October is by far my favorite month in Arizona.  “Good things come to those who wait.” And we do wait-by the middle of September Tucsonans have pretty much had it with the relentless heat.  We say things like, “I’ll be so glad when October gets here,” and, “It won’t be long…”  It’s magical the way the 1st of October usually brings a significant dip in temperatures.  We’re now enjoying low to mid 80’s by day and mid to low 50’s at night.  We can open the windows and let the fresh air in!  For those of us who live here year round, it’s time to start planning those camping and fishing trips, take a hike in Sabino Canyon, or drive up to Mount Lemmon to enjoy the beautiful golden aspens.  We just enjoyed a relaxing weekend of RVing, boating and fishing at Patagonia Lake State Park.
Snow birds will begin their annual return this month, bringing with them golf clubs, tennis rackets and a renewed interest in the community.
Here are just a few of my favorite fall activities taking place in Southern Arizona:
Fall Pumpkin Festival- Oct. 10-31, Apple Annie’s Produce and Pumpkins, Wilcox

Scarecrows in the Garden- Oct. 17-Nov. 30, Tucson Botanical Gardens

All Souls International Film Festival-Oct. 29, Loft Theater

Day of The Dead Alter-Oct. 30-Jan 5, Tucson Museum of Art

For more listings, go to www.visittucson.org on the web.

Denise McCreary