Events, things to do in the Phoenix metro area: November 2023

Scroll down the list of events happening in the Phoenix metro area during the month of November. The dates are in descending order.

November 28

Pratt Brothers Christmas at Rawhide

November 25

Downtown Mesa Farmers Market

"Located on the Inspire Farms property in Downtown Mesa, guests have the opportunity to explore the city, experience public art, contemporary art and engage with the community through our programming, live music and vendor experiences."

November 24

Christmas at Schnepf Farms

"Experience a winter wonderland like no other with seasonal food, fun and festivities for the whole family. Catch a ride on the World of Illumination Express, hop on a hayride to visit Rudolph or journey through Santa’s magic workshop."

Enchant Christmas in Scottsdale

"Enchant is an immersive experience weaving magic into its every corner, perfect for joyful seasonal celebrations. Adventure through The Mischievous Elf, a captivating, larger-than-life light maze that is the cornerstone to the Enchant experience."

  • Through Dec. 31
  • Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
  • 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, AZ
  • Tickets start at $31 adults, $23 kids
  • https://enchantchristmas.com

Fantasy of Lights Street Parade & Tree Lighting

"A holiday tradition enjoyed by generations, the Fantasy of Lights Street Parade runs down Mill Avenue to CenterPoint Plaza for the tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment, Santa photos, and more."

Glendale Glitters

"Glendale Glitters is a display of lights around Murphy Park in downtown Glendale and so much more! This year’s celebration includes the annual Hometown Christmas Parade, various performances at the Murphy Park Amphitheatre, our Movies by Moonlight series and LIBCON West at the Velma Teague Library."

Holiday Market at Legacy Park

"Come shop and support your local small businesses this holiday season."

Las Noches De Las Luminarias

"Enjoy an evening filled with sparkling luminaria-lit trails and twinkling holiday lights. Musical performances, entertainment and festive food and drinks available for a picture-perfect night. "

  • Nov. 24, 25; Dec. 1-2, 8-9 15-16, 19-23, 26-30
  • Desert Botanical Garden
  • 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
  • General admission starts at $39.95 adults, $16.95 youth
  • https://dbg.org

Merry Main Street Tree Lighting and Kick-off

"Join us for the lighting of the Christmas Tree and official kick-off of Merry Main Street holiday celebration! Tree Lighting program, visits with Santa, opening of the Winter Wonderland Ice Rink, vendors, live music and more."

Mesa Temple Christmas Light Display

"In addition to walking the beautifully lit temple grounds, visitors can feel the spirit of Christmas at the International Nativity Display housed in the adjacent Visitors’ Center. All activities are open to the public, free of charge, and family friendly."

Shop local at The Store

"Elevate your holiday shopping experience at The Store at Mesa Arts Center on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. Discover one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and handmade ornaments for everyone on your list. Find something to fit every taste and budget."

"The Man Who Killed Santa Claus"

"Join Mesa Mayor John Giles for a holiday variety show featuring local actors and musicians in a radio-style performance of The Man Who Killed Santa Claus, a true story of triumph over failure set in downtown Mesa dating back to 1932."

November 22

ZooLights

"Shining bigger and brighter than ever with nearly four million lights, hundreds of dazzling displays, brand new Wildlife Lanterns and the return of the tallest floating tree in North America showcasing ORIGINAL music and a synchronized light show!"

November 21

Irving Berlin's "White Christmas"

"Featuring spirited songs from Irving Berlin, White Christmas sparkles with holiday cheer, dancing, and laughter."

November 18

Fiesta on Central Avenue

"Join us for a day of community, commerce and connection at the Fiesta on Central Avenue. This free, family-friendly event will feature live entertainment, activities for kids and the chance to shop at more than 30 local businesses in the South Central Extension/Downtown Hub project corridor."

Mesa Cars & Coffee

Shine a Light on All Dementias

"Participants can enjoy fun family activities, live music, yoga, photos with Santa, community resources and more. The event will culminate in lighting the Capitol purple, the color designated to honor the nearly 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer's disease. 

