Event Calendar

Election Day in the United States is the day set by law for the general elections of public officials. It occurs on the Tuesday right after the first Monday in November. It is a civic holiday in some states, including Delaware, Hawaii, Kentucky, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, West Virginia, and the territory of Puerto Rico. Some other states require that workers be permitted to take time off from employment without loss of pay.

The Downtown Mesa Barbeque and Bluegrass Classic is a two-day festival organized by Downtown Mesa, bringing together barbecue, bluegrass and community programming. The event includes food and music as part of its family-oriented festival setting. Hours differ between Friday and Saturday, so visitors should review the official event information before making plans. Current admission terms are not stated in the verified event details. Visit the official event website for current schedule, admission and event information.

The City of Mesa and United Food Bank will hold the 18th Annual Turkey Tuesday frozen-turkey collection event at the Mesa Convention Center. Participants may bring a frozen turkey to contribute to the collection or use the linked online donation option. There is no admission fee, and frozen-turkey donations are requested. This community collection provides a focused way to contribute through the event’s stated donation options. Check the official event page for donation details and the latest updates.

In the United States, Thanksgiving or Thanksgiving Day is an annual one-day legal holiday that is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November (i.e. the Thursday falling between November 22 and November 28). The period from Thanksgiving Day to New Year's Day is often collectively referred to as the "holiday season" and the holiday itself is often nicknamed Turkey Day. Thanksgiving is generally considered a secular holiday and is not directly based on religious canon or dogma. The holiday's origins trace to harvest festivals that have been celebrated in many cultures since ancient times and most people celebrate by gathering at home with family or friends for a holiday feast. A tradition also exists to share the fruits of the harvest with those who are less fortunate.

Merry Main Street begins with a public holiday kickoff in Downtown Mesa, featuring a holiday market, holiday program and Christmas-tree lighting. The kickoff event has free admission, while some separate Merry Main Street activities may have their own admission charges. Visitors can take part in the opening celebration and explore the holiday-focused offerings included with the kickoff. Visit the official event website for current schedule, admission and event information.