Mesa is the ultimate hotspot happening zone in Arizona. City folks here have the best energy and inclination for outdoor events. November and December mean a more relaxed part of the year where the holiday vibe is thick in the air and what better way to be in Mesa than find your way to these events and be all outdoorsy! You can hop here from anywhere in Arizona –from Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, or others– using the Airport Shuttle of Phoenix. shuttle from Phoenix
So here are the top 2 upcoming events in Mesa you cannot miss!
1 Country Can Festival:
The music festival with great live country music, food trucks, every drink in a can, and shopping options is being held on Saturday, Veteran’s day, November 12th. The first drink is free and you get two drinks if you’re a veteran! This place is where all lovers of country music should be. Each ticket costs $25 and the music festival is pet-friendly. Veterans are requested to bring their IDs. The live music line up with Ashley Wineland and the likes sounds like attendants are bound to have one hell of a great night. Book your tickets now, and book a ride to get there using the Airport Shuttle of Phoenix. You really do need your reliable companions to drop you off at your location of fun. And we’re your buddies in it –for both veterans and non-veterans alike. veteran discounts info
You can book the tickets online, here.
And your ride over here.
2 Arizona Taco Festival:
Few things in life give the joy that tacos do! Arizona’s taco festival is coming back after two whole years. Arizona Taco Festival will be held for two days on November 12-13th. This taco festival will have more than 50 types of tacos and a competition that will allow you to vote for your favorite. Tacos and puppies make the best combination ever and they have a chihuahua beauty pageant. Every puppy is already a winner though. The event will also have live lucha libre wrestling, tequila expo text and Hot sauce expo tent. The whole place will have tented canopies, like a party pockets within a huge party! Certainly, attendants have a wildly fun time to look forward to. Book your tickets here.
And of course booking a ride comes handy with the Phoenix Shuttle of Arizona.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book a private shuttle for these events?
Yes, you can request a private/no-sharing ride as an add-on during booking on the Airport Shuttle of Phoenix website or by phone.
How does the service handle flight delays for airport pickups?
Drivers monitor flights and adjust their schedules to accommodate any delays, ensuring you are picked up on time.
What types of vehicles will I be transported in for these events?
You'll be picked up in professional, vetted drivers' clean late-model vehicles such as sedans, SUVs, or vans, depending on your party size.
Are the shuttle services available 24/7?
Yes, booking is available online 24/7 through the Airport Shuttle of Phoenix website, or by phone.
Discover Mesa’s Year‑Round Event Scene
Mesa, Arizona, offers a diverse calendar of activities that appeals to music lovers, food enthusiasts, families, and culture seekers. From downtown festivals to arena‑scale concerts, the city’s venues are easy to reach via major highways such as US‑60 (Superstition Freeway), Loop 202 (Red Mountain Freeway), and AZ‑87 (Beeline Highway). Below is an expanded guide to help you plan your next outing, complete with event details, transit options, and practical tips.
Upcoming Highlights (Fall 2025‑Winter 2026)
- Patton Oswalt Live – Val Vista Drive Venue
Catch the acclaimed comedian Patton Oswalt at a venue located on Val Vista Dr (Mesa, AZ 85204) on Saturday, October 3, 2025 at 8:00 PM. The show blends observational humor with storytelling, drawing fans from across the Phoenix metro area. Source: downtownmesa.com - Lucky Strike Mesa – Lucky Launch Party
The downtown bowling alley and entertainment center at 1 E Main St (Mesa, AZ 85201) hosts a launch party featuring new lane technology, arcade games, and live DJ sets. Event timing varies; check the venue’s calendar for the latest schedule. Source: stayhappening.com - Croce: Croce Plays Croce – Mesa Arts Center
Tribute artist Croce performs a full‑set of his father's hits at the Mesa Arts Center (1 E Main St) on Tuesday, September 15, 2025 at 5:00 PM. The intimate theater setting provides excellent acoustics for fans of classic rock. Source: eventbrite.com - MIDLAND Live – 263 N Main Street
Country‑rock band MIDLAND takes the stage at a downtown Mesa club (address 263 N Main St) on Friday, September 25, 2025 at 7:00 PM. Expect a mix of original songs and fan‑favorite covers. Source: allevents.in - The RECESS CRUISE – Labor Day Weekend 2026
A themed boat cruise on Tempe Town Lake (accessible via the Loop 202) departs Saturday, September 5, 2026 at 4:00 PM EDT. Activities include lawn games, music, and a sunset view of the Phoenix skyline. Ticket information is available on the event page. Source: stayhappening.com - Black Girl Book Fair – Spooky Edition
Held at a community center on Val Vista Dr, this fair celebrates Black literature with author talks, panels, and a Halloween‑themed costume contest. Event runs Saturday, October 3, 2026 starting at 12:00 AM CDT (late‑night opening). Source: downtownmesa.com - The Story Behind the Bayeux Tapestry – Mesa Arts Center
A lecture‑style presentation exploring the history and embroidery techniques of the Bayeux Tapestry takes place Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at 7:30 PM GMT+1 (converted to local Mountain Time). The talk is presented by a visiting textile historian. Source: eventbrite.com
Getting to Mesa’s Venues
Most event locations sit within a short drive of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). The Airport Shuttle of Phoenix provides door‑to‑door service from the airport, downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and surrounding suburbs. Key routes include:
- From PHX to Mesa via I‑10 East → Loop 202 South (exit 172 for Mesa Drive) – approximately 20‑25 miles.
