Cooler evenings and a fresh energy in the air mean there are plenty of things to do in Glendale this fall. The season has a way of transforming our city into a hub of celebration, where event calendars are packed with pumpkin patches, Oktoberfest steins, NFL showdowns and arena concerts. This guide highlights both the family-friendly and adults-only activities you’ll want to check out. Be sure to explore our Events Calendar for dates and the latest updates.
Festivals That Celebrate Fall in Glendale
One of our city’s most beloved autumn traditions is the Pumpkin Days & Corn Maze at Tolmachoff Farms. Running from early October to October 31, this multigenerational favorite offers a giant corn maze, a smaller maze for little ones, a petting zoo and other classic pumpkin-patch fun. Kids delight in picking out their pumpkins, while parents snap photos framed by sunlit rows of the orange harvest.
For a different spin on seasonal fun, Haus Murphy’s Oktoberfest serves up German flavors and festive sounds on select Fridays and Saturdays in October. Picture steins of frothy beer, juicy brats and tasty pretzels, with live music from Bavarian band Guggenbach-Baum. Locals and visitors join together for these gatherings in a setting that feels both celebratory and neighborly.
If cars are more your speed, Westgate Hot Rod Night delivers a nostalgic twist on entertainment this time of year. On select Wednesdays in September and October, Westgate Entertainment District turns into a showcase of polished chrome and vintage rides. It truly feels like stepping back into another era. After admiring the vehicles, stroll over to a patio for a burger, ice cream or cocktail.
Fall Sporting Events and Games
Few things signal fall more than football. The Arizona Cardinals fill State Farm Stadium with excitement during their 2025 home games. The roar of the crowd, the sea of Cardinal red jerseys and the thrill of a touchdown keep fans coming back. Tailgating outside the stadium has become a tradition of its own, where friends and families gather hours before kickoff to grill, share stories and build anticipation.
If you plan it right, a Cardinals game can set the tone for a whole weekend by pairing it with dining at Westgate or a stay at a nearby hotel. State Farm Stadium serves up more entertainment than just NFL action. October 2025 features the Clásico de México, bringing international soccer energy to the desert, as well as Monster Jam, which fills the venue with high-octane family fun.
The Arizona Fall League brings baseball to Glendale from October through November 2025 as Glendale’s own Desert Dogs take the field at Camelback Ranch - Glendale. These games spotlight top MLB prospects, giving fans a first look at tomorrow’s stars. The setting is intimate compared to big-league stadiums, and the affordable tickets make it easy for families or groups of friends to enjoy an afternoon beneath bright desert skies or a breezy evening under the lights.
Live Music & Concerts
Glendale’s concert calendar is just as busy as its sports lineup, and Desert Diamond Arena anchors the fall season with major tours and huge headliners. Beyond the big names, this desert city has smaller stages where local talent and touring acts keep the music going. The patios at Westgate Entertainment District often host live sets that create a casual, festive backdrop for dinner or drinks. It’s a chance to extend the night after an arena show or simply enjoy music in an open-air setting.
Plan Your Fall Trip to Glendale
With so much happening, autumn is one of the best times to explore our city. The cooler weather makes strolling through downtown or the walkways at Westgate even more enjoyable. Dining options range from German classics during Oktoberfest to diverse menus across the Entertainment District, giving you countless ways to fuel up before or after outings.
Planning ahead is key. Shape your trip around a marquee event, whether that’s an NFL game, a concert or a family day at Tolmachoff Farms, and then layer in smaller experiences. Add a hot rod night, a brewery stop or a local dining favorite to round out your itinerary. That’s how autumn in the desert becomes a season of discovery.
For the most up-to-date details, explore the Events Calendar. Glendale’s fall lineup has something for everyone, and 2025 is shaping up to be as vibrant as ever.