Scottsdale is buzzing with anticipation as a slew of seasonal festivities are set to charm residents and out-of-towners alike. Kicking off the roster of events, the much-celebrated Railfair returns Oct. 4-5, marking the 50th anniversary of the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. As reported by the City of Scottsdale's website, attendees are in for a treat with model railroad clubs, historical displays, and the reenactment of a classic 1975 photograph featuring a steam engine banner-breaking moment.
The following day, Oct. 4, sees the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market re-opening for the season, inviting shoppers to a selection of over 100 local growers and specialty food vendors. Baseball aficionados can look forward to quickly enjoy a game under the lights at Scottsdale Stadium on Oct. 6, as the Arizona Fall League swings into action, with the home team playing host to the Peoria Javelinas.
For those seeking spooky fun, the Halloween Spook-Track-ula at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is the perfect haunt from Oct. 10-31, offering a family-friendly atmosphere filled with ghostly delights and a themed train ride. Car enthusiasts and auction fans might want to pencil in Oct. 15-18, when the Barrett-Jackson Fall Auction rolls into WestWorld, presenting an array of collector cars, high-stakes bidding, and even celebrity sightings.
Meanwhile, the Scottsdale Fall Festival will be welcoming guests on Oct. 18 with a free event featuring live music, games, and a Trick-or-Treat Alley. As for the adults seeking a moment to relax and unwind, a cocktail garden will be a new fixture. October wraps with the vibrant Scottsdale Dia de Los Muertos from Oct. 23-26. According to the website, the celebration will not only fully embrace but also educate on the rich cultural heritage of this tradition.
As mentioned by the City of Scottsdale's website, the community-driven "What's in my backyard?" event is scheduled for Oct. 27, fostering a connection between residents and the broader city initiatives. October closes out with the Domestic Violence Awareness Trunk-or-Treat on Oct. 30, blending fun with an important message about domestic violence prevention.
As fall transitions to winter, Scottsdale solidifies its status as a hub of seasonal entertainment. Canal Convergence sets the Scottsdale Waterfront ablaze with light installations from Nov. 7-16, while Scottsdale Airport gears up for a holiday movie night on Nov. 8. Bulleting through November are the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, Desert Dog Police K9 Trials, and a Veterans Day Commemoration, each catering to different facets of Scottsdale's dynamic community.
When the holidays officially kick in, McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park will don its festive guise with the Holiday Lights display from Nov. 28 to Dec. 30, offering a glowing precursor to the end-of-year festivities. Scottsdazzle, commencing Nov. 29, promises over a month of holiday-themed events, activities, and the Jingle & Jazz Tree Lighting Spectacular. Capping off the year, the park will host Noon Year’s Eve, allowing families to welcome 2026 in a jubilant, daylit affair.
