As the people of Arizona gear up for Thanksgiving celebrations, they can expect to spend slightly less on their holiday dinners this year. A study released by the Arizona Farm Bureau shows that a Thanksgiving meal for ten will cost $53.17 on average, which is down from last year's $53.38. "The $0.47 decrease in price on the turkey from last year is a pleasant surprise for our holiday celebrations," said Arizona Farm Bureau Communications Director Julie Murphree in a statement obtained by KTAR. Despite this small dip in costs, Phoenix's nightlife is all set to offer venues where people can come together to warm up for the big day.
According to the Phoenix New Times, the Valley hosts a range of events to celebrate Thanksgiving Eve. Scottsdale's Rockbar, for example, is gearing up for its FansGiving event with live music and proceeds going to The Joy Bus Diner. Meanwhile, for those looking to immediately dance the night away, Thunderbird Lounge is throwing an Old School Hip-Hop Dance Party free of charge. Clearly, venues are striving to offer something for everyone, weaving genres and experiences into the fabric of Phoenix's festive tapestry.
Economically, Arizona's Thanksgiving dinner costs are below the national average of $55.18, a shift down from $58.12 in the previous year. Factors like the cost of turkey, which is currently averaging $18.89 for a 16-pound bird in the state, have been attributed by Julie Murphree as one contributing element to the decrease, according to the same KTAR report. This downward trend in dinner costs could be a small relief for families gathering to celebrate the holiday.
While some save on dinner, others might choose to spend that savings on the eve of Thanksgiving at various parties described by the Phoenix New Times. At the Level 1 Arcade Bar in Mesa, karaoke and drink specials promise a raucous night, and at Stardust Pinbar, there’s a twerk contest to shake up the evening. The city is clear in its message: before pausing to give thanks, it’s a tradition to come together and revel in the bounty of the night that extends before the dawn of the holiday.
