🚒 Future firefighters in the making!
The Our Lady of Joy Church preschoolers had a blast when Carefree firefighters stopped by with the fire truck. The kiddos got to spray the hose, explore the truck, and meet some real-life heroes. 💧
A big thank you to the amazing Rural Metro Fire firefighters who man the Carefree Fire Department and keep our community safe! 👨🚒
The Our Lady of Joy Church preschoolers had a blast when Carefree firefighters stopped by with the fire truck. The kiddos got to spray the hose, explore the truck, and meet some real-life heroes. 💧
A big thank you to the amazing Rural Metro Fire firefighters who man the Carefree Fire Department and keep our community safe! 👨🚒
🐾 It’s #WildlifeWednesday in Carefree, and today we’re spotlighting one of our stealthiest desert neighbors—the bobcat.
While Carefree is a cute, charming small town, for many animals it’s still the Wild West. Bobcats roam our desert washes and open spaces, quietly hunting at dawn and dusk with their tufted ears, spotted coats, and signature short “bobbed” tails. 🐈
Bobcats can leap up to 10 feet to catch their prey—and they’re not afraid of a slithery snake snack when the opportunity strikes. 🐍
Keep your eyes open on the trails… you might just spot this elusive desert cat. 👀🌵
While Carefree is a cute, charming small town, for many animals it’s still the Wild West. Bobcats roam our desert washes and open spaces, quietly hunting at dawn and dusk with their tufted ears, spotted coats, and signature short “bobbed” tails. 🐈
Bobcats can leap up to 10 feet to catch their prey—and they’re not afraid of a slithery snake snack when the opportunity strikes. 🐍
Keep your eyes open on the trails… you might just spot this elusive desert cat. 👀🌵
🌿 Learn how to grow fresh herbs at home—even in the desert!
Join us for the third installment of our Garden Seminar Series on Saturday, March 14 at 9:30 a.m. Certified Master Gardener Maureen Tonn will share tips and techniques for successfully growing your own herbs at home, whether in a backyard garden or in containers. Learn which herbs thrive in the desert and how you can enjoy fresh, homegrown flavor right from your own garden. 🍝
💵 A suggested $5 donation at the door helps support this popular program.
🔗 Learn more about all the seminars at www.visitcarefree.com/seminars
Join us for the third installment of our Garden Seminar Series on Saturday, March 14 at 9:30 a.m. Certified Master Gardener Maureen Tonn will share tips and techniques for successfully growing your own herbs at home, whether in a backyard garden or in containers. Learn which herbs thrive in the desert and how you can enjoy fresh, homegrown flavor right from your own garden. 🍝
💵 A suggested $5 donation at the door helps support this popular program.
🔗 Learn more about all the seminars at www.visitcarefree.com/seminars
Let your weekends spring to life in Carefree! 🎶
ㅤ
The Sanderson Lincoln Saturday Series continues with an amazing lineup of live music on select Saturdays from March through May — the ultimate soundtrack for your weekend adventures! Stroll down Easy Street, savor a delicious lunch at your local favorite, and groove to fantastic performances at the Pavilion.
ㅤ
🎷 March 7 – UGLYTHEY
🎤 March 14 – Darrell Doepke
🪈 April 11 – Henry Molder
🎸 April 25 – Ben Bolt
🎶 May 2 – Tyler Nielson
🌷 May 9 – Nancy Bagley & Her Daughter — Perfect for Mother’s Day weekend!
🎺 May 16 – UGLYTHEY
ㅤ
Shop. Dine. Unwind. Repeat.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars
ㅤ
The Sanderson Lincoln Saturday Series continues with an amazing lineup of live music on select Saturdays from March through May — the ultimate soundtrack for your weekend adventures! Stroll down Easy Street, savor a delicious lunch at your local favorite, and groove to fantastic performances at the Pavilion.
