Autumn is in the air, pumpkins are in our lattes (and most everything else) and fun festivals are happening all across the region. Here's all the festivals happening this fall in Greater Phoenix.
Looking to explore some pumpkin patches and corn mazes? Find our favorites here. And find more fall activities here.
September Festivals
Back to Top of ListMesa Arts Center Fall 2025 Opening Reception
Sept. 12
This free all-ages event features musical entertainment, light refreshments, a cash bar, and more. Walk through the campus and enjoy the ambiance of live music or grab a bite to eat from one of our many vendors, take a seat and enjoy a show.
Goldrush Music Festival
Sept. 12-13
This immersive event is their first full-scale music festival since 2019 and picks up on its theme, inviting electronic dance music fans from across the country to take a journey into the Wild, Wild West. Saddle up and get ready to back to the Wild West of Goldrush. This year's lineup features Excision, Illenium b2b Zeds Dead, Major Lazer Soundsystem, Crankdat, and many more.
Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market
Sept. 12-14
In its 13th year of business, the Market continues to provide Valley residents with the opportunity to shop all things vintage, local and handmade. The September Market will host over 160 vintage curators and handmade artisans from across the country. With a reputation for featuring quality vendors selling one-of-a-kind items and inspiring design, Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market continues to be a popular attraction for vintage enthusiasts across the Southwest.
Ales on Rails
Sept. 14 - Oct. 31; Select Dates
Ales on Rails is Verde Canyon Railroad’s way of toasting the German tradition of Oktoberfest, providing a rollicking farewell to summer. Sample a wide range of local Arizona breweries, richly crafted beers ranging from the lightest pilsners to the hoppiest IPAs to the deepest stouts the Copper State has to offer. Now in its 22nd year, the very popular Ales on Rails season always sells out in advance and may be reserved to include a Verde Canyon Railroad logo stainless steel cup with four beer-tasting tickets, lunch from the Copper Spike Cafe and a large selection of tasty Arizona-brewed craft beers for only $155 per person. The party begins on the depot patio with beer on tap prior to the train’s departure. The fun continues onboard as highlighted beers of the day are available for purchase during the ride.
DTPHX Lotería
Sept. 18
This year, Lotería has a new twist with one festive night at Arizona Center. Everyone is invited to play the traditional game of Lotería while enjoying food from local vendors, music by DJ duo Vinyl Vagos, shopping with Mujeres Mercado, Arizona’s largest Latina market, and a make-and-take craft station for the whole family, led by The Crafty Chica.
Renaissance Square Plaza
Arizona State Fair
Sept. 19 - Oct. 26
For more than 140 years, the Arizona State Fair has been a gathering place for residents from the far corners of the state. Filled with cute animals, blue ribbons, fried food, and all the fun carnival rides you can imagine.
September Nights at the Arizona State Fair
Sept. 19 - 28
Opens at 5pm nightly in September. As the sun sets, the Fair lights up. Explore one-of-a-kind performances, glowing surprises, and unforgettable fun under the stars. Only during September Nights at the 2025 Arizona State Fair.
12th Annual Garlic Festival
Sept. 13-21
Garlic lovers unite! The 12th annual Garlic Festival will feature a garlic-inspired menu from our Del Piero Kitchen, a wide array of local vendors offering creative and delicious products, cooking demonstrations from QCOM's very own Perry Rea, live music, local artisans, and more. Sample garlic-infused olive oil, garlic-stuffed olives, and take part in a garlic-themed tractor tour.
Scottsdale Fashion Week
Sept. 25-28
Scottsdale Fashion Week is the state’s most high-end series of fashion shows. It is a star-studded annual event with an exciting calendar of activities. The week of events brings together designers, buyers, media, stylists, celebrities, VIPs and special guests.
Maricopa County Home & Garden Show
Sept. 26- 28
The Last Maricopa County Home Show of the YEAR! Shop, compare and get the best deals on pools, landscaping, flooring, countertops, artificial turf, kitchen and bath remodeling, painting, décor and so much more! Also featuring cooking demonstrations, hands on gardening lessons, Master Gardener seminars, backyard Glowscapes, crafting workshops & more than 1,000 vendor booths - the Home & Garden Show has something for everyone!
