Updated August 25, 2026
Best Events This September
September is when Phoenix starts to exhale. While the desert heat hasn’t fully let go, evenings grow noticeably cooler, the monsoon season begins to wind down, and the Valley’s fall calendar comes roaring to life. Football kicks off, baseball heads into its home stretch, and weekend events invite everyone back outside. Here’s what’s happening in the Phoenix area this September.
First Friday Art Walk
When: Fri., Sept. 4 | 6–10 p.m. | Downtown Phoenix
One of the country’s largest self-guided monthly art walks, featuring more than 70 galleries, restaurants, and creative spaces across downtown Phoenix. It’s free, all-ages, and one of the best ways to experience the energy and culture of the city’s arts district.
Coconino County Fair
When: Sept. 4–7 (Labor Day Weekend) | Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff
The 77th Annual Coconino County Fair makes for a perfect Labor Day Weekend escape from the Valley heat — Flagstaff sits at 7,000 feet and runs significantly cooler in September. Expect carnival rides, live bands daily, livestock shows, fine arts competitions, and classic fair food. This year’s fair also marks four milestones: the Route 66 centennial, Coconino County’s 135th anniversary, 25 years of Flagstaff’s Dark Sky designation, and America 250. About 1.5 hours north of Phoenix on I-17.
ASU Sun Devils Fall Sports
When: Throughout September | Mountain America Stadium & Sun Devil Athletics Venues, Tempe
Sun Devil Football opens its 2026 home schedule on Sat., Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. against Morgan State at Mountain America Stadium — the program’s first night-game home opener since 2015. Fall also brings ASU volleyball, women’s soccer, and cross country into action across campus. Tickets and schedules for all fall sports are available at thesundevils.com.
Labor Day: Grill at the Mill
When: Mon., Sept. 7 | 11 a.m.–5 p.m. | Queen Creek Olive Mill, 25062 S. Meridian Rd., Queen Creek
Queen Creek Olive Mill’s annual Labor Day celebration features grill-inspired food, live music, lawn games in the olive grove, and all-day Olive Oil 101 tours. Free admission — food and drinks are charged separately. A relaxed, family-friendly way to close out the long weekend in the East Valley.
Rodeo Scottsdale
When: Sept. 11–13 | WestWorld of Scottsdale Equidome Arena
Professional PRCA rodeo action held inside WestWorld’s climate-controlled indoor arena — making it one of the most comfortable rodeo experiences in the state. Friday and Saturday evening performances start at 7 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Gates open two hours before each show.
Ales on Rails – Verde Canyon Railroad
When: Sept. 13–Oct. 31, select dates | Verde Canyon Railroad Depot, Clarkdale (2 hrs. from Phoenix)
A standout fall day trip from the Valley — sample Arizona craft beers on the outdoor depot pavilion before boarding Verde Canyon Railroad for a four-hour scenic journey through one of Arizona’s most stunning canyons. Tickets include beer tastings, lunch, and a souvenir cup. This one sells out in advance, so book early. Must be 21+ for beer tasting.
The Phantom of the Opera – ASU Gammage
When: Sept. 16–Oct. 4 | ASU Gammage, 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe
Cameron Mackintosh’s revitalized new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical returns to ASU Gammage to open the 2026–27 Broadway season. Breathtaking sets, Maria Björnson’s iconic original design, and the most famous chandelier in theater history — a must-see for any theater fan in the Valley.
Arizona Diamondbacks
When: Throughout September | Chase Field, Downtown Phoenix
The D-backs head into their postseason push with a loaded home schedule at Chase Field, including a marquee three-game series against the New York Yankees (Sept. 18–20). Late-season baseball in downtown Phoenix where every game carries playoff stakes — and Chase Field’s retractable roof keeps it cool no matter the weather.
Arizona Cardinals Home Opener
When: Sun., Sept. 20 | State Farm Stadium, Glendale
The Cardinals open their 2026 home schedule under new head coach Mike LaFleur with an NFC West showdown against the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. A high-energy start to football season at State Farm Stadium — and the perfect reason to finally break out the red.
Desert Fall Festival
When: Sept. 25–Nov. 1 | Nightly from 5 p.m. | 14470 W. Tierra Buena Ln., Surprise
Thirteen acres of family-friendly fall fun in the West Valley — featuring The Big Dig (kids can operate real industrial excavators), a glowing pumpkin scavenger hunt, ziplines, apple cannons, s’mores fire pits, and dozens of photo ops. A great new fall tradition for all ages, open Wednesday through Sunday evenings starting September 25.
Desert Botanical Garden – Garden After Dark
When: Select evenings through Sept. 30 | 1201 N. Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix
Twelve all-new light installations illuminate the Garden’s trails after dark, with cooling colors and designs inspired by the monsoon season. Saturday mornings also feature Dog Days of Summer — early morning access for dogs and their people through September 26.
Arizona Science Center
When: Open daily | 600 E. Washington St., Downtown Phoenix
Five floors of hands-on science exhibits, planetarium shows, and IMAX films make this a go-to destination for families any day of the month. A reliable, air-conditioned adventure that works for all ages.
Roosevelt Row Arts & Farmers Market
When: Every Sunday in September | Roosevelt Row, Downtown Phoenix
Local produce, handmade goods, and art in the heart of Phoenix’s creative district. A casual, walkable Sunday morning tradition the whole family can enjoy.
Phoenix Rising FC
When: September Home Games | Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex
Phoenix’s professional soccer club plays through the fall home stretch at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex. Fast-paced action, an electric fan atmosphere, and affordable tickets make it a great night out for families and sports fans looking for something a little different.