ㅤ
🎷 March 7 – UGLYTHEY
🎤 March 14 – Darrell Doepke
🪈 April 11 – Henry Molder
🎸 April 25 – Ben Bolt
🎶 May 2 – Tyler Nielson
🌷 May 9 – Nancy Bagley & Her Daughter — Perfect for Mother’s Day weekend!
🎺 May 16 – UGLYTHEY
ㅤ
Shop. Dine. Unwind. Repeat.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars
✨ Business Highlight: Earthwalk Crystals ✨
Meet Earthwalk Crystals, a go-to destination for crystals, spiritual resources, and unique gifts in the Courtyard Shops next to Venues Café! Since joining Carefree’s vibrant business community in mid-2025, the boutique has offered a thoughtfully curated collection of crystals from around the world, perfect for personal use or gifting, alongside handcrafted jewelry created with talented artists that celebrates the earth element. 🌿🪨
Beyond crystals and jewelry, Earthwalk provides spiritual resources, including books and guides to support personal growth and meditation, as well as meditation supplies like cushions and chakra stones to enhance your practice. The boutique also features art and décor, including wood carvings, feather smudge wands for energy cleansing, seasonal wreaths, and natural candles and sage to bring a calm, earthy energy into your home. 🪵
Set in a welcoming courtyard atmosphere, Earthwalk Crystals is perfect for a leisurely stop while enjoying Carefree’s community vibe. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, spiritual tools, or a unique gift, this boutique offers a peaceful, grounded experience for every visitor. 💖
📍 42 Easy St., Suite 2E, Carefree, AZ 85377
📸 Follow Earthwalk on Instagram and Facebook
Meet Earthwalk Crystals, a go-to destination for crystals, spiritual resources, and unique gifts in the Courtyard Shops next to Venues Café! Since joining Carefree’s vibrant business community in mid-2025, the boutique has offered a thoughtfully curated collection of crystals from around the world, perfect for personal use or gifting, alongside handcrafted jewelry created with talented artists that celebrates the earth element. 🌿🪨
Beyond crystals and jewelry, Earthwalk provides spiritual resources, including books and guides to support personal growth and meditation, as well as meditation supplies like cushions and chakra stones to enhance your practice. The boutique also features art and décor, including wood carvings, feather smudge wands for energy cleansing, seasonal wreaths, and natural candles and sage to bring a calm, earthy energy into your home. 🪵
Set in a welcoming courtyard atmosphere, Earthwalk Crystals is perfect for a leisurely stop while enjoying Carefree’s community vibe. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, spiritual tools, or a unique gift, this boutique offers a peaceful, grounded experience for every visitor. 💖
📍 42 Easy St., Suite 2E, Carefree, AZ 85377
📸 Follow Earthwalk on Instagram and Facebook
✨ Business Highlight: English Rose Tea Room ✨
The English Rose Tea Room has been a beloved Carefree destination for over 20 years, offering a taste of England in the Arizona desert. Recently named Best Tea Room in Best Of Phoenix® 2025 (Food & Drink), this local gem continues to delight visitors with timeless tradition, thoughtful hospitality, and unforgettable experiences. 🌹
Owner Jo Gemmill, originally from southern England, opened the tea room in 2001 to share her love of tea, hospitality, and British tradition. Starting small and cozy, it quickly became a local favorite with offerings like the Duchess of Bedford’s Formal Afternoon Tea, Cottage Pie, and other classic British treats. 🍵
When you step inside, you’re welcomed by British memorabilia, soft pink roses, and shelves of delicate teacups and saucers. The atmosphere is elegant yet whimsical, with cozy indoor seating and a shaded patio featuring dainty white chairs. Every detail is intentional, and the attentive staff is dedicated to making each visit feel special. 🫖
The English Rose Tea Room offers an impressive selection of over 50 loose-leaf teas, paired perfectly with light, airy scones served with house-made jam and cream. For something more filling, guests can enjoy savory favorites like quiche, fresh house salads, sandwiches, and classic British dishes such as Cottage Pie. Everything is thoughtfully prepared, fresh, and designed to complement the tea experience. 🍴
