Top 10 Fall Events You Won’t Want to Miss in the Verde Valley, Sedona & Cottonwood
Autumn in Northern Arizona is pure magic. The air turns crisp, the colors deepen, and the Verde Valley comes alive with festivals, art, live music, and small-town celebrations. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape or you own a short-term rental in the area, this season is packed with opportunities to enjoy everything that makes our region special.
Here are ten of the best upcoming fall events to explore across Sedona, Cottonwood, and Camp Verde — all perfect to share with guests, family, or friends visiting the Valley.
🍂 1. Ales on Rails — Through October 31
Where: Verde Canyon Railroad, Clarkdale
Craft beer tastings meet vintage rail charm as you ride through the stunning red-rock canyons of the Verde Valley. “Ales on Rails” celebrates local breweries while offering unbeatable fall scenery.
👉 Learn more »
🎉 2. Fort Verde Days — October 18–19
Where: Main Street & Fort Verde State Park, Camp Verde
Step back in time at Camp Verde’s biggest annual event. Enjoy a heritage parade, live music, local vendors, and family-friendly games that honor the town’s Old West roots.
👉 Event details »
🍎 3. Fall Fest at Slide Rock — October 19
Where: Slide Rock State Park, Oak Creek Canyon
Celebrate apple-picking season with orchard tours, fall treats, and classic family fun in one of Arizona’s most beautiful state parks.
👉 See the event »
🖌️ 4. Sedona Plein Air Festival — October 20–26
Where: Sedona Arts Center
Watch nationally recognized artists capture Sedona’s red-rock light in real time. Enjoy public demos, workshops, and art sales all week long.
👉 More info »
🤠 5. Blazin’ M Ranch Fall Festival — October 29–30
Where: Blazin’ M Ranch, Cottonwood
Western-themed fall fun with live music, BBQ, vendors, pumpkin painting, and games — a perfect family outing to wrap up the season.
👉 Get tickets »
🎡 6. Verde Valley Fall Festival — October 24–25
Where: Verde Valley Fairgrounds, Cottonwood
A hometown favorite! Expect live entertainment, crafts, great food, carnival fun, and community spirit under the autumn skies.
👉 View details »
💎 7. Sedona Rock, Gem & Jewelry Show — October 18–19
Where: Sedona
Shop sparkling gems and handcrafted jewelry from talented artisans — the perfect event for collectors or anyone looking for a unique keepsake.
👉 Show info »
🕯️ 8. Sedona Lantern Festival — October 18
Where: Sedona Mago Center for Well-being & Retreat
An unforgettable evening of live music, reflection, and hundreds of glowing lanterns floating on the lake — celebrating peace and community.
👉 Festival details »
🎶 9. Red Dirt Concert Series — Fridays through Early Fall
Where: Posse Grounds Pavilion, Sedona
Wrap up the week with free live music beneath Sedona’s sunset skies. Local bands, laid-back vibes, and that unbeatable red-rock backdrop.
👉 See schedule »
🎬 10. Sedona International Film Festival — October Special Screenings
Where: Various Sedona Venues
This award-winning festival hosts special fall screenings featuring indie films, documentaries, and local premieres throughout October.
👉 Event info »
🍁 Make the Most of Fall in the Verde Valley
Planning a trip to Northern Arizona this fall?
Here are a few ideas to help you — or your guests — enjoy it to the fullest:
Bookmark local event pages and share them on your social channels.
Use hashtags like #VerdeValleyFall, #SedonaEvents, and #CottonwoodFestivals to discover what’s happening.
Time your stay to match an event weekend for a truly local experience.
Explore local wineries, farm markets, and trails to round out the perfect fall getaway.
Stay, Relax & Enjoy the Season with A-Z Stays
When you’re ready to experience the beauty of fall in the Verde Valley, A-Z Stays is here to help. Whether you’re looking for a cozy vacation home near the vineyards or need expert property management for your own short-term rental, our local team makes it effortless.
✨ Book your next stay or learn about our management services at A-ZStays.com — and let us help you fall in love with Northern Arizona all over again.