With the first official day of summer right around the corner, Arizona visitors and locals might find themselves in need of engaging activities to partake in, and food centered events are always a plus. Despite the heat, Arizona is known for its variety of outdoor food and drink festivals that draw crowds from all over the nation. 

Flagstaff Blues and Brews Festival
If you’re looking to get away from the heat, enjoy great music, and sample good food and drink, then this is the event for you. This family friendly event, held at the Continental Driving Range, features a variety of craft beers, microbrews, and performances by blues musicians such as Danielle Nicole, Karen Lovely, and MonkeyJunk.  This year’s festival will take place on June 18^th. General Admission prices are $30 for adults and $10 for children ages 8-12.

Arizona Bacon Fest
On June 18^th, Bacon fanatics can head to Tucson, Arizona to enjoy as much of the tasty treat as they like. This event brings together local chefs, breweries, and Bacon aficionados in celebration of the popular American staple. Event goers can gain entry for $45, which includes unlimited food tasting and 24 hour drink sampling.

Iron Chef Tucson and the Culinary Experience
Named after the popular Food Network T.V. show, and sponsored by Stella Artois, this competition is featured as part of an all day culinary showcase, known as the Culinary Experience. Presented at the Westin La Paloma Resort, on Sunday, June 26^th, Iron Chef Tucson brings together two local chefs in a cook off for the winning title. Onlookers have an opportunity to watch as the chefs craft three courses that are then presented to a panel of judges. This year’s event will feature challenger, Javier Castro, from Casino del Sol, and last year’s champion, Danny Perez of the JW Marriott. Admission to the Iron Chef competition begins at $40, which includes general admission to the Culinary Experience.

4^th Annual Prickly Pear Festival
Nestled amid the mountains, the town of Superior, Arizona is the site of the state’s annual prickly pear festival. Unique to the Southwest, this full day event offers a variety of activities, including hiking and demonstrations on the different uses of this remarkable fruit. The festival also showcases an assortment of tasty treats made with this desert delicacy, from pancakes and prickly pear syrup to prickly pear cookies and fudge. While admission is free, visitors can pick up dinner and entertainment tickets for $25.