Throughout the year, the business hosts specialty events for every season, from fall teas and holiday gatherings to spring and summer celebrations. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, the English Rose Tea Room remains a true Carefree treasure and a must-visit destination for anyone craving a taste of England in the Arizona desert. 🌵
📍 201 Easy St. #103, Carefree, AZ 85377
🔗 www.carefreetea.com
📸 Follow the English Rose Tea Room on Instagram and Facebook
The English Rose Tea Room has been a beloved Carefree destination for over 20 years, offering a taste of England in the Arizona desert. Recently named Best Tea Room in Best Of Phoenix® 2025 (Food & Drink), this local gem continues to delight visitors with timeless tradition, thoughtful hospitality, and unforgettable experiences. 🌹
Owner Jo Gemmill, originally from southern England, opened the tea room in 2001 to share her love of tea, hospitality, and British tradition. Starting small and cozy, it quickly became a local favorite with offerings like the Duchess of Bedford’s Formal Afternoon Tea, Cottage Pie, and other classic British treats. 🍵
When you step inside, you’re welcomed by British memorabilia, soft pink roses, and shelves of delicate teacups and saucers. The atmosphere is elegant yet whimsical, with cozy indoor seating and a shaded patio featuring dainty white chairs. Every detail is intentional, and the attentive staff is dedicated to making each visit feel special. 🫖
The English Rose Tea Room offers an impressive selection of over 50 loose-leaf teas, paired perfectly with light, airy scones served with house-made jam and cream. For something more filling, guests can enjoy savory favorites like quiche, fresh house salads, sandwiches, and classic British dishes such as Cottage Pie. Everything is thoughtfully prepared, fresh, and designed to complement the tea experience. 🍴
Throughout the year, the business hosts specialty events for every season, from fall teas and holiday gatherings to spring and summer celebrations. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, the English Rose Tea Room remains a true Carefree treasure and a must-visit destination for anyone craving a taste of England in the Arizona desert. 🌵
📍 201 Easy St. #103, Carefree, AZ 85377
🔗 www.carefreetea.com
📸 Follow the English Rose Tea Room on Instagram and Facebook
📚✨ New Sculpture in Carefree! ✨📚
A new beautiful bronze sculpture by Bryce Pettit now graces the Carefree Desert Gardens near the children’s playground! Donated by Carefree resident Richard Burns and local business owner Sue Bickerdyke, the piece depicts a boy holding an open book, from which birds representing different areas of learning—science, history, literature, music, fantasy, and the arts—take flight. The sculpture symbolizes how knowledge can help us soar to new heights. 🦉🦅🐦
Pettit worked with the Town’s Public Works team to give the sculpture a permanent home. Stop by, enjoy the Gardens, and see this inspiring addition in person! 🌿✨
A new beautiful bronze sculpture by Bryce Pettit now graces the Carefree Desert Gardens near the children’s playground! Donated by Carefree resident Richard Burns and local business owner Sue Bickerdyke, the piece depicts a boy holding an open book, from which birds representing different areas of learning—science, history, literature, music, fantasy, and the arts—take flight. The sculpture symbolizes how knowledge can help us soar to new heights. 🦉🦅🐦
Pettit worked with the Town’s Public Works team to give the sculpture a permanent home. Stop by, enjoy the Gardens, and see this inspiring addition in person! 🌿✨
Chanukah in Carefree wrapped up last Sunday—and what a celebration it was! ✨🕎
For all eight nights, the community gathered to mark the season of light with delicious food, beautiful music, and meaningful traditions, creating joyful moments throughout the week. 🎵
This event was made possible through the collaboration of several local and statewide nonprofits, who came together each night to bring the festivities to life. Learn more about them at chanukahincarefree.com. 🤗
