October's Fall Events at AZ Boardwalk!
Happy October! Great events for FALL BREAK when the kids are out of school and the family is looking for fun -- AZ Boardwalk has you covered!!
- Celebrate the African Penguin at OdySea Aquarium all week Oct. 9 – 15!
- Annual Fall Plant Sale at Butterfly Wonderland Oct. 13- 15! (Your garden is calling for new plants after the scorching summer!) + Bug Fest is BACK!
- A NEW Speaker at October’s UFO Experience Speaker Series may just be a familiar name to many!
- AZ Boardwalk has brought back the FREE Movies in the Courtyard – PLUS don’t miss the many, many FREE SPOOKTACULAR Halloween events!
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NEW! Celebrate the African Penguin
African Penguin Awareness Day is Oct. 14 and OdySea Aquarium is celebrating the amazing species all week, Oct. 9 – 15, with special programming and activities at Penguin Point.
Waddle You Know? - Penguin 101 with Live Exhibit Interpreting and Q&A Session
October 9 - 15 FALL BREAK
10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Penguin Point
African Penguin Awareness Day is Oct. 14, and OdySea Aquarium is celebrating the amazing species all week with special programming and activities at Penguin Point. The celebration includes opportunities to learn about penguin behavior, diet, anatomy and more – as well as how to help these endangered birds. Guests can ask questions of the knowledgeable OdySea penguin experts whose job brings them nose-to-beak with some of the Aquarium’s most charismatic and loveable animals!
Penguin Appearance with Live Interpreting and Q&A Session
October 14 and 15
11 a.m. & 12 p.m.
Penguin Point
Nothing beats seeing a penguin waddle about the OdySea Aquarium floor! Visit Penguin Point to view a few of the Aquarium’s most vivacious animal ambassadors, snap a few shots for “the gram”, learn something new about the species, and/or ask that burning question about these feather friends!
Penguin Picasso Paintings
October 9 – 15
Feeling inspired? Want to remember the moment? Take home a penguin work of art! OdySea Aquarium will have original penguin-made artwork for sale all week at the Discovery Desk at Penguin Point with proceeds directly benefitting the African penguin SAFE program—Saving Animals From Extinction.
Penguin Encounters
Treat the #1 penguin fans to an OdySea Aquarium Penguin Encounter! Go behind the scenes with the penguin Animal Care team to observe and participate in incredibly unique experiences that include penguin playtime and training demonstrations with plenty of opportunities for fun photos with these adorable birds. Visit here to learn more.
Fall Break is the perfect time to flock to OdySea Aquarium and help ensure that African penguins are around for generations to come.
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NEW! Speaker Series featuring Charles Goyette:LIES, DAMNED LIES, AND CRASH TEST DUMMIES!
Alien Anecdotes, the Phoenix Lights, and the Money that Wasn’t There!
October 19
6:30 p.m. (doors open for Speaker’s Event ticketed attendees at 6:15 p.m.)
Renowned Phoenix talks show host Charles Goyette, who was at the forefront during the Phoenix Lights incident, brings forth revelations from his extensive conversations with witnesses, investigators, and skeptics. He also unveils remarkable accounts from influential figures regarding the aftermath of the Roswell incident, all while dismantling the terrestrial origin theory behind the world's most sensational UFO sighting. Notably, Goyette's illustrious career includes being a New York Times bestselling author, part of the National Speakers Bureau during the Reagan administration, and a popular talk show host on esteemed Phoenix radio stations KTAR and KFYI. With a significant presence in national television, Goyette has appeared on networks such as CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, CNBC, Fox Business News, and PBS, demonstrating his expertise in a wide range of topics, from politics to the mysterious and unexplained.
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Whimsical Wings
October 6, 13, 20, and 27
11 a.m.
Step into a realm of wonder as Butterfly Wonderland's Education Specialists release exquisite tropical butterflies into the Conservatory. Capture the enchanting moment with on camera as these graceful insects take their inaugural flight. Feel free to engage with the specialists, asking any questions that may pique curiosity. This captivating event is included FREE WITH ADMISSION.
Stingray & Shark Feedings
October 7, 14, 21, and 28
1:00 p.m.
Tropical Waters Observation Pool
Dive into the captivating world of marine life with an educational Aquarist Talk and Live Feeding in the Tropical Waters gallery. Join Sara Donaldson at the Observation Pool as she unveils intriguing insights into venomous round stingrays and introduces guests to Agatha, the horn shark. Enjoy this interactive experience and take home a complimentary horn shark education card. This rare opportunity is FREE WITH ADMISSION.
Bug Talks
October 7, 14, 21, and 28
3:00 p.m.
