Welcome back to this week's edition of What’s Hot and Happening! Fall is in full swing, and so are Fresno’s vibrant events and traditions. 🍂 From Thanksgiving fitness with the iconic Fresno Turkey Trot to live music, cultural celebrations, and unforgettable local experiences, there’s something exciting for everyone this week. Whether you’re ready to lace up for a heart-pumping Turkey Trot or soak in Día de los Muertos festivities, we've got your guide to making the most of these memorable autumn days.

Fresno Turkey Trot on November 28th!

Get ready to kick off Thanksgiving morning with Fresno’s most spirited tradition—the 25th Annual Turkey Trot at Woodward Park on November 28, 2024!! Lace up those running shoes for a heart-pumping 5K run or a scenic walk that lets you earn your feast and help the community. Every step supports local charities fighting hunger, making it a great way to give back before giving thanks.

The 5K race is chip-timed, with cash prizes up for grabs for the top male and female finishers, and unique awards for age group winners. And if a relaxed pace is more your style, enjoy the non-timed walk—perfect for soaking in the crisp morning air and holiday vibes.

Remember, online registration is open until race start, but it’s card-only—no cash or checks—and shirts may sell out, so register early to snag your spot (and your gear)!

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, November 28, 2024

• Location: Woodward Park, Fresno

• Registration: runsignup.com

Sign up now, hit the trail, and earn that Thanksgiving dinner! 🦃

FRIDAY

1. Sugar Skull Masks
Celebrate Día de los Muertos in style by creating your own vibrant sugar skull mask! 💀🎨 Drop by the Maxie L Parks Community Center on Friday, November 1st at 3 PM, where all materials will be provided for you to unleash your creativity and honor this special tradition. Bring friends, paint unique designs, and dive into the festive spirit of Día de los Muertos! Join in the celebration, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and leave with a masterpiece that captures the essence of this beautiful holiday. Don't miss this chance to express your creativity and connect with the community in a truly unforgettable way!

2. The Day the Music Died
Experience a vibrant celebration of Día de los Muertos and "The Day the Music Died," featuring electrifying performances by New Old Man as Buddy Holly and Macondo as Richie Valens, along with a special guest! 🎶 Enjoy a night filled with unforgettable music and cultural celebration for just $15. Doors open at 7 PM, and the show starts at 8 PM—don’t miss out! Grab your tickets here or at Tower District Records.

3. Take Me Home To Papagni Winery
Join the celebration at the Take Me Home to Papagni Winery Wine Club Release Party on Friday, November 1, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM at the Papagni Winery Tasting Room! Enjoy the release of the delightful Malvasia Bianca, paired with heavy appetizers and dessert. This sports-themed event encourages attendees to dress up in their favorite team gear for added fun. For more information, visit papagniwines.com. Don’t miss this fantastic evening of wine and camaraderie!

SATURDAY

1. Dia de los Muertos at Granite Park
Celebrate the vibrant Día de los Muertos at Granite Park in Fresno on November 2, 2024! Experience an unforgettable day featuring performances by the Delfonics, along with Norman Carter and Sly, Slick and the Wicked. Enjoy a spectacular car show with mini classes and awards for cars, bikes, and more! The festivities run from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, promising a day filled with culture, music, and fun for everyone! 🌼🎶

2. Cala Gala: Día de Muertos Celebration
Experience the annual Día de Muertos festivities starting at Fulton Street, featuring a vibrant procession to Plaza Paz filled with a stunning ofrenda display, kids' art stations, and local vendors. Enjoy live music, captivating performances by Danza and Folklórico, and a concert by the talented artist Diana Gameros! The festivities kick off at 4 PM on November 2, 2024, at 1630 Van Ness Ave, Fresno, promising a memorable day of culture, art, and community spirit.

3. Craft Beer and Country Night
Get ready for Craft Beer and Country Night, where the best of local brews meets the heart of country music! Sip on a wide selection of Full Circle craft beers while enjoying live performances by talented local artists, including KIDDKOUNTRY, DJ Jacob Terry, Carlo Cameron, and Joshua Michael. Bring your friends for a night filled with great tunes, cold drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere! Don’t miss out on country karaoke on the patio stage and a chance to ride the mechanical bull. Join the fun on November 2, 2024, at 6:00 PM! Grab your tickets here.

SUNDAY

1. Candy Buyback
The 11th Annual CA$H 4 Candy Buyback event, presented by Willow Dental Group, is happening on November 1 and November 4, 2024! Kids can turn their leftover Halloween candy into cash, earning $2 per pound, up to $10 or 5 pounds maximum. This is a fantastic way to encourage healthy habits while supporting a meaningful cause, as all collected candy will be donated to Move America Forward to send care packages to our troops and first responders. Swing by 6753 N Willow Ave, Fresno, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and help spread the word about this fun opportunity for kids to make some cash and give back to the community!

2. La Cura Day Party
Get ready for a spooky and electrifying edition of the La Cura Day Party at Invictus Ink! Experience a day filled with incredible vibes, amazing DJs, and secret surprises that will keep you moving and grooving all night long. Featuring top DJs like DJ Lunatiko, John Magic, Casa de Untz, DJ Burns, and Brohh T, this party promises an unforgettable mix of Latin-influenced beats, hip-hop, R&B, house, and feel-good dance music. Enjoy drinks from Beyond the Bartenders and look out for more surprises to be revealed! Join the fun on November 2nd, from 3 PM to 9 PM at 624 Broadway St., Fresno. Secure your spot by purchasing tickets here!

3. Two Cities Marathon
The Two Cities Marathon is gearing up for its 16th year, proudly presented by CalViva Health! Starting and finishing at the picturesque Clovis Community College, this Boston qualifying marathon features a redesigned flat and scenic course perfect for both elite runners and beginners. Located just 60 miles from Yosemite, Fresno and its sister city Clovis serve as the Gateway to not only Yosemite National Park but also Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, home to some of the largest and oldest redwoods in the world. With a variety of hotels nearby, it’s easy to see why many participants choose to run, stay, and play! Pricing varies depending on the run, so check out more details here.

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HAIKU OF THE DAY
Time slips through our hands,
Moments planned, yet life expands—
Focus blooms, heart stands.