When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
Scottsdale Fair & Festival
Why Scottsdale Fair & Festival is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Scottsdale Fair & Festival, held annually at WestWorld Scottsdale, is a vibrant event perfect for families, friends, and thrill-seekers looking to create memorable moments together. Spanning over ten days from late April to early May, it offers a variety of attractions designed to entertain all age groups. Visitors can enjoy state-of-the-art thrill rides ranging from gentle kiddie rides to heart-pounding roller coasters, ensuring excitement for everyone. Beyond rides, the festival features a wide selection of mouthwatering fair foods—from classic carnival treats to unique local specialties—that satisfy any craving. Attendees can also test their skills and luck at numerous carnival games scattered throughout the fairgrounds. The festival’s entertainment lineup includes live shows like the Rastelli Circus, Puppys Pals performances, and the exciting One Wheel Wonder, providing a diverse range of engaging experiences. With a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, the Scottsdale Fair & Festival is an ideal spot to meet up with friends or family and enjoy a full day of fun, laughter, and shared joy in a lively outdoor setting. The event also offers free admission days for City of Scottsdale employees and occasional promotional free entry, adding to its accessibility and appeal.
Here's what people think of Scottsdale Fair & Festival
As of recent, Scottsdale Fair & Festival holds a 3.2-star rating based on 20 reviews.
Reviews of the Scottsdale Fair & Festival present a mixed picture with an overall rating of 3.2 out of 5 from around 20 reviewers. Positive feedback often highlights the variety and quality of rides and entertainment options available, noting that the event is well-suited for families with children. Visitors appreciate the fair's friendly environment and the opportunity to enjoy multiple shows and engaging activities all in one place. Many also mention the delicious and diverse food selection as a definite highlight that enhances the festive experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to issues such as pricing concerns, with some feeling that ticket and wristband costs for rides were high relative to the experience. Other criticisms include occasional long wait times, overcrowding on busy days, and some rides having restrictions that can disappoint younger children or smaller groups. A few reviews also mentioned the event’s cleanliness and organization could be improved during peak hours. Overall, while the Scottsdale Fair & Festival has much to offer, prospective visitors should be prepared for some logistical challenges. Despite this, it remains a beloved seasonal event where many families and friends come together for entertainment and fun.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
jedwardswanson
My wife and I had a wonderful time. Food was fresh, rides were great, and the entire fair grounds were spotless. We enjoyed the Birdman, Circus performances, sea lions, dog show, and unicyclist. They were all fun to watch and free with admission! All of the employees were very friendly. $10 cash to park. Short walk. $35 unlimited rides wristband. Good value.
Rebecca ClarkGravley
I mean, I thought it was a fun time! Though, I thought the way the set it up was dumb. You had to walk all the way around the vendors to get to the ride wrist machines. It was $20 to enter as an adult, and my 2 year old was free. Ride bracelets are $55 a piece. I’m not sure how much credits were. I paid $9 cash for a root beer float. I paid $18 card for orange chicken. The rides were a blast, as I was able to come back later in the evening to go with my husband. The Ferris wheel was a bit sketch. The log ride was pretty dope. The musical “cars” had bubbles blowing at you and this one didn’t go backwards. Others I’ve been on went backwards. I feel like I definitely got my moneys worth as far as the wristbands go. They have a seal/sea lion show, and I thought that was pretty cool!
Jessica
My family and I had an amazing time. You have choices on food and everyone sells lemonade. There’s a water slide ride, bird show, horse trick show, seal show, unicycle show and the circus. Lol. All included in just being there. Nice staff at the rides even though no one spoke English and food crew were nice. Admission is $20/adult and $10/child. $10 cash to park $12 if card is used. Find close parking cause if not you’ll have to walk far. The Ferris wheel was a bit crazy asking for $50 but it’s for 3 people. Lol. But overall great time and I’d come back next year. This is Scottsdale city fair first year so I did not expect it to be a lot or well put together because nothing is well put together the first time around. What I did not expect is to immediately walk into the fair and see vendors before I got to the rides and food. I did not like the fact that every other booth was yelling at me trying to get me to try their product or purchase their product no is no and if I change my mind on my way back out then great. Some vendors were even unprofessional playing football in the walkway where us customers are supposed to walk and feel safe. The professionalism of some of the vendors was not OK. I really hope that the people that run this fair is watching and keeping notes of the vendors that are not being professional. It really does bring down the value of what they are trying to bring to Scottsdale. I hope next year when they have another city fair that the vendors are mixed in with the fair and not the very first thing that I see when I walk in. 4 stars for me
Ginebra Candiotti
It was fun but expensive. A little too much. I paid 30 to get in 12 in parking and 110 for two u limited bracelets. Oh and $18 for a chicken in a stick. So that’s a total of almost $200 for two. The bracelets would be worth it if they included the other games were you win prices but those are $10 for each try. So the unlimited is only for the mechanical rides. I didn’t like that. Place was decent tho. Rides were fun and well run. It wasn’t too packed but also not empty. I don’t know if I’d go again tho.
