A beloved Scottsdale tradition is getting a fresh backdrop this year as the 54th Annual Fall Festival moves to the Scottsdale Civic Center, now newly renovated and ready to welcome thousands for an evening of autumn fun.
The free community event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18, at 3939 N. Drinkwater Boulevard, and promises a mix of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and new attractions for adults.
“Scottsdale Civic Center gives us the perfect opportunity to grow Fall Festival while keeping it free and welcoming for all,” said Nick Molinari, the city’s senior director of parks and recreation. “From carnival games and candy to live music and the new cocktail garden, it’s truly a night the whole family can enjoy.”
Guests can look forward to live music, a magic show, and for the first time, a cocktail garden. Kids can enjoy more than 25 carnival-style games, crafts, face painting, and a pumpkin patch, as well as Trick-or-Treat Alley, where costumed children can stock up on sweets. Costumes are encouraged but not required, and all activities and entertainment are free.
More than 20 city departments will also host interactive booths, giving residents a chance to connect with staff and learn about local programs. The Scottsdale Public Library will add a spooky twist with Tales from the Haunted Stacks, a new interactive storytelling experience where classic monsters come to life.
The Civic Center, revitalized in 2023 through a voter-approved bond project, now features modern event plazas, a splash pad, and a playground — transforming downtown Scottsdale into a year-round hub for concerts, festivals, and community gatherings.
