A guide to fall culinary, beer and wine events

As the temperatures mellow out into double digits, metro Phoenix gets ready for a variety of fall festivals. According to the Oxford Encyclopedia of Food and Drink in America, European immigrants began hosting fall fairs and festivals to promote their agricultural products and animal husbandry. After the industrial revolution drew more people away from farms and into urban areas, the popularity of these festivals waned. By the 20th century, food festivals had surpassed harvest festivals in popularity.

Nowadays, some regional festivals and state fairs still have an agricultural and livestock element, but the main draw for many attendees are the prepared food options. These festivals remain a great way for communities to share their heritage and culture through food. 

Here in the Valley, we have dozens of festivals to choose from this year, ranging from celebrations of particular ingredients to international festivals.

Here’s your guide to all the fall food festivals happening in metro Phoenix and beyond. 

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Arizona State Fair

Celebrate this 133-year-old tradition, which started in 1884 and has been in its current location since 1905. Enjoy music, the circus, magic, $3 food items from noon to 6 p.m. every Friday, farm tours, the great American petting zoo and monster trucks.  

When: Sept. 23 to Oct. 30.

Where: 1826 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix. 602-252-6771.

Tickets and information: $15 for general admission and $30 for VIP. azstatefair.com.