It's a weekend packed with live music, courtesy the Tucson Jazz Festival and the Desert Song Festival.Β
ZoppΓ© Family Circus also continues this weekend, along with the return of Dillinger Days at Hotel Congress. You can also shop vintage clothing and pick up new-to-you craft supplies at an art swap.
Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest info before heading out!
Alberto βGiovanniβ ZoppΓ© is the circus director and also Nino the Clown.
ZoppΓ© Family Circus
ZoppΓ© Family Circus, featuring Nino the Clown and a cast of several generations ofΒ ZoppΓ©s, is back in Tucson this winter. Expect acrobatic acts, a trapeze artist and more. The circus has been a January tradition in Tucson since 2011.
When:Β Now through Jan. 26
Where:Β Mercado District,Β 100 S. Avenida del Convento
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Cost:Β $25 for general admission, $40 for ringside
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Tucson Desert Song Festival
Tucson Desert Song Festival returns with big names in the operatic and art song world. The festival has two parts, one that runs through the end of February and the second that picks up in April.
When:Β Now through Feb. 28; April 1-19
Where:Β Several locations
Cost:Β Varies
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Watch Blues in the Night, a musical celebration of the blues and its influence on American music πΆ
This toe-tapping revueΒ weaves the stories of three women and one man as they navigate love, heartbreak and rebirth. Set in 1930s Chicago,Β this emotionally uplifting storyΒ features 26 of the hottest torch numbers by blues and jazz icons. Come andΒ celebrate a uniquely American music genre on this powerful and uplifting journeyΒ through the hearts of four of the countryβs best crooners, a live band and a soundtrack by an array of Americaβs greatest composers.
Tucson J International Film Festival
Now through Jan. 19, dozens of films will be screened at locations in Tucson as part of the Tucson Jewish Community Center's film fest. Most films will also be available to screen virtually.
When:Β Now through Jan. 19
Where:Β Several locationsΒ
Cost:Β $60 for six films
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
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.Β
When:Β 5-7 p.m. Thursdays
Where:Β Children's Museum Tucson,Β 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
We're hosting our third annual market featuring 100+ local vendors π
#ThisIsTucsonΒ is putting together an outdoor artisan market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22 along Fifth Avenue near Congress Street. You'll find handmade and curated items including earrings, baked goods, soaps, stickers, macrame, photography and more. Save the date! More details TBA soon! :)
Songwriters CentralΒ
This monthly showcase features eight performers over two sets, all showing off their most recent compositions.Β
When:Β 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16
Where:Β Monterey Court,Β 505 W. Miracle Mile
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Tucson Jazz Festival
January in Tucson means jazz. More than three dozen events will be part of this year's Tucson Jazz Festival, including late-night jams at The Century Room and a free fiesta downtown.Β
When:Β Jan. 17-25
Where:Β Several locations
Cost:Β Varies. A free fiesta takes place Jan. 20.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Friends of the Library Book Sale
Friends of the Pima County Library is hosting a book sale, this time with a feature table that includes Pulitzer Prize-winning books.
When:Β 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday-Monday, Jan. 17-20
Where:Β Friends of the Pima County Public Library,Β 2230 N. Country Club Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for books
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.Β
Glow in the Dark '80s Pickleball
Ace Pickleball Club is hosting its first glow-in-the-dark night with open play, a DJ and raffle prizes. Wear your best '80s-themed neon outfit! Ace will supply glow-in-the-dark pickleballs, necklaces and bracelets. Bring your own paddle!Β
When:Β 8-10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17
Where:Β Ace Pickleball Club, 4881 N. Stone Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.Β
La PeΓ±a del SurCo
The University of Arizona'sΒ Applied Intercultural Arts Research is hosting a free gathering of Latin American folk music. Empanadas will be available for purchase!
When:Β 6-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17
Where:Β Coalition Space,Β 311 E. Seventh St.
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Stargazing with Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association
Learn about the sky with Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association!Β
When:Β 6:30-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17
Where:Β Saguaro National Park West,Β 2700 N. Kinney Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, though park entrance fees may apply
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Paint Story TimeΒ
Head to This n' That Creative Studio where kids will listen to a reading of "When Martin Luther King Jr. Wore Roller Skates," followed by 1-2 themed crafts.Β
When:Β Noon on Friday-Saturday, Jan. 17-18, plus Monday, Jan. 20
Where:Β This n' That Creative Studio, 1066 S. Pantano Road
Cost:Β Free to attend on Friday; $10 on Saturday and Monday
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
The January G3
G3 Tucson, the city's gay happy hour group, is hosting their monthly party at Playground. Expect music and specialty cocktails.
When:Β 5-10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17
Where:Β Playground Bar & Lounge,Β 278 E. Congress St.
Cost:Β $9, your first drink is included. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Tucson Coin Show
Head to Casino del Sol for the Tucson Coin Show, where you'll see rare coins, currency, jewelry and antiques both on display and for purchase.
When:Β 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Jan. 17-18
Where:Β Casino del Sol,Β 5655 W. Valencia Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Light the Mic
Designed to give artists of all disciplines a platform to showcase their talents, Light the Mic offers a welcoming space for anyone β whether theyβre rapping, reading poetry, singing or performing stand-up comedy.
