🎄 Henderson's turning into a Hallmark movie

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It’s CHRISTMAS season! Well, for some of you, Christmas season started about three months ago lol. In the Groves household, Christmas season officially kicks off right after we get back from Grandpa’s place in Gilroy.

Thanksgiving at Grandpa’s working ranch has always been a highlight for the kids. And just to set expectations, think more “trash and animal processing plant” than the dreamy ranch you’re picturing from Yellowstone. Still, it’s the best kind of weekend.

In my humble opinion, way too much of childhood these days is spent in a chair, in a classroom, on a screen, and/or in a fully structured environment. Being on a real working ranch gives the kids a chance to reconnect with the earth, see where our food comes from (yes, after they’ve played with the animals that might one day be dinner), and get their hands dirty in the best way.

It also reminds them how much work goes into keeping things running behind the scenes. The blue-collar workers keeping the trucks moving, the animals fed, and all the trash we produce getting processed. It’s a lot, and it’s important for kids to see.

Which brought up a big question for us about raising kids in Las Vegas. Where are Vegas kids getting hands-on experience with real-life jobs and activities? That’s a big goal of ours for 2026. More real-world, hands-on learning, and a lot more time out in nature.

We’d love your ideas. What suggestions do you have for us? Here are a couple photos from this last weekend’s fun!

The buzz around SMKD BBQ is all about tender brisket, friendly service, and that unmistakable smoky smell the second you walk up. Guests say the meat is moist, the wings and ribs are worth the stop, and the sides hit the spot.

People also rave about the welcoming staff, which makes the whole place feel easy and relaxed. It’s a great spot to settle in with a cold beer and a plate of good barbecue. A strong new local favorite.

More details here.

Solidcore is opening a new studio in Henderson on December 6, bringing its well known pilates inspired workout to the area. The studio uses reformer style machines with spring resistance for slow, controlled movements that build strength.

Classes run from early morning to evening, and the Signature50 workout is already on the schedule. Founding memberships are available for a limited time, with options starting at $94 per month.

More details here.

📚 Warehouse inventory: 60,000+ searchable titles
🎬 1,800+ DVDs, Blu-rays & quirky VHS picks
❤️ Every purchase helps keep Henderson’s indie shop alive

🙏 Tap here to donate or dive into the warehouse list: GoFundMe

👉 Check them out HERE.

🎙️ We chat with Naomi and Ruth, the 14 and 10-year-old sisters behind Faith & Hope Designs, about:

🎨 How they launched a handmade product business with zero experience
🌍 The Etsy and social posts that helped them ship orders to Italy, Canada, and across the US
📦 What it takes to handle 30 plus orders a month as full-time students
🥧 How pumpkin pie earrings became their accidental bestseller
💰 The money lessons their mom Esther is teaching them about margins and pricing

Click HERE to listen!

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House hunting? Start with your mortgage game plan.
Connect with Mortgage Professional Leah Vega to get pre-approved and set a smart budget: [email protected] • 702-525-0188.

Need a great Realtor in Henderson?
Email [email protected] and I’ll learn what you’re looking for and introduce you to a top-notch agent.

The Gist: Green Valley Ranch is updating its Regal Theatre as part of a wider $200 million resort renovation. The project includes a full lobby and auditorium refresh with new recliner seating, upgraded projection and sound, a larger concession area with a bar, and a new lounge space. The theatre will stay open during construction and is expected to be finished by mid 2026.

Why It Matters: The upgrades aim to give Henderson moviegoers a more comfortable, modern place to catch a film. Feels like a welcome boost for a spot many locals already love visiting.

Read more here.

❄️ WinterFest | Water Street Plaza | Henderson | 12/04–12/05 | More
A festive kickoff with tree lighting, drone show, and a glowing parade.

🎄 Krampus Fest 2025 | Grey Witch | Henderson | 12/05 | More
Spooky holiday fun with vendors, food and mischievous Krampus energy.

🐱 Cat and Kitten Adoption Event | Copper Cat Books | Henderson | 12/06 | More
Meet adorable cats and kittens ready for loving homes this holiday season.

✨ 47th Annual Parade of Lights | Lake Mead Marina | Boulder City | 12/06 | More
Festive decorated boats light up the water for a magical holiday evening.

🎨 Ornament Decorating | Harley-Davidson | Henderson | 12/06 | More
Festive DIY ornament fun with free family activities and a casual BBQ.

🎅 Pictures with Santa 2025 | Black Mountain Rec | Henderson | 12/06 | More
Sweet holiday photos with Santa for kids and festive pups alike.

🎼 Messiah Sing-Along Concert | Green Valley Presbyterian Church | Henderson | 12/10 | More
A joyful community sing-along filled with uplifting holiday choral music.

💃 Happy Holidays Dance | Heritage Park | Henderson | 12/11 | More
A cheerful community dance promoting wellness, connection and festive movement.

🌟 The Glory of Christmas | American Heritage Academy | Henderson | 12/11–12/13 | More
A heartfelt live nativity celebrating the season with music, story and community.

🎁 Toys for Tots Drop-Off & Santa Visit | United Studios of Self Defense | Henderson | Through 12/18 | More
Spread holiday cheer with toy donations plus a festive Santa visit on Dec 18.

✏️ Pop-Up Sketch | Ethyl M Chocolates | Henderson | 12/05 | More
Relaxed holiday sketching surrounded by glowing lights and festive desert charm.

🎨 Simply SEEN: Art Gallery Opening Reception | Equality Center | Henderson | 12/06 | More
A vibrant showcase celebrating authenticity, visibility and creative self-expression.

🥂 Holiday Brunch | Azzurra Wine Bar & Shop | Henderson | 12/06 | More
A cheerful brunch with live holiday music, sparkling sips and seasonal bites.

🛍️ Sip & Shop – Holiday Market | Vegas Valley Winery | Henderson | 12/06 | More
Cozy holiday browsing with handcrafted gifts, local artisans and festive sips.

🎵 Unkxwn Band Live at AMP'D | M Resort Spa Casino | Henderson | 12/07 | More
High-energy pop, funk, soul and Latin grooves for a lively night out.

🧩 Speed Puzzling Meet-Up | Puzzle Merchant | Henderson | 12/07 | More
Fast-paced puzzle fun with friendly competition and plenty of brainy energy.

🧠 Smarty Pints Wednesday Night Trivia | Sticks Tavern | Henderson | 12/10 | More
Lively weekly trivia with friendly competition, good drinks and easygoing fun.