Thank you to everyone who took part and helped make Chanukah in Carefree shine so brightly! 💙
For all eight nights, the community gathered to mark the season of light with delicious food, beautiful music, and meaningful traditions, creating joyful moments throughout the week. 🎵
This event was made possible through the collaboration of several local and statewide nonprofits, who came together each night to bring the festivities to life. Learn more about them at chanukahincarefree.com. 🤗
Thank you to everyone who took part and helped make Chanukah in Carefree shine so brightly! 💙
✨ Last-minute holiday shopping? Carefree is the way to go. ✨
Skip the traffic, crowded malls, and busy shopping centers—and enjoy a low-key, charming small-town experience instead. 🎁
Whether you’re searching for a beautiful piece of jewelry for someone special, unique vintage finds for your thrifty friend, boutique clothing for yourself, or one-of-a-kind gifts you won’t find anywhere else, Carefree has it all. Shop local, stroll at your own pace, and soak in the friendly small-town charm that makes Carefree feel extra magical this holiday season. 🎄💛
Skip the traffic, crowded malls, and busy shopping centers—and enjoy a low-key, charming small-town experience instead. 🎁
Whether you’re searching for a beautiful piece of jewelry for someone special, unique vintage finds for your thrifty friend, boutique clothing for yourself, or one-of-a-kind gifts you won’t find anywhere else, Carefree has it all. Shop local, stroll at your own pace, and soak in the friendly small-town charm that makes Carefree feel extra magical this holiday season. 🎄💛
Wreaths Across America in Carefree ❤️🤍💙
On December 13, community members gathered at Cave Creek Memorial Cemetery for Wreaths Across America to remember and honor veterans by laying remembrance wreaths on their graves. 🪖
Thank you to the Black Mountain Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution ❤️, American Legion Riders Post 34 🏍️, Imprints of Honor (Cactus Shadows High School) 🎓, and Boy Scout Troop 603 ⚜️ for organizing this powerful tribute.
On December 13, community members gathered at Cave Creek Memorial Cemetery for Wreaths Across America to remember and honor veterans by laying remembrance wreaths on their graves. 🪖
Thank you to the Black Mountain Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution ❤️, American Legion Riders Post 34 🏍️, Imprints of Honor (Cactus Shadows High School) 🎓, and Boy Scout Troop 603 ⚜️ for organizing this powerful tribute.
✨ Business Highlight: Modernly Mindful✨
Modernly Mindful, Carefree’s newest art gallery and jewelry shop, is now open next to Badu and the English Rose Tea Room. The gallery is owned and operated by artist Kyle Bolish, who handcrafts every piece inside. 💍
Before becoming a full-time artist, Kyle spent years teaching grades K through 6th. He created his art pieces during summer breaks, but felt a growing pull toward a more creative life. That clarity arrived during his visit to the Sistine Chapel in Italy, where he experienced an overwhelming sense of lightness—as if a weight had lifted. In that moment, he knew it was time to devote himself fully to art and soon opened his first gallery, Modernly Mindful. 📚🖼️
Kyle’s work is deeply inspired by nature and childhood nostalgia. Each piece begins with a meditative process and is guided by a memory, feeling, or emotion from his youth. His bronze sculptures incorporate real leaves, twigs, and natural elements that are cast in resin and then bronzed, creating rich, intricate detail. His jewelry features natural stones like topaz and pearls inspired by water. Every item is one-of-a-kind, with a rotating inventory and no duplicates—so when you find a piece that resonates with you, it’s truly meant for you. 🌿
As a disability-owned business, Kyle embraces the way ADHD shapes his workflow, often turning it into a creative strength. He is also mindful of keeping his work accessible, offering high-quality pieces at attainable price points. 💎