Harvest in the Heritage District
Sept. 26 - Nov. 2
Fall season is drawing near and Gilbert is celebrating all October with Harvest in the Heritage District, a collection of themed events and experiences for locals and visitors in Downtown Gilbert starting Sept. 26 through Nov. 2. Enjoy Family Nights every Thursday in October, larger-than-life interactive musical instruments featuring crank-turn music boxes and colorful light displays. Also, don’t miss the festival fall décor throughout the Heritage District, merchant specials, a community mural and more. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs and grab a spot in Downtown Gilbert's premier entertainment destination.
Free Family Fun Action & Adventure Festival
Sept. 27
Meet the most-loved action heroes, fly on a zipline, enjoy bounce houses and slides, face painting, live entertainment, action-packed performances, raffle prizes and giveaways, and local vendors for shopping.
The Roundup: West Valley Mavericks' Family-Friendly Food Truck Festival
Sept. 27
Find local eats, live performances, adult beverages and plenty of family-friendly fanfare while making a difference at The Round Up, the West Valley Mavericks' free-to-attend annual fundraiser. In addition to access to more than 60 local food trucks offering up everything from tacos and sushi to BBQ and ice cream, Round Up attendees can enjoy a performance by Hillbilly Deluxe and other performances. New for 2025 is a Sensory Friendly Zone and Healthy Family area. The event also includes a spectacular drone show, face-painting and other kids' activities, and a variety of vendors serving up beer, wine and spirits.
October Festivals
Back to Top of ListDowntown Chandler Rocktoberfest
Oct. 3- 4
SanTan Brewing + Huss Brewing Co. Present Rocktoberfest: A High-Energy Celebration of Beer, Brats, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Fun. Put on your lederhosen and get ready to celebrate Oktoberfest in grand style. Celebrate with an outstanding lineup of live music, beer from local breweries, cocktails, thrilling competitions, and polka.
5th Annual Latino LGBTQ+ Pride Festival
Oct. 4
Allies and community members of the LGBTQ+ Latino community are welcome to attend the 5th annual Latino LGBTQ+ Pride Festival. Latino Pride Festival coincides with Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15) with a celebration at historic Heritage Square in Downtown Phoenix. Acts & entertainment TBA!
26th Annual Mariachi & Folklorico Festival
Oct. 4
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a tradition - experience the rich cultural history of Mexico through vibrant music and dance at the 26th Annual Mariachi and Folklórico Festival. The CCA’s 26th Annual Mariachi and Folklórico Festival is presented in partnership with C.A.L.L.E. de Arizona and Maestra Vanessa Ramirez, creating a rich music and dance experience.
64th Annual Phoenix Greek Festival
Oct. 10-12
This festival is an opportunity to share in the rich history, culture, and culinary delights of Greece. In addition to the authentically prepared Greek cuisine, you can indulge in a shopper’s paradise includes booths selling a variety of items including Greek jewelry, artwork, and food. Additionally, the nationally recognized community dancers, in traditional costumes from the various regions of Greece will be performing throughout the weekend.
Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral
52nd Annual Four Peaks Oktoberfest
Oct. 10-12
Prost! Four Peaks Brewing Oktoberfest is back for its 52nd year at Tempe Town Lake! The three-day outdoor Bavarian themed festival kicks off Friday, October 10 through Sunday, October 12. It is open to all ages and features live music all weekend across two stages including music headliners Black Moods and Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers, among many others, German food, drinks, games, carnival rides, dancing and more. This year, exciting new rides await, like the Freakout—swinging and spinning in tandem—and the sky-high swing thriller, Vertigo. Guests can also anticipate new beers flowing from Four Peaks Brewing, such as the Bad Birdie Juicy Golden Ale, Desert Daydream Imperial IPA, Desert Daydream Tropical IPA, and Desert Daydream Hazy IPA. For those seeking more excitement, the Arizona Sports League will offer adult coed volleyball, soccer, and kickball throughout the weekend. Returning favorites include the Weiner Dog Races, the lively local celebrity bratwurst eating contest, comedy performances by Tempe Standup, the Amateur Stein Holding Competition, and the Frank Kush Foundation Runnin’ for the Brats.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Phx Fest
Oct. 12 -13
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Phx Fest returns to “Indigenize the Valley” with a vibrant celebration of Indigenous Art, Music, Film, & Food. The event is in collaboration with valley partners such as the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, the Burton Barr Central Library and a multitude of Indigenous creatives and entrepreneurs to provide festival go-ers with immersive experiences that celebrate the diverse culture of Indigenous people. Located on the ancestral lands of the O’odham and Piipaash people, the festival transforms the Arizona Center.
