Disclaimer: While we strive to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information, event dates, activities, and details may change. We recommend checking directly with the event websites or organizers for the latest updates and to confirm the suitability of activities for younger children before planning your visit.

October in Phoenix is packed with fun, family-friendly events perfect for creating lasting memories! From pumpkin patches to spooky strolls, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best activities for families this month.

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1. Arizona State Fair

Dates: October 6–29, 2024 (Open Thursday–Sunday)
Location: Arizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W McDowell Rd
Details: Thrilling rides, carnival games, live music, petting zoos, and food vendors for all ages.
More Info: Arizona State Fair

2. Boo at the Zoo

Dates: October 21–22 & 28–29, 2024
Location: Phoenix Zoo, 455 N Galvin Pkwy
Details: Kids can wear costumes, trick-or-treat, and enjoy animal-themed activities.
More Info: Phoenix Zoo – Boo at the Zoo

3. Pumpkin Nights at Desert Botanical Garden

Dates: October 5–31, 2024 (Evenings)
Location: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N Galvin Pkwy
Details: Explore a glowing pumpkin garden with lights, carved pumpkins, and fall activities.
More Info: Desert Botanical Garden

4. Enchanted Pumpkin Garden

Dates: October 20–31, 2024
Location: Carefree Desert Gardens, 101 Easy St, Carefree
Details: Enjoy whimsical pumpkin art displays, crafts, and entertainment.
More Info: Enchanted Pumpkin Garden

5. Salt River Fields Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival

Dates: October 25–26, 2024
Location: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale
Details: Tethered balloon rides, candy stations, and kids’ zone, with evening balloon glow displays.
More Info: Salt River Fields – Balloon Festival

6. Tolmachoff Farms Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch

Dates: All of October 2024
Location: 5726 N 75th Ave, Glendale
Details: A large corn maze, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, and bounce houses for family fun.
More Info: Tolmachoff Farms

7. Schnepf Farms Pumpkin & Chili Party

Dates: Every Thursday–Sunday in October 2024
Location: Schnepf Farms, 24610 S Rittenhouse Rd, Queen Creek
Details: Rides, pumpkin picking, chili cook-offs, hayrides, and a 4-acre corn maze.
More Info: Schnepf Farms – Pumpkin & Chili Party

8. Downtown Phoenix Zombie Walk

Date: October 28, 2024
Location: Downtown Phoenix
Details: Fun for older kids and teens, featuring spooky costumes and activities.
More Info: Zombie Walk

9. Howl-O-Ween at the Phoenix Zoo

Dates: October 27–28, 2024
Location: Phoenix Zoo
Details: Trick-or-treat stations, spooky light displays, and kid-friendly scare zones after dark.
More Info: Phoenix Zoo – Howl-O-Ween

10. Dia de los Muertos Festival

Dates: October 28–29, 2024
Location: Desert Botanical Garden
Details: Celebrate with traditional altars, live performances, and children’s activities.
More Info: Dia de los Muertos at DBG

11. Spooky Carnival at Uptown Plaza

Date: October 21, 2024
Location: Uptown Plaza, 100 E Camelback Rd
Details: Enjoy carnival games, trick-or-treating, and costume contests.
More Info: Uptown Plaza

12. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Fall Fest

Date: October 14, 2024
Location: 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale
Details: Train rides, games, food, and live entertainment.
More Info: McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

13. Boo Bash Halloween Carnival

Date: October 28, 2024
Location: The Wigwam, 300 E Wigwam Blvd, Litchfield Park
Details: A carnival with games, crafts, trick-or-treating, and costume contests.
More Info: The Wigwam

14. Freaky Fall Festival at Paradise Valley Community Center

Date: October 21, 2024
Location: 17402 N 40th St, Phoenix
Details: A free event with a costume contest, haunted maze, pumpkin decorating, and crafts.
More Info: Paradise Valley Community Center