Things to do in Tempe this Fall
Experience the Seasonal Scene in Tempe this Fall
As summer fades into fall, Tempe invites you to experience the season in the Sonoran Desert. From signature events and music festivals to fan-fueled tailgates and awe-inspiring performing arts, this city offers a new perspective around every corner. Take in the views from Tempe Town Lake, a sky-high hotel pool or an urban hiking trail. Savor an alfresco culinary adventure from a popular patio perch and watch bold sunsets give way to buzzy nightlife. Plan your visit to Tempe and see why this is our favorite season.
Fall Events You Won’t Want to Miss
From fun festivals and exciting events, Tempe has a plethora of activities to choose from. Explore our list of events and festivals that delight Tempe visitors throughout the fall season.
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Experience the Thrill of ASU Football
Get ready for an action-packed football season at ASU Mountain America Stadium as the Sun Devils take on the Big 12 Conference.
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Discover Your Next Alfresco Dining Experience
Enjoy the season’s best weather with a meal on one of Tempe’s top patios. Discover where to savor the scene and the cuisine.
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Soak in the Sun at a Rooftop Pool
Trade in sweaters for swimsuits at Tempe’s rooftop pools. Enjoy sunny days and stunning views from these elevated escapes.
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See a Broadway Show
Get ready for an unforgettable season of Broadway magic at ASU Gammage! The 2024/2025 Desert Financial Broadway Across America–Arizona series brings top-tier performances to Tempe. Explore the lineup and secure your tickets for a must-see fall event!
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Visit Downtown Tempe
With all the options to choose from, there’s no better place to enjoy your free time than on Mill Avenue.
Learn MoreFall Events
Majestic Mariposas at Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
Through November 10, 2024
Majestic Mariposas at Desert Botanical Garden invites families to get an up-close and unforgettable experience when more than 2,000 native Southwestern butterflies return for the fall butterfly exhibit.
Dog Days at the Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
Through November 23, 2024
Enjoy a “pawsitively” perfect morning stroll with your pup through the Desert Botanical Garden this fall at Dog Days at the Garden.
Music in the Garden: Fall 2024
Desert Botanical Garden
Through November 22, 2024
The Desert Botanical Garden presents a spectacular lineup of talent for the Music in the Garden Fall Concert Series on select Friday evenings in October and November.
Desert Sol at Desert Botanical Garden
Desert Botanical Garden
Through November 12, 2024
Awaken your senses and soothe your soul with the healing power of nature at Desert Botanical Garden. Experience and connect with a variety of cultural and healing traditions from around the world.
Arizona Theatre Company at Tempe Center for the Arts
Tempe Center for the Arts
Through June 29, 2025
Arizona Theatre Company’s 56th Season kicks off its five-show lineup in October 2023 at Tempe Center for the Arts.
Water Lantern Festival at Kiwanis Park
Kiwanis Lake
November 1, 2024 – November 3, 2024
Tempe’s Water Lantern Festival is filled with fun, happiness, hope and great memories you’ll cherish forever. Experience the magic of thousands of lanterns as the soft lights reflect upon the water of Kiwanis Lake in Tempe.
Second Sundays on Mill
Downtown Tempe – Mill Avenue
November 10, 2024 – April 13, 2025
Join Downtown Tempe on the Second Sunday of Nov., Jan., Feb. and Apr. for a monthly outdoor market, featuring live music and entertainment, vendors, pop-ups, activations, seasonal themes and plenty of fun for the entire family.
IRONMAN Arizona
Tempe Town Lake and Tempe Beach Park
November 17, 2024
2024 IRONMAN Arizona kicks off on Nov. 17, 2024, with a single-loop swim in Tempe Town Lake, followed by a challenging three-loop bike course through the Sonoran Desert. It finishes with a spectator-friendly run around Tempe Town Lake and Papago Park.
Tempe Fall Festival of the Arts
Downtown Tempe
December 6, 2024 – December 8, 2024
The Tempe Festival of the Arts offers visitors a distinct shopping experience each fall and spring in Downtown Tempe. More than 300 artist booths line Mill Avenue and the surrounding streets presenting unique, and hand-made artwork.
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Experience the Magic of the Desert Botanical Garden
Step out of the city and into the Sonoran Desert landscapes of the Desert Botanical Garden. Home to more than 50,000 arid plants from deserts around the world — from towering cacti to colorful wildflowers — this magical oasis invites you to immerse yourself in 140 acres of natural beauty.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Tempe
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Tempe with events and experiences honoring Hispanic history and culture.
