Two very important birthday parties are happening this weekend.
The first is for our very beloved Nandi, the first elephant born in Arizona! Kiddos will be able to unleash their inner elephant as they splash around in the mud in celebration of Nandi's 10th birthday.
Our very beautiful city is also celebrating its birthday this weekend. Tucson was founded on Aug. 20, 1775, and the Presidio Museum is hosting a bash this Saturday with live music, dance, demonstrations and more activities.
What else is happening this weekend? Two free outdoor movie screenings, a two-hour magic show, a car show at the Tucson Botanical Gardens and MORE. Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest info before heading out!
As Sentinel Peak looms in the background, a sign welcomes visitors at Mission Garden at the corner of South Grande Avenue and West Mission Lane on Aug. 15, 2014, in downtown Tucson, Ariz.
Summer Sunsets at Mission Garden
Mission Garden is staying open late during this summer series that features games, live music and food truck OaxaRico. Cross your fingers for an immaculate sunset!
When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15
Where: Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Beer for Bikes
Dragoon Brewing Co. is teaming up with local nonprofit BICAS for an evening of beer, art, prizes and food from Muncheez.
When: 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15
Where: Dragoon Brewing Co., 1859 W. Grant Road
Cost: $20
Visit the event page for more information.
Tucson Parks and Recreation's fall 2024 leisure classes schedule boasts hundreds of fun and engaging opportunities for the community.
Classes range from arts and crafts, Little Movers and Shakers, dance, gymnastics, jewelry making, glass fusing, music and more for youth and adults. Get active in a health and fitness class, learn digital photography skills or create beautiful pottery and ceramics pieces. There truly is something for everyone. Registration is open now and the deadline to register for session one is Tuesday, Aug. 20.
Spirits of Mexico
Tohono Chul's Garden Bistro is hosting a five-course dinner with specialty spirits and wine from Compa Spirits y Vino.
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: $125
Visit the event page for more information.
Songwriters Central
This monthly showcase features eight performers over two sets, all showing off their most recent compositions.
When: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15
Where: Monterey Court, 505 W. Miracle Mile
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit the event page for more information.
Alice Cooper live at AVA Amphitheater
Alice Cooper's Too Close for Comfort Tour is live at AVA Amphitheater on Saturday, Aug. 17. Tickets are on sale now!
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.
When: 5-7 p.m. Thursdays
Where: Children's Museum Tucson, 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Skate Country Roll Bounce
DJ company Bros Entertainment is hosting this adult-only 2000s-themed event at Skate Country, featuring a DJ spinning era hits, a costume contest, a couple food trucks and a photo booth.
When: 10:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 16
Where: Skate Country, 7980 E. 22nd St.
Cost: $21, which includes skate rental. This event is for ages 18 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Win prizes for the books you read!
We put together a list of 28 books — 3 for kids, 25 for adults — that are written by local authors or touch on regionally-relevant themes. To make things more fun, we have prizes and a raffle for those who read one or more books on our list! Find more info here. 📚
Watermelon Crawl '90s Country Night
Trail Dust Town is gearing up for its next '90s Country Night, this time featuring the Jesse Colt Band. The dance floor will be open for the Watermelon Crawl line dance and watermelon-themed drinks will be served.
When: 6-10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16
Where: Trail Dust Town, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: $5, or free admission with the purchase of an entree at Pinnacle Peak. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
The August G3
G3 Tucson, the city's gay happy hour group, is hosting a beach-themed party, complete with beach tunes and tropical cocktails.
When: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16
Where: Playground Bar & Lounge, 278 E. Congress St.
Cost: $9, your first drink is included. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Queer Speed Dating
Find your next date or make a new friend at this queer speed dating event!
When: 7-9:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16
Where: Bawker Bawker Cider House, 400 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: Free to participate with the purchase of one drink. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Free Comedy Show at Black Iris
Lady Haha is hosting a free comedy show at Black Iris, a new cafe on Fourth Avenue with a hidden bar and event space in the back. Six comedians will take the stage!
When: 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16
Where: Black Iris, 340 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, this event is for ages 21 and up
Visit the event page for more information.
Chocolate Factory Tour
If you love "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," this might be your dream come true. Though not as extravagant as Willy Wonka's facility, take a tour of Monsoon Chocolate's factory to learn how the chocolate is made.
When: Noon and 2 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays
Where: Monsoon Chocolate, 234 E. 22nd St.
Cost: $20
Visit the event page for more information.
Pop Night
DJ Bex is spinning all the pop hits of your dreams, from Britney Spears and Madonna to Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter and Billie Eilish.
When: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: Free to attend, this event is for ages 21 and up
Visit the event page for more information.