Modernly Mindful invites visitors to step into a space of imagination, nature, and nostalgia—where each handcrafted piece has a story, and each one is made to spark your own inner childhood wonder. 💖
📍 201 Easy St. #105, Carefree, AZ 85377
🔗 www.modernlymindful.com
📸 Follow them on Facebook and Instagram
Modernly Mindful, Carefree’s newest art gallery and jewelry shop, is now open next to Badu and the English Rose Tea Room. The gallery is owned and operated by artist Kyle Bolish, who handcrafts every piece inside. 💍
Before becoming a full-time artist, Kyle spent years teaching grades K through 6th. He created his art pieces during summer breaks, but felt a growing pull toward a more creative life. That clarity arrived during his visit to the Sistine Chapel in Italy, where he experienced an overwhelming sense of lightness—as if a weight had lifted. In that moment, he knew it was time to devote himself fully to art and soon opened his first gallery, Modernly Mindful. 📚🖼️
Kyle’s work is deeply inspired by nature and childhood nostalgia. Each piece begins with a meditative process and is guided by a memory, feeling, or emotion from his youth. His bronze sculptures incorporate real leaves, twigs, and natural elements that are cast in resin and then bronzed, creating rich, intricate detail. His jewelry features natural stones like topaz and pearls inspired by water. Every item is one-of-a-kind, with a rotating inventory and no duplicates—so when you find a piece that resonates with you, it’s truly meant for you. 🌿
As a disability-owned business, Kyle embraces the way ADHD shapes his workflow, often turning it into a creative strength. He is also mindful of keeping his work accessible, offering high-quality pieces at attainable price points. 💎
Modernly Mindful invites visitors to step into a space of imagination, nature, and nostalgia—where each handcrafted piece has a story, and each one is made to spark your own inner childhood wonder. 💖
📍 201 Easy St. #105, Carefree, AZ 85377
🔗 www.modernlymindful.com
📸 Follow them on Facebook and Instagram
🕎✨ Eight nights. One community. A celebration that shines bright.
Chanukah in Carefree returns Dec. 14–21 with nightly music, food, menorah lightings, and family fun at the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion. 🌵 Now in its 9th year, this beloved event supports the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center, Arizona’s first Holocaust education center.
Celebrate tradition, gather with neighbors, and give back under the desert stars in Carefree. 💙
Chanukah in Carefree returns Dec. 14–21 with nightly music, food, menorah lightings, and family fun at the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion. 🌵 Now in its 9th year, this beloved event supports the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center, Arizona’s first Holocaust education center.
Celebrate tradition, gather with neighbors, and give back under the desert stars in Carefree. 💙
Last week’s Carefree Lights Up! event was pure holiday magic! ✨🎄
Carols around the tree, the annual tree lighting countdown with Mayor John Crane, hot cocoa, and a festive concert brought hundreds of friends and neighbors together for a true small-town holiday moment. ❤️
Thank you to everyone who joined us and filled the night with cheer! We’re already excited for next year. 🎅
A HUGE thank you to everyone who makes this cherished event possible! 😊
- Kevin Glenn & his singers
- POP Dance Group - Kenda Newbury
- Desert Cactus Kickers
- Desert Hills Community School of Music (Handbells and Youth Saxophone Quintet)
- Jubilate Conservatory of Music
- Kiwanis Club of Carefree
Carols around the tree, the annual tree lighting countdown with Mayor John Crane, hot cocoa, and a festive concert brought hundreds of friends and neighbors together for a true small-town holiday moment. ❤️
Thank you to everyone who joined us and filled the night with cheer! We’re already excited for next year. 🎅
A HUGE thank you to everyone who makes this cherished event possible! 😊
- Kevin Glenn & his singers
- POP Dance Group - Kenda Newbury
- Desert Cactus Kickers
- Desert Hills Community School of Music (Handbells and Youth Saxophone Quintet)
