After months of suffering in the intense summer heat, Arizona residents are finally reaching the best season of all: fall. Not only does the weather cool to pleasurable 70-80 degree temperatures, but the awaited autumn-themed activities materialize for locals to enjoy as well. Ranging from simple pumpkin patch farms to terrifying Halloween parks, fall in Arizona means a variety of activities anyone can enjoy.

When searching for the ideal pumpkin, local pumpkin patches are a perfect place to explore. Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek and Mother Nature’s Farm in Gilbert appeal to all audiences with attractions in addition to pumpkin picking like tractor rides. These provide families and friends with hours of fun to enjoy the transition of reasons.  

One of the most popular and well-known would be the Arizona State Fair, which takes place from Oct. 7 until Oct. 30 every Wednesday through Sunday. The fair offers a variety of diverse and unusual cuisines that satisfies the greatest fried-aficionado’s dream including Fritos pie chili cheeseburgers and even fried butter. A large ferris wheel in addition to dozens of other attractions can be seen from miles away to bringing the state together.

While the Arizona State Fair provides thrills and food galore, local downtown Gilbert also has its fair share of pleasant autumn pastimes. Hale Centre Theatre, the quaint 350-seat theatre-in-the-round located the hub of Downtown Gilbert, is currently showing plays “You Can’t Take It With You” and “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.” Both are light, comedic performances for everyone in the family to enjoy. “You Can’t Take It With You” is available to see until Nov. 15, while “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” is showing until Nov. 26.

Also located in the bustling scene of Downtown Gilbert is the Gilbert Off the Street Art Festival on Oct. 29. The event, which will last from 10:00 a.m. till 7 p.m., will provide live music, food and artisan vendors, and street performers for all who pass through.

However, if this fall you would like to have a scare, look no further than Fear Farm and Thirteenth Floor in Phoenix. Thirteenth Floor is a haunted house that uses psychological horror to scare attendants with the help of live actors dressed as gory zombies, clowns, and humanoids. A similar thrilling adventure could be found at Fear Farm with five haunted house and corn maze. Both provide attendants with a thrilling adventure as the temperature drops and the seasons change.

All over Arizona, the lowering temperatures and changing seasons can be welcomed by activities across the valley.