When Scottsdale was incorporated on June 25, 1951, the city had a population of about 2,000, Malcolm White was appointed the first mayor and the city adopted “The West’s Most Western Town” as its official motto.

Today, Scottsdale is a vibrant city with more than 258,000 residents led by its 12th mayor, David D. Ortega and on June 25, will celebrate its 70th year as a municipality.

To commemorate this special anniversary, the city is hosting several family-friendly events and invites the public to join in on the fun and learn some Scottsdale history.

It’s Scottsdale’s birthday, so you get a present!

Kids are invited to bring in a handmade birthday card for Scottsdale to any Scottsdale library branch through June 15 to receive a special present — a Scott the Dog stuffed animal (while supplies last). The cards will be displayed in the Copper Gallery at the Civic Center Library, 3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd.

A retro ride through Scottsdale’s seven decades

Happy 70th birthday, Scottsdale! Take a retro ride through Scottsdale’s seven decades as a town and city with Scottsdale community historian Joan Fudala.

She will share photos and describe points of pride that residents, city officials and staff have created through teamwork and innovation. This program will air at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 23, on Scottsdale Video Network.

Legacy Quest

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to take part in Scottsdale’s 70th Anniversary Legacy Quest! You will be tasked to follow along on a family-friendly expedition that tests your Scottsdale knowledge. And if you are a history lover, there is a special trail just for you that uncovers even juicier bits of Scottsdale history. Register for this free event here.

Milestone and Memories

Celebrate the past 35 years of Scottsdale’s evolution as a dynamic, diverse and desirable destination and hometown as seen through the eyes of Scottsdale Leadership alumni and honorees. This photo-rich exhibit will be on display beginning Friday, June 25, at the Scottsdale Heritage Connection at Scottsdale Civic Center Library. Presented by Scottsdale Leadership, in commemoration of its 35th anniversary and saluting Scottsdale’s 70th anniversary.

70 pints for 70 years

Knowing just how much community members enjoy giving back, Scottsdale City Council is hosting a blood drive with a goal to reach 70 pints of blood donations in honor of Scottsdale’s 70th birthday.

This partnership, with the American Red Cross, will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 29, at the Mountain View Park Community Center, 8625 E. Mountain View Road. Blood donations nationwide have dropped during the pandemic and while donations are encouraged year-round, they are especially needed now more than ever.

June Days

Old Town Scottsdale proudly introduces June Days, a month of joyous occasions.

From crafting workshops to live performances and music to scavenger hunts and movie nights, June Days exercises your mind, soul and craving for something different. Check out the line up of more than 50 unique events here. Family friendly, date nights, gal days — there’s something for everyone.