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"Chandler's Mardi Gras Festival: Ostriches, Utility Rates, and Rita's Burritos!"

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"Chandler's Mardi Gras Festival: Ostriches, Utility Rates, and Rita's Burritos!"

"Chandler's Mardi Gras Festival: Ostriches, Utility Rates, and Rita's Burritos!"
Don't miss out on the family-friendly fun at the Mardi Gras Festival in Chandler! Learn about the new home for the Chandler Ostrich Festival, updates on utility rates, and a culinary treasure at Rita's Burritos.

Chandler Local Staff

Jan 27, 2026

Trivia Question❓

Chandler, Arizona is known for its motto, "Where _______ Happens."

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

The Mardi Gras Festival in Chandler, Arizona is a family-friendly event featuring live music, Cajun food, and a beer and spirits garden.

Attendees can enjoy a parade, costumes, and a kids' zone for children.

The festival offers a variety of activities and entertainment for all ages, including a car show and vendors selling unique items.

Guests can experience the vibrant culture and spirit of Mardi Gras while supporting local businesses and enjoying a festive atmosphere.

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LUCCA Italiano Coastal Kitchen is Chandler’s newest destination for elevated Italian-coastal dining, now open in Downtown Ocotillo. Blending fresh Mediterranean flavors with classic Italian craftsmanship, LUCCA serves handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood, and handcrafted cocktails in a modern, coastal-inspired setting. Whether you’re stopping in for a relaxed lunch, sunset cocktails, or an elegant dinner, LUCCA brings a taste of the Italian coast to the heart of Chandler.

(Former Living Room Chandler Location)
2475 W Queen Creek Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248
(480) 855-2848

 

The Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival will relocate in 2026 for the first time in over 20 years, landing at the spacious Rawhide Western Town and Event Center.

 

The move aims to support the festival’s rapid growth while enhancing comfort and amenities for visitors.

 

Chamber of Commerce president Terri Kimble highlighted the need for expanded grounds, saying Rawhide will elevate the event with more room and updated infrastructure.

 

The 2026 festival will run two weekends, March 13-15 and March 20-22, featuring new indoor vendor spaces, permanent restrooms, and running water throughout.

 

Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke praised the festival’s role in celebrating local heritage, expressing excitement about its next chapter.

 

Organizers promise additional attractions and entertainment, with the full artist lineup still to be announced.

 

The new venue is located at 5700 W. North Loop Road, Chandler, AZ 85226.


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Interesting Facts
  • Chandler was founded in 1912 by Dr. Alexander John Chandler, a veterinarian and entrepreneur.


  • The city is home to the second largest mall in the Phoenix metropolitan area, Chandler Fashion Center.


  • Chandler has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries producing award-winning brews.


The City of Chandler in Arizona has approved new utility rates for water, wastewater, and reclaimed water, with solid waste rates still pending approval.

The rate increases are necessary to cover rising costs associated with providing these essential services.

Despite the increase, Chandler remains one of the most affordable cities for utility services in the region.

Additionally, changes to some solid waste service fees have been implemented.

Residents can still utilize certain services for free, but fees will apply for additional requests.

For inquiries, contact the utility billing department at 480-782-2280 or email utilitybilling@chandleraz.gov.

Media contact: Jennifer Honea, City of Chandler Public Information Officer.

Rita’s Burritos in Chandler, Arizona, stands as a cherished local hotspot, woven into the fabric of the community since 2015.

 

Founded by brothers Gilbert and Mario Meraz, the eatery at 4040 S. Arizona Avenue has gained a reputation for delivering authentic Mexican dishes inspired by family heritage.

 

Handmade tortillas, high-quality ingredients, and unique fillings have made every meal a neighborhood favorite.

 

Though Gilbert considered closing the restaurant in early 2026 to pursue new opportunities, heartfelt pleas from loyal customers convinced him to stay, illustrating just how beloved Rita’s has become.

 

Consistent, warm service and a genuine, family-style atmosphere turn each visit into more than a meal—it's a welcoming embrace from the Meraz family and their dedicated staff.

 

For anyone craving classic Mexican flavors in Chandler, Rita’s Burritos remains a must-visit home away from home.


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💡 Answer to Trivia Question:
"Where Fun Happens."
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© 2026 The Chandler Local.

The Chandler Local is your friendly, go-to guide for life in sunny Chandler, Arizona. It delivers a vibrant mix of essential local news, can't-miss events, and sun-drenched hidden gems right to your inbox. This newsletter is all about community connection, complete with heartwarming neighborly shoutouts that make our desert city feel like a small town.

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