Scottsdale event guide
Fiesta Bowl Trip
The Fiesta Bowl hosts a College Football Playoff quarterfinal at State Farm Stadium on Wednesday, December 30, 2026. Here's a two-night Scottsdale plan around the game.
By Cameron HergetEvent dates checked against the official source
- Game day
- Choose your group size
- Wed, Dec 30, 2026
- 5:30 pm MST kickoff
Where to stay for the Fiesta Bowl
All Scottsdale staysSuggested plan, day by day
These are suggestions, not a package. AvantStay doesn’t book, sell, or arrange any of these activities. Check hours, tickets, and reservations directly with each place.
Day 1 · Arrive: Canal & Old Town
A Scottsdale canal walk, then dinner in Old Town.
Outdoors · Afternoon
Walk beside the Arizona Canal, with shops and coffee nearby.
Restaurant · Dinner
Wood-fired pizza and Arizona craft beer in Old Town.
Day 2 · Game: Bowl day
A short desert walk, then west to the stadium.
Outdoors · Morning
A short climb to a sandstone arch with views over Phoenix.
Restaurants & bars · Before the game
Restaurants and bars next to the stadium, so you can park once and walk over.
Event · Evening
Kickoff is at 5:30 p.m. MST. Check the stadium site for current gates and entry rules.
Day 3 · Depart: Waterfront walk
An easy morning before you fly home, or stay on for New Year's Eve.
Outdoors · Morning
A walk along the canal, with coffee and shops nearby.
Good to know
Getting in
Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), about 20 minutes from Old Town Scottsdale outside rush hour.
Getting to the stadium
State Farm Stadium is in Glendale, about 40 minutes west of Old Town Scottsdale outside traffic and longer on game day. Leave early or book a ride.
The only game that day
The Fiesta Bowl is the only football game played on December 30, per its organizers.
Optional extras
Through AvantStay concierge you can add fridge stocking or a private chef, booked and paid separately.
Frequently asked questions
Wednesday, December 30, 2026, at 5:30 pm MST at State Farm Stadium in Glendale.
The 12-team playoff field will be set in December. This is a quarterfinal, and the winner advances in the CFP bracket.
Old Town Scottsdale keeps dinner and nights out easy, about 40 minutes from the stadium outside traffic. Set your dates and group size above to see the stays that fit.
About 40 minutes from Old Town Scottsdale outside traffic. On game day, allow longer.