This fall, the city of Scottsdale officially unveils the much‐anticipated Scottsdale Civic Center remodel — a comprehensive renovation of the area that has served as the city’s civic and signature special event and gathering space for 55 years. The renewed and refreshed Civic Center provides locals and visitors alike with a better experience than ever, a beautiful place to gather for art, culture, entertainment and festivals and family relaxation.
Improvements to Scottsdale Civic Center were finalized in March and beginning in October, the city is celebrating with the aptly named Fall in Love with Scottsdale Civic Center event. Fall in Love with Scottsdale Civic Center features more than 70 activities taking place in and around the center and throughout Old Town from Tuesday, Oct. 3 through Wednesday, Nov. 22.
“We are absolutely thrilled to officially relaunch Scottsdale Civic Center, the original epicenter of Scottsdale’s arts culture, hospitality, community spirit and unique Western reputation,” said Scottsdale Mayor David Ortega. “Going way beyond renovation, we can now enjoy three new outdoor stages, kid‐friendly play areas, botanical exhibits, 140 new shade trees and water conservation turf areas. We invite everyone to celebrate with us.”
Scottsdale Civic Center’s revitalization began with construction in October 2021. The overhaul of the area included improvements to structural and electrical deficiencies as well as enhancements to provide a safe and attractive environment for residents and visitors. Scottsdale Civic Center’s outdoor public space was also updated to be event ready, placing itself in a competitive position to attract large‐scale events. The $33.5 million project was financed primarily with bonds approved by Scottsdale voters in 2019. Improvements include a new permanent stage at the East Bowl with a shade structure, and anew centrally located 360‐degree performance structure between the Civic Loop and West Bowl. The Social Hub, located between Scottsdale City Hall and Civic Center Library provides 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 ‐‐ new restrooms near the Social Hub and updated City Hall lagoons round out the project improvements.
Naturally, art remains a core element of the Scottsdale Civic Center. Many of the beloved pieces of the Scottsdale Public Art Collection are back, with some in new locations. The intuitive Civic Loop provides a walking experience to view most of the iconic public art within Scottsdale Civic Center.
Mayor Ortega notes the completed renovation will better serve as a cohesive connector for the entire area. “Scottsdale Civic Center links Scottsdale Stadium, the iconic City Hall and Civic Center Library, the renowned Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and Scottsdale Historical Museum to Historic Old Town, Main Street galleries, Museum of the West and northbound to the Scottsdale Waterfront and fabulous Scottsdale Fashion Square,” he said.
Fall in Love with Civic Center starts off with a bang Tuesday, 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 - purchase at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.
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 – 6p.m. Thursday, 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 Thursday, 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 Saturday, 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. In November, popular events return along with new ones on the weekends including Dia de Los Muertos, Dreamy Draw Music Festival, the Lululemon 10K Tour and the Discover India Festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18, at the West Bowl and 360 Stage. On Tuesday, 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. to 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/Fall In Love
.