Butterfly Conservatory
Hosted by top “bug specialists” at Butterfly Wonderland, this special talk reveals incredible factoids about some of the largest insects found around the world. Be amazed at tarantulas, mantises and more! FREE with admission.
Bug Club
October 8 and 22
11 a.m.
Butterfly Theater
Ignite curiosity in the kiddos with an engaging story time and educational session focused on fascinating insects. Butterfly Wonderland experts and animal curators will lead this captivating experience, where the little ones can learn about these incredible creatures up close. After the story time, get ready to meet LIVE insects, from walking sticks and beetles to giant African millipedes, or even more intriguing species! FREE with admission.
NEW! Fall Plant Sale Preview & Reception
October 12
5:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
Beat the summer heat's impact on gardens! Join fellow gardening enthusiasts for a brief presentation, "Attracting Butterflies to Your Yard," by Master Gardener and Director of Education Adriane Grimaldi. Be the first to pick from a variety of butterfly plants and explore Butterfly Wonderland’s outside Citizen Science Butterfly Garden on a guided tour. General admission is $15, while members can register on EventBrite by October 11 (limited space). For info, contact (480) 800-3000, ext. 204. Sponsored by Civano Nursery.
NEW! Fall Pollinator Plant Sale
Botanical Event Sponsor Civano Nursery
October 13 – 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
October 15 from 9 a.m. to Noon
Time to get outside and replant the butterfly garden! Milkweeds! Blooming nectar plants! Take home beautiful fall plants that attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators! Plant prices range from $14.95 to $30.00 with proceeds benefiting the Butterfly Wonderland Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization supporting conservation-based, experiential education. FREE Landscape brochures, hand-painted gourds, and bird feeders available for purchase and more. Butterfly Wonderland Master Gardener Adriane Grimaldi will be on hand to answer gardening, plant, and butterfly questions!
The Magic of Music and Butterflies featuring Aaron White
October 14
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Indulge the senses in the captivating melodies of Aaron White, honored with the esteemed "Best Flute Album" accolade by the American Music for Native American Artists for his enchanting work, "Moonlight Love Songs." Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of thousands of butterflies inside the Butterfly Conservatory as his beautiful flute music takes flight, enhancing the experience in a truly magical way. This extraordinary musical journey is for all visitors to enjoy, and it's included FREE WITH ADMISSION.
The Magic of Music and Butterflies featuring Jonathan Levingston
October 15
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Embark on a serene stroll through the mesmerizing Butterfly Conservatory as vibrant tropical butterflies flutter about to the soothing sounds of classical violin by musician Jonathan Levingston. Enjoy the harmonious fusion of nature and music in this unforgettable experience. This magical encounter is included FREE WITH ADMISSION.
The Buzz About Bees
October 15
1 p.m.
Get ready for an un-BEE-lievable experience! Join local beekeeper and AZ Backyard Beekeepers founder, Cricket Aldridge, as she unveils the secrets of bees, hive maintenance, and more. Meet Cricket at the newly enhanced Honeybee exhibit in the Conservatory and engage in an insightful Q&A session after her presentation. Don't miss the chance to purchase local honey from the Butterfly Treasures Gift Shop. This enlightening event is included FREE WITH ADMISSION.
Waking Up with Butterflies (tripods allowed)
October 21
8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Check-in at 8:15 a.m.
Savor a serene hour capturing the beauty of butterflies, birds, or reptiles through the camera lens. Join Butterfly Wonderland for an exclusive opportunity as Director of Animal Care & Entomologist Derek Kellogg stands ready to address inquiries about butterflies, plants, and the captivating rainforest ecosystem while participants capture compelling images of one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful and delicate creatures! Ages 18 & up; $28.95(includes admission). FREE for members. Registration required. Call (480) 800-3000, ext. 206.
Leslie the Butterfly Fairy
October 21
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Meet Leslie, the enchanting Butterfly Fairy hailing from the Flutter Forest. Visit Butterfly Wonderland for a whimsical opportunity to capture wonderful photos with Leslie as she flutters about from late morning to early afternoon! Included FREE with admission.
NEW! National Reptile Day
October 21
11 a.m. & 3 p.m.
Butterfly Conservatory
Enjoy a reptile visit with Draco the Chinese Water Dragon. Learn interesting reptile facts from experts at the Conservatory’s Education Cart and throughout the building.
Cell Phone Photography Class
October 22
8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Guests are invited to an informational Cell Phone Photography Class to learn tips and tricks for taking beautiful nature photographs with smartphones! This class will be taught by Paul Valach. The cost is $30/person; $25 for members. Class does not include Admission to Butterfly Wonderland. Visit EventBrite.com to register or call (480) 800-3000, ext. 206.