Celebrate Mesa
Oct. 11
Celebrate Mesa and all it has to offer at this free family festival, featuring carnival games, music, bands, activities, food trucks, and more.
Sound Bites Music & Food Festival
Oct. 11
Don't miss this all-day concert and festival on Sat., Oct. 11 from 2 PM to 9 PM at Gilbert Regional Park. Headlining the event is Gin Blossoms, the beloved multi-platinum rock band from Tempe, Arizona, currently on tour. Joining the lineup is The Black Moods and High 90’s, both known for their covers of Gen X’s greatest hits. Eventgoers can expect an array of food, beverage and spirits vendors, including culinary showcases by local restaurants and some of the Valley’s most popular food trucks. Tickets are on sale now!
UwU Con
Oct. 17-19
Fans of all ages who love Star Wars, comics, anime, gaming, and food will find something to geek out about. Attendees will get to meet their favorite voice actors and celebrities from popular anime, movies, and TV shows. This year, special guests will include Steve Blum, Wendee Lee, Beau Billingslea, Melissa Fahn, Ted Lewis, Kyle Hebert, and Aaron Dismuke.
Attendees will also get to shop hundreds of merchandise vendors, try a variety of food trucks and food vendors (some of which are creating food based on characters or dishes found in popular shows), participate in cosplay contests and gaming tournaments, and dance into the night at the Friday and Saturday night afterparty with live DJs.
WestWorld of Scottsdale
Phoenix Pride Festival
Oct. 18-19
The annual Phoenix Pride Festival is a two-day celebration designed to bring our diverse LGBTQ+ and allied communities together for a weekend of camaraderie and celebration of our past, present and future, while raising funds for the Phoenix Pride Community Programs and educating the public about the existence and continuing civil rights battle facing our community. Read more about Phoenix Pride in our feature story here. The Parade (19th) brings over 2,000 individual participants with decorated vehicles, colorful floats and thousands of walkers. With over 15,000 spectators, the Parade features our Grand Marshals, local luminaries, music, and fun.
Parade Begins: 3rd St & Thomas
Parade Ends: 3rd St & Indian School
Taco Fest
Oct. 18-19
The Taco Fest at Salt River Fields will be a memorable two-day event that brings together over 40 of the state’s most passionate taco makers along with agave spirit artisans, local musicians and DJs, artists, and small businesses to create an exciting experience authentic to our community. This festival is a joyful reminder that food, art, music, spirits, and community intertwine to create a tapestry of experiences that honor the beauty and vibrance of Mexican culture. But at the heart of it all is a feast for the senses, with the savory allure of tacos bringing food lovers together for a memorable culinary journey.
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
Arizona Toy Con
Oct. 25
The biggest toy show event of the year, the AZ Toy Con Mesa Mega Show is the coolest show of the winter! All toys represented, vintage to modern! Kids 10 and under are admitted for free. Plenty of free parking!
Desert Sky Music Festival
Oct. 25
Experience country music's hottest artists under Arizona's Desert Sky for one unforgettable night. The 2024 Lineup is to be announced soon! The 2023 Lineup featured Lainey Wilson, Parmalee, Nate Smith, and Jackson Dean.
