🍕 Pizzicata & Pickleman's are open 🥒

The holiday season is going strong, with events happening almost every day. Big time events, to themed restaurants & live music, there is something for everyone.

It is a super busy time of year and we’re all rushing here and there. Be sure and take some time to enjoy the moments of the holidays. It will be New Year’s Eve before you know it…🙏

In this edition:

In past years I tried to get as many spots on the map as I could, but last year, as much as I want to show off the light displays in Arrowhead Ranch, there were just too many good ones!!

This year, the map contains the best of the best holiday light displays, and they do not disappoint!

Get all the details on these light displays, plus a google map of all locations at ArrowheadHolidayLightsMap.com

Be sure to share the map with your friends & family!! If you know of a display worthy of being on the map, please share the details.

The Phoenix City Council is scheduled to consider the NorthPark development during its formal meeting on December 17, 2025. The agenda includes public hearings and votes on multiple General Plan amendments and a major rezoning request for the NorthPark site at the southwest corner of I-17 and Loop 303, an area adjacent to TSMC’s semiconductor campus in north Phoenix.

The NorthPark proposal would rezone more than 6,300 acres into a planned unit development that allows for a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial and mixed-use centers, employment and industrial space, and more than 2,200 acres of preserved open space tied into the Sonoran Preserve. City documents reference the project as supporting long-term employment growth linked to major employers like TSMC, making the December 17 meeting a key milestone for one of the region’s largest future developments.

City Council meeting information.

No new closures this weekend. Here are the ongoing ramp closures:

The Arizona Department of Transportation advises drivers to plan for the following closures as part of the Loop 101 (Agua Fria Freeway) widening project.

It didn’t take long for a new restaurant to find it’s way into the space formerly occupied by neighborhood favorite, Bottega Pizzeria. This is the third location for Pizzicata here in the Valley.

Federico Venturini and Chef Viola Tagliaferri—born and raised in the medieval town of Gualdo Tadino, Italy—moved to the United States in 2018 carrying with them generations of tradition, the aromas of slow-simmered sauces, and the unmistakable warmth of Italian hospitality. What began as a dream rooted in family, love, and craftsmanship has now grown into one of Arizona’s most celebrated Italian dining journeys.

Pizzicata is located at 19420 N. 59th Ave, you can there their menu here.

Pickleman’s Gourmet Cafe has officially opened at Arrowhead Towne Center in Glendale, bringing its popular lineup of toasted sandwiches, soups, and fresh salads to the West Valley. The fast-casual spot is known for hearty subs, including their signature pickle-topped creations, and offers a quick lunch or dinner option for mall shoppers and nearby residents. See their menu here.

Nick and J.D. are back with a loaded episode of the Everything Arrowhead Podcast — covering holiday events, big development news, land deals, and a look at what might be coming to one of the Valley’s most popular hiking areas.

Here’s what they dig into:

✨ Glendale Glitters Update It’s still a holiday must-see, but construction around City Hall means the layout has changed. Crowds were huge — J.D. shares what to expect and how to make your visit smoother.

🏜️ TSMC Expansion Vote (North Phoenix) A new proposal adds 900 acres south of the current TSMC site as part of the North Park development. Why residents are concerned, what NIMBY arguments are popping up, and how traffic might be a bigger issue than the factory itself. 📅 Vote Date: December 17 at 2:30 PM

🌄 Phoenix Buys Land Near Deem Hills The City of Phoenix was the only bidder for a large tract of state land near Deem Hills — and that’s good news. The area is expected to become an extension of the preserve with more hiking trails and open space, not development.

🚐 Peoria Ends WeRide Partnership The city drops its paratransit partnership after learning rides were costing $142 each. Uber/Lyft partnerships expected to replace the service at lower cost.

🍽️ Local Restaurant Updates • Flower Child officially submitting plans for Trailhead • Babbo still delivering great food and great vibes

🎄 Arrowhead Holiday Lights Map J.D.’s annual Top 10–12 holiday lights tour is returning — the ultimate guide for the best displays in Arrowhead. 🔗 ArrowheadHolidayLightsMap.com

🥾 Arrowhead Hiking Club Another great turnout on the holiday weekend! Easy, friendly hikes anyone can join. 🔗 ArrowheadHikingClub.com

🎉 Upcoming Community Events Survey Bowling nights, kayaking meetups, happy hours, full-moon photography trips — Nick & J.D. want YOUR input on upcoming group events. Survey coming soon.

