Discover all the Fall Festivities in Clarkdale: Gems, Art, Beer, and Canyon Views Await
As the cool breeze of autumn sweeps into the Verde Valley, the historic town of Clarkdale, Arizona, comes alive with a vibrant array of events and new opportunities for visitors. Whether you’re a rock hound, a beer enthusiast, an art lover, or someone seeking scenic adventures, Clarkdale has something for everyone this fall. From gem and mineral shows to Oktoberfest celebrations, local art showcases, scenic train rides, and craft beer tastings, there's no shortage of excitement. Mark your calendars and plan your visit to experience these can't-miss events!
Clarkdale Rocks Gem & Mineral Show (Sept 27-29, 2024)
The Semi-Annual Clarkdale Gem & Mineral Show and Sale is back, offering three days of geological wonders! Hosted by the Mingus Gem & Mineral Club, this free event will take place at the Clark Memorial Clubhouse Auditorium, from 9 AM to 5 PM on Friday and Saturday, and from 9 AM to 4 PM on Sunday.
This family-friendly show features:
Stunning agates, fossils, gems, and minerals
Demonstrations on wire-wrapping and geode-splitting
Handcrafted jewelry and unique gift items
A Kids' Corner with free mineral specimens and a Spin-n-Win Wheel
With daily raffles and a treasure trove of beautiful prizes, it's a fun, educational event for all ages. Admission is free, so don’t miss out on this gem of an event!
For more details, visit: Mingus Gem & Mineral Club Website
Clarktoberfest (Oct 5, 2024)
The 10th annual Clarktoberfest is set to take over historic downtown Clarkdale on Saturday, October 5th, from noon to 6 PM. This much-loved celebration promises a day full of live music, food, drinks, and family fun.
Highlights include:
A cornhole tournament for the whole family
Stein holding and keg stacking contests
Performances by "What's the Big Idea" and "Menagerie"
Whether you're competing for a Smelter Town Brewery gift card, dancing to live tunes, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Clarktoberfest is the perfect way to welcome the fall season. Be sure to bring your chairs and dancing shoes for an afternoon of local fun!
For more details check out Clarktoberfest Event Website.
Ales on Rails & Fall Color Tour with Verde Canyon Railroad
Ales on Rails (Sept 16 – Oct 31, 2024)
In celebration of Oktoberfest, Ales on Rails invites you to sample local Arizona craft beers while soaking in the stunning fall scenery. Running through October 31, passengers will enjoy tastings from some of Arizona’s finest breweries, including:
Barrio Brewing Co. (Tucson)
Oak Creek Brewing (Sedona)
Smelter Town Brewery (Clarkdale)
And many more!
Raise a glass and toast the season aboard this one-of-a-kind beer festival on the rails. Sip your way through the canyon and take in the seasonal beauty while sampling everything from light pilsners to deep stouts.
Fall Colors Tour (October – November 2024)
Experience the vibrant hues of fall as the Verde Canyon Railroad takes you on a scenic journey through Arizona’s stunning red-rock canyon, where the fall foliage is every bit as striking as those in New England. From October to November, the canyon transforms into a kaleidoscope of sunshine yellow, mandarin orange, and crimson red, as Cottonwood and Sycamore trees line the Verde River.
Relax in comfortable seating as you enjoy panoramic views, the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos. The cool autumn air and Arizona sunshine make this the ideal time to explore the beauty of the Verde Canyon.
Book now to secure your seat: Verde Canyon Railroad Website
Introducing Taawaki Inn: Where Tradition Meets Modern Comfort
A brand-new addition to Clarkdale’s landscape, Taawaki Inn opened its doors this summer, offering visitors a unique blend of Hopi culture and modern luxury. Owned and operated by the Hopi Tribe Economic Development Corporation, this 44-room hotel is the first Hopi hotel built off the reservation.
What to Expect:
Stunning views of Tuzigoot National Monument and the Verde River
Convenient access to nearby attractions like Verde Canyon Railroad and Jerome
A sustainable approach in harmony with Hopi values
In addition to lodging, the Taawaki Inn boasts an exclusive gift shop where guests can find handcrafted Kachina dolls, woven textiles, and other Hopi cultural treasures. The onsite Taawaki Inn Café serves up delicious breakfast dishes, including unique blue corn creations, in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Learn more and book your stay: Taawaki Inn Website
Clarkdale Monthly Market (Starting Fall 2024)
This fall, Clarkdale welcomes a brand-new monthly tradition: the Clarkdale Monthly Market! Held at the Clarkdale Lodge lot across from Town Park, this local flea market will showcase an eclectic mix of vendors offering handmade crafts, vintage goods, delicious food, and more.
Some of the featured vendors include:
Patched Planet Vintage Mercantile
The Dirty Drummer from Cottonwood
Earth's Delights Eco Printed Home Goods
The Velvet Pistil Vintage Finery & Eclectic Fancy
Sweet & Sourdough Bakery by Anna Contreras
With live music, fresh squeezed lemonade, and mobile pizzerias, the Clarkdale Monthly Market is the perfect place to spend a relaxed afternoon browsing, shopping, and mingling with locals.
Made in Clarkdale Artists Showcase (Dec 5-8, 2024)
The 37th Annual Made in Clarkdale Artists Showcase will take place from December 5th to 8th at the Clark Memorial Clubhouse Auditorium. This renowned showcase is an opportunity to explore the creative talents of local artists working in a variety of media, from fine art and photography to jewelry, ceramics, and crafts.
It’s the perfect event for finding unique, one-of-a-kind holiday gifts while supporting local artists. Don’t miss this beloved annual tradition that celebrates Clarkdale’s vibrant artistic community.
Whether you’re exploring the fascinating world of minerals, celebrating at Clarktoberfest, discovering local art and culture, or soaking in all the fall colors on the scenic Verde Canyon Railroad - Clarkdale is your go-to destination this fall. We can't wait to welcome you!
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