The Most Famous Tempe Events: A Guide for Our Vacation Rental Guests

When guests ask us about the best things to do in Tempe, the answer is simple: this city is an events town. From arts festivals and Oktoberfest to fireworks and Broadway shows, Tempe festivals and events keep the calendar full year-round. If you’re planning your stay in a Tempe vacation rental, here’s your insider’s guide to the most famous Tempe events 2025—plus local tips to make your experience unforgettable.

Tempe’s Headliner Festivals & Events

Tempe Festival of the Arts (Spring & Fall)

Twice a year, Mill Avenue becomes one of the Southwest’s premier street fairs. The Tempe Festival of the Arts features hundreds of artists, food and wine gardens, live entertainment, and holiday shopping in December. The next edition runs Dec 5–7, 2025.

Why go: A top-rated art fair with live music and vibrant downtown energy.
Pro tip: Arrive early for cooler weather and easier parking.

Four Peaks Oktoberfest at Tempe Town Lake (October)

This Bavarian-inspired celebration is one of the most famous Tempe festivals and events. From live bands and stein-holding contests to dachshund races and carnival rides, Oktoberfest (Oct 10–12, 2025) offers something for all ages.

Why go: Family fun by day, lively music and beer gardens by night.
Pro tip: Visit on Friday evening for lighter crowds.

Innings & Extra Innings Festivals (February)

Music lovers and baseball fans unite at Tempe Beach Park with back-to-back weekends of live concerts and MLB player appearances. Tempe events 2025 include performances from major headliners and unique sports-meets-music experiences.

Why go: Festival atmosphere plus a baseball twist.
Pro tip: Book your Tempe vacation rental early—these weekends sell out fast.

Cactus League Spring Training (Feb–March)

The Los Angeles Angels call Tempe Diablo Stadium home for spring training. Baseball fans flock here every year to see stars up close in a relaxed desert setting.

Why go: Affordable tickets and intimate ballpark vibes.
Pro tip: Opt for weekday day games for smaller crowds.

Tempe 4th of July Celebration (July)

In 2025, the Independence Day celebration will take place at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Families can expect live music, food vendors, and a grand finale with fireworks and drones.

Why go: A patriotic tradition with updated stadium amenities.
Pro tip: Bring a cooling towel—Arizona summers are hot.

Fantasy of Lights Parades (November & December)

Tempe’s holiday season kicks off with the Street Parade & Tree Lighting (Nov 29, 2025) and continues with the Boat Parade (Dec 13, 2025). Both are free, family-friendly, and filled with seasonal magic.

Why go: Floats, music, Santa, and boats glowing on Tempe Town Lake.
Pro tip: For the Boat Parade, bring a blanket and hot cocoa—it’s desert “winter” perfection.

ASU Gammage Broadway Series (Year-Round)

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, ASU Gammage brings Broadway to Tempe with national tours of hit shows like Moulin Rouge! and Kimberly Akimbo.

Why go: World-class theater right on the ASU campus.
Pro tip: Make a dinner reservation on Mill Avenue before your show.

Best Time to Visit for Tempe Events 2025

Late February–March: Spring Training + Innings/Extra Innings music festivals
October: Four Peaks Oktoberfest
Thanksgiving–December: Fantasy of Lights parades + fall Festival of the Arts
July 4: Tempe Independence Day celebration

No matter the season, there are always things to do in Tempe—from festivals to concerts to cultural attractions.

Local Tips for Guests

Parking & Transit: Use rideshare for downtown events; expect traffic at Tempe Diablo Stadium.
Heat Strategy: Fall and winter are the sweet spot for outdoor fun; summer requires shade and hydration.
Family Picks: Fantasy of Lights, Oktoberfest carnival rides, and day games at spring training.
Accessibility: Most downtown Tempe festivals and events are flat and walkable.

3-Day Event Itinerary

Day 1 – Arts & Culture
Mill Avenue → Tempe Festival of the Arts → dinner downtown → drinks by Tempe Town Lake.

Day 2 – Baseball & Breweries
Brunch → Angels spring training game → craft beer tour → Oktoberfest (seasonal).

Day 3 – Holiday Lights
Morning hike → afternoon shopping → Fantasy of Lights Parade or Boat Parade.

Why Stay in a Tempe Vacation Rental?

Events bring crowds, which means hotels fill quickly. A Tempe vacation rental gives you:

Extra space for families or groups
Full kitchen for pre-event meals
Walkability to downtown and Tempe Town Lake
Local neighborhood experience

Booking a vacation rental ensures you’ll have a comfortable base while enjoying the best Tempe events 2025.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re into arts, sports, music, or holiday magic, Tempe festivals and events make this city an unforgettable destination. Plan your stay around one of these signature happenings and you’ll discover why visitors (and locals) never run out of things to do in Tempe.