🧡 Harvest Fest returns: pumpkins, art & a full plan for town-wide fun

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Hey, we’re a handful of issues in, so we just want to say thanks for being here! We’re always excited to bring you these weekly roundups, and lately the inbox feedback has been 🔥.

Whether it’s a hidden taco gem or a kid’s gym making waves, we love spotlighting what’s happening close to home. Keep the recs coming, and if you’re new here, welcome to the crew!

Recently Opened

🌮 Where Strip-Mall Secrets Taste Like Gold

Lujos Cocina Mexicana is the kind of spot you stumble on once and then keep coming back for. Sleek black-on-black interiors set the stage for vibrant plates like al pastor tacos, steak enchiladas, and the over-the-top Lujo Burrito stuffed with carne asada, shrimp, and truffle fries.

Family-owned, friendly, and made-from-scratch, it’s upscale Mexican with a fast-casual soul; proof you shouldn’t judge a strip-mall gem by its cover. Learn more here.

💪 Big Confidence Built One Jump at a Time

KidStrong is more than a gym for kids, it’s a place where confidence, strength, and social skills grow side by side. Classes are upbeat, full of energy, and led by coaches who balance fun with real skill-building.

Parents rave about the way their kids light up, whether it’s mastering eye contact and teamwork, gaining new physical abilities, or even celebrating a birthday in the lively, supportive space. It’s growth you can see in action. Learn more here.

🎃 Gilbert’s Harvest in the Heritage District Returns Sept. 26

The Gist: Downtown Gilbert will ring in fall with its third annual Harvest in the Heritage District, running Sept. 26 through Nov. 2. The celebration includes art displays, concerts, pumpkin carving, and the Great Gilbert Gourd Hunt, a tech-friendly scavenger adventure with pumpkin prizes. Families can also enjoy origami workshops and fall décor throughout downtown.

Why It Matters: It’s a chance for neighbors to gather, enjoy the season, and support local arts in the heart of town.

What’s Next: Full event details will be posted on Discover Gilbert.

💧 Gilbert Braces for 2026 Water Cutbacks

The Gist: Starting next year, Gilbert expects about a 9% reduction in its Colorado River water supply, due to changes in federal drought agreements. The town says it’s prepared, relying on stored groundwater to help meet demand while still urging homes and businesses to use less. Stage 1 of the Water Supply Reduction Plan will stay in place, meaning municipal cutbacks and continued calls for conservation.

Why it matters: Water-wise habits today will help protect the town’s long-term supply and keep our community resilient. Read more here.

Bella Rose has a wag in her tail and sparkle in her eyes!

She is a 9-month-old Pit Bull mix who’s equal parts cuddles and zoomies. Though born with a heart murmur, she doesn’t let it dim her playful spirit. She’s friendly with dogs, sweet with kids, and already picking up her house manners.

This joyful pup is ready to shower her new family with love and laughter.

To learn more about this beautiful girl, click HERE.

🕯️ Gilbert 9/11 Memorial Ceremony & Tribute | Town Memorial Plaza | Gilbert | 09/11 | More
The evening begins with a solemn ceremony on the plaza, followed by a Tribute in Light.

🐞 BUGZ! Musical Theater Explorers | Williams Field Rd | Gilbert | 09/12 | More
Musical hoedown where ladybugs mind the manners, army ants run security, and more!

🎬 Family Movie Morning (ASA Now) | Fat Cats | Gilbert | 09/13 | More
Special event made just for our foster, kinship, adoptive, and guardianship community!

🐴 Farm Friends | Equine Connections | Gilbert | 9/16 | More
Spend an easygoing afternoon with games, music, vendors, and giveaways!

✂️ Ribbon Cutting | Family Care Center | Gilbert | 09/18 | More
Help give a warm East Valley welcome to Family Care Center, opening a new clinic.

💎 Heartland Roadshow | Residence Inn | Gilbert | until 09/12 | More
On-the-spot offers and instant payment for gold, silver, coins, luxury watches, and more.

🎸 Friday Night Party | Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row | Gilbert | 09/12 | More
Slide into the weekend with live music, DJs, and a packed dance floor!

✨ Glow & Flow: Pilattes x Heyday | The Wave | Gilbert | 09/13 | More
Join neighbors for an energizing all-levels mat session led by founder Melanie.

🍺 Left • Right • Center Tournament | Tap Dragon | Gilbert | 09/13 | More 
Roll the dice, cheer on your table, and claim bragging rights at this LRC competition.

🎯 Caliber Collective Market | Unlimited Ammo & Range | Gilbert | 09/14 | More
A new neighborhood pop-up hits SanTan Village Parkway: come browse!

If you want to read any of our previous issues, check them out HERE on our website.