Dia de los Muertos Festival
Oct. 25-26
Mesa Arts Center is pleased to celebrate Día de los Muertos with an annual event created in collaboration with the community. Día de los Muertos is a celebration of Latin American art and culture related to the Mexican holiday, Day of the Dead. The annual free event offers a variety of features, performances and more in celebration of the memories of the deceased.
Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival
Oct. 24-26
Spooktacular offers a safe and memorable trick-or-treat experience where there is family fun for everyone. Enjoy over 20 glowing hot air balloons acting as trick-or-treat stations that will be passing out over 4,000 lbs. of candy to the kids. Kids of all ages will love the free Kids Zone, with over 30 unique inflatables. Guests can also stroll the free Spook Trail if they dare, which is a fan favorite featuring surprises around every corner!
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
Fiesta de Muertos Y Danza
Oct. 24
Grandeza Mexicana Folk Ballet Company present a new and reimagined performance of dance, music, art, and ancestral ritual that will take audiences through the rich traditions of Dia de Los Muertos via intricately detailed movement, angles, and bold costumes that exude sheer joy, pride, and the splendor of Mexican folk dance. Intermixed in the program will be newly designed iconic folk art and altar offerings by Dia de Muertos specialist Lore Media & Arts. The program invites the audience to celebrate death as a natural phase in life’s continuum and to honor the sacred traditions of Mexican and Native Mesoamerican cultures.
November Festivals
Back to Top of ListMikiztli Dia de los Muertos Phoenix Festival
Nov. 1
The annual Mikiztli Dia de los Muertos Festival features music, dance, masked performances, art activities for kids, artist's mercado and candlelight closing procession with ceremony and celebration. This festival is a unique and exciting artistic event that keeps families connected to their cultural heritage and traditions.
NASCAR Cup Series Championship
Nov. 2
The NASCAR Cup Series Championship returns to Phoenix Raceway! Watch as four drivers put it all on the line as they go head-to-head for the ultimate prize in NASCAR.
Litchfield Park Festival of the Arts
Nov. 1-2
This historic resort community will transform into a street scene filled with art, music and different aromas. The festival features 200 fine artists and craftsmen exhibiting a wide selection of original arts and crafts, ranging from functional to decorative, and contemporary to Native American.
Día de Muertos
Nov. 1-2
Día de Muertos returns to the Garden with a stunning open-air community altar featuring the work of Oaxacan artisans in an authentic and moving display honoring lost loved ones. Visitors will enjoy face-painting, crafts, food and a moving sunset procession through the Garden.
Dreamy Draw Music Festival
Nov. 7-8
Inspired by the vibrant Southwestern spirit of Arizona, the two-day Dreamy Draw Country Music Festival celebrates the harmonious fusion of country and Americana. Seamlessly blending contemporary country melodies with a nostalgic nod to the past, Dreamy Draw delivers an immersive experience that will resonate with the Valley’s music enthusiasts. Embark on a journey where the soul of the Southwest comes alive through the enchanting sounds of country and Americana at Dreamy Draw.
USA TODAY Wine and Food Experience
Nov. 8
Phoenix is one of the 8 stops on the 2025 USA TODAY Wine and Food Experience nationwide tour! This November, indulge in a culinary adventure and experience the area's best local wine and food. Taste food from a gourmet showcase. Sip premier wine, beer, and spirits from the best. Savor the experience with live demonstrations.
Phoenix/Tempe Water Lantern Festival
Nov. 7
As the sun begins to set on the evening sky, the Water Lantern Festival begins to shine with the launch of the lanterns onto the water. Watch your unique lantern drift out into the water as it joins other lanterns.
The Hondo Rodeo Fest
Nov. 7-9
Get your boots out! The Hondo Rodeo and Music Fest comes to Chase Field from November 7-9. The three-day rodeo fest brings together the best of rodeo and music. World class rodeo will be paired with performances by Nickelback, Cody Johnson, Jason Aldean, Treaty Oak Revival, Jon Pardi, and Riley Green.
2025 Charles Schwab Cup Championship
Nov. 10-16
The Charles Schwab Cup Championship is the final event of the PGA TOUR Champions season and the third and final event of the Charles Schwab Cup Playoffs, used to determine the annual Charles Schwab Cup Champion. The event consists of the top-36 players on the Charles Schwab Cup points list.
