13 Things to Do Thanksgiving Week 2015 in Metro Phoenix

Thanksgiving is approaching and with the holiday comes visiting relatives, vacation days, and the serious consumption of deliciously starchy foods. We found a couple things to keep you and yours busy during Thanksgiving week 2015. No matter what you're into, there's something to keep you entertained including parties, runs, art shows, plays and much more.

Cranksgiving Tempe 2015
Get into the holiday spirit with this combination food-drive-scavenger-hunt-bike-ride. Participants will meet at Bike Saviours in Tempe on Sunday, November 22, at 1:30 p.m., where they will be handed a list of foods to pick up at various grocery stores in the area. Riders will compete to be the quickest and most charitable team, eventually meeting back at the bike shop at 4:30 p.m. to show off their goods. The event is free to participate in, but be sure to budget for your grocery trips. Bring bikes, cameras, and bags or baskets to transport things. See the event's Facebook page for more information.

Bruce Munro: "Sonoran Light" at Desert Botanical Garden
British artist Bruce Munro is bringing his light exhibits to the Botanical Garden in his latest project. Eight large-scale light installations will be placed throughout the gardens that each evoke a different aspect of the desert. Some represent the iconic Saguaro cacti, others represent the variance in climates, but all are sure to impress. The exhibit is open until November 25, and then reopens in December. Tickets cost $30 for day and night access, or $25 for just a night pass. Visit the Desert Botanical Garden's website for more information.

‘Twas the Wasted Night Before Thanksgiving
If you've had enough of showing your family around town and doing all the same tourist-y things you did last year, maybe try heading over to Wasted Grain on Wednesday, November 25. Have a few cocktails, dance a little, you know the drill. Whether you're escaping family or trying to get all your aunts and uncles a little tipsy, it's sure to be a good time. The festivities start at 9 p.m., and there is no cover. Head on over to Wasted Grain's website for more information.

Karaoke at ThirdSpace
ThirdSpace in downtown Phoenix is hosting a karaoke night the night before Thanksgiving, and you're invited. From 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., you can come sing your little heart out. Visit ThirdSpace's Facebook page for more details. 

Turkey Day Run Phoenix
Since 1989, thousands of Phoenicians have participated in the annual Turkey Day Run. You too can earn your Thanksgiving meal with a charity run beginning in the Wesley Bolin Plaza early this Thanksgiving morning. You do either the 5K or 10K course, both of which run through the heart of downtown. Registration prices vary, but will likely cost you between $40 and $60. Visit the run's website to register or find more information. 

Sutra in the Park: Gratitude Flow
Take a small break from the kitchen and work on your gratitude with Sutra Studios on Thanksgiving morning. The studio's seventh annual gratitude flow yoga class will last from 10 to 11 a.m. and is open to any and all levels of practice. The class will take place outside in the scenic Coronado Park in downtown Phoenix. Cash or coats donations are accepted. Check the event's Facebook page for more information.

Rawhide Snowy Christmas 
Experience snow in Phoenix this Thanksgiving at Rawhide's annual Snowy Christmas celebration. From November 26 to January 3, Rawhide will transform into a winter wonderland, complete with snow, lights, and Santa sightings. Rawhide opens at 11 a.m., and admission is free. See Rawhide's website for more information and hours throughout the season. 

Valley Bar
The Valley Bar in downtown Phoenix is stepping up this year as the place to go after you and yours finish your dinner. If you can just hold out until 7 p.m., the Valley Bar will handle the rest. There will be drinks, games, and a DJ starting at 9 p.m. Visit Valley Bar's website for more information.

Untidy Secrets Storytelling
The artists of the Maple Ash Farmer Wilson District are putting together a night of storytelling on Friday, November 27. Beginning at 8 p.m, various storytellers will share work inspired by the event's theme: "I am gonna make it through this year if it kills me," at Ash Ave Comics in downtown Tempe. It's free, all ages, and totally BYOB. See the event's Facebook page for more information.

The Wizard of Oz 
On Friday, November 27, Phoenix Theatre will present its very own production of the family class The Wizard of Oz. Tickets range from $30 to $75. Visit the Phoenix Theatre's website for more information on showtimes and ticket prices. 

Comedy On Fire 32: Black Friday Show
Join the Firehouse Gallery as they welcome Comedy on Fire for its 32nd show on Friday, November 27. Bruce Gray of Bakersfield will headline, and the lineup will feature 14 other comedians from the Valley and California. Tickets cost $5 and the show starts at 8 p.m. All ages are welcome, but be prepared for adult content. For more information, see the event's Facebook page. 

Holidays in Downtown Kickoff
Respecting the wishes of Thanksgiving fanatics everywhere, downtown Phoenix has decided to wait a two whole days after turkey day before unveiling the Christmas decorations. But when they do break out the tree and ice skating rink, CityScape does not mess around. On Saturday, November 28, Cityscape will hold its annual tree lighting ceremony in which they open the ice skating rink, make some snow, and bring out the Santas. The ceremony begins at 6 p.m. and is free to attend. Visit cityscapephoenix.com for more information.

Hamlet
In this installment of National Theatre Live, the Phoenix Art Museum will present a simulcast production of Hamlet, starring Benedict Cumberbatch, as performed by the London National Theatre. Tickets are $18 and includes general admission to the museum. Visit the museum's website for more information.