November in Scottsdale is prime time for outdoor fun, cultural events, and seasonal celebrations. With cooler weather and a packed events calendar, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the desert this month. Here are 17 can’t-miss experiences for November in Scottsdale—each with an insider tip to make the most of your visit.
1. 28th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals
Address: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Car lovers, this one’s for you. The Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals bring hundreds of gleaming hot rods, muscle cars, and custom builds to Scottsdale for a three-day celebration of horsepower. In addition to admiring the vehicles, guests can browse vendor booths, meet industry pros, and catch live entertainment. Whether you’re into classic American rides or sleek modern customs, there’s plenty to see and photograph.
Local Tip: Wear sunscreen and a hat—despite the cooler temps, the Arizona sun can be strong during the day, especially on WestWorld’s open grounds.
2. Canal Convergence
Address: Scottsdale Waterfront, 7135 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Every November, the Scottsdale Waterfront transforms into a glowing, interactive art show during Canal Convergence. Massive light installations, fire performances, live music, and dance create an atmosphere that feels part street festival, part art exhibit. This year’s theme, SHOWTIME, blends performance with visual art for a truly immersive experience. The event is free, walkable, and family-friendly—making it an easy evening out for visitors and locals.
Local Tip: Visit after sunset for the most dazzling views, and take time to walk the entire loop so you don’t miss any of the installations.
3. Canine Couture Fashion Show
Address: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
It’s not every day you see dogs dressed to the nines on a runway. As part of the Scottsdale Polo Championships, the Canine Couture Fashion Show combines high fashion with canine charm. Expect creative costumes, enthusiastic owners, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Even if you’re not a dog owner, this feel-good event will have you smiling from ear to ear.
Local Tip: Get there early for a good viewing spot—this event is one of the Polo Championships’ most popular attractions and fills up quickly.
4. Plants & People of the Sonoran Desert Celebration
Address: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Each November, the Desert Botanical Garden hosts a week-long celebration (November 10–16, 2025) highlighting the deep ties between Indigenous communities and the desert landscape. Explore the Plants & People of the Sonoran Desert Trail, where discovery stations reveal traditional uses of desert plants for food, medicine, and crafts. The festival weekend (November 15–16) adds storytelling, music, dance, and artisan demonstrations like basket-weaving and pottery.
Local Tip: Arrive early on festival weekend to enjoy performances and shop for handmade items. Tribal members receive complimentary admission with a Tribal ID or CIB.
5. Family Fun Harvest Festival (7th Annual)
Address: Venue varies—check event listing for details
Celebrate the bounty of the season at this cheerful community festival. With hayrides, a petting zoo, pumpkin decorating, and live entertainment, it’s a perfect outing for families with kids of all ages. Vendors offer food and handmade goods, while seasonal games keep little ones engaged all afternoon.
Local Tip: Check the schedule for specific activity times so you can plan your visit around the events your family will enjoy most.
6. Fall At The Princess
Address: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, 7575 E Princess Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
From late September through early November, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess transforms into a seasonal wonderland. Stroll through themed harvest décor, enjoy pumpkin patch photo ops, roast marshmallows at fire pits, and explore kid-friendly attractions like rides, mazes, and a train that winds through the resort’s festive displays. It’s a family favorite that mixes autumn charm with the Princess’s signature luxury touches.
Local Tip: Visit on a weekday evening for lighter crowds and better photo opportunities at sunset.
7. Scottsdale Culinary Food Tour
Address: Multiple stops in Old Town Scottsdale
This guided walking tour introduces you to some of Old Town Scottsdale’s best restaurants and hidden gems. Along the way, you’ll sample Southwestern specialties, international flavors, and inventive desserts while hearing stories about the city’s culinary history. It’s a great way to try several spots in one afternoon without having to plan your own route.
Local Tip: Arrive hungry and wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking between multiple tasting spots.
