Discover The Most Exciting Fall Festivals Across Arizona
Arizona’s fall season bursts with lively festivals that capture the spirit of the season, offering everything from vibrant arts and crafts fairs to Oktoberfest celebrations rich with Bavarian culture.
As the summer heat gives way to cooler temperatures, communities across the state come alive with events that draw visitors from near and far. Whether you’re looking to enjoy traditional German fare and craft beer or pick the perfect pumpkin with your family, these festivals are the perfect way to celebrate autumn in the Grand Canyon State.
Arizona State Fair
Location: Arizona State Fairgrounds, Phoenix, AZ
Date: October 3-27, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 1.1 million
Theme: Carnival, Livestock Shows & Family Entertainment
The Arizona State Fair is the state’s most popular fall event, drawing over a million visitors each year. This month-long celebration offers a wide variety of attractions, including thrilling carnival rides, nightly concerts, and competitive livestock shows. In 2023, the Best in Show award for livestock went to a prize-winning steer from the Pima County 4-H Club. The fair also features diverse food vendors, ranging from classic fair treats like funnel cakes to regional specialties like Sonoran dogs. A highlight is the Grandstand Concert Series, where national acts like The Doobie Brothers and Ice Cube perform.
Pumpkin and Chili Party at Schnepf Farms
Location: Schnepf Farms, Queen Creek, AZ
Date: October 1-31, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 60,000
Theme: Fall Harvest & Family Fun
The Pumpkin and Chili Party at Schnepf Farms is a month-long celebration of fall, featuring a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and a chili cook-off. This beloved family event has been a tradition for over 25 years, drawing visitors from all over Arizona. In 2023, the chili competition was fierce, with Chef Michael Cairns of The Phoenician Resort taking home the top prize for his spicy green chili. The festival also features live country music, bonfires, and an amusement park complete with a Ferris wheel and roller coaster, making it a must-visit for families.
Arizona Fall Fest
Location: Margaret T. Hance Park, Phoenix, AZ
Date: November 4, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 30,000
Theme: Arizona-Made Products & Community Celebration
The Arizona Fall Fest is a vibrant celebration of all things Arizona, showcasing over 200 local businesses, artisans, and restaurants. This family-friendly festival highlights the best of Arizona’s culture, including live music, food tastings, and unique handcrafted goods. In 2023, the festival welcomed local celebrity chef Mark Tarbell, who hosted a live cooking demo featuring dishes inspired by the Sonoran Desert. Attendees can sample offerings from top local vendors like The Breadfruit & Rum Bar and enjoy live performances by local bands such as The Senators.
Tempe Oktoberfest
Location: Tempe Beach Park, Tempe, AZ
Date: October 11-13, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 40,000
Theme: German Culture & Local Brews
Tempe Oktoberfest is Arizona’s largest celebration of German culture, featuring traditional music, dance, and, of course, plenty of beer. The event boasts multiple beer gardens showcasing both German imports and local craft brews from Four Peaks Brewing Company and Huss Brewing. In 2023, the stein-holding competition was a crowd favorite, with local strongman Brian Shaw winning the title. The festival also includes a Bavarian-style marketplace, a carnival, and live performances by polka bands and contemporary acts like Jared & The Mill.
Mortimer Farms Pumpkin Fest & Corn Maze
Location: Mortimer Farms, Dewey, AZ
Date: September 27 – October 27, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 25,000
Theme: Farm-to-Table & Family Fun
Mortimer Farms Pumpkin Fest & Corn Maze offers a quintessential fall experience in the heart of Arizona’s countryside. Visitors can pick pumpkins, navigate a 15-acre corn maze, and enjoy farm-fresh food. The festival features live music, cooking demos, and a bustling market with local produce and artisanal goods. A highlight of the 2023 festival was the pumpkin pie-eating contest, won by local competitive eater Joey Chestnut. The event also offers tractor rides, petting zoos, and evening bonfires, making it a perfect fall outing for all ages.
Oro Valley Fall Festival of the Arts
Location: Oro Valley Marketplace, Oro Valley, AZ
Date: October 21-22, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 10,000
Theme: Arts & Crafts in the Sonoran Desert
The Oro Valley Fall Festival of the Arts brings together over 150 artists from across Arizona, offering a stunning display of handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and fine art. The festival also features live music, food trucks, and a beer garden stocked with local brews. A highlight of the 2023 festival was the “People’s Choice Award,” won by local jeweler Nancy Pendleton for her exquisite turquoise and silver designs. Attendees can browse unique pieces while enjoying performances by local musicians, including folk artist Ryanhood and Latin jazz ensemble Descarga.
Flagstaff Oktoberfest
Location: Wheeler Park, Flagstaff, AZ
Date: October 4-5, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 12,000
Theme: Bavarian Traditions in the High Country
Set against the stunning backdrop of the San Francisco Peaks, Flagstaff Oktoberfest brings a touch of Bavaria to Northern Arizona. This family-friendly event includes traditional German music, dancing, and a variety of food vendors offering bratwurst, pretzels, and schnitzel. In 2023, the beer stein racing event drew large crowds, with local hero and marathoner Tommy Rivers Puzey taking first place. The festival also features a yodeling contest, a kids’ zone with crafts and games, and live performances by local bands and German polka groups.
Planning Your Trip to the Festival
Turn your visit to one of Arizona’s fall festivals into a memorable getaway by staying in a vacation rental property through Lake.com.
From cozy cabins in the pines of Flagstaff to modern condos near Phoenix’s urban attractions, you’ll find the perfect home base for your festival adventure. Enjoy the beauty of Arizona’s landscapes, relax by a serene lake, and make the most of your fall festival experience by extending your stay.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a fun-filled family vacation, booking a vacation rental ensures comfort and convenience as you explore all that Arizona’s autumn season has to offer.
