Family events in Phoenix, AZ

Affordable vaccinations and microchipping for dogs and cats are available in North Phoenix. Vaccines start at $22, and care is provided by the SNiP Vet team. Priority appointments are offered to help reduce wait times, and walk-ins may be accommodated if space allows. Pets must be friendly and able to be handled. Feral cats and animals that cannot be handled are not accepted.

Cool off with a canine-friendly outing as the Garden opens its trails for dogs and their people to explore the desert together. Pause at shady rest spots, take advantage of water and refill stations throughout the grounds, and capture plenty of photo moments along the way. For access guidelines, dogs are not permitted at Gertrude’s by Tarbell’s, The RAF Gallery, the Butterfly Pavilion, or the Cactus Clubhouse. For health and safety, keep dogs leashed, licensed, and current on vaccinations, clean up after your pet and place bagged waste in trash receptacles, and maintain control at all times. Any dog showing aggression toward people or other dogs will be required to leave. Be mindful of paws and noses near cactus pieces and other debris, stay on designated trails, and watch for signs of heat stress to ensure a safe visit for everyone.

Dinosaurs return to the Phoenix Zoo this fall, appearing across the trails in greater numbers than before. These prehistoric ancestors of the zoo’s birds and reptiles can be experienced up close with sights and sounds as you explore. Visitors can take part in a fossil dig and capture family photos with favorite dinosaurs. Look for life-size dinosaur figures and bones throughout the grounds.

Designed for families and caregivers, the 3rd Annual Autism Educational Summit Caregiver and Community Day is a full-day, in-person gathering at the Phoenix Zoo centered on connection, understanding, and meaningful support. Participants hear from compassionate experts and community advocates who share practical tools, lived experiences, and insights to help navigate the questions and challenges that come with caring for a child with autism. The focus is on resources and guidance, along with space to feel seen, build confidence, and learn alongside others who share similar experiences.

Hosted by Maricopa County WIC and Arizona State University at the ASU West Valley Campus, this free, all-ages fall festival takes place mostly indoors with additional shaded space outside. The day features seasonal games and crafts, creative activities for every age, kid friendly trick or treating where costumes are welcome, and music from a DJ. Attendees can enter a giveaway drawing for prizes such as gift cards, baby clothing, toys, electronics, and more. Kids Need To Read will share free books, and community partners will offer information booths and family resources. Highlights include animal encounters presented by Maricopa County Parks and Recreation, first come first served food box distribution, and free hearing and speech screenings from the ASU clinic. Southwest Human Development will provide literacy kits along with a tummy time activity. ADHS PowerMeA2Z will have three month supplies of multivitamins for people who can become pregnant. Clifford the Big Red Dog will be on site. Children are encouraged to dress up, and no WIC participation is required.

An open play session for the Pokemon TCG invites players to drop in and play. Promo packs are available to participants. New players are encouraged, walk-ins are welcome, and the event is suitable for all ages.

Capture your child’s personality with simple, contemporary portraits set against a single color for a classic feel. Each studio mini uses a monochromatic setup with understated styling so the focus stays on genuine expressions. Sessions run 20 minutes and include seven professionally edited images. The package is priced at $140.