5 Things to Do Outside This October in Metro Phoenix

With the first days of fall just behind us, October brings with it breezes, changing foliage, and a great reason to go outside. Grab your shoes, because we’re going outside on purpose. To get you started, we’ve compiled a list of five great outdoor events going on this October. Tour...

By Sara Palmer

September 30, 2016

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With the first days of fall just behind us, October brings with it breezes, changing foliage, and a great reason to go outside. Grab your shoes, because we’re going outside on purpose. To get you started, we’ve compiled a list of five great outdoor events going on this October.

Tour de Fat
Saturday, October 1
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tempe Beach Park

Grab your bike and head down to Tempe Beach Park for one of the Valley’s largest cycling events, celebrating its 17th season. The notorious and beloved bike parade starts at 11 a.m., with cyclists suited up in their most creative and unique costumes for a carnival-like procession celebrating bike culture. The fun does not stop there, as the day is filled with vaudeville acts, bike contests, yo-yo performers, musical acts, and much, much more.

Introduction To Outdoor Photography
Thursday, October 13
9 to 11 a.m.
White Tank Mountains Regional Park

Whether you are an aspiring photographer or you just want to take cool outdoor photos with your phone, this is for you. Learn how to determine the best use of light and creative techniques to enhance your outdoor photography in this beginner-friendly course.

Haunted Date Night At The Scottsdale Stadium
Saturday, October 22
6 to 10 p.m.
Scottsdale Stadium

If spooky is your jam, than this one-of-a-kind date night is for you. Bring your friends or significant other for this 21-and-older scare through a haunted Scottsdale Stadium. Entry to the event is free and includes a costume contest with categories including most creative and scariest. There will be an assortment of food trucks along with wine and beer options. The night will end with a movie on the field.

Ghost Story Campfire
Friday, October 28
7 to 9 p.m.
Estrella Mountains Regional Park

Got a great ghost story? Here is your chance to share it under the light of the moon and near the warm flicker of a campfire. Oh yes, and there will be s’mores. Get to Estrella Park for a night out in the wilderness with some spooky stories.

Haunted Half Marathon, 5K, and Kids Run
Saturday, October 29
7 a.m.
San Tan Regional Park

Whether you’re looking to run the distance or just have a little fun, these haunted jaunts will take you on a spooky scramble through Phoenix. The half marathon starts at 7 a.m. at San Tan Regional Park, ending at Crossroads Towne Center. At 7:45 a.m. the 5K fun run will begin, where participants will come dressed up to compete in the costume contest. The kids loop (for those ages 14 and under) starts at 10:30 a.m. with costumes and a half-mile loop ending under a jack-o-lantern arch.

Sara Palmer is a local improviser, writer, teacher, and storyteller. You can commonly find her exploring the surrounding wilderness areas of Phoenix.

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