🍂 10 Fun Things To Do in Gilbert, Mesa & Queen Creek This November

by Laura Holl | Arizona’s Finest Real Estate

November in the East Valley is honestly peak Arizona energy. It’s that magical window where the mornings pretend they’re chilly, you grab a cardigan you won’t actually wear, and patio season finally makes its triumphant comeback after surviving the summer sauna.

My family basically explodes out the front door this time of year like we’ve been released from summer captivity. The weather is perfect, the food trucks start multiplying, and the entire East Valley has this cozy, festive vibe that makes you want to be out and about every day.

So if you’re ready to enjoy this month like a true East Valley local, here are 10 fun things to do in Gilbert, Mesa, and Queen Creek this November - with locations included so you can bookmark and go.

1. Gilbert Farmers Market

📍 222 N Ash St, Gilbert, AZ 85234
📅 Every Saturday

If you’ve never been… wow, you’re in for a treat.
Fresh pastries, iced coffee, local produce, handmade décor, and the most dangerous vendor aisle for impulse buying.

Best for: families, strollers, dogs, and your inner “I swear I’m a farmer’s market person now” energy.

Local Tip: Go between 8–10 am for the best selection and minimal lines.

2. Schnepf Farms Christmas at Schnepf Farms (Queen Creek)

📍 24810 S Rittenhouse Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142
📅 Begins November 28

If you missed the Pumpkin & Chili Party (don’t worry, most of us were still recovering from summer), you can jump straight into the holiday magic because Christmas at Schnepf Farms kicks off on November 28.

Think twinkling lights, a Christmas train ride, ice skating, cookie decorating, holiday movies, bonfires, s’mores, and enough photo ops to upgrade your IG grid for the entire season.

It’s cozy, festive, and gives total small-town-holiday-movie energy… without needing to fly to some snow-covered town named Holly Pines or Snowflake Ridge.

Perfect for families, date nights, and anyone who believes Christmas lights make everything better.

3. Dinner + Holiday Lights at Gilbert’s Water Tower Plaza

📍 Around 45 W Page Ave, Gilbert, AZ 85233
(Downtown Gilbert Heritage District)

Once the holiday lights flip on, downtown Gilbert becomes a Hallmark movie set.
Stroll the plaza, grab dessert, people-watch, and soak up all the good vibes.

Nearby dinner spots that never miss:

• Postino East

• Joyride Taco House

• Zinburger

• Barrio Queen

• The Porch

4. Queen Creek Olive Mill – Seasonal Tastings

📍 25062 S Meridian Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142

This spot has a chokehold on me every November.
Seasonal tastings, balsamic pairings, olive-oil flights (yes, that’s a thing), and the cutest gift shop that will absolutely get you in trouble.

You will not leave empty-handed. I don’t care what you tell yourself.

5. Merry Main Street in Downtown Mesa

📍 Main St & Center St, Mesa, AZ 85201

Mesa turns into a holiday wonderland with an ice rink, a giant Christmas tree, light displays, food trucks, and local shops hosting seasonal specials.

Whether you have kids or not, you’ll feel like a kid again… and probably eat more kettle corn than you meant to.

6. Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

📍 2757 E Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234

Sunset walks here feel like therapy you don’t have to pay for.
Wildlife everywhere, peaceful trails, and 100% Instagrammable views.

Perfect for solo walks, family outings, or pretending to be a nature photographer for the day.

7. Feastival Food Truck Fridays

📍 Rotating locations across:

• Gilbert (near Gilbert Regional Park)

• Queen Creek (QC Marketplace area)

• Mesa (near Eastmark + Downtown Mesa)

This event smells like heaven and tastes like self-control issues.
BBQ, churros, poke bowls, birria tacos, loaded fries… it’s a whole experience.

Local Tip: Arrive early or prepare for Hunger Games-level lines.

8. Kayaking at Saguaro Lake

📍 Launch: Saguaro Lake Marina – 14011 N Bush Hwy, Mesa, AZ 85215

November is prime kayaking weather.
Cool temps, calm water, and the chance to spot wild horses along the banks.

Bring snacks, sunscreen, and your “yes, I’m outdoorsy today” personality.

9. Queen Creek Marketplace Holiday Pop-Ups

📍 21398 S Ellsworth Loop Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142

Holiday vendors start popping up in early November, and the Marketplace slowly transforms into full festive mode.

It’s a great place to shop small, grab dinner, and walk around… and Target is right there, which is both a convenience and a threat.

10. Gilbert Fall Carnival & Vendor Fair

📍 Typically near Gilbert Civic Center – 50 E Civic Center Dr, Gilbert, AZ 85296
(Exact location can shift slightly each year)

Think: carnival rides, food trucks, local makers, and cute hometown vibes.
An easy weekend activity with something for literally everyone.

🍁 Final Thoughts

November in the East Valley just hits different. Whether you’re exploring local festivals, walking the Riparian at golden hour, or strolling through downtown Gilbert with a peppermint mocha… this is the month to fall back in love with where you live.

And if you’re planning ahead for 2026 and curious what your home might be worth right now, here’s your free link:

✨ Check Your Home Value Instantly
https://www.laurahsellsaz.com/evaluation

Or if buying or selling is on your radar this winter, let’s talk strategy. It’s literally my love language.

📅 Schedule a Time With Me
https://www.laurahsellsaz.com/meeting/844766099041018/laura_holl

🧡 Happy November!
– Laura