Council funding secures Scottsdale’s role in premier cultural and sporting events
At its Aug. 25 meeting, the Scottsdale City Council approved funding to support three major events that highlight the city’s role as a premier destination for culture, sports and tourism.
Council approved $21,000 for the Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience, $75,000 for the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, and $225,000 for the 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four. The funding comes from Scottsdale’s hotel bed tax, which is dedicated to tourism-related events and activities that generate visibility, visitors and economic impact for the community.
The Arizona Indigenous Culinary Experience will return this November at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. The event celebrates Native Arizona heritage through food, art and live performances. The event, a 2025 Arizona Travel award winner, will also support the 2026 Arizona Indian Festival during Western Week.
The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, now in its 14th year, will expand to two days at WestWorld of Scottsdale Nov. 8–9. Known as the most attended polo event in the United States, the championships pair competition with live entertainment, fashion and luxury car displays.
“The Polo Championships are a signature example of how WestWorld delivers unique experiences that bring thousands of visitors to Scottsdale,” said Judy Doyle, senior director of enterprise operations. “This event not only showcases world-class competition, but it also highlights WestWorld’s role as a premier venue that fuels tourism and economic impact.”
Scottsdale will also play a supporting role in the 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four, which will be held in downtown Phoenix but is expected to drive thousands of room nights, volunteers and ancillary events into the city. The city’s $225,000 investment helps secure Scottsdale’s participation and visibility in national marketing campaigns, tourism promotions and community programming connected to the tournament.
City Manager Greg Caton said these investments represent more than just short-term benefits.
“Events like these bring national attention to Scottsdale, create unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors, and deliver millions in economic impact,” Caton said. “Our careful investment in tourism ensures long-term returns that strengthen Scottsdale’s reputation as a world-class community.”
Together, the three events are expected to bring tens of thousands of visitors, fill hotel rooms, and generate global exposure for Scottsdale through marketing, broadcast coverage and national media partnerships.