Summer may be sizzling, but the Valley’s weekend lineup is even hotter. Whether you’re craving air-conditioned entertainment, late-night laughs, or ice-cold cocktails in secret spots, there’s no shortage of fun to be found. From staycation steals and art shows to foodie favorites and feel-good fundraisers, we’ve rounded up the coolest ways to soak up the season—without ever leaving town. Let’s dive in!

Scottsdale sizzles. Local residents don’t have to travel far to make the most of summer. From staycation steals to nighttime adventures, there are plenty of ways to beat the heat and enjoy the season — all right here in our own backyard. Get the details here.

See a show. Hale Centre Theatre Arizona brings Roald Dahl’s timeless tale to life this summer with its production of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” running through Aug. 16 at the theater’s downtown Gilbert location. Read all about it here.

Grab dinner with friends. This summer, CHoP Chandler isn’t just offering dinner—it’s offering an experience. With the launch of its three-course prix fixe menu, available now through August 31, CHoP invites guests to taste fire-driven finesse like never before. Click here for more.

Hot art, cool show. Desert Foothills Gallery invites the community to experience a vibrant blend of creativity and culture at the 2025 “Hot Art–Cool Show,” now on view through Oct. 1 at Desert Foothills Library. From bold abstracts to intricate realism, the show highlights the diversity and depth of the local art scene. Learn more here.

Drunk Shakespeare. What started as a limited summer run is now a full-on love affair. “Drunk Shakespeare,” the irreverent and hilarious take on Romeo & Juliet, has extended its Phoenix run through Sept. 27 due to sold-out crowds and high demand. Read all about it here.

Chips for Charity. Salt + Lime Modern Mexican Grill is partnering with Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation (AFFCF) this month through its monthly “Chips for Charity” program, raising funds to help foster youth access enriching childhood experiences. See the details here.

Staying well. Adults looking to energize their summer and prioritize wellness are invited to take part in the 2025 Mind, Body & Community Wellness Series, a “summer camp for adults” running Mondays and Wednesdays through August at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center in Carefree. Get the details here.

Cheers to new summer flavors! Just as the desert sun begins to roast the sidewalks, The Peacock at DC Ranch is serving up salvation—one ice-cold cocktail at a time. The chic speakeasy, discreetly hidden behind a bookshelf in The Living Room at DC Ranch, has rolled out its summer cocktail menu. Learn more here.

Upcoming events:

Arizona Chef’s Week. Arizona Chef’s Week is heating up the Valley Aug. 1–10, serving up bold flavors, chef-driven creativity and a fresh reason to dine out this summer. Get the scoop here.

Support local art. A new rotation of original art at the Hampton by Hilton Carefree is prompting the hotel and the nonprofit Sonoran Arts League to host a special artist reception, “Artistic Interpretations of Life in Arizona” from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 1. Guests will be able to view diverse artwork and meet the artists while enjoying refreshments. Learn more here.

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