1. Arizona’s Statehood Day - Arizona celebrates its Statehood Day on February 7 as it officially became the 48th state in the United States in 1912. The day is a statutory holiday where all state offices and buildings are closed.

2. Tragedy at Space Shuttle Columbia - On February 1, 2003, Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated while re-entering the Earth’s atmosphere, taking the lives of all seven astronauts on board. The shuttle’s debris spread across several states, including Arizona.

3. The Painted Desert Wilderness Area - On February 7, 1984, the Painted Desert Wilderness Area was established. The area covers 93,500 acres of land in northeastern Arizona and includes stunning desert landscapes.

4. Barry Goldwater’s Birth - One of Arizona’s most famous politicians, Barry Goldwater, was born on February 2, 1909. Goldwater, who served five terms in the U.S. Senate from Arizona, was the Republican nominee for the presidency in 1964.

5. Arizona Coyotes’ Inaugural Season - On February 7, 1996, the Arizona Coyotes played their inaugural game at America West Arena (now Talking Stick Resort Arena) in Phoenix. The team, formerly known as the Winnipeg Jets, moved to Phoenix and became the Coyotes in 1995.