Even if the thermometer still needs a little convincing, October is officially here, and that means crisp-air-thinking, weekend road trips, and pumpkin picking season are in full swing across the Valley.

Whether you are looking to find the ultimate jack-o-lantern, lose yourself in a corn maze, or enjoy some festive family time, our local farms and communities have rolled out an incredible lineup for the season. Here is a roundup of the best pumpkin patches and autumn events happening across the Valley, broken down by region so you can plan your next weekend outing!

Scottsdale & Nearby Highlights

• MacDonald’s Ranch Pumpkin Patch (Scottsdale)
• When: October 3 – October 31 (Closed Tuesdays)
• The Vibe: A classic desert-equestrian fall experience right in our backyard. Admission includes a hay-bale maze, lawn games, a petting zoo, gold panning, and pedal cars, with pony rides and train rides available as fun extras.
• Salt River Fields Balloon Spooktacular (Scottsdale)
• When: October 23 – 25
• The Vibe: If you want a twist on traditional trick-or-treating, this event features over 20 glowing hot air balloons handing out candy, a kids' zone, live music, and costume contests.

East Valley Favorites (Mesa, Gilbert & Queen Creek)

• Vertuccio Farms Fall Festival (Mesa)
• When: October 2 – 31
• The Vibe: Celebrating its 28th annual festival with a "Rooted in America" theme. Tackle their massive 5-acre corn maze, try out the ropes course, or let the kids loose on the giant jump pads and slides.
• Mother Nature’s Farm (Gilbert)
• When: September 26 – November 1
• The Vibe: A fantastic, highly-rated spot for younger children. Admission includes a pumpkin to take home, a hayride, an Alexander's Adventure maze, a giant straw-bale maze, and interaction with farm animals.
• Schnepf Farms Pumpkin & Chili Party (Queen Creek)
• When: October 1 – 31 (Open Thursday–Sunday)
• The Vibe: Easily one of the biggest fall festivals in the state. Think 10-acre corn mazes, amusement rides, pig races, live entertainment, bonfires, and of course, their famous bowls of farm chili.

West Valley & Phoenix Destinations

• Tolmachoff Farms Pumpkin Days & Corn Maze (Glendale)
• When: October 1 – 31 (Closed Mondays & Tuesdays)
• The Vibe: A generational family farm offering a massive pumpkin patch, a 6-acre corn maze, a mini-maze for little ones, jumping pillows, and a petting zoo. (And for the brave souls, they host the AZ Field of Screamshaunted maze after dark!)
• Desert Fall Festival (Surprise/Waddell)
• When: September 25 – November 1
• The Vibe: Transforming 13 desert acres into an autumn wonderland featuring a glowing pumpkin scavenger hunt, a 90-foot slide, an excavator dig, and hay-bale archery.
• Harvest Nights at DH Farms (Phoenix)
• When: September 30 – November 1 (Wednesday–Sunday evenings)
• The Vibe: A fantastic evening option if you want to beat the daytime heat. Enjoy a festive night-time walking trail, a kids' straw bale maze, pumpkin decorating stations, and a vibrant fall market.

A Quick Tip Before You Go

Many of these farms offer online ticket discounts or require advance reservations for specific time slots—especially for weekend visits. Be sure to check their official websites before heading out to secure your spot and make the most of the season!