Vibrance Emergence – Gong Meditation
October 24
5:15 - 6:15 p.m.; check in 5:00 p.m.
Chrysalis Emergence Gallery
Indulge in tranquility during a soothing gong meditation session held in the serene Chrysalis Emergence Gallery. Led by yoga instructor Elicia Alexander, this hour-long class commences with a walk through the Butterfly Conservatory, followed by a series of gentle stretches and guided meditations in the Emergence Gallery. Experience the rejuvenating effects of a gong bath, a harmonious auditory journey. For a blissful experience, remember to bring a yoga mat, water, a small pillow, and wear comfortable attire. Open to ages 18 and above; $30 per person. Secure a spot; visit EventBrite.com to register or call (480) 800-3000, ext. 206.
Butterfly Brushstrokes at Night
October 27
6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Special Halloween Theme! Join the spooktacular fun at this unique painting class featuring artist Judith Nunez. This expertly guided, delightful painting class promises an inspiring experience as each attendee crafts their very own "butterfly Picasso" masterpiece – with a bit of Halloween flair! All materials are provided in the price, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable session. Limited to 20 people. $30; $15/members (covers supplies). Pre-registration required. Visit EventBrite.com to register or call (480) 800-3000, ext. 206.
NEW! FREE Bug Fest
Presented by Butterfly Wonderland Foundation
AZ Boardwalk Courtyard
October 29
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
BOO! It’s Bug Fest 2023 – Halloween edition!! This year’s fun and educational FREE community event that celebrates bugs also celebrates Halloween -- attendees are encouraged to come dressed as a favorite bug!! Enjoy cockroach races, Bug Zoo Station featuring an array of fascinating bugs, children’s craft activities, photo opps while holding a Madagascar Hissing Cockroach at the “Hissing Booth,” and edible insect tastings! Don’t miss magical butterfly releases at the top of each hour! The Butterfly Wonderland Foundation presents this FREE festival in appreciation of all the many-legged creatures that populate the planet. Recommended for all ages!
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FREE Movies at the Boardwalk - Coco
October 7
5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Experience “Movies at the Boardwalk,” a free family event with music, games, and tons of prizes. The movie Coco will begin at dusk. There are plenty of options to grab a bite before the movie in the courtyard.
Other pre-movie activities include:
- Character meet & greet and photo op
- Spirit Animal Scratch Art Mask
- Plinko Game for Kids
- Enter to Win Loungefly Coco Mini Backpack and Disney 100 Year Anniversary Pin
FREE Halloween Arts, Crafts & Gifts
Presented by Scottsdale Sparkle
October 14 – 15
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Daily
Celebrate Fall with over 80 talented vendors and shop for favorite items. Kids will enjoy face painting, glitter tattoos, character appearances, candy and more!
FREE Fall Festival - Presented by Macaroni KID Scottsdale
October 21
2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Arizona Boardwalk Courtyard
Macaroni Kid N. Scottsdale/PV presents their 5th Annual Fall Festival. Families with children aged 16 and under are invited to participate in the not-so-spooky costume contest to win HUGE PRIZES! Other activities include character meet & greets, face painting, trick-or-treating, “make & take” crafts, activity stations, music, games, and more! FREE outdoor event! No admission or activity fees required!
Monster Dash 5K Run/Walk
Presented by Startline Racing
October 27
7:00 p.m.
Register at Startlineracing.com
They did the dash, they did the monster dash! Join StartLine Racing under the lights for their 3rd annual Monster Dash 5K Run/Walk! Bring friends and wear the best costume to make it spooktacular!
FREE Halloween Bash - Presented by Family Fun AZ
October 28
11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Arizona Boardwalk Courtyard
Win $1,000 CASH in the Family Fun costume contest at this FREE Halloween Bash! Then trick-or-treat for candy, enjoy bounce houses, slides, face painting, live entertainment, family-friendly performances, shopping, raffles, and more!
FREE Bug Fest - Presented by Butterfly Wonderland Foundation
AZ Boardwalk Courtyard
October 29
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
BOO! It’s Bug Fest 2023 – Halloween edition!! This year’s fun and educational FREE community event that celebrates bugs also celebrates Halloween -- attendees are encouraged to come dressed as a favorite bug!! Enjoy cockroach races, Bug Zoo Station featuring an array of fascinating bugs, children’s craft activities, photo opps while holding a Madagascar Hissing Cockroach at the “Hissing Booth,” and edible insect tastings! Don’t miss magical butterfly releases at the top of each hour! The Butterfly Wonderland Foundation presents this FREE festival in appreciation of all the many-legged creatures that populate the planet. Recommended for all ages!
