Community Happenings
There’s always something going on in Prescott! In Prescott Woman Magazine’s Community Happenings section, stay connected to the events, festivals, fundraisers, and local moments that bring our town together. Whether you’re looking for a night out or a way to give back, this is your guide to all things local and lively.
Future Aviators Put Their Heads in the Clouds at Embry-Riddle’s Girls in Aviation Day
Local K–12 students and their families flocked to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Flight Training Complex on Saturday, Sept. 20, for the university’s seventh Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) celebration. The annual event, part of the global Women in Aviation International network, is dedicated to empowering young women to explore the boundless possibilities of an aviation career.
Jingle, Mingle, and Raise Awareness
Skip the decorating and impress your holiday guests by purchasing a one-of-a-kind tree or wreath that can be delivered to your door. Tuesday, November 18 through Saturday, November 20, Festival of Trees Prescott celebrates its eighth year of kicking off the holiday season in Arizona’s Christmas City.
Each year, the Festival of Trees Prescott chooses a different local non-profit to receive the net proceeds from this event. This year’s recipient: Coalition for Compassion and Justice (CCJ).
Prescott Shines Bright
Prescott was officially designated as Arizona’s Christmas City in 1989 because the city had long been known for its festive holiday events. Today, Prescott offers a multitude of holiday attractions and is increasingly a destination for visitors looking for special ways to celebrate.
In 2022, the City of Prescott and Prescott Chamber of Commerce Foundation formed the official Arizona Christmas City Organization. This organization brought the city’s main holiday events together under one umbrella, enabling event organizers to collaborate on marketing, fundraising, and sponsorship assistance.
The following events now work together within the Arizona Christmas City Organization: the Prescott Holiday Light Parade, hosted by the Prescott Downtown Partnership; the Christmas Parade & Courthouse Lighting, hosted by the Prescott Chamber of Commerce; the Acker Night Music Festival, hosted by the Acker Foundation; and the Whiskey Row Boot Drop, hosted by the Whiskey Row Boot Drop, LLC.
This collaboration will continue to grow and help support each event financially for years to come.
Outdoor Exploration
In addition to its physical health benefits, being active outdoors nurtures mental and emotional well-being. Whether it’s the accomplishment of reaching a summit or the serenity of kayaking across a lake, these experiences help young people build confidence, resilience, and self-esteem. Nature offers a powerful space for reflection, creativity, and connection.
The benefits of staying active, exploring the outdoors, and connecting with nature are well-known. These experiences are not just fun—they’re essential for healthy development. Yet, for many children, outdoor adventures remain out of reach. In our community, too many kids miss out on experiencing the outdoors.
Celebrating Life’s Moments
Tucked away in the heart of Prescott, Arizona, Willow Creek Inn offers more than just a place to host an event—it provides an unforgettable experience rooted in charm, history, and a genuine sense of welcome. Whether you’re planning a wedding, anniversary party, baby shower, or corporate celebration, Willow Creek Inn delivers a personalized and peaceful environment unlike any other.
Owned and operated by Nancy and Eric Bewley—33-year Prescott residents and dedicated community supporters who have helped raise funds for numerous local organizations—the inn reflects the warmth and creativity of its hosts. After outgrowing their previous location, the couple stumbled upon the historic 1877 Victorian manor.
“The inn was up for sale again,” Nancy shared. “I peeked in the windows and walked the property and knew that this gem would be a beautiful event spot.”
Community on Wheels
If you spot a line of sleek, shiny Corvettes in this year’s Prescott Rodeo Parade, don’t be surprised—they’re driven by the women of the Prescott Vette Sette, and they’re riding in style to celebrate this year’s theme: “Women of the Rodeo.”
The Harmony of a Life Well Sung
Prescott has long been a magnet for musicians, artists and creative souls, drawing in talent from across the country with its vibrant arts scene and supportive community. Among its many musical treasures is Merri McKee, a seasoned performer, dedicated teacher, and passionate advocate for women in music. Her journey through life and song has touched countless lives, both on stage and in the classroom.
It Takes a Village – With a Wind Section
Arizona Philharmonic (AZ Phil) has seen some changes recently, expanding its family and updating its identity.
Where Learning Meets Adventure
Summer day camps play a vital role in inspiring young minds by providing enriching opportunities beyond the classroom. Whether through STEM projects, sports, field trips, or arts & crafts, the Boys & Girls Clubs cultivate curiosity, creativity, and active learning when school is out.
“Art in the Pines”
The Yavapai College Prescott Art Gallery and the Yavapai College Foundation are pleased to present “Art in the Pines: The 6th Annual Prescott Plein Air Festival,” August 27 to 31, with a monthlong post-festival exhibition beginning September 1.
The festival will feature 16 Arizona artists and two California artists painting in outdoor settings throughout Yavapai County, including the area’s beautiful pine forests and highland lakes, as well as amidst the historical and architectural beauty of downtown Prescott.
At specific accessible demonstration sites, the public will have an opportunity to observe and engage with the artists at no cost. This year the artists will paint at Sharlot Hall Museum from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday, August 29, and at Watson Lake Park from 6 a.m. to noon on Saturday, August 30.
Where Tradition and Talent Meet Under the Stars
Immerse yourself in the richness of cowboy culture as the 37th Annual Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering takes center stage at the Jim and Linda Lee Yavapai College Performing Arts Center August 7–9, 2025. One of Prescott’s most anticipated annual events, the Gathering promises an unforgettable celebration of the American cowboy way of life through music, poetry, and storytelling.
Bringing together more than 40 authentic cowboy singers, poets, and storytellers, the event offers two full days of free on-campus breakout sessions and three nights filled with inspiring performances designed to honor the heritage, values, and vibrant traditions of the Western lifestyle.
Sip and Celebrate: Grapes 4 Good Returns to Watters Garden Center
The Prescott Frontier Rotary Club is excited to announce the return of its annual fall fundraiser, Grapes 4 Good, to Watters Garden Center on Sunday, September 28, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. This highly anticipated event, now in its 19th year, promises an evening of fun, community, and philanthropy.