Arizona’s Quirkiest Annual Traditions You Need to Experience

Yes, That’s a Real Event — Only in Arizona

From the Grand Canyon to towering saguaros, Arizona is known for its natural beauty. But there’s another side to the state — one that’s delightfully weird, wild, and wonderfully local.

Across the state, communities celebrate in ways you’ll never see anywhere else. These quirky Arizona traditions are equal parts hilarious and heartwarming — and they’re a true reflection of the state’s creative spirit.

Ready to get weird (in the best way)? Let’s explore Arizona’s quirkiest annual traditions.

1. The Chandler Ostrich Festival

Yes, ostriches. Running. In public.

Originally launched to celebrate Chandler’s early 1900s ostrich farms, this festival has evolved into a massive event — complete with ostrich races, carnival rides, live music, and parades.

When: March

Where: Chandler, AZ

Don’t miss: The hilarious sight of jockeys racing ostriches and camels on a dirt track.

2. The Tubac Festival of the Arts — With Bathtub Races

This charming artsy town goes full quirky with its annual art festival that includes — wait for it — bathtub races.

Teams decorate old tubs, place them on wheels, and race them through the streets. It’s part art, part sport, and 100% Arizona weirdness.

When: February

Where: Tubac, AZ

Why go: To see bubbles, costumes, and tubs speeding down the road.

3. The Bisbee 1000 — The Great Stair Climb

Only Arizona could turn climbing historic stairs into a sporting event.

The Bisbee 1000 is a 4.5-mile course with over 1,000 stairs and tons of quirky entertainment along the way — think costumed musicians and cheering locals.

When: October

Where: Bisbee, AZ

Fun fact: There’s a companion event called the Ironman Ice Competition, where you carry vintage irons for extra bragging rights.

4. The World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo

While not “quirky” in the strange sense, Prescott’s Frontier Days Rodeo has its own slice of wild Arizona tradition.

It includes events like mutton bustin’ (children riding sheep), a cowboy church service, and more old-school rodeo charm than you can handle.

When: July 4th weekend

Where: Prescott, AZ

Why it’s unique: It’s been running since 1888 — making it a true Arizona original.

5. The Saguaro Man Festival (Arizona’s Mini Burning Man)

Hosted in the Arizona desert, this off-grid festival celebrates creativity, radical expression, and art — complete with fire sculptures, music, and themed camps.

Think of it as Arizona’s smaller, more local version of Burning Man, with plenty of desert flair.

When: Spring

Where: Near Snowflake, AZ

What to expect: Body paint, fire art, costumes, and community vibes.

6. The Willcox Wine Country Festivals — with Grape Stomping

These events are a nod to Arizona’s growing wine culture, but they include some unexpected fun like grape stomping contests, local folklore, and cowboy poetry.

When: Spring and Fall

Where: Willcox, AZ

Why it’s quirky: It’s a classy wine fest…with bare feet in barrels and cowboy hats.

7. The Florence Historic Home Tour — with Ghosts and Gags

Florence, AZ combines its love for history with just the right amount of weird during its annual home tour. Alongside vintage buildings, you’ll hear spooky tales and oddball stories — some homes even have live “actors” inside playing old-timey residents.

When: Winter

Where: Florence, AZ

Unexpected twist: Some tours include snacks served from 1800s-style kitchens.