The Valley is brimming with seasonal gatherings this weekend, Oct. 11 to Oct. 13. Indulge in local foods, festivals and fundraisers that are sure to bring festivity to your pre-holiday plans.
Friday
Muscular Dystrophy Association 18th Annual Taste of the Town
The Scottsdale Quarter hosts this year’s annual Taste of the Town event in honor of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. The Valley’s best restaurants and food vendors will join in to support and fundraise for those battling muscle disease. Tickets cost $65 a person and 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the cause. You’ll love tasting the delicious offerings from restaurants like Fogo De Chao, The Melting Pot, Portillo’s and more.
Four Peaks Oktoberfest at Tempe Town Lakes
Prost! It’s that time of year again. Nothing celebrates the season quite like Four Peaks Oktoberfest at Tempe Town Lakes. This free event features polka dancing, bratwurst, carnival rides and plenty of beer. You can join in on the fun from 5 p.m. to midnight on Oct. 11 at Tempe Beach Park. Food and activity prices differ based on vendor.
Beatles vs. Stones: A Musical Showdown
Get ready to rock! The Orpheum Theatre announces a live musical showdown between two of the world’s greatest bands: The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. Sing along to your favorite songs as cover bands battle it out to the beat. The competition begins at 7:30 p.m., and ticket prices start around $70.
Saturday
Water Lantern Festival in Phoenix
A night filled with peace, happiness and prosperity illuminates the Valley on Oct. 12 at 5 p.m. The Phoenix Convention Center is hosting this year’s Water Lantern Festival. This special occasion unites our community as each individually created lantern lights up the water. Brighten your holiday vibe with family and friends this weekend. Ticket information can be found on the website.
Bulgarian Folklore Festival
From 2 to 10 p.m. this Saturday, indulge in a world of Bulgarian bliss. Embroidery workshops, homemade pastries and Bulgarian song and dance are just a few of the activities presented at the Bulgarian Folklore Festival. This cheerful outing takes place at the beautiful Phoenix Center for the Arts. $10 admission for adults; $5 for children.
J Balvin at Talking Stick Resort Arena
J Balvin, the Colombian Latin pop superstar, is performing live at the Talking Stick Resort Arena. On Oct. 12, dance to the popular tune of Mi Gente, which landed a spot on the Billboard Hot 100’s top 10. Known for his colorful sets and lively shows, guests can purchase tickets starting at $38. The concert begins at 8 p.m.
Scottsdale Whiskey Festival
Bourbon, scotch, whiskey and more, it’s the Scottsdale Whiskey Festival. From 3 to 6 p.m., samples of the finest dark liquor will be featured at Wasted Grain in Old Town. There will be over 20 varieties to choose from. Ticket prices vary; VIP tickets are available for early access and special meet and greets.
Sunday
Arizona Taco Festival
From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., experience tacos like you never have before. The Arizona Taco Festival is back and bigger than ever. The delicious taco-topia is now located at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Attendees can sample from hundreds of tacos, take shots at the tequila expo, or sit back and relax at the chihuahua beauty pageant. This festival truly has it all. Tickets start at $15. Learn more here.
Arizona’s Ultimate Women’s Expo
Ladies, this one's for you. Grab your best gal pals and head on over to the Phoenix Convention Center for Arizona’s Ultimate Women’s Expo. You’ll find DIY workshops, free beauty treatments and massages, fashion shows, live speakers and so much more. The expo travels throughout the country, 365 days a year, and provides the best of the best for women and their families. Registration costs $5 online, or $10 at the doors.
Arizona Cardinals vs. Atlanta Falcons
Come out and support your local Arizona Cardinals this Sunday, Oct. 13, at the State Farm Stadium. Our Cardinals will be playing the Atlanta Falcons starting at 1:05 p.m. Enjoy beer and hot dogs with friends for the game and cheer along with thousands of Arizona Cardinals fans. Tickets start at $44.