Arizona Jazz Fest
Nov. 7-9
This year’s event will have a variety of artists from near and far performing all weekend long. With over 20 acts at this year’s AZ Jazz Fest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while you take in the atmosphere. Featuring Charlie Wilson, Anthony Hamilton Feat. The Ton3s, Dru Hill, and Eric Benet.
14th Annual Scottsdale Polo Championships
Nov. 8-9
Enjoy fashion, food and drink, live performances, exotic car displays and, of course, polo at an event that The Captain of the Wales Polo Team calls “the best polo event in the world.”
Fountain Hills Fall Fountain Festival
Nov. 16
The Fountain Hills Festival of Arts & Crafts features nearly 500 artists, artisans and gourmet food provisioners. Over 200,000 visitors are attracted to this event to do their holiday shopping, purchase art, savor good food and enjoy live entertainment. Many of the artists in this fair offer unique holiday-themed ornaments that have become family tradition.
Canal Convergence | Showtime
Nov. 7-16
The free, 10-night event features large-scale public artworks created by artists from around the world alongside live music and dance performances, creative workshops, educational tours and activities, food trucks, a mini film festival and a beer and wine garden. In addition to the event’s perennial focus on interactivity, sustainability and the union of water, art and light, this year's theme is “Showtime.”
Arizona Fall Fest 2025
Nov. 8
The 18th annual Arizona Fall Fest celebrates all things local to Arizona with a free, family-friendly event featuring over 200 local vendors, local restaurants and food trucks, Kid Zone, Sports Zone, live local entertainment, an AZ Beverage Garden and more.
Grand Ave Festival PHX
Nov. 8
The Grand Ave Festival PHX is an annual event that celebrates the dynamic and artistic community of the Historic Grand Avenue neighborhood in Phoenix, AZ. Showcasing local businesses, artisans, musicians, and performers, the festival aims to create a platform for creativity, community engagement, and celebration. The event features a variety of activities, including an artisan market, live music, performances, interactive art experiences, and more. The Grand Ave Festival PHX invites all to join in the festivities and experience the vibrant spirit of this historic neighborhood.
Phoenician Fall Fest
Nov. 14
Saddle up for a lively autumn evening of country music, line dancing, food, cocktails from Jack Daniel’s and western-themed activities, set amidst the backdrop of the historic Jokake Inn. Guests will enjoy line dancing lessons, an outdoor country concert, local food trucks, a mechanical bull, caricaturist, lawn games, s’mores stations, and more.
AZ Barrels, Bottles & Brews
Nov. 15
Sip and celebrate craft beer, spirits and wine from around Arizona, with more than 25 local breweries, distilleries and wineries from the Copper State.
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
Herberger Theater Festival of the Arts
Nov. 15
The 16th annual Festival of the Arts is a free celebration of the arts in our community and showcases performances by Valley arts organizations , live music, interactive Kids Zone, vendor market, artist demonstrations, food, and wine and beer garden. Our goal is to connect our community with the arts and provide an opportunity for people to experience a wide variety and diversity of arts at no cost.
Phoenix Pizza Festival
Nov. 15-16
At the annual Phoenix Pizza Festival, around 20 pizza makers sell all types of pizza, as well as half and full pizzas, depending on their menu. Gluten free and vegan options available. The event will include live bands, lawn games, desserts, local vendors, kid's crafts, and more. Bars will offer a selection of wine, beer, cocktails and N/A beverages.
Gilbert Days Music Festival
Nov. 21-22
This two-day party features live bands, food, drinks, inflatables, and fun for the whole family at Gilbert Regional Park.
editor's picks
Things To Do This Fall In Phoenix
From museums to outdoor excursions, here are the details on what's open in Greater Phoenix for the…
Scenic Fall Drives
Take a winding journey through red rocks or White Mountains on these scenic fall drives within a few…
Best Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes in Phoenix
Check out the best Greater Phoenix farms to pick a pumpkin, ride a hay bale, social distance in a…
