Good morning, Mesa.

Mesa residents will be able to preview the new Mesa Gateway Library ahead of its grand opening on Dec.6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.—the event will let visitors see the facility’s design and services.

The Foster Alliance has launched its Holiday Toy Drive to collect new, unwrapped gifts for children, teens and young adults in foster care systems.

Donors may drop off toys or make monetary donations while events—such as Fill Santa’s Sleigh on Dec. 5 at Scottsdale Quarter—will offer more opportunities to participate.

Mesa’s Mekong Plaza expanded with 12 new businesses and a $10-million capital investment that added 32,000 square feet and created about 200 jobs.

More tenants, including China’s largest hot pot chain in its first Arizona location and several new eateries, are scheduled to open by the end of this month and in spring—boosting the Asian District.

Mesa photographer Tim Cota shifted his focus from photographing familiar wildlife to capturing overlooked creatures and their diverse habitats—his work featured in the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s 2026 calendar aims to spark new appreciation for native species.

His evolving technique includes using natural light and weather to tell the story of each subject.

Vertuccio Farms Christmas Fest

Dec 1 – 23 — Vertuccio Farms — Check for admission prices — Unwrap new traditions and create holiday memories with family and friends at this festive event.

Mesa Networking

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — Free entry — Connect with Entrepreneurs, Business Owners, and Influencers in the community.

Omnium Gatherum Concert

7-9 p.m. — The Rosetta Room — Tickets starting at $65 — Experience an unforgettable live performance by Omnium Gatherum in Mesa, AZ.

Tour the Universe with Pink Floyd Planetarium Show

5-10 p.m. — Mesa Community College Planetarium — Reserved tickets required — Experience a captivating journey through the cosmos set to the music of Pink Floyd.

Arts & Crafts Market at Village Square

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Village Square At Dana Park — Admission required — Discover unique handmade creations from local artists just in time for the holidays.

Sinterklaas Celebration 2025

2:30-5 p.m. — Fountain Of The Sun — Free entry — Celebrate the joy of Sinterklaas with a festive visit from Sinterklaas and Piet in Arizona.

Modern Calligraphy Workshop for Beginners

6-7:30 p.m. — Rebel Wine Lounge — Pricing not specified — Unleash your inner artist with a festive night of modern calligraphy and lettering.

Ballet Etudes - The Nutcracker

2-3:30 p.m. — Piper Repertory Theater — Holiday magic awaits — Experience the enchanting story of Clara and her Nutcracker prince brought to life through professional ballet performance.

Santa Hustle Arizona Half Marathon and Festivities

8 AM – 2 PM — Westgate Entertainment District — Ranging entry fees — Celebrate the holiday season with a festive run for the whole family featuring a half marathon, 5K, 10K, and kids dash.

Mesa Business Networking Event

11:30 a.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — Free admission — Connect with local entrepreneurs and business influencers in a casual setting.