Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025
Good morning, Mesa. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 23rd of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Tickets are now available online for the winter wonderland ice rink at Merry Main Street in downtown Mesa, open daily until Jan. 10. Ticket price is $11 for a one hour session (including skate rental) with special holiday hours on Dec. 24 and closed Dec. 25. Mesa Independent
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Luis F. Ruiz Jr. was named Mesa's new director of arts and culture in October after serving as deputy for Parks and Recreation; he plans upgrades at major venues and mobile outreach + partnerships to boost local engagement under a $23-million budget. The Mesa Tribune
- ➤ The Show will serve two new batches of Amy Silverman’s eggnog this week — continuing the three-year holiday tradition — as staff rate the flavors for local listeners. KJZZ
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Arizona’s minimum wage will go up from $14.70 to $15.15 on Jan. 1 to match rising prices from last year—this change follows a voter-approved rule to adjust wages with local cost increases. 12 News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ ADOT announced there will be no state highway construction closures during the upcoming holiday weekends, though some work will occur between Dec. 24 and Jan. 5. Drivers should plan for heavy traffic on I-17 and I-10 along the Phoenix-California corridor. KJZZ
- ➤ Governor Hobbs announced on Monday that nearly 500,000 Arizonans have had $642 million in medical debt erased through a state initiative — debt relief letters for 141,000 residents are set to start arriving this week, offering relief ahead of holiday expenses. 12 News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Arizona Humane Society offers Mesa pet owners holiday safety tips, recommending plastic ornaments, a secured tree and elevated lights (to avoid hazards) while advising a quiet space with fresh water and bedding during busy festivities. KJZZ
- ➤ Dr. Tyler Vestal, a Banner Health psychiatrist, advises Mesa residents to set realistic expectations + boundaries during the holidays to help manage anxiety. He recommends seeking professional help if anxious feelings continue after the season. KJZZ
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HeatSync Labs: Coffee & Coworking
9 AM – 3 PM — HeatSync Labs — Free entry — Bring your projects and get excited at this collaborative hackerspace in Mesa.
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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.
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Arizona Balloon Classic
4-9 p.m. — Wild Horse Pass Stadium — Entrance fees may apply — Experience stunning hot air balloon displays and delicious food at this family-friendly event.
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Copper State Beer Festival
11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Riverview Park — Tickets required — Celebrate craft beverages and food with 100+ vendors and lively activities.
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Mesa Business Networking Chapter
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — Guests can attend up to two times for a fee — A structured networking event focused on fostering real relationships among local professionals.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Mesa Today
Welcome to the Mesa Today, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Mesa, Arizona community. If you like the Mesa Today, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Mesa.
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