In 2026, the City of Avondale will proudly mark its 80th anniversary. Throughout the year, we invite you to join us in celebrating Avondale's proud past and discover all that our community has to offer while looking ahead to the exciting future history.

So much has changed since Avondale's founding father, William "Billy" G. Moore, arrived in Arizona in the late 1860s, settling near the Agua Fria River in 1880, and calling it "Coldwater, Arizona," after the river that flowed through. Back then, Coldwater was just a general store and stage stop near the Agua Fria River crossing. The city took its name from "Avondale Ranch," where the post office was established in 1896.   The main street, which we know today as Western Avenue in the heart of “Old Town”– spurred the area’s growth, leading to the incorporation.  The initial date that Avondale celebrates our incorporation, was not until December (Dec, 16, 1946), but we feel it is important to celebrate the full year, reminding our residents of our history.  

Expect to see a variety of ways to celebrate the milestone throughout the year, in publications, on social media, special events and more. Visit this page for updates!

Learn more about the history of the City of Avondale!