Tarot Salon at The Ninth House
Metaphysical shop The Ninth House is bringing back its tarot salons! These informal community meet-ups will discuss different metaphysical-related topics. Bring your own cards!
When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16
Where: The Ninth House, 2563 E. Fort Lowell Road
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Chillin at the Chul
Check out music, spirits and bites at Tohono Chul's summer series. On Saturdays, Tohono Chul has partnered with Children's Museum Oro Valley to provide family-friendly nature play.
When: 6-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays through Aug. 31
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
There will be no shortage of demonstrations and activities at the 2024 Celebration of All Things S-cuk Son/Tucson.
Celebration of All Things S-cuk sọn/Tucson
Tucson was founded 249 years ago on Aug. 20, 1775. Every year, the Presidio Museum hosts a party to celebrate. This year, expect live music, dance, musket demonstrations and frybread for sale.
When: 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, 196 N. Court Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Movies in Marana: "Tangled"
Catch a free outdoor screening of Disney's "Tangled."
When: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Continental Ranch Community Park, 8900 N. Coachline Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Oro Valley Movies on the Lawn: "Turning Red"
Catch a free outdoor screening of Disney's "Turning Red."
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Oro Valley Community & Recreation Center, 10555 N. La Cañada Dr.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Stars of Magic 2024
Get ready for the 36th edition of this two-hour magic show presented by the Society of American Magicians.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave.
Cost: $22 for adults, $16 for kids ages 12 and under
Visit the event page for more information.
A pair of desert big horn sheep stand over the onlookers from their boulder perch during the Mad About Monsoons edition of the Cool Summer Nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson, Ariz., July 16, 2022.
Cool Summer Nights
Enjoy the sights of the Desert Museum at night — in cooler temperatures! Bring a flashlight to walk around and possibly spot a nocturnal animal, touch a stingray and check out themed activities.
When: 6-9 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 24
Where: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road
Cost: $29.95 for adults, $19.95 for kids ages 3-12. $24.95 for Arizona residents.
Visit the event page for more information.
Retro Game Show Night
Enjoy an evening of off-the-cuff (and sometimes NSFW) comedy that pays homage to old TV game shows with a funky twist.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: $19.06. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Science at Sunset: Crackling Chaos and the Secrets of Lightning
Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium is hosting a special nighttime event all about lightning. Expect a guest speaker, planetarium shows, stargazing and other activities.
When: 5:30-10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium, 1601 E. University Blvd.
Cost: $25
Visit the event page for more information.
Nandi's 10th Birthday Mudfest
Nandi was the first elephant born in Arizona — and now she's turning 10! Reid Park Zoo is setting up mud pits for kids to unleash their inner elephant. A hose will be available so kiddos can wash off after playing in the mud.
When: 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court
Cost: $11.25 for adults, $7 for kids
Visit the event page 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 Native American crops.
When: 8-9:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane
Cost: Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit the event page for more information.
Family Saturdays with Watershed Management Group
Head to Watershed Management Group for Family Saturdays, this time to learn all about composting! Kid-friendly activities are part of the fun.
When: 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Watershed Management Group, 1137 N. Dodge Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Frida and the Desert Exhibition
Mariana de la Vega Art Gallery is hosting the "Frida and the Desert" exhibit through Sept. 16 in celebration of Frida Kahlo's legacy and Mexican Independence Day. An opening reception will take place this Saturday with local artists, music and snacks.
When: 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17 for opening reception; exhibit goes through Sept. 16
Where: Mariana de la Vega Art Gallery, 1918 E. Prince Road
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
The Barrio Bug at the Tucson Botanical Gardens includes a variety of plants, a statue of Saint Francis and a skeleton driver.
Bikes, Trains, & Automobiles! A Bike and Car Show
Hosted by the Tucson Botanical Gardens and Truly Nolen, this show will feature lowrider bikes and cars, plus vintage VW vehicles.
When: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way
Cost: $19 for adults, $10 for kids ages 4-12
Visit the event page for more information.
Black Space
This one-act play about race, gender and sexuality is told through the lens of a queer Black woman, with topics that include abuse, racism, love, femininity, alcoholism, marriage, mental health, survival, business and death.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: The Projects, 174 E. Toole Ave.
Cost: $10
Visit the event page for more information.
'80s Dance Party at Surly Wench
Surly Wench Pub is hosting an '80s dance party. Wear your best '80s-themed attire or in a "Breakfast Club" theme!
When: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: $5. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Music on the Mountain
For years, Mount Lemmon was home to a weekly concert series. The series went on hiatus in 2013, but it's back for the season and beyond, featuring live music Saturdays through October.