- Jubilate Conservatory of Music
- Kiwanis Club of Carefree
✨ Business Highlight: Seared Living ✨
Meet Seared Living, the newest addition to Carefree and a true haven for culinary enthusiasts and home entertainers. Conveniently located in the Post Office building facing the Carefree Desert Gardens playground, this one-stop shop is designed for anyone looking to explore new flavors, elevate their cooking, and find the perfect gifts for the foodies in their life. 🎁
Step inside and you’ll find a wall brimming with the finest olive oils, balsamic vinegars, seasonings, sauces, and kitchenware—from traditional favorites to uniquely infused blends sourced from Olivelle, a family-owned brand working with single-estate farms in Italy, Greece, and Spain. These oils are grown, picked, and pressed on the same estate, ensuring exceptional quality in every bottle. 🫒
Seared Living also stands out for its custom gift experience. Bring your budget and work one-on-one with the team to build a thoughtfully curated gift bundle for a loved one, shipped anywhere in the U.S. for a flat rate of $12—perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just-because surprises. 📦
Owned by Patty, who acquired the business two years ago while preserving its family-owned charm, Seared Living reflects her culinary roots—coming from a family of chefs—and her deep ties to the Carefree community as the former Executive Director of the Sonoran Arts League. Patty’s vision for the store includes recipe/cooking workshops, cheese tastings, artisan bread offerings, and more, making it an interactive destination for food lovers of all levels. Adding even more flavor, Celestial Artisan Meadery hosts the space, and their tasting room is open on Saturdays, giving visitors another reason to stop by. 🍷🖼️🔪
Whether you’re a passionate cook or searching for the perfect culinary gift, Seared Living is the ultimate destination in Carefree for inspiration, quality, and unforgettable flavors. 🍽️
📍100 Easy Street, Carefree, AZ 85377
🔗 www.searedliving.com
📸 Follow them @searedliving on Facebook and Instagram
Meet Seared Living, the newest addition to Carefree and a true haven for culinary enthusiasts and home entertainers. Conveniently located in the Post Office building facing the Carefree Desert Gardens playground, this one-stop shop is designed for anyone looking to explore new flavors, elevate their cooking, and find the perfect gifts for the foodies in their life. 🎁
Step inside and you’ll find a wall brimming with the finest olive oils, balsamic vinegars, seasonings, sauces, and kitchenware—from traditional favorites to uniquely infused blends sourced from Olivelle, a family-owned brand working with single-estate farms in Italy, Greece, and Spain. These oils are grown, picked, and pressed on the same estate, ensuring exceptional quality in every bottle. 🫒
Seared Living also stands out for its custom gift experience. Bring your budget and work one-on-one with the team to build a thoughtfully curated gift bundle for a loved one, shipped anywhere in the U.S. for a flat rate of $12—perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just-because surprises. 📦
Owned by Patty, who acquired the business two years ago while preserving its family-owned charm, Seared Living reflects her culinary roots—coming from a family of chefs—and her deep ties to the Carefree community as the former Executive Director of the Sonoran Arts League. Patty’s vision for the store includes recipe/cooking workshops, cheese tastings, artisan bread offerings, and more, making it an interactive destination for food lovers of all levels. Adding even more flavor, Celestial Artisan Meadery hosts the space, and their tasting room is open on Saturdays, giving visitors another reason to stop by. 🍷🖼️🔪
Whether you’re a passionate cook or searching for the perfect culinary gift, Seared Living is the ultimate destination in Carefree for inspiration, quality, and unforgettable flavors. 🍽️
📍100 Easy Street, Carefree, AZ 85377
🔗 www.searedliving.com
📸 Follow them @searedliving on Facebook and Instagram
🌟 We were thrilled to host hotel concierges from near and far!
