Cyclovia, live music, Halloween festivals and free museum days โ you don't have to break the bank to enjoy localย events in Tucson.
Here are 44 events that are free to attend this October.
On this particular Free Film Friday, July 21, the pool was off limits due to the nightโs lightning and monsoon storm but the movie, โClueless,โ was still shown on the outdoor projector.
Free Film Fridays
Catch a poolside movie every Friday this month at Hotel McCoy!ย
When:ย 8-11 p.m. Fridays
Where:ย Hotel McCoy,ย 720 W. Silverlake Road
Cost:ย Free to attend and open to the public. Swimming is for hotel guests only, but day passes for the pool are available for $20.
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Art Corner with BICAS
Get free access to recycled bike art parts, tools and other materials and get creative! Once you're finished, you can donate your creation to BICAS or give a suggested donation to the nonprofit, if you're able to. Check in at the front counter before heading to the art area.
When:ย 4-6 p.m. Fridays
Where:ย BICAS,ย 2001 N. Seventh Ave.
Cost:ย Free to attend, donation suggestedย
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Get ready for a mesmerizing and interactive art installation that will transport you to a world where color collides with motion.
Los Tromposย features larger-than-life, three-dimensional spinning tops in a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors andย intricate designs as traditionally woven by Mexican artisans.ย Great for all ages, this installation is sure to awaken your sense of wonder and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the world around us.ย Los Trompos is an installation free to the public on the University of Arizona campusย through Nov. 5.
Friday Night Concert at Steam Pump Ranch
Oro Valley Parks and Recreation is hosting a free concert withย Rainy Daze. Food trucks will be onsite.
When:ย 7-9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6
Where:ย Steam Pump Ranch,ย 10901 N. Oracle Road
Cost:ย Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks. Bring your own chair or blanket!
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Female Friday Self-Defense
These Female Friday self-defense classes were on pause, but now they're back through December. These classes are for women, taught by a woman.ย
When:ย 6-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6
Where:ย Combat Krav Maga,ย 3273 N. Freeway
Cost:ย Pay what you can
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Free Screening of "The Addams Family"
Enjoy a free outdoor screening of "The Addams Family" this Saturday, thanks to the Palo Verde Park Neighborhood Association and The Loft Cinema. Enjoy a costume contest and family-friendly activities before the movie starts.
When:ย 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7
Where:ย Palo Verde Park,ย 425 S. Mann Ave.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Movie at the Ranch
Catch an outdoor screening of "Homeward Bound" at Steam Pump Ranch in Oro Valley. Bring your own chairs and blankets!
When:ย 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7
Where:ย Steam Pump Ranch,ย 10901 N. Oracle Road
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Free First Saturday at Valley of the Moon
Local fantasy park Valley of the Moon is opening its doors for free this Saturday. Beyond roaming the grounds, you'll be able to shop for your Halloween costume and create your own mask.
When:ย 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 7
Where:ย Valley of the Moon,ย 2544 E. Allen Road
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
First Saturday Art Walk
Theย Steinfeld Warehouse Community Arts Center is hosting its First Saturday Art Walk this weekend, set to feature the work from six participating galleries.
When:ย 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7
Where:ย Steinfeld Warehouse Community Arts Center,ย 101 W. Sixth St.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Second SundAZe at TMAย
Visit the Tucson Museum of Art every second Sunday for pay-what-you-wish admission. Enjoy art-making, gallery activities and performances. You'll also find food from Ate Kei and Phatboiis BBQ, plus vendors like Drutopia and Lower Arizona Jewelry.
When:ย 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.ย Sunday, Oct. 8
Where:ย Tucson Museum of Art,ย 140 N. Main Ave.
Cost:ย Pay what you wish
Visit theย event pageย for more information.ย
Book Swap with the Pima County Public Library
Swap books with other literacy-loving community members during this event on Sunday.ย
When:ย 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 8
Where:ย The Coalition Space,ย 311 E. Seventh St.
