October is a magical time in the East Valley of Arizona. As temperatures begin to cool, locals and visitors can enjoy outdoor events, pumpkin patches, haunted houses, and family-friendly fall festivals. From Chandler to Mesa, Gilbert, and beyond, the East Valley is packed with things to do throughout October. Whether you love spine-tingling scares or prefer cozy fall fun, this region offers a little bit of everything.
1. Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals
Embrace the spirit of autumn with pumpkin patches, hayrides, and corn mazes that offer fun for the whole family.
Schnepf Farms Pumpkin & Chili Party (Queen Creek)
- Open throughout October, Schnepf Farms transforms into a fall wonderland with a pumpkin patch, hayrides, corn maze, carnival rides, and bonfires. Families can enjoy live entertainment and indulge in delicious chili and caramel apples.
- Pro tip: Stay for the firework show on Friday and Saturday nights!
Vertuccio Farms Fall Festival (Mesa)
- This family-friendly farm offers activities like a giant corn maze, pumpkin bowling, a petting zoo, and zip lines. Perfect for a weekend afternoon with the kids, the farm also features local food vendors serving autumn-themed treats.
Mother Nature’s Farm (Gilbert)
- Known for its laid-back vibe, this charming farm offers a pumpkin patch, hay bale maze, and a petting zoo. Kids can enjoy pumpkin painting while parents relax under the farm’s shady trees.
2. Haunted Houses and Spooky Attractions
For thrill-seekers, the East Valley offers some of the most spine-chilling haunted attractions in Arizona. Get ready for jump scares, eerie mazes, and haunted trails!
13th Floor Haunted House (Phoenix)
- Just a short drive from the East Valley, the 13th Floor Haunted House delivers a terrifying experience with Hollywood-quality special effects. Each year brings new themes and scares, making it a must-visit for haunted house enthusiasts.
Scarizona Scaregrounds (Mesa)
- A popular haunt with multiple attractions, including haunted houses and an interactive zombie paintball experience. If you’re looking for a variety of scares, this is the place to be. Scarizona also offers live music and a beer garden for those who want to unwind after the frightful fun.
Fear Farm (Phoenix)
- Known for its immersive haunted corn maze, Fear Farm is the perfect destination for adrenaline junkies. Wander through haunted fields, creepy barns, and spooky mazes for a night of frights.
3. Halloween-Themed Events for Families
Not all Halloween events are designed to scare! Families with young kids will find plenty of fun, low-key celebrations perfect for all ages.
Boo at the Zoo (Phoenix Zoo)
- Kids can dress up and enjoy a safe, festive Halloween experience at the Phoenix Zoo. Boo at the Zoo offers animal encounters, pumpkin displays, and trick-or-treating stations throughout the zoo grounds.
Downtown Gilbert Fall Festival
- Enjoy carnival games, pumpkin painting, and live music in Gilbert’s charming downtown area. This event provides a family-friendly atmosphere with local food trucks and entertainment.
Trick-or-Treating on Main Street (Mesa)
- Held on Halloween night, businesses along Mesa’s Main Street participate in this free trick-or-treat event. Kids can show off their costumes, collect candy, and enjoy activities like face painting and games.
4. Local Fall Markets and Craft Fairs
October is a great time to explore local markets filled with handmade goods, seasonal decorations, and tasty treats.
Chandler Farmers Market
- Open on Saturdays, the Chandler Farmers Market offers fall produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts. It’s the perfect spot to stock up on seasonal ingredients or find unique Halloween decorations.
Mesa Arts Festival (Downtown Mesa)
- This outdoor art festival features local artists, live music, and food vendors. Get in the spirit of the season by browsing handmade crafts and artwork while enjoying the cooler October weather.
5. Oktoberfest Celebrations in the East Valley
If you’re looking for beer, bratwurst, and lively music, several Oktoberfest events in the East Valley offer a taste of Bavarian culture with an Arizona twist.
- Four Peaks Oktoberfest at Tempe Town Lake
- Enjoy craft beer, German food, and live entertainment at Tempe Town Lake. This annual event also offers games, contests, and a family-friendly carnival area.
- SanTan Brewing Oktoberfest (Chandler)
- Held in downtown Chandler, this Oktoberfest features SanTan’s locally brewed beers, live music, and a brat-eating contest. It’s a lively event that attracts locals looking for fun and great food.
6. Outdoor Movie Nights and Ghost Tours
As the weather cools, outdoor events become a popular way to enjoy the season in the East Valley.
Ghosts of Arizona Tours (Downtown Tempe and Mesa)
- Join a guided ghost tour and explore some of the area’s most haunted locations. Learn about the East Valley’s spooky history and eerie legends. The tours are entertaining, informative, and just creepy enough to keep things exciting.
Halloween Movie Nights (Various Parks)
- Local parks across Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa host outdoor movie nights in October, featuring family-friendly films like Hocus Pocus and The Nightmare Before Christmas. Bring a blanket, snacks, and enjoy a cozy movie night under the stars.
7. Halloween-Themed Races and Fitness Events
For those looking to stay active while embracing the holiday spirit, the East Valley offers themed races and fitness events.
Monster Mash 5K (Mesa)
- Put on your running shoes—and your Halloween costume! This fun 5K run encourages participants to dress up and enjoy a scenic course through Mesa. There’s also a 1-mile “Ghoulish Walk” for those who prefer a more leisurely pace.
Trick or Trot 5K (Gilbert)
- Another fun Halloween-themed race, the Trick or Trot 5K offers prizes for the best costumes. Runners and walkers of all ages are welcome to participate in this festive community event.
8. Merry Main Street: A Sneak Peek at Holiday Fun
While most events in October focus on fall and Halloween, the East Valley gears up for its holiday festivities early. Merry Main Street in Mesa begins setting up at the end of October, giving visitors a sneak peek of the holiday cheer to come. Attractions include holiday light displays, outdoor ice skating, and festive food vendors.
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of October in the East Valley
The East Valley of Arizona comes alive in October with a variety of activities for every interest. Whether you’re looking for thrilling haunted houses, family-friendly festivals, or festive outdoor markets, there’s no shortage of things to do. The cooler weather makes it the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, while Halloween events offer fun for all ages.
So grab a pumpkin spice latte, don your favorite sweater (even if it’s still 80 degrees outside), and explore all the East Valley has to offer this October. From haunted attractions to relaxing hayrides, there's no better time to experience the magic of fall in Arizona! 
