Fall in the Valley brings a sharp drop in temperatures and a dense lineup of cultural festivals, athletic showdowns, and holiday productions. According to a seasonal roster published by PHOENIX magazine, the November and December calendar packs ten distinct anchor events into the Phoenix metropolitan area, drawing participants from across the nation to venues ranging from Chase Field to State Farm Stadium.
Polo Matches, Rodeo Stars, and High-Stakes Gridiron
Competitive sports and large-scale entertainment kick off early in November. On November 7, WestWorld of Scottsdale hosts The Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships: Presented by Gila River Resorts and Casinos, featuring international players competing for the Molina Cup alongside Barrett-Jackson collectible car displays and a preview of Scottsdale Fashion Week. Just down the road, runners will gather on November 8 at Biltmore Fashion Park for the 51st Annual Life Time Phoenix Half Marathon and 10K.
Downtown Phoenix shifts into western gear from November 13 through November 15 as Chase Field hosts The Hondo Rodeo Fest. Professional rodeo competitors will take to the dirt, complemented by a concert lineup featuring headliners Tim McGraw, Miranda Lambert, Blake Shelton, and Parker McCollum. Later in the season, the athletic focus moves to the gridiron. On December 30, State Farm Stadium in Glendale plays host to the 56th edition of the VRBO Fiesta Bowl, functioning this year as a College Football Playoff Quarterfinal matchup.
Arts, Home Tours, and Holiday Traditions
Cultural exhibitions and holiday displays anchor the mid-to-late autumn schedule. The Scottsdale Waterfront hosts Canal Convergence from November 6 to November 15, filling public spaces with installations celebrating the American West alongside workshops, music, and dance performances. For home design enthusiasts, the Phoenix Home & Garden 2026 Home Tour runs on November 7, offering self-guided access to private residences with tour stops disclosed to ticketholders on November 6.
Art collectors can look to the 30th Annual Hidden in the Hills artist tour, scheduled across three weekends—November 20-22 and November 27-29. The event features works from over 160 artists across Cave Creek, Carefree, and North Scottsdale. Meanwhile, holiday-themed events arrive in late November and December. The JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa launches Jingle on November 18, running through January 3 with ice sculptures featuring characters from the movie Elf alongside three million Christmas lights. Tempe’s Gammage Auditorium hosts Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical from December 1 to December 6, telling the story from the perspective of Max the dog.
Community Philanthropy and Candlelight Vigils
Community support highlights the end of the calendar year. On December 12, the North High School Courtyard hosts the Ignite Hope Candlelight Celebration. The event benefits Phoenix Children’s Hospital patients through a festival beginning at 3 p.m. followed by a candlelight walk at 5:30 p.m., raising funds for philanthropic programs at the medical center.
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