October Brings Exciting Festivals and Activities Across Arizona

October arrives with a vibrant array of activities and festivals across Arizona, inviting families and individuals to celebrate the season. From pumpkin patches to cultural events, this month offers something for everyone. Notably, ABC15’s Things to Do reporter, Nicole Gutierrez, highlights various local gems and attractions that promise fun for all ages.

Family-Friendly Attractions

One of the standout events is Mother Nature’s Farm, which runs from September 27 to November 2. Open daily from 09:00 to 21:00, the farm features a Wizard of Oz pumpkin for each visitor, alongside hayrides, a straw bale maze, and interactive animal experiences. Admission costs $17 per person, with food for the animals available for cash only. The farm is located at 1663 E. Baseline Rd., Gilbert.

For those seeking a spectacular visual experience, the Tianyu Lights Festival at Camelback Ranch begins on October 24 and runs until January 4, 2026. This enchanting nighttime event showcases larger-than-life lanterns across four themed areas: Bugs Aglow, Color of Holidays, Rainforest, and Prehistoric Animals. The festival operates Wednesday to Sunday from 18:00 to 22:00.

Cultural Celebrations and Community Events

The Billy Moore Days festival in Avondale celebrates the city’s history with four days of festivities from October 16 to 19. Attendees can enjoy live entertainment, carnival rides, a parade, and a variety of food vendors at Festival Fields Park.

Another highlight is the Día de Los Muertos Festival, taking place on October 25 and 26 at the Mesa Arts Center. This two-day event features performances, a community altar, and family-friendly activities, all free of charge. The festival runs Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00 and Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00, offering a culturally rich experience for all attendees.

Food enthusiasts can look forward to the Italian Festival in Scottsdale, which takes place on the same weekend, October 25 and 26. This event features two stages for live music, a variety of restaurant vendors, and a dedicated wine tasting area. General admission is available, and the festival hours are Saturday from 11:00 to 19:00 and Sunday from 11:00 to 17:00 at Scottsdale Waterfront – Old Town Scottsdale.

The Four Peaks Oktoberfest promises a weekend filled with traditional German festivities from October 10 to 12 at Tempe Town Lake. Visitors can enjoy beer, bratwursts, and family activities. The festival runs Friday from 17:00 to midnight, Saturday from 12:00 to midnight, and Sunday from 12:00 to 22:00.

For families seeking interactive experiences, the Penguin Party at OdySea Aquarium offers a week of fun from October 4 to 12. Attendees can participate in activities such as waddle races, live exhibits, and interactive Q&A sessions with the aquarium’s African penguins.

Additionally, the Desert Botanical Garden invites visitors to explore the Majestic Mariposas experience, running from September 27 to November 16. This enchanting display features over 1,000 Southwestern butterflies in the Cohn Family Butterfly Pavilion, open daily from 09:30 to 17:00.

Explore Beyond Arizona

For those looking to venture outside the Valley, Visit Sonora offers a range of adventure opportunities in the state of Sonora, Mexico. Notable options include tours to Aconchi’s thermal waters, the magical town of Alamos, the Cheese Route in Cajeme, and the breathtaking Rocky Point.

October is packed with diverse activities and events across Arizona, ensuring that residents and visitors alike have ample opportunities to enjoy the season. Whether attending a festival, exploring nature, or participating in community activities, there are countless ways to celebrate this vibrant month.