‘Tis the season to get spooky. Halloween is just around the corner, and there is no shortage of events to help kick off the holiday. Carnivals, live entertainment and, of course, cooler temperatures are on the agenda this weekend, Oct. 4 through 6. Bring the family and get festive at your favorite local outings.
Friday
Schnepf Farms Pumpkin and Chili Party
Come out and kick off the very first weekend of Schnepf Farms famous Pumpkin and Chili Party. Top rated throughout the Valley, there is no shortage of things to do here. From the ferris wheel to fireworks, everyone leaves happy. Don’t forget to try some world-class chili and other fall foods during your visit. The fest will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4. Ticket prices vary depending on where and when you buy them. Learn more about ticket information here.
The Arizona State Fair
It’s back! From noon to 10 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4, head over to the Arizona State Fair Grounds for the opening day of this highly anticipated Valley event. The Arizona State Fair hosts hundreds of delicious carnival-themed food vendors, amusement park rides, and live musical performances all day long. Ticket prices vary; learn more on the website.
Legoland Discovery Center Brick-or-Treat
Can’t wait any longer for Halloween? The Legoland Discovery Center invites you to celebrate early this Friday, Oct. 4, at Brick-or-Treat. This special event will consist of scavenger hunts, costume contests, Lego block building and more. Tickets begin at $8; doors open at 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Click here to find out more.
Saturday
Monster Jam
You won’t believe your eyes at the State Farm Stadium in Tempe on Oct. 5. Monster Jam is here and features 12,000-pound monster trucks as they battle it out through speed and tricks. Families and children of all ages are invited to watch. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at $20; click here for more information.
Zoowalk for Autism Research
Walk for a cause this Saturday, Oct. 5, from Phoenix Municipal Stadium to the Phoenix Zoo. This annual benefit raises money and awareness for autism research. Tickets are free for children 12 and younger, $15 for teens, and $25 for adults. Each ticket comes with free Zoo admission. Join your community in the Zoowalk for Autism Research from 6:30 to 11 a.m.
Pumpkin Days and Corn Maze at Tolmachoff Farms
Tolmachoff Farms presents its annual Pumpkin Days and Corn Maze fall festival. Families can participate in the six-acre corn maze or meet the friendly animals inside the petting zoo. Admission is $12 and includes play areas and most activities. Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. You won’t want to miss this festive celebration for the whole family.
Furry Friends and Fine Arts Festival at Shemer Art Center
From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, Shemer Art Center is hosting the Furry Friends and Fine Arts Festival. All ages are welcome, and all attendees will surely love the animal-themed artwork and activities. $5 for one admission; $10 for the whole family. You can even bring your own furry friends to this paw-fect event.
Sunday
A Taste of Greece
For one weekend only, treat yourself to A Taste of Greece, the Arizona Greek festival at the Katherine Greek Orthodox Church. From flavorful Mediterranean foods to special folk dancing, the whole family will love spending time learning about the incredible Greek culture. Admission is $5. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5.
The Pumpkin Patch Train
All aboard! The Pumpkin Patch Train will take you and your family on a magical train ride from Williams Depot through the Arizona countryside. Better yet, the destination is a hidden pumpkin patch that can only be visited by train. Dress up in your costumes to participate in the holiday spirit. There are three different boarding times each day. Tickets start at $22 and free admission for infants.
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane
Based off the book, Herberger Theater presents its own rendition of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. This family-friendly story is about a rabbit who goes through a series of life events to find himself and make long-lasting friendships. The show starts at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 6. Ticket prices start at $12.