Earlier this month, our annual Carefree Concierge Tour brought these amazing professionals to town to experience the very best of our local restaurants. 🏨🍷 From savory bites to sweet treats, they got a firsthand taste of the flavors and hospitality that make Carefree so special. 😋💫
It was an evening full of good food, great vibes, and happy, satisfied guests — a perfect way to showcase our incredible restaurant owners and their teams. ✨
A huge thank you to Foothills Caring Corps for providing transportation 🚌 and Hampton Inn Carefree Arizona for the perfect meeting spot and complimentary drinks! 🍹
Earlier this month, our annual Carefree Concierge Tour brought these amazing professionals to town to experience the very best of our local restaurants. 🏨🍷 From savory bites to sweet treats, they got a firsthand taste of the flavors and hospitality that make Carefree so special. 😋💫
It was an evening full of good food, great vibes, and happy, satisfied guests — a perfect way to showcase our incredible restaurant owners and their teams. ✨
A huge thank you to Foothills Caring Corps for providing transportation 🚌 and Hampton Inn Carefree Arizona for the perfect meeting spot and complimentary drinks! 🍹
Carefree came together in gratitude for veterans! 🪖
The 16th Annual Veterans Day Celebration was a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. The day was filled with patriotic spirit, incredible live music, and a strong sense of community.❤️
Guests enjoyed powerful performances from high school junior Olivia Nicosia, the Main Event Swing Band, and a surprise pop-up performance by Vivace Honor Choir from Cactus Shadows High School. 🎶
A special thank-you to all who joined us and to the wonderful organizations that made this celebration possible:
✨ Cave Creek Boy Scout and Cub Scout Troop #603
✨ Cactus Shadows High School
✨ Daughters of the American Revolution – Black Mountain Chapter
✨ Imprints of Honor
✨ Kiwanis Club of Carefree
Together, we honored our veterans and celebrated the spirit of service that unites our community. ❤️💙
The 16th Annual Veterans Day Celebration was a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. The day was filled with patriotic spirit, incredible live music, and a strong sense of community.❤️
Guests enjoyed powerful performances from high school junior Olivia Nicosia, the Main Event Swing Band, and a surprise pop-up performance by Vivace Honor Choir from Cactus Shadows High School. 🎶
A special thank-you to all who joined us and to the wonderful organizations that made this celebration possible:
✨ Cave Creek Boy Scout and Cub Scout Troop #603
✨ Cactus Shadows High School
✨ Daughters of the American Revolution – Black Mountain Chapter
✨ Imprints of Honor
✨ Kiwanis Club of Carefree
Together, we honored our veterans and celebrated the spirit of service that unites our community. ❤️💙
✨ Business Highlight: Grind and Gears ✨
Opened in March 2022, Grind and Gears is the second Carefree business owned by residents and entrepreneurs Don Little and his wife, Lisa. As a passionate cyclist, Don dreamed for years of creating a place where biking enthusiasts could not only shop for gear and rentals, but also gather over coffee, swap stories, and plan their next ride. 🚴
More than just a bike shop, Grind and Gears offers high-quality rentals with free delivery at up to 7 miles, guided mountain bike rides for visitors, and some amazingly delicious coffee and espresso drinks. It’s a unique alternative in Carefree, giving fitness and riding enthusiasts a welcoming spot that matches their active lifestyle while fostering a sense of community. 🍵
The name “Grind and Gears” was first imagined over a decade ago, and today, Don has brought that vision to life—blending his love of cycling, good coffee, and small-town connection. As a business owner deeply invested in Carefree, Don says there’s no better place to live, work, and ride than in “the friendliest town in Arizona.” 💖
📍10 Easy Street, Carefree, AZ 85377
🔗 thegrindandgears.com
📸 Follow Them on Instagram and Facebook
Opened in March 2022, Grind and Gears is the second Carefree business owned by residents and entrepreneurs Don Little and his wife, Lisa. As a passionate cyclist, Don dreamed for years of creating a place where biking enthusiasts could not only shop for gear and rentals, but also gather over coffee, swap stories, and plan their next ride. 🚴
