As we move further into October we are finally watching the weather cool down, which means its time to look for new activities in this transition. Below you’ll find a list of the various activities happening in and around Sierra Vista in the upcoming weeks to enjoy the weather and festivities that happen this time of the year.
Ramsey Canyon Preserve
Ramsey Canyon Preserve is the number one place to go this fall if you’re chasing autumn sights. The leaves are turning and everywhere you look, you’ll see bright splashes of orange, yellow, and red. That being said, here are a few things you can do when you visit:
- A refreshing hike
- Picnic (make sure after you’re done you leave no trace!)
- Pick up fresh pie from Ramsey Canyon Inn
Fall Thursday Night Concert Series
Every Thursday in Veteran’s Memorial Park you can catch a band playing from 5:30PM-6:30PM. You can check the City of Sierra Vista calendar to see which bands are playing and when. Grab a blanket, hot cider or hot cocoa, and enjoy some fantastic music and vibes.
Wine Tour
Roll your windows down to feel that cool, windy breeze, and make your way to any or all of the various wineries in Elgin and Sonoita. Pack a cooler and after you enjoy some local wines, head for an afternoon by Parker Canyon Lake. If you’d like a comprehensive itinerary, you can pick one up from the Sierra Vista Visitor Center or download the Adventure Guide.
Apple Picking/Pumpkin Patch Visit
If you’re looking for the apple picking and pumpkin patch experience, a quick drive east to Willcox is where you do it! Apple Annie’s Orchard is beautiful, especially this time of the year. Pick your choice of apples, walk through the pumpkin patch, and take a look at some incredible goods that are sold on site.
Willcox Wine Country Fall Festival, October 18TH at 6PM- October 20TH at 5PM
If you end up going to Willcox this weekend to visit Apple Annie’s Orchard, you’re in luck because the Willcox Wine Country Fall Festival is also taking place. Willcox Wine Country is recognized as Arizona’s premier wine region with their exceptional wine quality, and their Fall Festival is legendary.
Haunted Hayride, October 18- October 19, 6PM-10PM
This Friday kicks off the annual Haunted Hayride event that happens on Fort Huachuca at Wren Arena. Hayride tickets are restricted to military CAC ID card holders, however vendors, the haunted house, and children’s activities are open to the public. To get access to Fort Huachuca, head to the Van Deman Gate to get a gate pass.
Spooky Frida’s Flower Market, October 18TH, 5PM-8PM
Frida’s Studio Floral Design is hosting local vendors this Friday with a spooky themed market. Those attending are encouraged to wear a Halloween Costume and enjoy the night with friends and family. You can find out more information here.
Dusk with the Dead, October 19TH, 5:30PM-7:30PM
Traverse the historic Fry Pioneer Cemetery where actors, on site at the graves of those who they are portraying, share the untold stories of people who helped to build and shape our early community. The event will feature a 20 to 30 minute walking tour of the cemetery and light refreshments.
Craft and Business Fair, October 19TH, 10AM-3PM
This Saturday at the Mall at Sierra Vista, one can find an incredible craft and business fair. Hosted by Cochise Crafters, this event lasts five hours, and will be perfect for you to get a head start on your holiday shopping.
Flora Monthly Market, October 20TH, 10AM-3PM
The Flora Monthly Market will be Halloween themed this Sunday! Maybe after you take an early morning walk up in Ramsey Canyon, head into town and see what the incredible vendors at Flora’s will have to offer.
Haunted Union, October 25TH, 5:30PM-9PM
Cochise College is hosting their annual Haunted Union, Friday, October 25TH, in their Student Union on the Sierra Vista campus. The event is open to all ages, students and public are invited to enjoy carnival games, costume contests, and food. Tickets are $0.50 each to use at the carnival booths. The info and ticket booth will be in the Library Commons (Building 900).
Pumpkin Plunge, October 26TH, 8:30AM-11:30AM
Head to The Cove next Saturday to experience their first floating pumpkin patch. Swim into the fun and grab the pumpkin you like best before taking it to a decorating station to paint and color. Cost is $10 a person, with children under 10 needing to be accompanied by an adult. This fun experience is sure to be one to remember!
Third Annual Spooktacular Bash, October 26TH, 5PM
The Bash, at the Old Door Shop, is bigger and better than ever with a fabulous dinner by Pizzeria Mimosa, appetizers by West End Catering, Keeling Schaefer wines, Bone Dry craft beers, and Buena Culinary Chef’s creative deserts. The Band Wanted is playing, there will be a silent auction, a costume contest, and dancing. The event costs $60 and goes to help the Sierra Vista Unified School District and their students.
The Autumn Craft and Vendor Fair, October 26TH, 9AM-3PM
Taking place at the Salvation Army Sierra Vista Corps, the Autumn Craft and Vendor Fair is featuring several artisans from Southern Arizona. Clothing, jewelry, books, aprons, wood crafts, soaps, greeting cards, photography, candles, and more will be available! They will also be collecting canned goods and cereal.
Trick or Treat at The Sierra Vista Mall, October 26TH, 10AM-5PM
Take your kids to the mall dressed in their Halloween best to trick or treat with 45+ vendors. These vendors will also have items for sale, so while the kids are getting candy, you can browse and shop around. Good autumnal fun for all!
Hallowine, October 26TH, 11AM
Take a scenic drive out to Sonoita to carve pumpkins, try wine and candy pairings, sing karaoke, and partake in a costume contest, hosted by AZ Hops and Vines. Wine, candy, and a nice drive is the perfect way to spend a fall day.
Small Business Market 1ST Saturdays, November 2ND, 10AM-5PM
The first Saturday of every month, a variety of small businesses set up shop in the mall to showcase their products. On Saturday, November 2ND, make your way to the mall and check out the vendors. After you get some shopping done, you can pick up some food from the food court and head to one of the parks around town for a picnic to enjoy your afternoon.
Patterson Observatory Night, November 7TH, 6PM
Stargazing is always a nice fall activity to do, especially on a chilly night. On this night, take your stargazing to a new level at the Patterson Observatory. Admission is free, but space is limited, so make sure you register beforehand. The event is weather dependent and if the sky is partially cloudy, visitors should check the recording at (520) 458-8278 X 2214 for a cancellation notice.
Yellowstone Days, November 8TH – November 9TH, 1PM-4PM
Channel your Western dreams and reserve a spot at the Buffalo Corral Riding Stables for an adventure like no other. For those 7 years old and up, you can get a one hour scenic guided trail ride, a dummy roping lesson, souvenir branding, and a steak dinner OR for ages 2-6, a 15 minute pony lead around, dummy roping lessons, souvenir branding, and a kids dinner. If the full Yellowstone experience doesn’t interest you, but you’ve got your 2-6 year old doing the above, you can just buy a dinner ticket for yourself and have a good time. Make your reservations by November 1ST by calling (520) 533-5220.
While this list is jam-packed with fun adventures and activities for all, please know that this is only the tip of the iceberg. Searching for new things to do can be overwhelming, and it’s always easy to say there’s nothing to do. But I can assure you that there are more events going on in the coming months that aren’t on this list. Branch out and see what else is going on, and enjoy the beginning of this holiday season!
Exploring Sierra Vista 