer-songwriter’s presence on ASPCA commercials wouldn’t have been possible were it not for the success of her breakthrough album, “Fumbling Toward Ecstasy,” which features the hit “Possession” and fan-favorite “Ice Cream.” She will be playing the classic from start to finish. Opening for McLachlan is indie rocker Feist. 7:30 p.m. Check the website for ticket prices. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, (602) 514-2919, livenation.com
Sunny Days on the Street
Sesame Street Live!
June 22
Earlier this year, the red Muppet monster, Elmo , asked everyone how they were doing. If you still need to share your answer with the furry friend from your favorite children’s program, you’ll have your chance when he comes to the Valley for one night only. His friends, Abby Cadabby and Cookie Monster, will join him in a show designed for both kids and adults. 2 p.m. Check the website for ticket prices. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix, (602)
514-2919, livenation.com
514-2919, livenation.com
Three Rings of Fun
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey: The Greatest Show On Earth
July 5-7
The classic three-ring circus gets an extreme update in this stunt spectacular. The Greatest Show on Earth has been reimagined with more death-defying feats of skill and hilarious performances than ever before. Highlights include The Lopez Family balancing on a triangular highwire 25 feet in the air, a human cannonball taking flight across the arena and nine trapeze artists dancing across the sky. Check the website for times and ticket prices. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, (602) 379-7800, footprintcenter.com
Get Your Game On
WNBA All-Star Game
July 20
If the high ratings of the NCAA Women’s Final Four Tournament were not an indication, women’s hoops are having a moment. Many of the spectacular players from this year’s college tournament are heading to the WNBA this season. Will they appear when the USA Basketball Women’s National Team takes on the league’s all-stars? There’s only one way to find out. 5:30 p.m. Call for ticket prices. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, (602) 379-7800, wnba.com
Girls’ Night
Barbie: the Movie In Concert
July 30
Still haven’t had “Kenough” of Barbie? Enjoy the hit movie in a whole new way. The film will be projected on a giant screen, and the Barbie Land Sinfonietta, an all-women and majority women-of-color orchestra will perform the film’s score. The venue will also become a Barbie World with one-of-a-kind merchandise and cool photo ops available. 8 p.m. Check the website for ticket prices. Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre, 2121 N. 83rd Ave., Phoenix, (602) 254-7200, livenation.com