Discover 10 Festive Maricopa Events to Kick Off the Holiday Season!

As Thanksgiving approaches, various festive events are set to celebrate the holiday season in Central Arizona. From community rides to craft markets, there’s no shortage of ways to engage and give back.

Ride for Toys
Central Arizona College, 17945 N. Regent Drive
November 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Join the Professional Firefighters of Maricopa for the 13th annual Ride for Toys. They will accept unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items for the F.O.R. Maricopa Food Bank.

Thanksgiving Turkey Handout
Central Arizona College, 19428 N. Maricopa Road
November 23 from 9 a.m. to noon (or while supplies last)
The F.O.R. Maricopa Food Bank will distribute Thanksgiving turkeys along with essential fixings. Eligible clients must present a food bank card and photo ID, or a photo ID with proof of address.

Craft Markets
Thunderbird Fire Station, 12356 N. Ralston Road
November 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Kick-start your holiday shopping at the Thunderbird Fire District’s Craft Market featuring local arts and crafts vendors.

Run Turkey Run
Butterfield Elementary School, 43800 W. Honeycutt Road
November 23 at 11 a.m.
Take part in a two-mile run or walk at Butterfield Elementary. Bring a canned food donation for the Maricopa Pantry as you get in some exercise before the Thanksgiving feast.

2nd Annual Gobble Gallup Motorcycle Run
Ak-Chin Circle Entertainment Center, 16000 N. Maricopa Road
November 24 at 10:30 a.m.
Support Maricopa Pantry during the second annual Gobble Gallup Motorcycle Run. Registration is $20 or one frozen turkey, with kickstands up at noon. Free coffee and donuts will be served to participants.

Flowers & Wine
Mandy’s Wine Bar, 41600 W. Smith Enke Road
November 26 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Join Mandy’s Wine Bar for a festive centerpiece creation event, including a glass of selected wine. The $60 fee covers all materials and a bruschetta.

Turkey Trot
Neaux Coffee Company, 19428 N. Taft Avenue
November 28 at 8 a.m.
The Maricopa Monsoon softball team invites you to its first annual Turkey Trot, a 5K fun run. Registration opens at 7 a.m., with additional options for race shirts.

Turkey Bowl for Dads
45511 W. Honeycutt Avenue
November 28 at 9 a.m.
Dads can face off at the first annual Turkey Bowl for Dads in Maricopa Meadows Main Park, providing an opportunity for family fun pre-Thanksgiving dinner.

12 Days of Christmas Event – Santa’s Arrival
44267 W. Cypress Lane
November 29 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Celebrate the start of the holiday season with the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will make a grand entrance via fire truck.

Maricopa Main Street Marketplace
Leading Edge Academy, 18700 N. Porter Road
November 30 at 10 a.m.
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Maricopa Main Street Marketplace, where many local vendors will showcase unique gifts, baked goods, and fine arts.