What to Know About Scottsdale’s Newest Outdoor Entertainment Area—And What Events You Won’t Want to Miss

After two years, Scottsdale Civic Center’s revitalization is complete.

While there were a lot of behind-the-scenes improvements (such as structural), there were also improvements that are reshaping the area, such as the addition of a new permanent stage at the East Bowl with a shade structure and a new, centrally located 360-degree performance structure between the Civic Loop and West Bowl. There’s also the Social Hub, located between Scottsdale City Hall and Civic Center Library, which provides a direct connection to a new children’s library entrance and boasts a splash pad and fog feature, a children’s play area, and shaded social and picnic areas.

Substantial reconstruction of the west entrance—now named West Paseo—includes new restrooms near the Social Hub and updated City Hall lagoons.

 East Bowl. Photo by Brian Passey

To celebrate the completion of the remodel, the City of Scottsdale planned an event named Fall in Love with Scottsdale Civic Center. There will be more than 70 activities held in and around the center and throughout Old Town from Tues., Oct. 3 through Wed., Nov. 22.

Fall in Love with Civic Center kicks off on Tues., Oct. 3 with the WILCO concert. The popular alt rock and country band will be joined by special guest My Brightest Diamond for this all-ages show beginning at 7:30 p.m. on the East Bowl Lawn. Tickets are required and can be purchased through https://scottsdaleperformingarts.org/event/wilco/.

Ongoing Picnic in the Plaza events take place on Saturday afternoons throughout October, featuring live music at West Paseo at Scottsdale Civic Center. Other activities held in partnership with Scottsdale organizations and businesses will also take place.

Scottsdale Arts and the city of Scottsdale will celebrate the newest and oldest artworks in the city’s Public Art Collection as well as City Hall’s designation as a historic landmark from 4–6 p.m. on Thurs., Oct. 26, at the West Bowl. Windows to the West by Louise Nevelson will celebrate its 50th anniversary and there will be a dedication of the area’s newest art piece, The Desert’s Garden, by Tammi Lynch-Forrest. The free event will feature dance performances, live music, food and giveaways.

Other events honor both the city as well as distinguished members of the community. On Thurs., Nov. 9, events recognizing Veterans Day begin with a free performance by The Jazz Ambassadors of the United States Army Field Band. They will perform from 6-7 p.m. at the East Bowl. Scottsdale’s Veterans Day Commemoration takes place 10:30 a.m. to noon on Sat., Nov. 11, at the Memorial Lawn, in partnership with the American Legion to honor heroes who have served.

In addition to events specially dedicated to celebrating Scottsdale Civic Center’s revitalization, activities will intertwine with holidays like Halloween when the Civic Center Library host special events for little ghouls and goblins.

East Bowl

Only one month after Wilco opens the East Bowl, the entirety of Scottsdale Civic Center will host its first music festival. Inspired by the vibrant Southwestern spirit of Arizona, the two-day Dreamy Draw Country Music Festival celebrates the harmonious fusion of country and Americana. Multiple performers will play on two stages on Fri. and Sat., Nov. 3 and 4—the same weekend Scottsdale Arts is also kicking off Canal Convergence at the Scottsdale Waterfront.

In November, other popular events also return, along with new ones on the weekends, including Dia de Los Muertos, the Lululemon 10K Tour and the Discover India Festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sat., Nov. 18, at the West Bowl and 360 Stage.

On Tues., Nov. 14, Scottsdale Civic Center goes to the dogs—literally! In honor of the robust four-legged friend community in Scottsdale, Dog’s Day Out takes place from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. throughout Scottsdale Civic Center with a series of fun events including “Doga” (dog yoga), dog CPR, informative experiences with the Scottsdale Police K-9 Unit, AZ Dog Training Elite, adoption information and  “Yappy Hour” featuring a Fall Fashion contest followed by a Doggie Dash led by Mayor Ortega. This day is designed to be a fun opportunity for the whole family to learn and connect with other dog lovers.

For complete details about the Fall in Love with Scottsdale Civic Center events, including costs, registrations and more, visit OldTownScottsdaleAZ.com/FallInLove.