Things are heating up in the Southwest, and it’s not just the temperatures. As summer approaches, pool season returns, and festivals and fairs arrive in full force. From glowing scorpions in the Mojave Desert to fry bread-fueled cultural celebrations and giant floating obstacle courses, here’s what’s happening around the Southwest this June.
Birding Hike | May 23 | Canyon, TX
Trade city noise for canyon echoes at Palo Duro Canyon, often nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” This guided birding hike welcomes all experience levels for a morning spent spotting native birdlife along the rugged canyon trails. Binoculars, hiking shoes and plenty of water are highly encouraged.
Learn more at facebook.com/events/1342084204646857/.
Discover Ruidoso
Wibit Water Park & Municipal Pool Opening | May 23–25 | Ruidoso, NM
Ruidoso is kicking off Memorial Day weekend with a splash, literally. The mountain town’s floating Wibit Water Park returns with inflatable obstacle courses, climbing features and water slides and more. The attraction typically stays open through early fall, giving visitors a refreshing way to cool off all summer long.
Learn more at discoverruidoso.com.
Gallup Summer Indian Dances & Art Market | June 2-Aug. 6 | Gallup, NM
Downtown Gallup comes alive in the summer time with traditional Native dances, drumming, artisan vendors and fry bread during this beloved summer tradition. Happening Tuesdays-Thursdays, you can watch performances from area tribes, learn about cultural traditions directly from dancers and musicians and browse handmade artwork throughout Courthouse Square.
Learn more at visitgallup.com/events.
602 Day | June 2 | Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is celebrating its iconic area code with a citywide party. Local businesses and organizations across downtown roll out special deals, pop-up events and community celebrations honoring the Valley’s hometown pride and its “602” identity.
Learn more at dtphx.org.
Public Domain
Scorpion Search Night Hike | June 6 | Red Rock Canyon, NV
In the desert, searching for scorpions is a regular nighttime ritual for many. These creepy crawlers glow under blacklights, making nighttime a fun (and a bit eerie) hunt. Head to Red Rock Canyon alongside Bureau of Land Management guides in a desert trek that explores the important role scorpions play in the Mojave ecosystem. Prior hiking experience is recommended for the rocky nighttime terrain.
Learn more at redrockcanyonlv.org/events.
California Trail Days | June 6–7 | Elko, NV
Nevada’s official Freedom 250 celebration goes full frontier during California Trail Days. Expect wagon rides, gold panning, archery, axe throwing, live music and immersive pioneer-era experiences, along with Shoshone cultural demonstrations and plenty of food vendors.
Learn more at californiatrailcenter.org.
Albuquerque Super Show | June 7 | Albuquerque, NM
One of New Mexico’s biggest automotive events returns with custom vehicles, motorcycles, vendors and entertainment packed into one high-energy weekend for car enthusiasts and curious spectators alike.
Learn more at newmexicosupershow.com.
San Diego Tourism Authority
San Diego County Fair | June 10–July 5 | Del Mar, CA
The San Diego County Fair returns with carnival rides, indulgent fair food, concerts, exhibits and plenty of funnel cake (and other fair food) to go around. As one of Southern California’s largest annual events, this fair goes big with the rides, concerts, food and more.
Learn more at sdfair.com.
Friday Night Food Truck Rally | June 12 | Phoenix, AZ
For the foodies, Phoenix has got you covered this summer. This free event includes local food trucks, live music and good vibes. Held at the Phoenix Park N’ Swap Meeting—one of the largest swap meets in the state—this is an event to bring your appetite, as many kinds of food trucks will be rolling in for the night.
Learn more at eventbrite.com.
Billy the Kid Festival | June 14 | San Elizario, TX
The Wild West rides again during this annual festival celebrating outlaw legend Billy the Kid. At this festival, you’ll enjoy live music, reenactments, local vendors and plenty of Old West flair in one of Texas’ most historic communities.
Learn more, including where to lodge, at billythekidfestival.com.