Looking for a special way to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas this year? Head to La Encantada Mall to experience the Giving Machine, an annual tradition that turns simple charity into an interactive, uplifting family event.

Backed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, this unique campaign partners with local and global nonprofits, making it easy and fun to give back during the holiday season.

To participate and give back, stop by one of the two Giving Machines located at La Encantada Mall (2905 E Skyline Dr., across from the Apple Store) through December 9th.

The process is simple: Browse the causes, select a charitable item that speaks to you, punch in the code, and watch the “magic” happen! Your donation is processed right there, and 100% of your money goes directly to the charity. You even get to choose whether you want to cover the small credit card fee, or let the sponsor handle it.

While the machines feature wonderful global causes (like a goat to help a family rise out of poverty!), they also proudly support charities right here in our greater Tucson and Vail area. You can directly help local nonprofits like:

With 30 different items available, donation items range from $5 to $200 and include things like a weekend snack kit for a child, essential school supplies, or an interview outfit for an at-risk young adult.

To help you plan your visit, volunteers are at the machines each day during mall operating hours to assist and answer questions. You can also add a festive touch to your giving by checking the schedule for daily live performances at: https://arizonagivingmachine.org​

Tucson City Leads Sid and Tina Henderson, who oversee the initiative and selected this year’s local charities, invite our community to stop by.

“We first discovered the Giving Machine eight years ago, and found it such a special experience for our family that we made it an annual Christmas tradition,” shares Tina Henderson. “We’ve had meaningful conversations over the years with our children about why we give, and who will be blessed with our small donation. We’ve been blessed in giving.”

Bring your family and friends and make the Giving Machine a new, uplifting part of your holiday tradition this year!

Featured events and happenings around the greater Vail area.

Looking for a cozy holiday tradition? Maybe warm cider, campfires, s'mores, local vendors, live music, Christmas lights, mulled wine... all under the stars in Arizona wine country? We've got you! Dec. 6th, 13th, and 20th at The Old World Holiday Market at The Meading Room in Sonoita. Shop from over 20 local vendors at each market, with a rotating line up of artists, makers, and food. Live music all day long!

Bring your warm blankets and wear your best ugly Christmas sweater for a chance to win a prize at Vail Coffee Stop! Cozy up while you enjoy a special Grinchy Christmas drink, pizza from Embers Pizza, and watch How the Grinch Stole Christmas this Friday, December 5th at 5:30 PM!

Want to get updated on true, unsolved mysteries from podcasters in the greater Vail area? Tune into the Unsolved Couple podcast for stories that'll get you thinking and become more aware of the world around you. Available on Apple, Spotify, or any major streaming platform.

Want to spread the good word about your business, a project, a job opening, or just want to give a shout out to one of your neighbors? Trail Mix has you covered.

Molly ​
Female
Age: 1.4 years old
A local family took Molly into foster care. Since they got her, she has come such a long way. She is smart but still has lots of work to be done. She loves snuggles, toys, playing fetch, and going on walks. She is dog-friendly, but cannot stay in her current home because their older dog prefers to be an only dog. Rather than return her to PACC, they're hoping to help Molly find a good home here in the greater Vail area.

UPDATE: Molly has been adopted!

Looking for an easy way to bring the fun Arizona style inside for Christmas? Try this simple DIY project from Macy Blackwell.

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Add an upcoming event to the Trail Mix calendar! It's free right here. ⤵️

​By Sweet Beginnings Blog​

In a large bowl, combine the popcorn and chex cereal. Set aside.

In a small, microwave-safe bowl combine the white chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave on high for 30 seconds. Stir and heat an additional 15 seconds, if needed, and stir until smooth. Stir in green food coloring – enough to make the chocolate dark green.

Pour the chocolate over the popcorn and chex and gently stir or toss to coat. Set aside (or in the fridge) and allow the chocolate to set for 10-15 minutes.

Once set, add the M&M’s, peanuts, and pretzels and stir or toss to mix well. Then you’re ready to serve (i.e. EAT IT ALL!)

Sunrise: 7:08 AM

Sunset: 5:18 PM

Air Quality: Fair (23 AQI)

Moon Phase: Full Moon

Publisher, Arizona Trail Mix
Southern Arizona's Unofficial Hype Woman