MomSkoop
Fall in Arizona means more than just pumpkin spice—it’s about twinkle lights, glowing jack-o-lanterns, and families strolling under illuminated skies.
Whether you’re chasing tethered hot-air balloons, giant hand-carved pumpkins, or botanical gardens transformed into glowing wonderlands, this list will take you to the best Halloween light experiences in the Grand Canyon State.
Pack the kids, grab a sweater (desert evenings can get chilly), and get ready for luminous fun that keeps the spook mild and the smiles big.
1. Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival
A family outing at the Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival means gliding into Halloween with over 20 glowing hot-air balloons lighting up twilight in the sky at Salt River Fields. These aren’t just for looks—each balloon doubles as a trick-or-treat station, meaning your little ones will bounce from candy stop to balloon glow.
The evening kicks off with the kids’ zone, inflatable fun, and lantern-like balloons rising as night falls. Bonus: there are costume contests, food vendors, and chances to ride tethered balloons if you’re up for a little thrill.
From the moment dusk hits, the atmosphere becomes magical—lights, laughter, candy, and sky-high views. It’s smart to arrive before dark, dress in comfy layers, and bring a stroller if you’ve got younger children—it’s walking-friendly and totally Instagram-worthy.
2. Glowing Pumpkins: A Phoenix Jack-o’-Lantern Adventure
When you arrive at Glowing Pumpkins: A Phoenix Jack-o’-Lantern Adventure at the Riverwalk at Rawhide in Chandler, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a magical pumpkin world. With over 5,000 hand-carved pumpkins, towering sculptures, and immersive light trails, this one is pure visual delight for all ages.
Families can stroll the themed paths—featuring dinosaurs, pop-culture icons, and classic Halloween characters—all lit with special effects and music. There’s even an interactive playground and plenty of photo ops that kids will love.
The light walk takes around 45 to 60 minutes, but you can linger for food trucks, bounce houses, and more. Go early evening for a sunset-plus-lights combo, and wear shoes suitable for the trail. Younger kids will love the sparkle; older ones will appreciate the artistry behind the pumpkin displays.
3. Strange Garden at Desert Botanical Garden
Visiting Strange Garden at the Desert Botanical Garden means entering a weirdly wonderful, illuminated desert-night experience. The garden is transformed with glowing installations, live music, “mad botanist” encounters, and free pumpkins for kids.
You’ll wander among desert plants that suddenly come alive under colorful lights, explore “Buggy Entomologists,” and check out the Pumpkin Patch while sipping coffee or hot cocoa. It’s spooky-fun but easily family-friendly for all ages.
Because it’s outdoors and involves some walking, bring a jacket for the evening chill and plan entry timing so you hit the light show just as darkness falls. It’s perfect for families who want an experience that’s more enchantment than fright.
4. Scarizona “Frights in the Lights” Drive-Thru
There’s something special about watching Halloween lights from the comfort of your car, and Scarizona’s Frights in the Lights drive-thru nails that cozy-creepy mix. The moment you roll in, tunnels of animated pumpkins, dancing ghosts, and towering skeletons burst into motion around you.
Families love that it’s completely contactless and weather-proof. You tune your radio to a matching soundtrack while cruising through synchronized light shows that make the whole car feel part of the performance. Even toddlers get caught up in the spectacle.
It’s the perfect option if you’ve got little ones who don’t love jump-scares. Pack snacks, roll down the windows for the cool air, and enjoy the dazzling glow—all without leaving your seats. You’ll end up with as many photos as candy by the time you exit.
5. Enchanted Pumpkin Garden
Nestled in the heart of Carefree, this event feels like stepping into a fairy-tale village brought to life by pumpkins. The Enchanted Pumpkin Garden showcases intricate jack-o’-lanterns hand-carved into whimsical scenes that glow softly against the desert sky.
Each corner reveals something new—pumpkin towns, grinning pumpkin animals, and even mechanical pumpkin characters that move and talk. It’s a brilliant mix of art, humor, and seasonal magic that captures both kids’ curiosity and adults’ admiration.
As evening falls, twinkling lights illuminate the sculptures, turning the park into a glowing gallery. Stroll slowly, grab some hot cider, and let the kids count how many silly pumpkin faces they can spot. It’s family-friendly, free to visit, and one of those local traditions that never gets old.
6. Pumpkin Fest at the Princess
Luxury meets Halloween fun at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’s Pumpkin Fest. The resort transforms into a glowing autumn wonderland filled with thousands of illuminated pumpkins, hay mazes, and themed zones that light up like a dream.
Families can wander through Pumpkin Plaza, take photos by glowing installations, or hop aboard the “Jack-O-Lantern Express” train that loops through the resort grounds. With carnival rides, laser lights, and plenty of treats, it’s basically a mini theme park with a classy twist.
Because it’s at a resort, expect the details to be impeccable—no muddy shoes or messy lines here. Whether you’re a guest or just visiting for the night, you’ll find it to be one of the most photogenic and kid-friendly Halloween events in Arizona.
7. Halloween Spook-Track-Ula
Kids who love trains (and honestly, adults who never grew out of it) will adore Spook-Track-Ula at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. The park decorates its train route and carousel area with thousands of colored lights, creating a playful Halloween adventure on rails.
Instead of haunted houses, you’ll find a cheery, glowing landscape of pumpkins, cobwebs, and family-friendly characters waving from the sidelines. It’s spooky only in the fun, Disney-level way—nothing that’ll make anyone hide under their seat.
Unlimited rides are included with your ticket, so families can circle back again and again. Bring a light jacket and some hot cocoa for the full cozy experience. By the end of the night, everyone’s grinning and shouting for “just one more ride!”
8. Sedona Lantern Festival
Peaceful yet dazzling, the Sedona Lantern Festival offers a serene alternative to traditional Halloween mayhem. Families gather around the lake at the Mago Center to decorate paper lanterns that glow from within, then release them across the water as night settles over the red rocks.
The scene is breathtaking—hundreds of lights floating like tiny stars mirrored in the still water. It’s less about scares and more about celebration, gratitude, and togetherness, making it perfect for all ages.
Kids love drawing on their lanterns, parents love the calm, and everyone leaves with beautiful photos and even better memories. If you need a break from sugar rushes and haunted houses, this glowing event delivers a moment of reflection wrapped in magic.
9. NIGHTFALL at Old Tucson – “Mission Madness Light Show” + Booville
Arizona’s most famous movie set turns into a full-blown Halloween town every year for NIGHTFALL at Old Tucson, and while much of it is geared toward older visitors, families can still find plenty to enjoy—especially the light shows.
The “Mission Madness” light spectacle transforms the town square into a choreographed dance of lasers, lights, and music that even young kids will be mesmerized by. Earlier in the evening, families can explore Booville, a gentler zone filled with games, characters, and photo ops.
Stick to the light displays and early activities for a fun and not-too-scary night. The blend of history, theater, and glowing visuals makes it one of the most unique Halloween experiences in the state.