Observed annually on the last Monday of May, Memorial Day has long served as an informal beginning to the summer season. As Valley temps approach three digits, we’ve compiled a list of the coolest – literally and metaphorically – pool parties happening this Memorial Day Weekend (Friday, May 23 through Monday, May 26).
Arizona Biltmore Memorial Day Weekend Celebrations
Various times, May 23 and 24
Memorial Day Weekend kicks off a wide variety of summer activities hosted at the historic hotel, including sunset dive-in movie nights and beer-pairing dinners featuring selections from local breweries. The holiday weekend offers adults-only activities by the Saguaro Pool, including a Bacardi and Glow Party and a poolside Sunday brunch with a Bloody Mary and mimosa bar, while the Paradise Pool offers family-friendly fun with three water slides, mermaid appearances and air-conditioned cabanas, as well as free kid’s meals at McArthur’s. arizonabiltmore.com/memorial-day-celebration
Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows Weekend Escapes
Various Times, May 24 and 25
For more 21-plus fun, consider checking out Andaz Scottsdale’s Memorial Day Weekend Escapes. On Saturday and Sunday, poolside DJs will be spinning tracks at the Turquoise Pool, where attendees can lounge and enjoy vodka seltzers provided by Minus 196 Seltzer. Guests can also partake in a cornhole competition, with prizes such as dinner for two or a massage and spa session. A day pass for the resort starts at $75. andazscottsdale.com
Canopy Tempe Rooftop Pool Party
2-7 p.m., May 25
On Sunday, you can cool down by the 14-story rooftop pool at Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown while enjoying tunes from local DJs from the afternoon until sunset. The hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, Alibi, will be serving tapas and craft cocktails. Visit Eventbrite to learn more or purchase tickets.
Cleopatra’s Beach Club Pool Party
Noon-6 p.m., May 24
Billed as “Scottsdale’s top-rated pool party,” Cleopatra’s Beach Club Pool Party at Caesars Republic Scottsdale’s Cleopatra Pool is a 21-plus pool party experience with local DJs and a headlining set by Australian DJ Jen Jones. General admission and VIP tickets are available via VIP Nightlife.
Omni Tempe at ASU’s Memorial Weekend Pool Party
Noon-4 p.m., May 24-26
For Tempe locals or those looking for a short event to hit up in the afternoon, Omni Tempe at ASU will be hosting its Memorial Weekend Pool Party from noon to 4 p.m. each day of the four-day weekend. Admission is free for guests of the hotel and $30 for a day pass.
Memorial Day Weekend at Mountain Shadows
Various times, May 23-26
This Paradise Valley hotel features a classy and relaxing poolside experience all weekend long. Guests can drop in and enjoy a variety of activities including complimentary Champagne tastings on Saturday, live music at the bar all day Friday and Saturday, a DJ-sax duo by the pool Saturday and Sunday afternoon, daily sunset yoga on the lawn, and indoor meditation and outdoor sound healing sessions on Saturday and Sunday morning respectively. mountainshadows.com/event/memorial-day-weekend
Memorial Day Weekend at The Wigwam
Various times, May 23-25
One of the most relaxing ways to kick off summer is to lounge by the pool, and The Wigwam’s staycation deal allows guests to relax with the whole family. Though the Summertime & Sunshine offer is valid all summer, Memorial Day Weekend at The Wigwam provides a unique selection of entertainment, including a vendor and artisan pop-up and family game night on Friday, a character-themed brunch and family-friendly Splash Bash at the Tower Pool on Saturday, and a petting zoo on Sunday, featuring experts and animals from the Wildlife World Zoo. wigwamarizona.com
Memorial Day Weekend at W Scottsdale
10-6 p.m., May 23-25
W Scottsdale’s annual Memorial Day Weekend event on The WET Deck returns this Friday through Sunday with a dress-to-impress American Riviera-themed pool party featuring photo-ops, Champagne and cocktail samples, and a chilled pool to withstand the summer heat. General admission tickets start at $50 per person with an option to upgrade to VIP or cabana seating.
Westin Tempe Skysill Rooftop Pool & Lounge’s Memorial Day Burgers and Brews Pool Party
Noon-8 p.m.; DJ sets 7-10 p.m., May 24-26
Nothing says Memorial Day Weekend like enjoying a cold beer and fresh-off-the-grill burger. The Burgers and Brews Pool Party elevates this classic American experience with craft burger bites, appetizers and cocktails, while a local DJ plays a curated selection of music well past sunset. The event is free to attend, but dish and drink specials range from $10-$18. skysillrooftop.com/events/burgers-brews-memorial-weekend-party
Yellow Claw at Maya Dayclub
Noon-8 p.m., May 26
If you’re a fan of EDM or just looking for a lively, dance-worthy pool-party option, check out Yellow Claw at Maya Day Club in Scottsdale. On Monday, the trap and dubstep duo will be performing a show at the 21-plus summer daytime party venue. Visit relentlessbeats.com for tickets and more info.