👉 Like, comment, and subscribe to stay up to date with everything happening around Glendale and Arrowhead. 🗓️ Hiking details & community events at EverythingArrowhead.com

Got more questions for city leaders? Drop them in the comments or email [email protected].

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The holidays are in full swing, and that means a full line up of fun & exciting holiday themed events are happening all across the Valley.

I’ve created a curated list of local & valleywide events you may be interested in this holiday season. See all the details here.

[Downtown Glendale] Glendale Glitters is happening nightly through December 31, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., giving visitors plenty of opportunities to experience the magic. Stroll through the charming streets of Downtown Glendale, explore unique shops, and indulge in festive treats while taking in the dazzling lights and joyful atmosphere.

In addition to the ongoing lights, Santa Claus will be at Santa’s Village every Friday and Saturday, beginning December 5 through December 20. Starting at 6 p.m. families can visit Santa at 5836 W Palmaire Ave, with photos available for $5. (link)

***My daughter & I went to Glendale Glitters this past Saturday, and it was crazy crowded. I also had forgotten that the event location has been adjusted due to the construction happening on City of Glendale facilities. It is still a good time, just be mindful of when you go and have the proper expectations.

[Peoria Sports Complex] Candy Cane Lane at the Peoria Sports Complex - December 12th-13th

The event at Peoria Sports Complex promises a fun-packed outing featuring 150+ vendors, food trucks, Santa photos, snow and bubble play, bounce houses, cookie decorating, axe-throwing and more, perfect for families looking for lively holiday festivities.

Looking for something fun to do this weekend here in the NW Valley? Check out the Weekend Lineup.

[Glendale] Photos with Santa at Arrowhead Towne Center. Now through December 24th.

The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland. Santa will be here starting November 7 and is located on the lower level near JCPenney. A visit with Santa is always free and photo packages are available for purchase.

[Glendale] The Arrowhead Farmers Market is hosting their market at its new location every Saturday from 9am-1pm, at Dream City Church, 21000 N 75th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85308

[Glendale] Join local musician Bruce Donaldson for a cozy winter night in Arizona desert. Worn-in guitars, heartfelt memories, and a mix of classic tunes, easy-listening favorites, and a sprinkle of seasonal spirit. Come for the music, stay for the food. wine, and friends. The perfect backdrop for date night, family, or a relaxing mid week escape. For reservations, contact Tre Bicchieri

Have an event you’d like listing here? Please send me the details!

Join us on our next hike on Saturday, December 13th as we head east of Arrowhead and take on the Desert Tortoise & Dixie Mountain Loop trails near Norterra. It is a beautiful trail and area of the desert that many never see.

Get the details & all of our upcoming hikes at ArrowheadHikingClub.com

This group is for everyone of all skill levels, seasoned backpacker to beginner, we’d love to have you join us.

Last week’s trivia question was ‘Which Arizona City was also the capital of the state from 1867-1877?’

The correct answer was: Tucson

From 1867 to 1877, Tucson served as the capital of the Arizona Territory, marking a decade when the growing southern city held the region’s political center. Lawmakers moved the capital there to be closer to population centers and military protection during a turbulent period. In 1877, the seat shifted back to Prescott before eventually landing permanently in Phoenix.

Meet Mitzi!

Mitzi was picked up after spending about a week running the streets in the middle of all those storms! She was so matted she had to be shaved. She had about 5 pounds of hair removed. She is a little on the skinny side so we are working on putting on some weight.

Mitzi is very smart and learns the house rules quickly. She likes other dogs and has been around cats. She is pretty interested in them but not in a bad way. She isn't fond of the kennel but does settle down after a bit. She is very sweet and LOVES to play. Mitzi loves to jump up on things. She gets on top of the dog kennel and hangs out all the time. She is very fast and will dash out the door when given a chance. Mitzi plays rough! She pounces on her dog friends, bites at legs, and nose bops HARD! She would NOT do well with an older dog or a dog that is not playful. She does take correction very well when you tell her to settle down.

Mitzi is approximately 1-2 years old and weighs 12 pounds.

Learn more about Mitzi and the other available pets at Paw Posse Animal Rescue.

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