Phil Ramos
The layout seemed good, but they need more ticket machines. Food was good and not as expense as the State Fair. All of the rides were like new condition and my kids had a good time. The wristbands were pricey and $50 for two to ride the Ferris Wheel was ridiculous, that was why not many were on it!!
How to reach Scottsdale Fair & Festival
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Why Scottsdale Fair & Festival may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Scottsdale Fair & Festival with your friends? If you're looking for a lively, vibrant setting that blends thrilling rides, delicious food, and entertaining games, Scottsdale Fair & Festival offers a perfect venue to gather with friends or family. The festival brings together a diverse range of attractions designed to cater to all ages, making it an inclusive spot where everyone can share fun experiences and create lasting memories. Whether thrill seekers, food lovers, or casual strollers, the festival’s atmosphere encourages socializing, laughter, and a spontaneous sense of adventure. It’s a chance to escape routine and revel in the energetic buzz of carnival rides and festive games, offering plenty of photo-worthy moments and conversation starters. With its seasonal schedule, the festival feels like a special event rather than just another outing, providing a dynamic backdrop to reconnect and celebrate friendship or family bonds in a setting that’s as exciting as it is friendly.
What kind of activities can groups expect at Scottsdale Fair & Festival? The festival features a range of rides tailored to various age groups and thrill levels, ensuring that everyone in your party will find something fun. For younger children, there are gentle, kid-sized rides suitable for those above 36 inches tall, often allowing parents to join in for a shared experience. For adrenaline lovers, the festival boasts state-of-the-art thrill rides that spin, soar, and whirl, creating moments of exhilaration that are even better when enjoyed with friends cheering each other on. Carnival games are plentiful, providing friendly competitive opportunities to test skills like ring toss or balloon darts, with prizes that add an element of fun achievement to your visit. Additionally, the fair offers engaging live shows that range from entertaining performances to interactive demonstrations, perfect for downtime between rides or when you want to relax and be amused together. Through these varied activities, groups can easily fill an entire day with laughter, excitement, and shared adventures.
Why is Scottsdale Fair & Festival the perfect place for a group meetup? The spacious layout and diverse offerings allow groups to split up for different activities and then regroup without losing the festive spirit. The festival encourages exploration but remains easy to navigate, with clear signage between zones such as kids’ rides, thrill rides, and food areas. Sharing meals is a highlight here, thanks to an extensive selection of classic fair foods — from savory treats like corn dogs and funnel cakes to refreshing beverages and snacks that cater to a range of tastes. Meeting up at the food tents fosters social interaction and a chance to compare ride stories or plan the next group activity. Additionally, the festival atmosphere, enhanced by music and lively crowds, makes just walking around feel like an event, promoting spontaneous conversations and bonding. Group discounts and ticket packages add to the convenience, making it affordable and simple to organize a fun outing that's accessible for everyone.
How does Scottsdale Fair & Festival accommodate all ages in a group? One of the festival’s main strengths is its family-friendly approach combined with attractions that thrill older kids and adults alike. There is a dedicated section of gentle rides for toddlers and small children that meet specific height requirements to ensure safety and fun. Parents or guardians often have the option to accompany their kids on these rides, which helps keep everyone involved and comfortable. For teenagers and adults, the cutting-edge thrill rides raise the stakes with higher speeds and more daring maneuvers. The festival balances the intensity of rides with slower-paced activities such as midway games and live shows, so no group member feels left out. This multi-generational appeal encourages families and mixed-age groups to come together, share experiences, and make sure everyone has a fantastic time regardless of age or thrill tolerance.
