Drunk Dracula
Through Nov. 1, The Rose Theatre

This spooky season, the Drunk Shakespeare Society sinks its teeth into Bram Stoker’s classic vampire tale with Drunk Dracula. One actor takes five shots of whiskey then attempts to retell the story of Transylvania’s most famous drinker. It’s a spooky and hilarious night of Halloween fun. Craft cocktails and snacks will be available for purchase during all performances. Sip for a cause with the Bat’s Brew, a rum-based cocktail created in honor of National Bat Month. For every Bat’s Brew sold, $2 will be donated to AZ Bat Rescue. This is a 21-and-older event. Performance times vary. $49-$109. www.drunkdracula.com.

Night for Sight
Oct. 4, Arizona Biltmore

An evening inspired by the elegance of the golden era promises a dazzling experience with meaningful impact. Signature cocktails, elegant hors d’oeuvres and a three-course dinner crafted by Arizona Biltmore’s award-winning chefs await. Live music, dancing and immersive experiences provide the opportunity to connect with people who share a passion for empowering individuals who are blind or visually impaired. The event benefits Foundation for Blind Children. 6-11 p.m. $500. www.aesaz.co.

Arizona Architecture Foundation Memorial Tournament
Oct. 9, Papago Golf Course

Formerly the Rio Salado Architecture Foundation, the Arizona Architecture Foundation promotes excellence in architecture by supporting the education of future architects and preserving the legacy of Arizona Architecture. A portion of the proceeds from this tournament will benefit the Design School at the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts, the Rich Goewey Community Projects Fund, the Bob Saemisch Endowment, and the arts community. 11 a.m. Starting at $300. www.aafgolftournament.com.

Four Peaks Brewing Oktoberfest
Oct. 10-12, Tempe Town Lake

Brats, brews and live music mark the 52nd Oktoberfest in Tempe. Music headliners include Annie Bosko, Fastball and Emily Wolfe. Fan favorite wiener dog races, the brat-eating contest, and stein-holding competitions return. Wear your lederhosen to compete in the Frank Kush Foundation’s Runnin’ for the Brats 10K, 5K or 1-mile run. Or, just come for the food, drinks, games, carnival rides, and dancing. The event benefits the Tempe Sister Cities program. Friday, 5 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, noon-midnight; Sunday, noon-10 p.m. General admission, $20; VIP backstage experience, $90; Three-day VIP experience, $205. www.fourpeaksoktoberfest.com.

Phoenix Symphony Gala
Oct. 11, Phoenix Symphony Hall & Hyatt Regency Phoenix

Acclaimed composer Danny Elfman will perform iconic music from Tim Burton’s most beloved films at the Symphony Gala. Elfman has scored more than 100 films, and will highlight music from his collaborations with Burton, including unforgettable scores from Edward Scissorhands, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Beetlejuice, and Batman. Following the performance, there will be fine dining, dancing, and further celebration and surprises. 5 p.m. $750. www.phoenixsymphony.org.

Desert Pulse Kickoff Weekend
Oct. 11-12, Desert Botanical Garden

Thousands of stunning images and five monumental video installations are part of FRAMERATE: Desert Pulse, a multisensory art exhibit that brings visitors into the visual and emotional energy of the Sonoran Desert. Developed by ScanLAB Projects, Desert Pulse uses photography, motion and sound to explore the vibrant ecosystem. The installation will be on display through May 10, but kicks off with a weekend of hands-on art activities, giveaways, photo stations, and the chance to meet the artists. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Included with garden admission (general admission, $29.95; youth ticket, $16.95) www.dbg.org.

Harvest on the Hill: Fall Market & Tasting
Oct. 12, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa

Celebrate the spirit of the season with a festive outdoor market and tasting event that brings together local artisans, seasonal flavors and live entertainment. More than a dozen local venders will offer handmade gifts, organic skincare, bakery items, candles, and more. Chef-inspired tasting stations feature seasonal bites and curated cocktails and beverages. The first 80 guests will receive a complimentary swag bag, and there will be a raffle with prizes from the Sanctuary and the featured artisans from the day. 4 p.m. $75. www.sanctuaryaz.com.

Suffs
Oct. 14-19, ASU GammageD

Suffs is the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical that explores the triumphs and failures of the struggle for equality, and the brilliant women who fought tirelessly to win the right to vote. Shaina Taub, the play’s creator, is the first women to ever independently win Tony Awards for Best Book and Best Score in the same season. Performance times vary. Starting at $40. www.asugammage.com.

Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale Fall Auction
Oct. 15-18, WestWorld of Scottsdale

Come see what makes Barrett-Jackson The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auction. Catch all the bidding action in the arena, find the car of your dreams, and hang with friends and like-minded auto enthusiasts in the all-new fan zone. There will be interactive sponsor displays, thrill rides in the latest vehicles from top automakers, and an exhibitor marketplace. 8 a.m. Starting at $10. www.barrett-jackson.com.

Runway for Research
Oct. 17, Scottsdale Fashion Square Luxury Wing

Check out the season’s hautest trends at this fifth annual fashion show, raising funds for women’s cancer research. Presented by TGen, City of Hope, Scottsdale Fashion Square and Neiman Marcus, the theme is pink elegance. Guests are encouraged to wear pink to celebrate survivors, community spirit and hope with event honoree Betty McRae. 9 a.m. $300; VIP experience, $600. www.tgen.org.