8. Scottsdale Farmers Market
Address: 3806 N Brown Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
On Saturday mornings, the Scottsdale Farmers Market buzzes with locals and visitors stocking up on fresh produce, artisanal breads, flowers, and handmade goods. Many vendors offer free samples, so you can taste before you buy. It’s also a great place to grab a coffee and enjoy the community atmosphere.
Local Tip: Bring your own reusable bags—vendors appreciate it, and it makes it easier to carry your finds.
9. Scottsdale Health and Wellness Expo (3rd Annual)
Address: Venue varies by year—check official schedule for details
This one-day event brings together fitness experts, wellness brands, and health practitioners for a day of discovery and inspiration. From yoga demos and nutritional advice to product samples and guest speakers, there’s something for anyone looking to refresh their lifestyle.
Local Tip: Bring a tote bag for all the free samples and informational materials you’ll collect.
10. Scottsdale International Film Festival
Address: Multiple venues in Scottsdale, AZ
For over two decades, this festival has been a cultural highlight of the city’s fall calendar. It features a thoughtfully curated lineup of films from around the world, including dramas, documentaries, and shorts. Special screenings often include Q&A sessions, offering a behind-the-scenes look at filmmaking.
Local Tip: Book tickets early for opening and closing night films—they often sell out quickly and may include special guest appearances.
11. Scottsdale Wine Tasting
Address: Multiple wineries and tasting rooms in Scottsdale, AZ
Arizona’s wine scene is on the rise, and Scottsdale’s tasting rooms are the perfect place to experience it. Many venues offer flights showcasing local varieties, along with small plates to complement the pours. From seasoned wine aficionados to curious beginners, there’s always something new to discover.
Local Tip: Many tasting rooms offer discounted flights before 5 PM—ideal for an early start to your evening.
12. Scottsdale Day of the Dead Bar Crawl – Día de Muertos
Address: Multiple bars in Old Town Scottsdale
Celebrate this colorful tradition with a lively bar crawl featuring themed cocktails, vibrant costumes, and festive music. Many participants wear elaborate face paint, and some venues offer their own Día de Muertos decorations and entertainment.Local Tip: Dress in your best Day of the Dead attire—face painting is often available at the starting venue if you need a last-minute touch.
13. Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra: Legends and Legacy
Address: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Join the Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra for Legends and Legacy: Myth, Heroism, and the American Spirit, the second concert in their six-part American Journey series celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary. Under guest conductor Daren Weissfisch, the program weaves iconic film scores—from Harry Potter and Star Wars—with the overture from Beauty and the Beast and Wagner-inspired grandeur, exploring how mythic storytelling shapes cultural identity and national ideals
Local Tip: Arrive early—settle in before the music begins, and don’t miss the chance to read the pre-concert notes, which offer thoughtful context on how these powerful themes connect across genres and eras.
14. Tamale Workshop
Address: Location varies—check Scottsdale events calendar
Learn to make authentic tamales in this hands-on cooking class. From preparing the masa to wrapping and steaming, you’ll get step-by-step guidance and leave with delicious tamales to enjoy.
Local Tip: Wear an apron or clothes you don’t mind getting messy—tamale making is a hands-on experience.
15. WestWorld Art & Wine Experience at the Scottsdale Bentley Polo Championships
Address: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
This upscale experience pairs the elegance of polo with a curated selection of fine art and wine. Stroll through art exhibits, sample wines from local and national producers, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Polo Championships.
Local Tip: Your Polo ticket often includes access to the art and wine experience—check before buying separate passes.
Where to Stay for the Perfect November Getaway
With so many events and attractions spread across Scottsdale, staying in the right location can make your trip even better. HÓZHÓ Scottsdale offers a curated collection of vacation rentals—ranging from chic condos in Old Town to spacious desert-view estates—so you can be close to your favorite November happenings. From art and food to festivals and sunshine, you’ll find a stylish, comfortable home base just minutes from it all.