Participants are encouraged to bring a blanket or chairs to enjoy the evening activities. Dogs on a leash are welcome. Each person who registers will receive one complimentary coffee from Luana’s Coffee in Phoenix."

  • Nov. 18, 3:30 p.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Arizona State Capitol lawn
  • 1700 W. Washington St., Phoenix
  • To register, visit bannerhealth.com/calendar, keyword "Shine A Light," or call 602-230-CARE

Super Saturday Turkey Drive

Items accepted include turkeys, non-perishable Thanksgiving dinner fixings (boxed stuffing, canned vegetables, etc.), and cash donations.

  • Nov. 18, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  • St. Mary's Food Bank
  • Del Webb: 2831 N. 31st Ave., Phoenix
  • Surprise: 13050 W. Elm St., Surprise
  • For a list of participating Albertson's and Safeway locations: https://www.firstfoodbank.org

World of Illumination: Reindeer Road

"A merrily magical journey."

November 17

Gobbler Gauntlet

All proceeds benefit Child Crisis Arizona.

Circle K Desert Klassic Charity Golf Tournament 

"K9 Tito races upon command to retrieve the flag from the fairway and return to the Tee Box, kicking off the tournament!"

Desert Farm Lights

"Follow the wafting scent of freshly-baked gingerbread through a winter wonderland at Desert Farm Lights, the West Valley holiday light installation returning to Justice Brothers Ranch in Waddell. Happening Nov. 17 through Dec. 31, this year’s 8-acre event will feature a multitude of activations for all ages, including a horse-drawn hayride, DIY toy shop, a 90 ft. fun slide, holiday train ride, giant snow globes and much more."

Gilbert Days Rodeo

  • Nov. 17 - 19, 3 p.m. - 11:50 p.m.
  • Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre
  • 20464 E. Riggs Rd, Queen Creek
  • Tickets start at $20 for adults
  • https://www.gilbertdaysrodeo.org

No Vet Left Behind Golf Tournament 

"Proceeds will help provide Arizona veterans a safe, affordable place to call home and the resources and community support needed to build and maintain a stable future."

  • Nov. 17, 8 a.m.
  • Falcon Dunes Golf Course
  • 15100 W. Northern Ave., Waddell
  • Registration for four players: $1,000
  • Registration includes: golf cart, greens fees, breakfast, lunch, on-course beverages and swag bag

November 16

Pollack Tempe Cinemas

"Pollack Tempe Cinemas will offer the following movies FREE of charge on Thursday, November 16th – ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’, ‘Home Alone,’ ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,’ and ‘The Santa Clause.’ The movies will begin at 5:30 p.m. Seating is limited, and guests are encouraged to arrive early, as the movies will be offered on a first come-first serve basis."

November 15

World of Illumination: Cosmic Sleighride

"Climb aboard your cosmic sleigh with your host Shiny the Star on a mystical holiday adventure that is out of this world at Cosmic Sleighride produced by World of Illumination. Shoot past the sun, race among the stars and pass through Kris Kringle’s celestial portal where toys prepare for launch. Orbit around a team of astro elves hoverboarding through the cosmos as you enter the stratosphere of Santa City, where all the holiday magic happens. Hold on to your seat — you’re in for one stellar ride."

November 13

Armer Foundation Holiday Toy Drive

"From November 13, 2023, to December 18, 2023, we invite you to join us in spreading joy and making the holiday season brighter for children in need. Our Toy Drive is dedicated to collecting new, unwrapped toys that will bring smiles to kids from newborns to teenagers."

