Culture & Lifestyle

This is the fun side of the desert—where tacos meet tuxedos and sunsets double as backdrops. From mural walks to music fests, fashion with flair to first dates on hiking trails, LIFE covers everything that makes Arizona living unforgettable. Art, adventure, family, and furry friends—it’s all here, served with a splash of Sonoran sass that makes the desert anything but dry.

Girl Scout Cookie Season returns to Arizona, bringing limited-time boxes, serious cravings, and zero apologies. Photo courtesy of GSACPC.
Cookie Season Hits Arizona, and Yes, There’s a New One
Fans at TPC Scottsdale during the WM Phoenix Open, where early-week access, iconic moments, and a party-with-a-purpose atmosphere define The People’s Open. Photo provided.
Free Golf, Full Vibes: Ford Free Days Return to the WM Open
,
A Caravan of Exotic Automobiles during the 2025 Scottsdale Grand Tour. Photo courtesy of The Exotics Network.
Arizona Car Week Revs Back Into the Valley Jan. 16–25
,
At The Living Room, wine is less about showing off and more about settling in. Photo provided.
How the Valley is Drinking Wine in 2026
,
Crafted with celebration, balance, and a sense of place in mind, Elvira’s tequila philosophy mirrors how people want to drink now: casually, curiously, and together. Photo courtesy of Elvira's at DC Ranch.
Sip Bright, Sip Real: Tequila’s 2026 Era Is Here
,

More Articles

One local restaurant, one sanctuary, and a lot of shared effort proving that sustainability, animal care, and joy don’t have to be separate things. Photo provided.
Love, Leftovers, and 200 Very Happy Pigs
The work of Mother’s Grace is made possible by volunteers who lead with care, commitment, and compassion. Photo courtesy of Mother's Grace.
Grace in Motion: Scottsdale Steps Up for Mothers in Crisis
Structure, patience, and consistency help holiday pets settle in for the long run. Photo courtesy of Foothills Animal Rescue.
The January Reset That Helps New Pets Thrive
Phoenix-born Silk for Everyone was founded by a single mom committed to accessible, healthy-hair essentials. Photo courtesy of Silk for Everyone.
A Market Mainstay: Silk for Everyone’s Phoenix Story
Before the holidays, Child Crisis Arizona hosted its first-ever Breakfast with Santa at its Mesa campus, filling the morning with laughter, crafts, and holiday cheer. Photo provided.
Santa, Snacks, and 600 Smiles at Child Crisis Arizona
,
Scottsdale resident Stephanie Blackbird and her family received a surprise permanent holiday lighting installation. Photo provided.
A Holiday Gift Meant to Outlast December
,
Open, but not exposed. Strategic furniture groupings and architectural details create definition while keeping the light and flow intact. Photo by LifeCreated.
2026 Design Trends Arizona Homes Are Leaving Behind
Scottsdale-based surgeon and TEDx speaker Dr. Emilio Justo challenges instant-gratification culture with his new book, "The Power of Pause." Photo provided.
Why Arizona Could Use a Little Warren Buffett Energy Right Now
,
The "Runway Rebel" Cipriana Rizea. Photo by Carlos Arturo Velarde.
From Phoenix to Fashion Week: Meet Cipriana, the Runway Rebel
From dinners to getaways, these are gifts that turn into plans. Photo courtesy of Unsplash.
Gifts That Land After the Wrapping Paper
Arizona wine, grown slowly and poured thoughtfully. Photo courtesy of D.A.Ranch.
D.A.Ranch Raises a Glass to Its New Arizona Wine Club
,
A quiet moment of remembrance as a wreathe is laid to honor a local veteran. Photo courtesy of Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery.
Five Years of Wreaths, Honor, and Heart at Mountain View
The Collector’s Charm Set brings together the serene union of Aquamarine and Morganite, two gemstones that hold the energy of love, peaceful communication, and protection. Photo courtesy of Enchanting Earth.
Intentional Gifting with Southwest Style
Room for four, flights through the week, and a landing in the vines—easily one of Arizona’s most unforgettable gifts of the season. Photo courtesy of Western Sky Helicopters and D.A.Ranch.
Reindeer Optional: This Holiday Flight Goes to D.A.Ranch
,
Downtown Phoenix embraces the season cheerfully, creatively and with a confidence that keeps the city humming well after sunset. Photo courtesy of Downtown Phoenix Inc.
Phoenix Turns the Holiday Dial to Bright
,
Up close with Arizona’s wildest (and surprisingly photogenic) residents. Photo courtesy of Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary.
The Sanctuary Where Arizona’s Wild Side Shines
“Nikki Claus and Merry Moose,” premiering December 13–14 at The Madison Center for the Arts, is the first original ballet by DanceMotion director — and former Rockette — Shayna Petruccelli. Photo courtesy of DanceMotion.
A North Pole Tale with Phoenix Style
,
Marchelle Franklin, Judy Bernas and Patrick Barkley (L to R) sporting the Fiesta Bowl’s famously loud yellow jackets — the unofficial uniform that turns every photo op into a spotlight moment. Photo courtesy of the Fiesta Bowl Foundation.
Suit Up: Six Questions with a Yellow Jacket
,
The event will include live performances from the Dickens Carollers. Photo provided.
Lights of Love Returns, Brightening a Night Built for Remembrance
A legacy renewed: Michelle Parkhurst and Linda Rita mark the return of Evans Furs & Leathers to local, women-led ownership. Photo provided.
New Owners, Same Attitude: Evans Furs Reclaims Its Roots
,
Load More

Sign Up for AZi’s Weekly Hot Takes

Get the inside scoop delivered weekly with smart takes, local stories, and the Arizona buzz you actually want.