In 2026, the Fiesta Bowl is a College Football Playoff quarterfinal, played on December 30, the day before New Year’s Eve. For fans travelling with family or friends, that makes it the centerpiece of a whole holiday week. Here is how to plan around the game.
Back to the estate| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Sunday, December 6, 2026 | College Football Playoff field announced |
| December 18 to 19, 2026 | First-round playoff games |
| Wednesday, December 30, 2026 | Fiesta Bowl quarterfinal at State Farm Stadium, Glendale |
Dates from the published 2026 to 2027 playoff schedule as reported in October 2026. Check the official Fiesta Bowl site for kickoff time and tickets.
Late December is cool and sunny, with December highs averaging about 66°F (Phoenix normals). Spend the days around the game on golf and hiking, and the evenings at the house. Paradise Reserve has six bedrooms for up to 16 guests, five of them king suites with their own bathroom, plus a pool and spa, a golf simulator, a putting green and a pickleball court. Events and parties are not permitted at the house, and quiet hours apply. See Christmas and New Year in Scottsdale and Scottsdale in December.
Source: Arizona State Climate Office, Phoenix normals 1991 to 2020.
Wednesday, December 30, 2026, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, as a College Football Playoff quarterfinal.
It is on the west side of the Valley. From North Scottsdale, allow about an hour by car (estimate), more on game day.
Near the stadium for game day only, or in North Scottsdale for a full holiday week with golf, hiking and a private house.
Game and playoff dates from published 2026 to 2027 College Football Playoff schedules, checked October 2026. Drive times are estimates. Paradise Reserve is not affiliated with the Fiesta Bowl.
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