When: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17; noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18
Where: Mount Lemmon Lodge, 12833 N. Sabino Canyon Park
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Almost Halfway to St. Patrick's Day
Grace Hearing Center is organizing a party at Barrio Brewing to help raise funds to provide hearing health-care to low-income adults and under-served children. Expect a raffle, auction, photo booth and two specialty drinks.
When: 6-11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Barrio Brewing Co., 800 E. 16th St.
Cost: $140, includes two drink tickets
Visit the event page for more information.
Taylor Eras Paint Class
Paint your favorite Taylor Swift album with the help of Painting & Vino.
When: Noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Hotel McCoy, 720 W. Silverlake Road
Cost: $40
Visit the event page for more information.
Summer Hair Metal Madness Party
The Dirt, a band from Hollywood, is playing hits from the biggest '80s hair bands.
When: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: $20, this event is for ages 21 and up
Visit the event page for more information.
Cumbia Social Dance Night
Put on your dancing shoes for a night of music and mingling! Enjoy a cumbia class followed by social dancing.
When: 8-11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Tucson Creative Dance Center, 3131 N. Cherry Ave.
Cost: $15
Visit the event page for more information.
Goat yoga
Enjoy an hour of yoga and goats during this class!
When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: Udall Park, 7290 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: $25
Visit the event page for more information.
Peach Mania at Apple Annie's
Take a road trip to Willcox, where U-Pick orchard Apple Annie's is hosting Peach Mania! Pick peaches and enjoy peach pie.
When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays, Aug. 17-25
Where: Apple Annie's, 2081 W. Hardy Road in Willcox
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and produce picking
Visit the event page for more information.
Wine & Ice Cream Pairing
Sonoita winery AZ Hops & Vines is hosting an afternoon of wine and ice cream. Get six ice creams paired with six wines.
When: 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17
Where: AZ Hops & Vines, 3450 AZ-82 in Sonoita
Cost: $25
Visit the event page for more information.
Nuestro Tianguis Tucson
Every Saturday and Sunday, head to Flowers & Bullets' Midtown Farm for a swap meet featuring vendors, food and music.
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays
Where: Midtown Farm, 3538 E. Ellington Place
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Foothills Community Markets
Visit this market to shop from vendors who have items like yard art, home decor, jewelry, baked goods and more.
When: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays, closed Aug. 31
Where: Foothills Mall, 7325 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
A Saguaro cactus in the vineyard at Old Pueblo Cellars, 10088 N. St. Patrick Road.
August Wine and Craft Fair
Old Pueblo Cellars is hosting a craft fair featuring local artists, wine tastings and charcuterie boards.
When: Noon to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18
Where: Old Pueblo Cellars, 10088 N. Saint Patrick Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping, food and drinks. Reservations are required for wine tastings.
Visit the event page for more information.
Speed Plant + Book Exchange
Head to Button Brew House with books and plants to trade! Chat with others about the items you brought and then swap.
When: 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18
Where: Button Brew House, 6800 N. Camino Martin
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Art Events with Caroline Martin
Local artist and teacher Caroline Martin is sharing her love of art with the community! She recently started an art cart, where she brings craft supplies to The Korean Rose. Choose from three self-guided crafts to complete at the cafe! She'll also host a paint class this Sunday, where attendees will have the chance to paint atop a vinyl.
When: Sunday, Aug. 18; Noon to 2 p.m. for the art cart; 4-6 p.m. for the vinyl paint class
Where: The Korean Rose, 6118 E. Speedway, for the art cart; Borderlands Brewing Sam Hughes, 2500 E. Sixth St., for the paint class
Cost: Crafts at the art cart range from $5-$15; paint class is $45
Visit the event page for more information.
Whiskey Dinner at Dante's Fire
Chef Kenneth Foy of Dante's Fire is preparing a five-course dinner with whiskey pairings. The menu includes New York strip and smoked lamb ravioli.
When: 6-10 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18
Where: Dante's Fire, 2526 E. Grant Road
Cost: $105
Visit the event page for more information.
Cat Events at El Jefe Cat Cafe
Spend time with the cats at El Jefe Cat Cafe, all while playing bingo or enjoying a yoga session.
When: Sunday, Aug. 18; 10-11 a.m. for yoga; 6-7 p.m. for bingo
Where: El Jefe Cat Cafe, 3025 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: $18 for yoga; $14 for bingo, reservations required
Visit the event page for more information.
Explore nature through fun, hands-on exhibits at Children’s Museum Oro Valley at Tohono Chul
CMOV@TC has indoor and outdoor exhibits with daily activities and programming for kids and families that mesh with the environmental focus of Tohono Chul, teaching all about the culture, animals and plants of the Sonoran Desert!
What does "supported by" mean? Click here to learn more.