  • Through Dec. 18
  • Benefits Banner Cardon Pediatric Intensive Care and Oncology units
  • https://armerfoundation.org/toydrive
  • Drop off locations: Ahwatukee Children's Theatre - 11011 S. 48th St., Suite B-10, Phoenix Armer Foundation – 9830 S. 51st St. Suite A128, Phoenix Art of Framing - 7650 S. McClintock Dr. #108, Tempe Bill’s Grill - 333 S Montezuma St, Prescott, AZ Hillside Spot - 4740 E. Warner Rd., Phoenix Lakeside Bar & Grill - 9980 W. Happy Valley Rd., Peoria Lifestyle Performance Training - 7890 S. Hardy Dr. #115, Tempe MacLay Real Estate - 800 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 118, Chandler Newman Auto Network - 3801 E. Roeser Rd. #15, Phoenix Pilates Tempe - 8729 S. Kyrene Rd., Suite 110, Tempe Post Net (Ahwatukee) - 611 E. Chandler Blvd. #112, Phoenix Red, White & Brew - 6740 E. McDowell Rd. #102, Mesa Red, White & Brew - 200 E Gurley St, Prescott Randy's Restaurant - 7904 E. Chaparral Rd., Scottsdale 32 Shea - 10626 N. 32nd St., Phoenix Wren Südhalle - 4025 E. Chandler Blvd. Suite 1, Phoenix U & Improved (collecting December 3rd only) – Courtyard Marriott Scottsdale Salt River, 5201 N. Pima Rd, Scottsdale 
  • Ahwatukee Children's Theatre - 11011 S. 48th St., Suite B-10, Phoenix
  • Armer Foundation – 9830 S. 51st St. Suite A128, Phoenix
  • Art of Framing - 7650 S. McClintock Dr. #108, Tempe
  • Bill’s Grill - 333 S Montezuma St, Prescott, AZ
  • Hillside Spot - 4740 E. Warner Rd., Phoenix
  • Lakeside Bar & Grill - 9980 W. Happy Valley Rd., Peoria
  • Lifestyle Performance Training - 7890 S. Hardy Dr. #115, Tempe
  • MacLay Real Estate - 800 S. Alma School Rd., Suite 118, Chandler
  • Newman Auto Network - 3801 E. Roeser Rd. #15, Phoenix
  • Pilates Tempe - 8729 S. Kyrene Rd., Suite 110, Tempe
  • Post Net (Ahwatukee) - 611 E. Chandler Blvd. #112, Phoenix
  • Red, White & Brew - 6740 E. McDowell Rd. #102, Mesa
  • Red, White & Brew - 200 E Gurley St, Prescott
  • Randy's Restaurant - 7904 E. Chaparral Rd., Scottsdale
  • 32 Shea - 10626 N. 32nd St., Phoenix
  • Wren Südhalle - 4025 E. Chandler Blvd. Suite 1, Phoenix
  • U & Improved (collecting December 3rd only) – Courtyard Marriott Scottsdale Salt River, 5201 N. Pima Rd, Scottsdale 

November 12

lululemon 10K Tour

"The lululemon 10K Tour is a multi-city race series created for the community, by the community. Think: 10 whole kilometers of massive neighborhood love, all-out cheer stations, and post-race surprises."

$89 registration fee includes: "participant shirt, finisher medal, exclusive 10K training program and all the amazing pre- and post-race amenities including yoga, meditation and even a post-race treat."

Pup Festival

"Pup Festival will host a free dog event at the Arizona Boardwalk on Sunday, November 12, 2023 from 10am-3pm. Pup Festival expects thousands of people and their dogs and will feature dog races, photo ops, contests, dog gym, games, demos, pawdicures, adoptable pups, vendors, giveaways, prizes and more – benefiting AZ Humane Society. "

November 11

Arizona Derby Dames

"Come see hard hitting banked-track roller derby action from the Arizona Derby Dames! See the Schoolyard Scrappers take on the Doomsday Valkyries, followed by an exhibition bout from our Minor Assaults youth team."

