As the nights begin to cool, Americans set out their pumpkins on the porch, and the Valley has come alive. Halloween is mere days away, and across the country, Americans are ready to spend over 13 billion on Halloween festivities and traditions. In the Valley of the Sun, Halloween isn’t just a day on the calendar, but a fun and frightful experience. From wholesome pumpkin patches to haunted houses, Arizona is ready to offer something for every Halloween lover.
1. Pumpkin Fest at the Princess – Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Kicking off our list with one of the most enchanting autumn celebrations is The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, which transforms from a luxurious hotel and resort into a fall wonderland for its annual Pumpkin Fest. The resort describes it as “bigger, better, and just across East Princess Boulevard… under starlit desert skies.” The event features a 224,000 square ft area, including a giant 12 ft tall pumpkin, a hay maze, slides, and rides. Vintage farm trucks, photo ops, a cider orchard, and jack-o’-lanterns are also mentioned. One visitor described it as “a wonderful option for families with younger kids or anyone wanting a taste of fall without terror.” The Princess continues their seasonal festivities with “Christmas at the Princess,” similarly famous and family-friendly.
Location: 7575 E Princess Dr., Scottsdale, AZ 85255.
2. Halloween Town Pumpkin Patch – Gilbert
Next up on our list is the quintessential pumpkin patch experience. According to the site, “Adventure awaits for every age. Get ready to be magically transported into the fun of Halloween … with rides, games, and other attractions”. Some highlights include face painting, pumpkin painting, and picking pumpkins. One reviewer says, “Friendly staff, entertaining characters like Snow White and Spiderman, fun games with guaranteed prizes.” The Halloween Town Pumpkin Patch radiates small-town joy and is a strong option for families desiring a relaxed and wholesome fall experience.
Location: 4500 E Orchid Ln, Gilbert, AZ
3. Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival – Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
Moving now into the moderately spooky but still family-friendly events, this balloon festival offers a unique twist to normal Halloween festivities. From the event’s description, 20+ tethered hot air balloons act as trick-or-treat stations, and 4,000+ pounds of candy are handed out.
In addition, there is a free Kids Zone with 30+ inflatable slides/attractions. Arrive early to see the balloon glow before it begins deflating. This festival is a fun way to celebrate Halloween and a great way for families wanting to experience the Halloween magic in a new way.
Location: 7555 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
4. Howl-O-Ween Dog Costume Contest – Held Throughout the Valley
Americans spend over a billion dollars each Halloween on costumes for their dogs alone, and nowhere celebrates better than the Valley’s Howl-O-Ween Dog costume contest. From the Sleepy Whale in Chandler to dog-friendly breweries in Phoenix, their events consist of adorable pups in costumes, prizes, and often rescue dogs looking for a loving home. This contest is a lighthearted way to celebrate Halloween without leaving out your furry friends. As one attendee writes, “A great pick for dog owners, families, and anyone who wants cute over creepy.”
5. Scarizona Scaregrounds
Moving up on the scare factor, Scarizona Scaregrounds has been in operation for decades and bills itself as Arizona’s “mecca of fear.” Winning the 2024 award for highest rated cast, Scarizona Scaregrounds features elaborate sets, live actors, and enough jump scares to flinch even the bravest of visitors. A Facebook reviewer says, “The coolest, most impressive haunted house experience I’ve ever enjoyed! They really went above and beyond, the actors were great!” Recommended for ages 12 and up, Scarizona Scaregrounds is the ultimate adrenaline rush for those who like their Halloween on the spookier side.
Location: 1901 N Alma School Rd, Mesa, AZ 85201.
6. Fear Farm Haunted Fairgrounds – Scottsdale 
Last on our list is the Valley’s heavyweight of horror: Fear Farm. Phoenix New Times describes Fear Farm as “complete with massive sets, a corn maze, and (of course) chainsaws.” Themes for the new 2025 location include: Descent into Darkness, Carnage 3D, Rise of the Kraken, and The Bloodshed. Fear Farm is one of the largest haunted attractions in the Valley, a nd best if you’re gunning for serious scares. Make sure to plan accordingly with tickets and realistic expectations for lines.
Location: 1475 N McClintock Dr., Scottsdale
From toddlers painting pumpkins to adrenaline-seeking thrill hounds, the Halloween season in Arizona offers a diverse spectrum from friendly to frightful. Even here at PCDS, our own traditions bring the spirit close to home, including costume dress-up and the annual Halloween tradition where upper schoolers throw candy at the costumed middle schoolers parading through the quad. Halloween isn’t just about pumpkin patches or haunted houses, but the shared connections, laughter, joy, and magic that it radiates. In the Valley of the Sun, the nights may stay warm, but the chills of Halloween never miss.
