We love this time of year, when the weather cools down and festive events pop up all over the valley. We’ve listed several of our favorites below, most in the West Valley and all within a 40-minute drive of Scorpion Bay.  

1. Peoria Oktoberfest, Oct. 5-6, 5-10 p.m.

It’s always fun to join in on Oktoberfest events! Music, German food and beer—it doesn’t get any better than this! The Peoria Oktoberfest features live Festmusik straight from Germany, plus fun competitions with prizes, rides and amusement for all ages. When: Oct. 5-10 p.m., Official Keg Tapping and opening ceremony at 6 p.m. Price: $5, 20 years and under FREE, free parking Address: Centennial Plaza, 9875 N. 85th Ave., Peoria Info: Website  

2. Carefree Enchanted Pumpkin Garden, Oct. 19-28

You have to see this event to believe it! Watch world-renowned pumpkin carver Ray Villafane hosting live pumpkin carving demonstrations in the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion at the Carefree Desert Gardens. Enjoy FREE daily admission! Magical activities for both kids and adults plus culinary delights and autumnal refreshments including a craft beer garden and live music on the weekends. Take a peek at the carvings and the event highlights here: https://carefreepumpkingarden.com/highlights/ When: Oct. 19-28, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Price: Free Address: 101 Easy Street, Carefree Info: Website  

3. Peoria Halloween Monster Bash, Oct. 27

It’s scary how much SAFE fun you’ll have at Peoria’s Halloween Monster Bash! Features a parade of costumes, trick or treating, inflatables, games, rock wall, crafts, entertainment and more. When: Oct. 27, 5-9 p.m. Price: Free admission with canned food item(s) to help support The St. Mary's/Westside Food Bank Alliance. Some activities require a minimal fee. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Address: Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave., Peoria. Info: Website  

4. Surprise Veterans Day Parade, Nov. 12

The City of Surprise hosts the 4th Annual Veterans Day Parade honoring the service and sacrifices of our Veterans. Pre-parade pancake breakfast is 7-9 a.m. When: Nov. 12, parade begins at 9:30 a.m. Price: Free Address: Surprise Recreation Campus, 15960 N Bullard Ave., Surprise. Info: Website  

5. Glendale Glitters, Nov. 24 & 25

This award-winning festival is one of the best-loved events for Arizona families year after year! Visitors of all ages will delight in holiday entertainment, delectable food, hand-crafted holiday gifts, a children’s snow field and petting zoo, shopping and, of course, visits with Jolly Ol’ St. Nick. When: Opening weekend is Nov. 24, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m., but the holiday magic continues in downtown Glendale Friday and Saturday evenings, Dec. 1 – 16 from 6 – 10 p.m. each night, with 1.6 million dazzling lights, free admission and fun for the whole family. Address: Downtown Glendale Info: Website

Scorpion Bay is Arizona’s premier floating playground, offering everything from daily pontoon and ski boat rentals to slips for harboring your yacht (or dinghy). Come for the fishing or come for the frolicking—either way, incredible mountain views, fantastic dining and world-class marina services await less than an hour out of Phoenix. https://www.scorpionbayaz.com/