  • Nov. 11, 5 p.m.
  • Hall of Dames
  • 2517 W. McDowell Rd. #118, Phoenix
  • Admission: $15 pre-sales, $20 at the door, kids 10 & under: $10
  • https://arizonaderbydames.com

Dusk Market

"Join us at Dusk Market's fifth affair on 11/11 for a magical evening of shopping, entertainment, and enchanting experiences under the stars."

East Valley Veterans Parade

"The annual East Valley Veterans Parade, an East Valley tradition, is on Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11 in Downtown Mesa. More than 100 parade entries are anticipated, along with aerial demonstrations of vintage aircraft. This year’s parade theme is "Vietnam Valor," honoring the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War and those that served."

  • Nov. 11, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
  • Downtown Mesa
  • Near University Dr. & Center St.
  • https://evvp.org

Phoenix Pizza Festival

"From 11am-6pm (4pm on Sunday), festival goers can purchase and devour slices of pizza from about 20 of the best local pizza makers. Every vendor will offer an affordable slice option on their menu. Other festival highlights include: local craft beer from Huss Brewing, Bogle wines, live bands, lawn games, a kid's zone, and free Arizona sunshine."

  • Nov. 11 - 12
  • Margaret T. Hance Park
  • 67 W. Culver St., Downtown Phoenix
  • Admission: $16
  • Tickets will not be available to purchase at the gate
  • Get tickets: https://www.phoenix.pizza

Phoenix Veterans Day Parade

"Started in 1997, the Phoenix Veterans Day Parade honors the contributions of our United States Veterans."

The parade begins at 11 a.m., heading south on Central Avenue from Montebello Drive to Camelback Road, turning east on Camelback Road to 7th Street, then turning south on 7th Street, ending at Indian School Road.

November 10

Dino’s Git Down Truck & Car Show

Epic Food Truck Throwdown

"Family-friendly event featuring more than 50 food trucks, live music, and a Pirate-themed splash pad and playground for kids."

NiteFlite Golf Tournament

"The tournament features a unique five-person-per-group format with a modified best ball scramble scoring system, play with the pros holes, longest drive contests, closest to the pin contests, prizes for the top teams, and, of course, our charity caddies."

Nitrocross

"At every round, the world’s best drivers are put to the test in a variety of environments as they battle for the prized Ken Block Championship Trophy. Each stop also showcases additional motorsport disciplines along with fun live entertainment to offer fans a full festival experience."

Pinner's Conference

"Pinners is two great events in one. It's a conference featuring 110+ creative and educational classes taught by the best presenters in the nation. And it's also a shopping event with 200 top shops providing beautiful options in the worlds of home DIY, crafts, cooking, self-improvement, photography, party planning, scrapbooking, holiday, beauty and fashion and all sorts of other great things. You don't have to be on Pinterest to come of course, but bring an adventurous spirit :) Because this is where it comes to life. And after you come, it'll be your new favorite event!"

  • Nov. 10 - 11
  • West World of Scottsdale
  • 16601 N Pima Rd., Scottsdale
  • Admission starts at $12
  • Parking: $10
  • az.pinnersconference.com

Skate Westgate

"Kids & adults are invited to partake in a timeless holiday tradition – outdoor ice skating on our real ice rink! Make magical memories with your loved ones as you glide through an unforgettable winter wonderland. All skill levels are welcome, whether you’re performing pirouettes or strapping on skates for the first time."

Veterans Day Bash

"All day long, veterans and active duty military personnel can receive a free entrée of choice from OBH’s regular menu. Festivities support Tunnel to Towers Tempe, a nonprofit organization founded in honor of Firefighter Stephen Siller, who lost his life in the line of duty on September 11, 2001, and all first responders and military heroes that have made the ultimate sacrifice."

November 9

Art in the Park

"Art in the Park encourages residents to leave their mark on the City’s History by collaborating with artist Beth Nybeck to create a work of art for the new City Hall, leaving their mark on Mesa’s history. The sculpture, known as "Flip Side," will be an M-shaped wall containing more than 300 tiles. One side will have a black and white photograph of a person, while the flip side will have a message from that person on a colorful tile to showcase the community’s faces and voices. The new artwork will be unveiled at the grand opening next fall and will be on display for up to a year."

