Looking for fun, family-friendly ways to beat the heat this July in the East Valley? From fireworks and farmers markets to tubing trips and summer markets, there are plenty of options to explore. Whether you’re planning a staycation or just looking to fill a few weekends, we’ve rounded up the best local events to help you make the most of the month.
🎆 July Events in the East Valley
Gilbert 4th of July Celebration
📅 Friday, July 4 • 🕔 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM (fireworks at ~8:50 PM)
📍 Gilbert Regional Park – 3005 E Queen Creek Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85298
Kick off the month with one of the Valley’s biggest celebrations! Enjoy live music, drone shows, food trucks, and a stunning fireworks finale. General admission is free, but VIP upgrades and parking passes are available. Free general admission with live performances, drone surprises, food trucks, and fireworks. VIP upgrades available; parking is $15 per car.
👉 Event Info
Hometown 4th at Schnepf Farms (Queen Creek)
📅 Thursday, July 4 • 🕓 Gates open at 4:00 PM; festival runs until ~10:00 PM
📍 Schnepf Farms – 24810 S Rittenhouse Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Celebrate Independence Day with old-school charm: live music, food trucks, water slides, and local vendors, all capped off by a vibrant fireworks show.
👉 Event Details
Fourth at the Fountain (Fountain Hills)
📅 Thursday, July 4 • 🕡 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM (fireworks around 9:00 PM)
📍 Fountain Park – 12925 N Saguaro Blvd, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Set against the iconic fountain, this celebration offers live entertainment, food vendors, and a patriotic fireworks display the whole town comes out for.
👉 Event Details
Markets, Workshops & More
Indoor Summer Market @ Arizona Athletic Grounds
📅 Friday, July 5 • 🕙 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Arizona Athletic Grounds – 6321 S Ellsworth Rd, Mesa/Queen Creek, AZ 85212
If you’re looking to shop local and stay cool, this indoor market is your answer. Featuring over 100 vendors, food trucks, kids’ activities, and mini-workshops—plus $5 parking and free entry.
👉 More Info
Gilbert Farmers Market
📅 Every Saturday in July • 🕖 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM (summer hours)
📍 Downtown Gilbert – Located at Gilbert Road & Page Ave
One of the most popular weekend destinations in the East Valley, this market offers fresh produce, local honey, baked goods, and handcrafted treasures.
👉 Visit gilbertmarket.com
Downtown Chandler Farmers Market
📅 Saturdays in July • 🕖 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
📍 Dr. A.J. Chandler Park West – 3 S Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ 85225
This growing market blends small-town charm with big-time variety. From seasonal fruits and veggies to artisan goods and fresh-cut flowers, it’s a great way to start your Saturday.
👉 Event Details
Cool Off with Outdoor Adventures
Salt River Tubing (Mesa Area)
📍 Near Tonto National Forest – Official Site
Available daily throughout July
If you’re craving a little adventure, grab a tube and float the Lower Salt River for a relaxing, scenic escape. The shuttle service runs from the Salt River Tubing headquarters at Power & US-60. Life jackets recommended, Just remember your sunscreen, water shoes, and a cooler with drinks (no glass allowed).
Lake Pleasant Regional Park
📍 41835 N Castle Hot Springs Rd, Morristown, AZ 85342 – Maricopa County Parks Info
Roughly 45 minutes northwest of the East Valley
Roughly 45 minutes from the East Valley, a favorite for boating, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and cooling off lakeside. There are swim zones, shaded ramadas, campgrounds, and rental options available at Pleasant Harbor and Scorpion Bay Marina.
White Tank Mountain Regional Park
📍 20304 W White Tank Mountain Rd, Waddell, AZ 85355 – Maricopa County Parks Info
If you prefer to stay on dry land, beat the heat with an early morning hike or an evening stargazing program. The short Waterfall Trail is especially great for kids and beginners.
Make the Most of Your July
Whether you’re catching fireworks, floating downriver, or browsing fresh produce at a local market, there’s no shortage of summer fun in the East Valley. Make your plans early, stay hydrated, and don’t forget to tag @FarnsworthAZ in your photos—we love seeing how our neighbors spend their summer days.
Know of an event we missed? Tag us at @FarnsworthAZ on social or send us a message. We love hearing from you!
Stay safe, stay hydrated, and enjoy everything the East Valley has to offer this July.