- From downtown Phoenix to Mesa‑based venues using US‑60 East (exit 176 for Val Vista Dr) or Loop 202 East (exit 174 for Main St).
- From Scottsdale/Tempe via AZ‑202 Loop (Red Mountain) directly to Mesa’s downtown district.
Travel times fluctuate with traffic, especially during rush hour and major event days; allowing extra time ensures a stress‑free arrival.
Comparison of Shuttle Options
| Service Type | Vehicle Choices | Availability | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Ride | Sedan, SUV, or van (based on party size) | 24/7, reservation required | Cost‑effective for solo travelers or small groups |
| Private/No‑Share Ride | Sedan, SUV, van, or luxury vehicle | 24/7, reservation required | Ideal for families, groups with equipment, or those preferring a direct trip |
| Event‑Specific Shuttle | Van or minibus (pre‑arranged for festivals) | Limited to event dates/times | Provides drop‑off and pick‑up at venue entrances |
All options include professional, vetted drivers and late‑model vehicles. When booking, you can add amenities such as child seats, wheelchair accessibility, or extra luggage space. For the most accurate fare estimate, use the shuttle provider’s online quote tool; fares are distance‑based and may vary with demand.
Tips for Enjoying Mesa Events
- Arrive Early: Popular festivals (e.g., Arizona Taco Festival, Country Can Festival) often see lines at entry gates; arriving 30‑45 minutes before start time improves your experience.
- Check Parking: Venues such as the Mesa Arts Center and Sloan Park offer on‑site lots; downtown events may rely on street garages or nearby public lots (e.g., City of Mesa Parking Garage on Main St).
- Stay Hydrated: Arizona’s climate can be dry, especially outdoors; bring a reusable water bottle—many events provide refill stations.
- Accessibility: Most major venues comply with ADA standards, offering wheelchair‑accessible seating, ramps, and assistive listening devices. Confirm specifics when purchasing tickets.
- Weather Prep: Fall evenings can cool quickly; a light jacket or layers are advisable for outdoor concerts and movie screenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Are outside food and beverages allowed at Mesa festivals?
Most city‑run festivals permit sealed, non‑alcoholic beverages and small snacks; outside alcohol and large coolers are typically prohibited. Check each event’s policy page for exact rules.
Is there public transit to Mesa event venues?
Valley Metro operates several bus routes that connect downtown Mesa, Main Street, and the Mesa Arts Center. Routes 61, 72, and 108 run frequently on weekdays and weekends; consult the Valley Metro schedule for real‑time arrivals.
Do venues offer wheelchair rental or mobility assistance?
The Mesa Arts Center and Sloan Park provide complimentary wheelchair rentals on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Advance reservation is recommended for high‑attendance days.
Can I bring my pet to outdoor concerts in Mesa?
Many outdoor events, such as the Country Can Festival, are pet‑friendly on leash. However, some venues (e.g., indoor theaters) restrict animals except for service dogs. Verify pet policies before arrival.
Are there family‑friendly activities at the Mesa Arts Center?
Yes, the Mesa Arts Center hosts regular family series, including puppet shows, interactive workshops, and seasonal performances suitable for children ages 4 and up.
What should I do if my flight is delayed and I have a pre‑booked shuttle?
The Airport Shuttle of Phoenix monitors flight statuses and adjusts pickup times accordingly. If you experience a delay, contact the shuttle provider’s customer service line to confirm your revised pickup window.
Is there a lost‑and‑found service at major Mesa venues?
Most venues maintain a lost‑and‑found desk located near the main entrance or box office. Items are typically held for 30 days before being donated or discarded.