Catch a Crook Golf Tournament

"Help Silent Witness keep our community safe. Join us for a beautiful day in the sun as Silent Witness hosts it's annual Catch A Crook Golf Tournament."

  • Nov. 9, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Papago Golf Club
  • 5595 E. Karsten Way, Phoenix
  • Click here to register

Charles Schwab Cup Championship

November 5

NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race

November 4

Arizona Fall Festival

Arizona Fashion Week

"Arizona Fashion Week runs for two weeks, October 22nd - November 5th, with our main runway shows taking place November 3rd, 4th, and 5th. Join us this season as we showcase new designers, brands, partners, and locations!"

AAWL's Walk to Save Animals

Día de los Muertos

"Día de Muertos returns to the Garden this fall, featuring an all-new immersive experience by Cultural Curator Ulrike Figueroa Vilchis of Mexico City. This year’s theme is La Catrina and is centered on the history and symbolism of the elegant skeleton figure. Guests will experience a mega community altar, a decorative and floral entry archway and a two-day celebration culminating in a festive procession. Enjoy delicious food, hands-on activities, dance, music and more during this weekend celebration."

  • Nov. 4 & 5, 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Desert Botanical Garden
  • 1201 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix
  • General admission: $24.95 - $29.95
  • Children 3-17: $14.95 - $16.95
  • https://dbg.org

Esteban Live at the Orpheum Theatre

"Join Multi-Platinum and Eight-time Billboard chart topping guitarist Esteban and his band for a concert event to remember! Playing everything from "Bach to Rock", Esteban brings his passion and love for music back to Phoenix where he started his career more than 30 years ago. Be a part of the musical journey that has spanned generations and inspired millions."

Grand Avenue Festival

Night in the 40s Big Band Dance

"Swing the night away to the tunes of the Sonoran Swing Orchestra and the Uptown Angels. The event will transport you to the golden era of swing, taking place in the nostalgic ambiance of our museum hangar. Live music, free swing dancing lessons, B-17 photo ops, costume contest and more. Hosted by Arizona's Ron Hoon, Anchor of ‘FOX 10 AZAM.' Seating is limited. Purchase tickets at azcaf.org or call 480-924-1940

Phoenix Pagan Pride

"Come learn about your local Pagan community while having a great family day! There will be vendors and local artists, musicians, dancing, raffles, kids craft area, story telling, morning noon and evening rituals, and much more. Food trucks available on site, but you are welcome to bring a picnic lunch if you like."

Polo Championships

Superstition Village Tiki Marketplace

November 3

Anthem Christmas tree arrival

Canal Convergence

"Canal Convergence is an internationally recognized, free, 10-night public art event that takes over the Scottsdale Waterfront each November. This entirely outdoor, immersive event features large-scale, light-based artworks, as well as educational workshops, family-friendly activities, art tours, live music and dance performances, a beer and wine garden, food trucks, and more!"

Dreamy Draw Music Festival

"The event will feature the sounds of the American West with over two dozen of the best artists today in alt-country, folk, Americana, roots and rock music. The festival's inaugural edition includes Arizona’s beloved Midland along with Luke Grimes, Margo Price, Lord Huron, Trampled by Turtles, Stephen Wilson, Hailey Whitters and more."

First Friday Art Walk

When the event was launched in the mid-90s, it started with a handful of participants. Now, "it's a free, all-ages event that draws thousands of attendees spread out across dozens of city blocks and nearly 100 businesses… this event invites vendors, musicians, and artists of all varieties out into the streets (many of which are closed off to traffic) for an evening where the essence of downtown Phoenix’s arts and culture can be seen, felt, heard, and tasted throughout more than 70 galleries, venues, art-related spaces, and surrounding bars, restaurants and food trucks."