Scottsdale's Western roots come alive in a big way each year, and today we're talking about the traditions that keep that spirit thriving. I'm joined by lifelong Scottsdale resident Raoul Zubia to talk all things Western Week and the iconic Parada del Sol Historic Parade.

If you've ever lined Scottsdale Road for the Parada del Sol, wandered Old Town during Western Week, or felt that unmistakable Western pride in the air, today's guest has likely played a role in bringing that experience to life.

Raoul Zubia is a lifelong Scottsdale resident, Coronado High School graduate, retired banker, and deeply committed community advocate. Over the years, he's served in numerous leadership roles — from Chair of the Scottsdale Human Services Commission to President of Partners for Paiute — and he currently serves on several local foundations and committees, including the Parada del Sol Committee, where he's also one of the parade announcers.

Raoul's dedication to Scottsdale has earned him some meaningful recognition, including Scottsdale Leadership's Hodges Award and induction into the Scottsdale History Hall of Fame. Today, we're talking about what makes Scottsdale Western Week and the Parada del Sol Historic Parade such treasured traditions — and why they continue to matter to our city.

Gather up your western attire, lawn chairs and family members, the 72nd Annual Parada del Sol Parade & Trail's End Festival is coming to Old Town Scottsdale on Saturday, January 31, 2026. The parade starts at 9:30. The Trails End Festival starts at 12:00 pm

Calendar Of Events

A Taste of AZ Food and Drink Festival

Saturday January 31st

Salt River Fields at Talking Stick

This festival delivers mouth-watering flavours, handcrafted drinks and live entertainment under the desert sky. It's a must attend!

Head to their website for more information and tickets.

https://atasteofaz.com/a-taste-of-az-food-and-drink-festival-in-scottsdale-arizona/

Cheyenne Jackson- Mid Life Torso

Sunday February 1st 7:00 pm

Virginia C Piper Theater

Mid Life Torso is a musical meditation on art, love, fatherhood, and the cosmic twists that have shaped his remarkable path.

Ticket prices vary. Head to scottsdale arts for more information.

https://scottsdalearts.org/whats-on/events/cheyenne-jackson-mid-life-torso-tour/

Waste Management Open

Feb 2-8th at the TPC Scottsdale

Home to the largest and most enthusiastic crowds in the game as well as the most iconic hole on the PGA TOUR – the famed 16th hole Coliseum

Visit their website for tickets.

https://wmphoenixopen.com/general-admission-tickets/

This week on Scottsdale Vibes, I'm turning the mic on a fellow podcaster who's spent nearly a decade telling Arizona's stories. I'm joined by Jose Acevedo, founder of the award-winning Finding Arizona Podcast, to talk about curiosity, community, and why Scottsdale continues to inspire creators and entrepreneurs.

And fun fact: I was just a guest on his podcast, so today we're continuing the conversation and flipping the roles.

If you love discovering the people, businesses, and stories that make Arizona special, chances are you've already heard of Finding Arizona. It's an award-winning weekly podcast that highlights local business owners, creatives, and community leaders from all across the state : all through organic, conversational interviews that feel more like talking with a friend than sitting through a formal Q&A.

Jose has now interviewed more than 400 Arizona business owners and entrepreneurs, gaining a unique perspective on what makes this state and communities like Scottsdale — so special.

Finding Arizona:

https://www.findingarizonapodcast.com/

Calendar of Events

Barrett Jackson Car Collector Auction

January 17-25, 2026 at Westworld of Scottsdale

Check out thousands of the world's most sought-after, unique and valuable automobiles on display and on the auction block in front of a global audience.

There's so much to do and see. All of the info is on their website as well.

https://www.barrett-jackson.com/2026-scottsdale

Scottsdale Western Week

A week-long celebration of the American West in Old Town Scottsdale.

January 24–February 1, 2026.

Events include, The Trails End Festival, Art Exhibits and The Parada del Sol Historic Parade is a major highlight . Come and share your spirit for the old West.

https://oldtownscottsdaleaz.com/events/western-week/

Waste Management Open

Feb 2-8th at the TPC Scottsdale

Home to the largest and most enthusiastic crowds in the game as well as the most iconic hole on the PGA TOUR – the famed 16th hole Coliseum

Visit their website for tickets.

https://wmphoenixopen.com/general-admission-tickets/

Today on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, we're talking cars, community, and breaking barriers with Rebecca Nguyen—founder of The Warehouse and a lifelong WRX enthusiast whose passion turned into a career.

From a yellow Subaru in her teens to leading one of Arizona's most unique automotive social hubs, her story is one of grit, vision, and redefining what a car collector looks like.

I'm excited to welcome Rebecca Nguyen to the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast. Rebecca's journey into the automotive world started with a sonic-yellow Subaru WRX she inherited at sixteen—sparking a passion that led her into car shows, photography, industry events, and ultimately to launching The Warehouse, a collector-car storage and social club.

As a woman thriving in a traditionally male-dominated space, she's built a community that celebrates enthusiasm, heritage, and connection. With Arizona's car week and Barrett-Jackson right around the corner, there's no better time to hear her unique perspective on the culture driving our state.

Calendar of Events

Barrett Jackson Car Collector Auction

January 17-25, 2026 at Westworld of Scottsdale

Check out thousands of the world's most sought-after, unique and valuable automobiles on display and on the auction block in front of a global audience.

There's so much to do and see- Including the kick off concert with Cole Swindell

All of the info is on their website as well.

https://www.barrett-jackson.com/2026-scottsdale

Arizona Concours d'Elegance.

Brought to you in partnership with Scottsdale Arts,

Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026 (gates open morning) at Scottsdale Civic Center.

This isn't just a car show — it's a celebration of design, heritage and style set against the desert's shimmering backdrop.

See the Website For Admission Details

https://arizonaconcours.org/

Scottsdale Western Week

A week-long celebration of the American West in Old Town Scottsdale.

January 24–February 1, 2026.

Events include, The Trails End Festival, Art Exhibits and The Parada del Sol Historic Parade is a major highlight . Come and share your spirit for the old West.

https://oldtownscottsdaleaz.com/events/western-week/