Scottsdale Arts moves concerts indoors as record heat hits Arizona

Trombone Shorty concert and other events shifted to avoid triple-digit temperatures.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:20am

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Scottsdale Arts is moving outdoor events, including a Trombone Shorty concert, indoors this weekend as unseasonably high March temperatures hit the triple digits in Arizona. Organizers cited safety concerns for both patrons and equipment as the reason for the venue changes.

Why it matters

The extreme heat wave in Scottsdale is forcing arts and entertainment organizers to adapt their plans, highlighting the growing challenge of hosting outdoor events in the face of climate change and record-breaking temperatures.

The details

Scottsdale Arts Director of Events Jamie Prins said the decision was made to move the Trombone Shorty concert and other events indoors "just due to the safety of our patrons attending the event, the safety of our staff, and the sensitive tech and AV equipment we had." The organization also shifted the timing of its Sun and Sound concert series on Sunday to an earlier 10 a.m. start in hopes of avoiding the hottest part of the day.

  • Friday night's Trombone Shorty concert was originally set for an outdoor amphitheater.
  • The celebrity wine and spirits event, previously scheduled for the civic center, was moved indoors to the lobby on Saturday.
  • The Sun and Sound concert series on Sunday was shifted to a 10 a.m. start instead of noon.

The players

Jamie Prins

The Director of Events for Scottsdale Arts.

Trombone Shorty

A musician scheduled to perform at one of the Scottsdale Arts events.

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What they’re saying

“We decided to make the choice to move the event inside just due to the safety of our patrons attending the event, the safety of our staff, and the sensitive tech and AV equipment we had.”

— Jamie Prins, Director of Events, Scottsdale Arts

“A little bit of gelato, air conditioning, and jazz. Trombone Shorty! Who's gonna go wrong!”

— Concertgoer

“The heat. You know that's why I have my gelato so I can feel cool. I was worried about having to sit outside.”

— Concertgoer

What’s next

Further details and event changes are available at https://scottsdalearts.org/whats-on.

The takeaway

The extreme heat wave in Scottsdale is forcing arts and entertainment organizers to adapt their plans, highlighting the growing challenge of hosting outdoor events in the face of climate change and record-breaking temperatures. By moving events indoors, Scottsdale Arts is prioritizing the safety and comfort of both patrons and staff, as well as protecting sensitive equipment, demonstrating the flexibility required to deliver events in an era of unpredictable weather.