One of my favorite things about the Phoenix-area is how it has become a mecca for themed festivals exquisitely prepared for our enjoyment each year! And now that the working year has officially commenced, this month is packed full of unique and colorful fiestas you must attend.
Top October Festivals:
Oktoberfest
Oct. 2-4
Prost! It’s not just for the Germans anymore. Oktoberfest has trickled down to the states and is celebrated right here in our very own Tempe Town Lake. There will of course be plenty of beer to go around, but also this year’s festival will incorporate the younger crowd and will feature a garage band competition with eight high schools and eight college bands. Get ready for six beer gardens and wines, a Kinderfest area for children that includes free arts and crafts, bouncy rides, carnival games, rides, clowns, dance troupes, children’s choruses, comedians and dance lessons.
Tempe Town Lake
80 W. Rio Salado Parkway
Tempe, AZ, 85281
www.tempeoktoberfest.com
49th Annual Greater Phoenix Greek Festival
Oct. 9-11
No one cares more about keeping their national traditions like the Greeks do… And they sure like to have a good time. On Oct. 9 to 11, all the Greeks are gathering for the 49th Annual Greater Phoenix Greek Festival and will partake amazing Greek food, wines and pastries, plus a village market, art, music, jewelry and Greek dancing.
James A. Speros Community Center
1973 E. Maryland Ave.
Phoenix, AZ, 85016
holytrinityphx.org
Tour de Fat
Oct. 10
Bikers are invited to come together to enjoy what they love the most at Tempe Town Lakes’ Tour de Fat. The event features New Belgium beer, a parade, costumes, live entertainment, bike showcases and vendors. Tour de Fat will benefit bicycle and environmental charities. Beer tokens are $5 each.
Tempe Town Lake
80 W. Rio Salado Parkway
Tempe, AZ, 85281
State Fair
Oct. 16 – Nov. 8
Bring the whole family for this year’s State Fair running from Oct. 16 to Nov. 8. It will come packed full of bumper cars, roller coasters, pie eating, candy, arts games, more food and more! The fair is closed Mondays. Parking is $10 in the lots.
Arizona Exposition and State Fair Park
1826 W. McDowell Road
Phoenix, AZ, 85013
www.azstatefair.com
The Arizona Irish Festival
Oct. 31
Experience Ireland right here in Phoenix at The Arizona Irish Festival. The festival features authentic Irish music, dance performances, food and live entertainment. Since it takes place on Halloween, guests are encouraged to dress in their creative costumes!
Irish Cultural Center
1106 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ, 85004
www.azirish.org
I love Oktoberfest and the Fair. I can’t wait to polka my butt off, drink beer, ride the merry-go-round and eat corndogs.
omg, thanks for this! i want to attend them all!
I just love how busy fall gets here in the valley.
I’ve never made it to Oktoberfest, maybe I will this year
I love this time of year in the Valley when there are so many festivals and things to do.
Nothing like Oktoberfest. If you can’t be on Germany, this is the next best thing.