Attractions
The Town of Pinetop-Lakeside is situated in the northeastern forests of Arizona. Centrally located in the White Mountains, Pinetop-Lakeside is the perfect location to call “home-base” for visitors exploring the region. From fishing to hiking or hunting antiques, this part of Arizona is diverse and full of adventure. For most visitors, day visits to nearby historic Western towns are a must. From one of the nation’s most extensive community trail systems to the much admired Woodland Lake Park, the Town of Pinetop-Lakeside has something to do all year long.
Arts And Entertainment
Bluegrass Festival
Considered one of the unique music forms of North America, the White Mountain Bluegrass Musical Festival has become a signature event of the region. Groups from across the country travel to the Hon-Dah Festival Grounds located at the White Mountain Apache tribe’s resort and casino. The weekend festival features a continuous round of live music in an outdoor setting under tall ponderosa pines. There is also a food court and craft booths which add to the lively mix of entertainment. This festival is celebrating 19 years of family fun entertainment in the White Mountains.
Fall Festival
Pinetop-Lakeside has a rich tradition of artistry. From landscape painters drawing inspiration from the verdant forests to sculptors capturing the American West, art abounds. Quilt making, beadwork, tole painting and metal work are just some of the handcraft celebrated during the Fall Festival. The Pinetop-Chamber of Commerce hosts this event which is now in its 34th year. Held at Mountain Meadow Recreation Complex, the Festival features the work of more than 150 artists. During the weekend there are additional events such as parade, Run to the Pines Car Show, Antique Show, Quilt Show and a 10K Run. Vendor information and registration is available at the Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber of Commerce.
Native American Art Festival
The Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber of Commerce hosts this premier event each July at Mountain Meadow Recreation Complex. The Native American Art Festival was founded in 1988 and draws outstanding, quality artwork and handcraft. Approximately 80 Native American artists from throughout the country display and sell their work during the two-day festival. The juried event is a favorite of locals and collectors alike. From jewelry to sculpture, each Native American Art Festival is commemorated by an original piece of art that is replicated in a collectible poster. Tickets for Native American Art Festival events are available at Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber of Commerce.
Woodland Wildlife Festival
One of the newer community events in Pinetop-Lakeside, the Woodland Wildlife Festival celebrates the Town’s appreciation of nature. Held at the Woodland Lake Park and hosted by the Pinetop-Lakeside Chamber of Commerce, the fall event brings together wildlife experts and nature enthusiasts.
Renee Cushman Art Museum
A remarkable collection of artwork given as a gift to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (LDS) by Renee Scharf Cushman, who was not a church member. The collection contains an engraving attributed to Rembrandt, pen drawings by Tiepolo, and other art and furniture dating from the Renaissance to early 20th century. The museum is housed in a special wing of the LDS Stake Center in Springerville and is open by appointment only. The Round Valley Chamber of Commerce schedules tours of the museum.
Hon-Dah Resort and Casino
Owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, the Hon-Dah Resort and Casino is a sure bet. With slot machines, blackjack and poker tables, Hon-Dah is always ready to play. Visitors can enjoy live music and dancing nightly as well as comedy shows in the Timbers Lounge. The resort has a full-size pool, 128 guest rooms and a full-service conference center. There is also a fine dining restaurant, gift shop and RV park located on the property.
Silver Creek Performing Arts Association
Music and performing arts have been a part of Snowflake and Taylor heritage since its founding in 1878. Early pioneers brought their beloved instruments and sheet music with them when settling this region, and like much of the heritage, this love for the arts also lives on. The Silver Creek Performing Arts Association sponsors local choirs and world-acclaimed concert musicians and performers. A typical seasonal calendar might include Chinese acrobats, an operatic duet and pianist, or a night of orchestral Broadway hits.
The Arts Alliance of the White Mountains
Established in 1999, the organization promotes a strong interest in the arts. The organization supports visual, performing and media arts in the White Mountains region. Understanding that a strong interest in the cultural arts is a benefit for both the region’s economy and quality of life, the organization supports a film society, art scholarships and events.
White Mountain Symphony Orchestra
The White Mountains Symphony Orchestra aspires to excellence in performance of a wide variety of orchestral music from all eras and a diversity of composers. Performance repertoire includes full orchestral works, chamber music, concertos and collaborative performances with choirs and dance troupes. Each season the organization aspires to offer new opportunities and experiences for enjoying and sharing orchestral music within the White Mountains.
Festivals and Community Events
The White Mountains have a rich tradition of hosting festivals. During the cool summer months, when the rest of the desert Southwest is battling severe heat, the region attracts visitors to a wide variety of festival events. From the Native American Arts Festival to the Bluegrass Festival, there is virtually an event each weekend during the summer. Most community events are locally produced and include arts and crafts shows as well as local musical entertainment.