November in Phoenix and Scottsdale is the perfect time to soak up the beautiful Arizona weather, embrace the holiday season, and enjoy all the fun fall activities happening around town! From festive markets and Thanksgiving celebrations to outdoor festivals, live entertainment, holiday shopping, and seasonal events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're planning a girls' day out, a family-friendly adventure, or a fun weekend with friends, November is filled with exciting ways to make the most of the season. Grab your favorite seasonal drink, enjoy the cooler temperatures, and check out some of the best local events happening around Phoenix and Scottsdale this November!
Life Time Phoenix Half Marathon / 10K| Nov 8
The Phoenix 10K & Half Marathon is back for its 51st year on Sunday, November 8th, 2026! Whether you're an experienced runner or just looking for a fun way to get active, this annual Phoenix tradition has something for everyone. Choose from four races, including a Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and the Mollen Mile for Kids. The races start and finish near Biltmore Fashion Park, taking participants through some of Phoenix's most scenic neighborhoods. Runners can enjoy the beautiful November weather, a fun community atmosphere, and race-day perks like finisher medals, official race shirts, and refreshments. Grab your running shoes, invite your friends or family, and get ready for a memorable morning! Registration is available online.
🎟️ Tickets start at $70 - Grab your tickets here! Use code: PHX26ANDREA for $10 off.
11th Annual Downtown Phoenix Pizza Festival| Nov 14-15
Calling all pizza lovers! 🍕 The Phoenix Pizza Festival is back for its 11th year on November 14th & 15th, 2026, at Margaret T. Hance Park in Downtown Phoenix! This two-day festival brings together some of Arizona’s favorite local pizzerias, serving up everything from classic slices and wood-fired pizzas to unique pizza creations and delicious Italian-inspired treats. Enjoy live music, local craft beer, wine, a vendor market, and a kids' zone, making it the perfect weekend outing for friends, couples, and families! The festival runs Saturday from 11 AM–6 PM and Sunday from 11 AM–4 PM. Tickets must be purchased online in advance, and food and drinks are sold separately. Don't miss this delicious Downtown Phoenix tradition!
🎟️ Tickets starting at $21.82 - Grab your tickets here! Use code: SWS for $5 off
Canal Convergence 2026 | Nov 6-15
Get ready for one of Scottsdale’s most magical events of the year! ✨ Canal Convergence returns to the Scottsdale Waterfront November 6–15, 2026, for 10 nights of stunning large-scale art installations, interactive experiences, live music, dance performances, workshops, and family-friendly activities! This year’s theme, “Western Nature,” celebrates the beauty and elements of Arizona and the Southwest through art and community. Whether you're planning a date night, a family outing, or a fun evening with friends, this is one November event you won't want to miss!
🎟️ Admission is completely FREE!
Dreamy Draw Music Festival| Nov 7-8
Calling all country and indie music lovers! 🤠🎶 The Dreamy Draw Music Festival is expected to return to Scottsdale this November, bringing together live music, art, and the beautiful Arizona desert atmosphere! Held at the Scottsdale Civic Center in Old Town Scottsdale, this two-day festival celebrates a mix of country, Americana, folk, and indie music, creating the perfect weekend for music lovers. Attendees can look forward to an outdoor festival atmosphere filled with live performances, local food and drinks, art, and plenty of Western-inspired vibes. Grab your cowboy boots, round up your friends, and get ready for a weekend of music under the Arizona skies!
🎟️ Tickets starting at
Kierland Fine Art and Wine Festival| Nov 7-8
The Kierland Fine Art & Wine Festival is returning to Kierland Commons in Scottsdale on November 7th & 8th, 2026, for a weekend filled with art, wine, live music, and beautiful Arizona weather! 🎨🍷 Stroll through the outdoor shopping center while exploring unique artwork from over 100 local and national artists, enjoying live entertainment, and sipping on delicious Arizona wines. Wine lovers can purchase a special Willcox Wine Country tasting experience, which includes 10 wine tastings and a commemorative glass. The festival runs from 10 AM–5 PM both days! Whether you're planning a girls' day out, a date, or a relaxing weekend with friends, this is the perfect way to enjoy Scottsdale's fall season!
🎟️ Admission is FREE!
42nd Annual Thanksgiving Day Parade| Nov 26
Kick off Thanksgiving morning with one of Fountain Hills' most beloved holiday traditions! 🦃🍂 The Fountain Hills Thanksgiving Day Parade is back for its 42nd year on Thursday, November 26th, 2026, from 9:30–10:45 AM along the Avenue of the Fountains! This family-friendly celebration brings the community together for a festive morning filled with colorful floats, marching bands, classic cars, dance performances, and plenty of holiday cheer. This year's theme, "Happy Birthday America!", celebrates America's 250th anniversary with a patriotic twist! Plus, don't miss a special appearance by Santa Claus himself to officially kick off the holiday season. Grab your family, bundle up for the cooler morning weather, and enjoy this Thanksgiving tradition before heading home for your holiday feast!
🎟️ Best of all, admission and parking are completely FREE!
Stay tuned for what I get up to this month, follow along @southwestsampler!