🦃 Thanksgiving Eve parties are stacking up

Caldwell County BBQ has that welcoming, lived-in feel: big smokers humming outside, picnic tables out back, and a dining room that feels like someone’s well-loved farmhouse kitchen.
It’s the kind of spot where the brisket draws a line out the door and the pit crew still finds time to offer a sample with a smile.
For Thanksgiving Eve, they’re packing up favorites like smoked turkey breast, whole briskets, and their famed corn casserole, all chilled and ready for an easy holiday reheat.

Hale Centre Theatre has this way of pulling families into the same moment. You settle into your seat, the lights shift, and suddenly you’re sharing something you don’t have to explain later.
Folks who went to Anastasia talked about wiping their eyes at the final note, and parents still chat about the spark Charlie and the Chocolate Factory lit in their kids.
With season tickets discounted, it’s an easy tradition to build as everyone starts gathering a little closer this time of year.

The Gist: Gilbert Days rolls in and the town is leaning into its roots. The rodeo takes over Horseshoe Park in Queen Creek from Nov. 21–23, where cowboys, barrel racers, and even a few brave little sheep riders will take the dirt. On Nov. 22, the Heritage District fills with the “Out of This World” parade, a playful mix of space scenes, shiny robots, and hometown pride.

Why It Matters: It brings our community back to the traditions that shaped this place.

The Gist: Gilbert Regional Park will host a full slate of pickleball tournaments from November through February, and Courts 1 through 8 will close during event hours. Tournaments include private competitions, a high school social, the Holiday Classic, More Bang for the Buck, and the 2026 Winter Classic. Courts reopen to everyone once each event wraps up.

Why It Matters: Players may find the park busier than usual and should plan for rotating play during peak times. Nearby courts at Arbuckle Park and Arrowhead Meadows offer extra space.

Batgirl begins her days with the warm charm of a neighborhood tale.

This lovely Shar Pei mix, born in 2022, enjoys pool dips, pasture romps, and spirited games of tug with her dog friends. She loves riding along for errands and never misses a pup cup from Scooters Coffee.

Batgirl is hoping for a home with a yard and a friendly canine companion. Her adoption fee is 150 dollars.

To learn more about this adorable girl...