Cost:ย Free to attend, bring books to swap
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Members of FUGA roll out on a monthly ride. With their rides, they hope to promote safer streets and representation for Tucsonโs south-side and west-side communities.
Ride with FUGA
Take a bike ride with organization FUGA, whichย advocates for mobility, accessibility and representation for Tucson's south-side and west-side communities.ย
When:ย 8-10 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 8;ย 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27
Where:ย Ward 1,ย 940 W. Alameda St.,ย on Oct. 8;ย El Pueblo Center,ย 101 W. Irvington Road,ย on Oct. 27.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.ย
Community Visions of Tucson's Food Future: A Presentation and Discussion
Hear from Eden Kinkaid and Ellen Platts about their research on the impacts of Tucson's UNESCO City of Gastronomyย designation. Topics include social justice and community engagement.ย Attendeesย will have the chance to partake in the creation of a vision board to show their hopes for Tucson as a gastronomy city.
When:ย 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Oct. 12
Where:ย Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane
Cost:ย Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit theย event pageย for more information.ย
Discovery Nights at Children's Museum Tucson
Visit Children's Museum Tucson for a free night of science and art, including story times and pop-up science experiments.ย
When:ย 5-7 p.m. Thursdays
Where:ย Children's Museum Tucson,ย 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Gardening Hour
Learn about gardening and bring home clippings all while connecting with The Garden Kitchen team.ย
When:ย 7-8:30 a.m. Thursdays
Where:ย The Garden Kitchen,ย 2205 S. Fourth Ave.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Tucson Meet Yourself
Folklife festival Tucson Meet Yourself is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The annual event has brought hundreds of thousands of people to downtown Tucson to celebrate the food, music, dance and arts of our city's many cultures.ย
When:ย 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13 (no performances between 2-5 p.m.). 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15.
Where:ย Jacomรฉ Plaza,ย 101 N. Stone Ave.
Cost:ย Free to watch performances and demonstrations, bring money for food and shopping
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Trunk-or-Treat
Go trunk-or-treating and walk through a haunted house, both of which will happen at the Quincie Douglas Center, courtesy Tucson Parks and Recreation. Costumes are encouraged!
When:ย 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13
Where:ย Quincie Douglas Center,ย 1575 E. 36th St.
Cost:ย Free to attendย
Visit theย event pageย for more information.ย
Mission Garden is located at the base of "A" Mountain, at 946 W. Mission Lane.
Tasting History: Quince
Learn about the origins behind quince and how it became part of Tucson's agricultural and culinary traditions. Demonstrations and tastings are part of the fun.
When:ย 9-11 a.m. Friday-Saturday, Oct. 13-14
Where:ย Mission Garden,ย 946 W. Mission Lane
Cost:ย Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Tucson Humanities Festival
Hosted by the University of Arizona, the 14th annual Humanities Festival highlights the theme of "style" with talks, fashion and film. Tim Gunn will be there on Oct. 11!
When:ย Select dates through Oct. 24.
Where:ย Various locations on the University of Arizona campus.
Cost:ย Most events are free.
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Aqua Pumpkin Patch
It's a pumpkin patch โ poolside! Kids 17 and under can plunge into what's being described as an aqua pumpkin patch, then paint and decorate the pumpkin they pick. Kiddos in diapers must wear tight-fitting waterproof pants over a swim diaper.
When:ย 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1:30-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 14-15
Where:ย Edith Ball Adaptive Recreation Center,ย 3455 E. Zoo Court
Cost:ย Free to attend, limited spots available. Pre-registration is required.
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Chicano Vibez
With a goal of bringing the community together to celebrate Chicano history and Hispanic Heritage month, Chicano Vibez will feature performances, food trucks, drinks, vendors, a fashion show and a car show.ย
When:ย 5-10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14; 1-9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15
Where:ย MSA Annex,ย 267 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost:ย Free to attend, though tickets are needed for the Grupo Medal concert ($45) and meet-and-greet ($50).
