Thanksgiving in Scottsdale, with the whole family.

What the weather is like

November is one of the most comfortable months in Scottsdale. Days are warm enough for the pool and a round of golf, and evenings are cool enough for a fire or a sweater. The golf guide has the full month-by-month picture, and the courses reopen after their fall overseeding closures. See the best time to golf in Scottsdale.

Source: Phoenix normals from the Arizona State Climate Office, 1991 to 2020 averages for November.

Planning the holiday meal

A Thanksgiving dinner for a large family takes planning. Decide early who cooks, who shops, and who brings what. Ask the host before you book about the kitchen, whether grocery delivery is possible, and how dietary needs can be covered. Plan one large table in the dining room, and set the meal for mid-afternoon so the evening stays free.

If the group would rather eat out, see our restaurant guide and book early. Thanksgiving week is busy in North Scottsdale.

The days around the holiday

• •Before the holiday: an early hike, see hiking near North Scottsdale, then a slow afternoon.
• •Thanksgiving Day: a morning walk for those who want one, the meal in the afternoon, and the pool or a board game in the evening.
• •After the holiday: golf on the simulator or a pickleball match, and a last dinner out. See things to do in Scottsdale at night.

What to ask before you book

• •Is the whole house booked for the family? Confirm that the property is not shared with other guests during your stay.
• •What are the quiet hours? Get them in writing. Events and parties are not permitted at the house, so a family holiday fits best.
• •Who can help with the meal? Ask about grocery delivery and whether any help is available on the day.

For a multi-generation group, see planning a Scottsdale family reunion, which covers the sleeping layout for up to 16 guests. Staying through December too? See Christmas and New Year in Scottsdale.

More for your trip

For the rest of the month, see Scottsdale in November, including Canal Convergence at the Scottsdale Waterfront.