What food options make Scottsdale Fair & Festival a great spot for friends and family to gather? Food is a highlight of any fair, and Scottsdale Fair & Festival does not disappoint with its mouthwatering offerings. Classic American fair food staples feature prominently, including funnel cakes, corn dogs, popcorn, and cotton candy, evoking nostalgic memories and satisfying cravings for comfort treats. Beyond the sweets and snacks, there are savory options to suit different preferences, making it easy for large groups to find something everyone will enjoy. Food stands and trucks are strategically placed throughout the fairgrounds, allowing friends and family to easily meet up for meals without having to stray far from the rides and activities. The overall food experience encourages sharing and mingling over casual bites, enhancing the communal vibe of the festival and giving attendees another reason to linger, chat, and savor the day together.
Where is Scottsdale Fair & Festival held, and how accessible is it for a group? The festival takes place in the spacious WestWorld of Scottsdale, located at 16601 North Pima Road in Scottsdale, Arizona. This venue is well-known for hosting large-scale events, providing ample parking, easy access from major roads, and layout that supports moving around in groups comfortably. The open, festival-style setting allows for a relaxed pace where people can stroll side by side, making it easy to coordinate where to meet up or split into smaller clusters based on interests. Its location in Scottsdale makes it an accessible option for locals and visitors alike. Public amenities, such as restrooms and shaded seating areas, further enhance comfort for groups, ensuring that an outing here remains enjoyable throughout the day.
How do tickets and admission work for group visits to Scottsdale Fair & Festival? Everyone entering the fair requires an admission ticket, with children aged four and under typically admitted for free, which is helpful for families with young children. Those who want to go on rides need an additional ride wristband or can purchase individual tickets per ride, allowing groups flexibility depending on their preferences and budget. Tickets and wristbands can be purchased online ahead of time for convenience or at booths throughout the fair. This system reduces wait times and helps groups plan their visit smoothly, avoiding unnecessary delays. Furthermore, City of Scottsdale employees can enjoy free entry on specific weekdays with valid identification, making it an attractive option for locals to organize weekday meetups.
What special events or shows enhance the experience at Scottsdale Fair & Festival? Alongside the rides and games, the festival often features live entertainment such as concerts or tribute shows, adding another layer of excitement to the event. For example, past festivals have hosted tribute concerts that add a musical dimension, encouraging groups to gather not just for rides but also shared cultural experiences. These performances provide natural gathering points and create vibrant atmospheres perfect for selfies, group photos, and social media sharing. The lineup of entertainment can vary by year, and these showcases appeal to a variety of tastes, from music lovers to families looking to enjoy colorful, engaging acts. Such events enrich the festival atmosphere, giving your meetup event more variety and moments to remember.
How does the Scottsdale Fair & Festival encourage social interaction within groups? The festival’s design and range of activities promote connection and conversation. Carnival games often invite friendly competition, motivating groups to cheer for each other and celebrate wins or funny mishaps together. Riders on thrill rides frequently share adrenaline rushes that become stories to retell long after the event. The food zones provide natural gathering spots to relax, refuel, and discuss which rides to tackle next. Even the sheer walking and browsing foster spontaneous exchanges about favorite attractions or discoveries. Whether your group prefers active participation or casual observation, Scottsdale Fair & Festival offers an environment that nurtures bonding, laughter, and a collective sense of delight.
Why should you consider Scottsdale Fair & Festival for your next group outing over other entertainment options? Beyond the variety of rides and activities, its accessibility, vibrant atmosphere, and affordability position it as an attractive venue for diverse groups. Unlike many entertainment centers that target specific age groups or interests, this festival’s breadth covers all bases. The outdoor setting combines physical activity with social engagement, which can be refreshing compared to indoor or screen-based options. Its reputation for family-friendly fun means you can bring along friends, family, or coworkers without worrying about age-appropriateness or interest gaps. Finally, the festival’s seasonal timing turns it into a special occasion, perfect for creating shared experiences that stand out from daily life. This mix of fun, food, and festivity makes Scottsdale Fair & Festival a unique and memorable choice for your group meetup.