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Art After Dark at Children's Museum Tucson
Each month, Children's Museum Tucson hosts Art After Dark with local arts groups and free admission!
When:ย 5:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14
Where:ย Children's Museum Tucson,ย 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Tucson Repair Cafe
Need something fixed? Bring it to the Tucson Repair Cafe to be fixed for free! All items are welcome.
When:ย 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14
Where:ย Xerocraft Makerspace,ย 101 W. Sixth St.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
2023 Annual Show: "Amore"
Madaras Gallery will soon debut 15 new paintings ranging from scenery of Italy to the desert we all know and love. A free artist reception takes place on Oct. 14.
When:ย 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14
Where:ย Madaras Gallery,ย 3035 N. Swan Road
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Second Saturday at Steam Pump Ranch
The second Saturday of every month is special at Steam Pump Ranch. Find historic tours of the grounds, demonstrations led byย Archaeology Southwest, crafts for kids, vendors selling their artwork and a farmers market.
When:ย 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14
Where:ย Steam Pump Ranch,ย 10901 N. Oracle Road
Cost:ย Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Concerts in the Courtyard
Head to Marana for this monthly concert series, with food trucks onsite. This month, enjoy music from Blondie All Over. Bring your own chairs or blankets!
When:ย 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19
Where:ย Marana Municipal Complex,ย 11555 W. Civic Center Dr.
Cost:ย Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Volunteers helped clean up the Santa Cruz River for the United Wayโs Days of Caring event in 2021.
United Way Days of Caring
Join this giant two-day community volunteer event hosted by United Way. Projects include clean-ups, painting, buffelgrass pulls, organizing and more.
When:ย Oct. 20-21
Where:ย Various locations.
Cost:ย Free to volunteer, sign up online.
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Boo Bash
Tucson Parks and Recreation is throwing the upcoming Boo Bash, a family-friendly Halloween party where you'll find carnival games, trunk-or-treating and food trucks.
When:ย 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where:ย Lincoln Park soccer fields,ย 4325 S. Pantano Road
Cost:ย Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Marana Fall Festival
Celebrate fall in Marana! The annual festival is home to carnival rides, mutton busting, live music, a beer garden, a sunflower field, historic exhibits, artisan vendors and more.
When:ย 2-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where:ย Marana Heritage Farm,ย 12375 N. Heritage Park Drive
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Foul Fest
In a career spanning 30 years, the late Al Foul left his mark as a musician but itโs his legacy as a โremarkable human beingโ that his friends remember most. This second annual festival celebrates Foul with performances from nine musicians.
When:ย 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where:ย Che's Lounge,ย 350 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
A Night Under the Stars
Local nonprofit Reach For The Stars is hosting a night of stargazing. Learn about the stars and planets, all while gazing through telescopes and binoculars.ย
When:ย 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where:ย Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead,ย 16248 E. Marsh Station Road
Cost:ย Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Family Saturdays with Watershed Management Group
Head to Watershed Management Group for Family Saturdays to learn all about rain gardens! Attend a free workshop and you'll get to take home a rain garden kit of your own. Kids can meet the hens, enjoy story time and make a worry stone.ย
When:ย 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where:ย Watershed Management Group,ย 1137 N. Dodge Blvd.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Traditional O'odham Agriculture at Mission Garden
Attend this event to learn about Tohono O'odham agricultural practices, including demonstrations and talks about traditional crops like corn, beans and squash.
