Good morning, Scottsdale.

French Thompson, a longtime Scottsdale resident, works as a gallerist and goldsmith and volunteers with local art organizations.

He advises new residents to visit Old Town and support local art museums to build community bonds.

Scottsdale’s 2026 calendar features government meetings and community events such as council summits and the Barrett-Jackson car auction on Jan.

17-25, the WM Phoenix Open on Feb. 2-8, and Western Week events on Jan. 29-31, with more cultural and sports activities scheduled throughout the year.

Experts say regular home maintenance protects a home's long term value and promotes healthy living when Scottsdale residents plan seasonal checkups to fix leaks and address pest issues.

Homeowners can spread repair costs over the year by tackling tasks that may worsen in changing weather.

Local hikers can enjoy the Andrews+Kinsey Trail this winter, a scenic nearly two-mile route linking Fountain Hills preserves with Scottsdale’s protected McDowell area; dedicated in 2014, it honors the volunteers who built it and offers gentle climbs with desert views.

Hikers can explore the Andrews–Kinsey Trail, a two-mile out and back route that connects Fountain Hills preserve trails to Scottsdale preserves during moderate winter weather.

The trail honors local volunteers, including Chet Andrews and Roy Kinsey — a tribute to the Valley’s ongoing legacy in trail building.

Keyboard Conversations: Chopin — The Romantic

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Virginia G. Piper Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the romantic brilliance of Chopin through lively polonaises, enchanting nocturnes, and more.

The Sound of Simon & Garfunkel

3-6 p.m. — Virginia G. Piper Theater — Cost details not provided — Experience a nostalgia-filled afternoon of Simon & Garfunkel classics followed by dinner in Old Town.

Arizona Balloon Classic

4-9 p.m. — Wild Horse Pass Stadium — Prices vary — Experience breathtaking balloon ascensions and dazzling evening glows amidst food, music, and family fun.

Songs from Film - A Revue

2:00-3:30 p.m. — ASU Kerr — Check local listings for ticket prices — Enjoy an intimate revue of songs and musings from iconic musicals and unforgettable cinema classics.

Aloft Live! featuring Chris Yak Acoustic

5-8 p.m. — Aloft Scottsdale — Free entry — Enjoy a laid-back live acoustic performance by Chris Yak while sipping cocktails and light fare.

Jourdan Rolland Music Event

2-6 p.m. — Continental Golf Club — Free entry — Enjoy a lively mix of genres from this engaging Arizona musician.

Scottsdale Book Festival

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM — Scottsdale Civic Center — Free entry — Experience a vibrant celebration of books and storytelling with over 200 authors and live entertainment.

PVSchools Community 5K Fun Run/Walk

9:15-10:00 a.m. — Horizon HS Football Field — Registration fee — Participate in a fun-filled 5K to support the local community and promote fitness.

The Barricade Boys: Broadway at the Movies

2-9:30 p.m. — Highlands Church — Check website for pricing — Experience a sensational musical journey through iconic films and movie musicals with The Barricade Boys.