Good morning, Mesa.

Ballet Arizona's Nutcracker begins today at Symphony Hall with live music from the Phoenix Symphony, ASU Gammage's Magical Cirque Christmas in Tempe is on Dec.

30, Phoenix Theatre Company's A Christmas Carol plays until Dec. 28, and Desert Botanical Garden's Las Noches de las Luminarias runs until Dec. 23.

Merry Main Street is in full swing in downtown Mesa through Jan.

10, featuring over 40 eateries, 60 shops, and events including today’s Holiday Sunset Market and visits from Santa at The Post (on Fridays, Saturdays, and Dec. 24) as the festival brightens winter since 2015.

Mesa Community College will offer two new artificial intelligence courses in Spring, 2026, designed to give students a strong start in AI and Python programming (credit transfers to ASU).

The courses require no prerequisites and aim to build skills that boost career opportunities in technology and related fields.

State Rep. Lisa Fink urged the Arizona Department of Health Services to update its hepatitis B vaccine guidance to give parents more choice after a CDC advisory recently limited the vaccine for newborns by maternal infection, even as ADHS said it will keep recommending the shot for all newborns.

On Wednesday, the Arizona vulnerable-adult study committee debated whether cameras should be allowed in group homes like assisted living, with supporters citing quicker staff response & opponents raising concerns over misuse.

The discussion could set the stage for a statewide mandate on electronic monitoring in care settings.

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.

Pottery Workshop at Rebel Wine Lounge

7-9 p.m. — Rebel Wine Lounge — Contact for pricing — Unwind and create your own pottery in a fun and relaxing atmosphere.

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Ikeda Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Cirque Musica with holiday hits and breathtaking performances for the whole family.

Mesa Memory Café

1-2:30 p.m. — Oakwood Creative Care Hub — Free entry — Enjoy coffee and cognitive activities in a supportive environment for those with memory impairment and their families.

HeatSync Labs: Coffee & Coworking

9 AM – 3 PM — HeatSync Labs — Free entry — Bring your projects and get excited at this collaborative hackerspace in Mesa.

Josh Bierman Live Performance

4-8 p.m. — Pedal Haus Biergarten — Check venue for details — Experience the soulful sounds of AZ native singer-songwriter Josh Bierman and his dynamic band.