East Arizona News

Most city offices in Scottsdale will be closed on Thursday and Friday, Nov. 24 and 25, in observance of Thanksgiving. Trash and recycling collection will be delayed by one day, and libraries and pools will also be closed during this time.

The Scottsdale Trolley will not be in operation on Thanksgiving Day, but service will resume on Friday, Nov. 25. For more information on holiday schedules, visitors can check the Valley Metro website.

The city is gearing up for the monthlong holiday celebration known as Scottsdazzle, which will kick off on Nov. 26 with the Tree Lighting Ceremony and Sing Along at the Scottsdale Waterfront. This event will be the start of 45 planned events, including ten new additions such as Holiday Hooves & Howls, Dazzling Magic Shows, Candle Making classes, Jingle Barre at the Bridge, and the Sugar Plum Tea Party.

One of the highlights of Scottsdazzle is the Sing-Along & Tree Lighting Ceremony, which will take place on Saturday, Nov. 26, at the Scottsdale Waterfront's Soleri Bridge. This event will feature holiday decor and classic Christmas tunes led by MusicaNova Orchestra and local celebrities. The evening will culminate with the lighting of the 40-foot Scottsdazzle tree.

In support of local businesses, Scottsdale encourages residents to participate in Small Business Saturday on Nov. 26. Old Town Scottsdale is home to numerous locally owned and operated boutiques, galleries, and retailers. Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of dining options while taking advantage of specials and sales offered by local establishments.

Children will have the opportunity to meet Santa at the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market on Saturdays until Dec. 17. Santa will be available for photos from 9 a.m. to noon, and the market itself runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

In an effort to enhance recycling in Old Town, the Scottsdale City Council has initiated a recycling and alley refresh program. The city is asking businesses and property owners in the area to complete a questionnaire to determine interest in a permanent business recycling program and identify any obstacles currently preventing recycling.

In terms of public meetings, the City Council will be holding a Special Meeting on Monday, Nov. 21, followed by a Regular and Work Study Meeting later in the evening. Additionally, there will be a public meeting on Monday, Nov. 28, to discuss two new city projects: a fire station and well site.

The construction of Fire Station 612, approved by Scottsdale voters in the 2019 bond election, is expected to begin in late 2023. The 12,000-square-foot station will be located at the northeast corner of Hayden Road and Mayo Boulevard and will help improve emergency response times in the area. Alongside the fire station, Scottsdale Water will be constructing a new aquifer storage and recovery well to maximize the city's use of renewable surface water supplies.

There are also several events and programs taking place in Scottsdale. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park will be hosting its Holiday Lights experience from Nov. 25 to Dec. 30, featuring a winter wonderland of holiday lights and displays. The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is offering various programs throughout November, including presentations on the archaeology of Pueblo Grande and a Preserve Origins Educational Walk. The Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West has fall programs lined up, including a gallery walk and a presentation on the art of the American West.

For those interested in contemporary dance, the Scottsdale Center for the Arts presents "BODYTRAFFIC," a unique dance company known for its creative expression. The event will take place on Friday, Dec. 9.

Residents can also participate in the Scottsdale Fire Department's annual toy drive by donating unwrapped toys and gift cards at the department headquarters or any fire station until Tuesday, Dec. 21. These donations will be distributed to partner organizations serving families in need.

Registration for Scottsdale Parks and Recreation winter programs will begin on Monday, Nov. 28, for residents and on Tuesday, Nov. 29, for non-residents. These programs include swim lessons, water exercise classes, youth activities, and adult programs.

Overall, there are plenty of events and programs happening in Scottsdale to kick off the holiday season and engage the community. Whether it's attending public meetings, supporting local businesses, or participating in festive activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the city.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/Page18184.aspx?SourceId=4&ArticleId=31528