Applause! Gala
Oct. 18, The Phoenix Theatre Company

“The Curtain Rises on a New Era,” says the theme of the Applause! Gala. The evening will honor individuals who champion arts and education within the community. The Phoenix Theatre Company’s annual gala supports programs like Summer Theatre Camp and Partners that Heal. The program includes a production and dinner. 5 p.m. $1,250. www.phoenixtheatre.com.

Desert Foothills Book Festival
Oct. 18, Holland Community Center

At this festival, meet local authors, browse and purchase books and enjoy pizza from the Pizzeria Del Torrente food truck. The event was inspired by a group of local authors looking to promote appreciation for reading and to make a personal connection with readers of all ages. The first 100 attendees will receive a free book and gift box, pairing newly released novels with curated book-related gifts. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. www.desertfoothillsbookfestival.com.

Scottsdale Fall Festival
Oct. 18, Scottsdale Civic Center

The leaves may not change colors in Phoenix, but you can still celebrate the season at the Scottsdale Fall Festival. The family-friendly evening has everything needed for some cooler weather fun, including a live band, DJ, a cocktail garden, and a magic show. Explore the pumpkin patch and have the kids fill their bags in Trick-or-Treat Alley. There will be carnival games, face painting, crafts and more. Visit booths hosted by the City of Scottsdale, and check out Tales from the Haunted Stacks, a spooky library experience where storybook monsters come to life. 5-8 p.m. Free. www.scottsdaleaz.gov.

Western Wiffle Ball Classic
Oct. 18, Scottsdale Stadium

The fastest wiffle ball pitchers will compete for the trophy and bragging rights at the springtime home of the San Francisco Giants. Fan-favorite teams vie for the crown in recreational and competitive divisions. This year’s classic will include a Home Run Derby. Founded in 2020 by then-16-year-old Logan Rose to encourage physical activity during the pandemic, Big League Wiffle Ball has grown in size and scope across the United States. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. $10. www.blwwiffleball.com.

Experience Spain
Oct. 18-19, Musical Instrument Museum

The MIM’s signature event series brings visitors to Spain with a variety of music and dance performances, cultural talks, interactive workshops and more. Experience the sights and sounds that make up the rich tapestry of Spanish culture, from flamenco to sardana to gaita. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Included with museum admission ($10-$20). www.mim.org.

Taco Fest AZ
Oct. 18-19, Salt River Fields

Snack on tacos from more than 40 restaurants, food trucks and street food vendors. Live music, lawn games, local vendor markets, kids activities, and more are included with admission. There will be live lucha libre wrestling shows, visual artists, and pop-up experiences to enjoy. The Agave Show area will offer tequila and mezcal tastings from more than 20 different local and national brands. Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. General admission, $12; VIP (five samples), $60; Ultra VIP (10 samples), $80. www.tacofestaz.com.

The Sleeping Beauty
Oct. 23-26, Symphony Hall

Ballet Arizona kicks off its season with The Sleeping Beauty, with live music from The Phoenix Symphony. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, the ballet is based on the original choreography by Marius Petipa, with additional choreography by Ballet Arizona Artistic Director Daniela Cardim. Stunning costumes and dazzling sets transport the audience to the magical kingdom where Princess Aurora is bewitched and put into a protective sleep by the Lilac Fairy, to be awakened by true love’s kiss. Performance times vary. $36-$172. www.balletaz.org.

Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival
Oct. 24-26, Salt River Fields

Hot air balloons serve as glowing trick-or-treat stations, with more than 4,000 pounds of candy on hand for kids to collect. More than 20 hot air balloons from across the country will join in the festivities. Win a prize at the nightly costume contests for kids, adults, and groups. Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Ride Co. will offer tethered balloon rides. Times and prices vary. Hot air balloon rides cost extra. www.azspooktacular.com.

Sip, Savor, Shop by A Taste of AZ
Nov. 1, Salt River Fields

Shop for fall finds or holiday gifts while indulging in tastes from Arizona’s restaurants, breweries, wineries and craft cocktail purveyors. Shop local at the curated marketplace of local retailers and artisans. Tickets include unlimited food samples and 15 drink tickets. This is a 21-and-over event. 1:30-6 p.m.; VIP entry, noon. General admission, $79; VIP, $99. www.atasteofaz.com.

Kierland Fine Arts & Wine Festival
Nov. 1-2, Kielrand Commons

Enjoy the beautiful weather while wandering the North Scottsdale dining and shopping hub. The delightful day will be a fusion of art and wine. Explore a diverse array of artwork from around the world and sample wine and beer from 15 of Arizona’s wineries, all set to live music performances. Wine tasting tickets can be purchased eitehr online or in person at the event. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. www.willcoxwinecountry.org.

Sit. Stay. Brunch.
Nov. 1, Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia

Hosted by Lost Our Home Pet Rescue, this grateful tails & hopeful hearts-themed annual soiree and luncheon raises critical funds needed to support pets and people in the local community. Guests will delight in delicious food and cocktails, fall in love with adoptable dogs and big on auction items and unique experiences. 10 a.m. $180. www.lostourhome.org.