More than just a bike shop, Grind and Gears offers high-quality rentals with free delivery at up to 7 miles, guided mountain bike rides for visitors, and some amazingly delicious coffee and espresso drinks. It’s a unique alternative in Carefree, giving fitness and riding enthusiasts a welcoming spot that matches their active lifestyle while fostering a sense of community. 🍵
The name “Grind and Gears” was first imagined over a decade ago, and today, Don has brought that vision to life—blending his love of cycling, good coffee, and small-town connection. As a business owner deeply invested in Carefree, Don says there’s no better place to live, work, and ride than in “the friendliest town in Arizona.” 💖
📍10 Easy Street, Carefree, AZ 85377
🔗 thegrindandgears.com
📸 Follow Them on Instagram and Facebook
✨ Gregory Tomb’s First Glass Pumpkin Patch in Carefree! 🎃
This past weekend, renowned glass artist Gregory Tomb filled part of the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion with his breathtaking glass pumpkins, making the space truly glimmer and sparkle! Visitors loved picking out their favorites while supporting the Foothills Food Bank with every purchase. ❤️
We can’t wait to see this pumpkin patch "grow back" next year! 🌱
This past weekend, renowned glass artist Gregory Tomb filled part of the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion with his breathtaking glass pumpkins, making the space truly glimmer and sparkle! Visitors loved picking out their favorites while supporting the Foothills Food Bank with every purchase. ❤️
We can’t wait to see this pumpkin patch "grow back" next year! 🌱
🎃 Trunk or Treat on Easy Street! 🍬
Last Friday, the Desert Foothills YMCA and the Town of Carefree partnered and brought tons of spooky fun to Carefree Town Center, with hundreds of families, couples, and kids filling Easy Street in costume! 👻
Candy galore, creative trunks, festive décor, and plenty of sweet treats from CCUSD student-operated Sip N Scoop made for a perfect small-town Halloween night. The YMCA handed out awards for the best costumes, dressed-up pets, and decorated trunks—with our very own Mayor John Crane joining the judging panel! 🏆
Thanks to everyone who came out—we can’t wait to team up with the YMCA again next fall! 💜
Last Friday, the Desert Foothills YMCA and the Town of Carefree partnered and brought tons of spooky fun to Carefree Town Center, with hundreds of families, couples, and kids filling Easy Street in costume! 👻
Candy galore, creative trunks, festive décor, and plenty of sweet treats from CCUSD student-operated Sip N Scoop made for a perfect small-town Halloween night. The YMCA handed out awards for the best costumes, dressed-up pets, and decorated trunks—with our very own Mayor John Crane joining the judging panel! 🏆
Thanks to everyone who came out—we can’t wait to team up with the YMCA again next fall! 💜
🎵 Live Music Returns to Carefree! 🍁
The Sanderson Lincoln Saturdays series is back—bringing free live music from amazing local musicians and bands! 🎶 Join us 1–3 p.m. on select Saturdays to enjoy the tunes while you shop, dine, and explore our charming local restaurants and shops.
✨ Check out the Fall Lineup (Oct–Dec): 🍂
🎸 Oct 18 – Ben Bolt
🎤 Oct 25 – Mark Edward & The Usual Suspects
🪈 Nov 15 – Henry Molder
🎻 Nov 22 – Alona Liesniak
🎧 Nov 29 – Fort Vine
🎸 Dec 13 – Tyler Nielson
🎹 Dec 20 – Nancy Bagley
🎷 Dec 27 – UGLYTHEY
Learn more about each artist at visitcarefree.com
🎶 Support local talent, enjoy the good tunes, and make your Saturdays in Carefree unforgettable! 💛
The Sanderson Lincoln Saturdays series is back—bringing free live music from amazing local musicians and bands! 🎶 Join us 1–3 p.m. on select Saturdays to enjoy the tunes while you shop, dine, and explore our charming local restaurants and shops.
✨ Check out the Fall Lineup (Oct–Dec): 🍂
🎸 Oct 18 – Ben Bolt
🎤 Oct 25 – Mark Edward & The Usual Suspects
🪈 Nov 15 – Henry Molder
🎻 Nov 22 – Alona Liesniak
🎧 Nov 29 – Fort Vine
🎸 Dec 13 – Tyler Nielson
🎹 Dec 20 – Nancy Bagley
🎷 Dec 27 – UGLYTHEY
Learn more about each artist at visitcarefree.com
🎶 Support local talent, enjoy the good tunes, and make your Saturdays in Carefree unforgettable! 💛