When:ย 8-10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where:ย Mission Garden,ย 946 W. Mission Lane
Cost:ย Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Free Third Thursdays at MOCA
Third Thursday at Tucsonโs Museum of Contemporary Art is a party. The art museum is open late with free admission โ and free beer from Barrio Brewing Co. KXCI will be DJing and there will be talks and activities surrounding the publication of the 2023 Sonoran Desert School Gardener's Almanac.ย
When:ย 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26
Where:ย Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson,ย 265 S. Church Ave.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Spooktacular in Sahuarita
This all-ages Spooktacular event in Sahuarita features trunk-or-treating, food trucks, a kids' zone and a DJ.ย
When:ย 6-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27
Where:ย Sahuarita Town Hall,ย 375 W. Sahuarita Center Way, Sahuaritaย
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Little Amal, a 12-foot puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl, center, is greeted Thursday by a performer in a lion dance costume near the Chinatown neighborhood of Boston.
Walk with Amal
Little Amal is a 12-foot puppet of a Syrian refugee girl, who has traveled to 15 countries with a "message of hope and solidarity." Sheโs now made her way to the United States, stopping in Tucson at the end of the month with several events at locations including Tumamoc Hill, Galeria Mitotera, Childrenโs Museum Tucson and the University of Arizona Mall.
When:ย Four events in Tucson on Saturday, Oct. 28. The first event begins at 6 a.m. The last event begins at 1 p.m.
Where:ย Various locations.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
HallOVeen Spooktacular
Oro Valley is celebrating Halloween with an evening of vendors, music, jumping castles, crafts, food trucks and trunk-or-treating.ย
When:ย 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28
Where:ย James D. Kriegh Park,ย 23 W. Calle Concordia
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Trunk-or-Treat with Catalina Brewing Company
Take the kiddos to a trunk-or-treating event at Catalina Brewing Company. Beer and wine will be available for adults, and snacks and drinks will be available for the kids. There's a small haunted walk-through inside the brewery, too!
When:ย 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28
Where:ย Catalina Brewing Company, 6918 N. Camino Martin
Cost:ย Free to attend, bring money for drinks
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Poetry Workshop with Jodie Hollander
Poet Jodie Hollander is hosting two poetry workshops in Saguaro National Park West this month. The Saturday workshop will focus on narrative poetry and the Sunday workshop will focus on humans in relation to nature.
When:ย 9 a.m. to noon Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 28-29
Where:ย Saguaro National Park West
Cost:ย Free to attend. Space is limited. RSVP by emailingย jordan_chadwick-camp@nps.govย with the subject line "Poetry in the Parks."
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Cyclovia
Enjoy a day of car-free streets, where you can walk, bike or skate your way through Tucson neighborhoods. It's essentially a big block party where you'll find activity hubs and food vendors along the route.
When:ย 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29
Where:ย From the downtown area to Fort Lowell and Stone area. See the routeย here.
Cost:ย Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
'90s vs. '00s Halloween Party
Head to this dance party on Halloweekend, where a DJ will be spinning music from the '90s and '00s. There will also be a '90s- and '00s-themed costume contest, plus throwback video games, drink specials, Halloween candy and photo ops.
When:ย 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 29
Where:ย The Royal Room,ย 450 N. Sixth Ave.
Cost:ย Free to attend, bring money for drinks. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Howl-oween
It's a Halloween party for dogs! Bring your four-legged friends to St. Philip's Plaza for a pup parade, a costume contest and giveaways.
When:ย 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29
Where:ย St. Philip's Plaza,ย 4280 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost:ย Free to attend
Visit theย event pageย for more information.ย
Trick-or-treat the Avenue
Head to North Fourth Avenue for a family-friendly afternoon of trick-or-treating down the historic street. There will be a costume contest at 1 p.m., plus merchant specials all day.
When:ย 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29
Where:ย North Fourth Avenue. Costume contest is at Haggerty Plaza,ย 316 N. Fourth Ave., at 1 p.m.
Cost:ย Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
Mr. Heads Official Halloween Party
Celebrate Halloween dressed as your favorite TV or movie villain, all while enjoying DJ music at Mr. Heads.
When:ย 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31
Where:ย Mr. Heads,ย 513 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost:ย Free to attend. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit theย event pageย for more information.