When:Β 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17
Where:Β Catalyst Creative Collective in Tucson Mall,Β 4500 N. Oracle Road
Cost:Β $10
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Magic & Mystery Dinner Theater
Enjoy dinner from Dante's Fire alongside a magical theatrical performance.Β
When:Β 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17
Where:Β Dante's Fire,Β 2526 E. Grant Road
Cost:Β $49 without dinner, $89 with dinner
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Dillinger Days
A fire that broke out at Hotel Congress in 1934 led to the capture of the infamous Dillinger gang. Each year, the hotel puts on Dillinger Days with reenactments of the capture, vintage cars and history lectures.
When:Β Reenactments are 10 a.m., noon and 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18. There will also be aΒ Dillinger SpeakeasyΒ at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17.
Where:Β Hotel Congress,Β 311 E. Congress St.
Cost:Β $5 suggested donation on Saturday; the speakeasy on Friday is $15 and is for ages 21 and up.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.Β
Find Childrenβs Museum Tucson at 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Zoom Zoom at Children's Museum Tucson
Children's Museum Tucson's transportation-themed event is back! Expect to see large and specialty vehicles from classic cars to fire trucks.Β
When:Β 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Children's Museum Tucson,Β 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost:Β Pay what you wish
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
La Encantada Fine Art Festival
SAACA is hosting a fine art festival at La Encantada, featuring artists selling items that range from mixed media to paintings to sculptures. You'll also find live art demonstrations.
When:Β 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19
Where:Β La Encantada Shopping Center,Β 2905 E. Skyline Dr.
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Art, Craft and Material Swap
Bring any unwanted craft supplies and swap them with something new to you. You can stay a while afterwards to craft with your new supplies!
When:Β 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where: Konbini Event Space, 419 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring a craft to swap
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Etcetera Vintage Market
Shop from about a dozen vendors who curate vintage clothing.Β
When:Β 4-10 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Coalition Space,Β 311 E. Seventh St.
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Visitors walk a trail as the sun sets over the grounds at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum during Cool Summer Nights, Mad About Monsoons, Tucson, Ariz., July 16, 2022.
Rockin' Minerals
Shop minerals and fossils alongside hands-on activities for all ages at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.
When:Β 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 18-19
Where:Β Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum,Β 2021 N. Kinney Road
Cost:Β Museum admission is $29.95 for ages 13 and up. Kids ages 3-12 get in for $19.95.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Family Saturdays with Watershed Management Group
Head to Watershed Management Group for Family Saturdays where you'll learn about bees, birds and reptiles.
When:Β 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Watershed Management Group,Β 1137 N. Dodge Blvd.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.Β
'80s Dance Party at Surly Wench
Surly Wench Pub is hosting an '80s dance party. Wear your best '80s-themed attire!
When:Β 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Surly Wench Pub,Β 424 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost:Β $5. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Flow for the Soul with Flam Chen
In-Rave is hosting a flow night with DJs, vendors and flow art performances. Proceeds go to the All Souls Procession.
When:Β 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β MSA Annex,Β 267 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost:Β $10
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Salon & Saloon Lecture
Listen to a lecture about Chinese and Mexican markets of Barrio Viejo. The lecture will lead listeners through 70 years of history.
When:Β 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Monsoon Room at JoJo's Restaurant, 201 N. Court Ave.
Cost:Β $5
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
National Day of Racial HealingΒ
With a goal to foster healing in the community, the League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson and the YWCA are hosting an afternoon with discussions, performances and family-friendly activities.
When:Β 1-6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β YWCA Southern Arizona, 525 N. Bonita Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Dirty T Market
Local spicy candy shop Dirty T Tamarindo is hosting a market featuring vendors and food.
When:Β 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Dirty T Tamarindo,Β 1211 W. St Marys Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for food and shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Ryan Madden uses a dangler wand to play with some of the cats during the grand opening of Hunterβs Kitten Lounge on July 6.
Movie Night with Cats
Tucson's newest cat lounge is hosting a movie night! Watch "Shrek" alongside adoptable cats.Β
When:Β 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Hunter's Kitten Lounge,Β 5319 E. Speedway
Cost:Β $25, includes a drink and candy
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Laser Shows at Flandrau
Flandrau is hosting laser shows paired to the music of Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish.
When:Β Saturday, Jan. 18; 6:30 p.m. for Lady Gaga, 8 p.m. for Taylor Swift, 9:30 p.m. for Billie Eilish
Where:Β Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium,Β 1601 E. University Blvd.
Cost:Β $20.95, admission to science exhibits is included
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Painted Roof Tiles & Passive Water Harvesting
This Saturday, Pima County Master Gardeners will lead a workshop all about transforming ordinary roof tiles into painted works of art. The event will also feature a short chat about passive rainwater harvesting.Β
When:Β 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β 4210 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost:Β $30
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Traditional O'odham AgricultureΒ
Learn about Tohono O'odham agricultural practices, including demonstrations and talks about Native American crops.Β
When:Β 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Mission Garden,Β 946 W. Mission Lane
Cost:Β Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Emo Night Brooklyn
This traveling emo party will bring all your favorite pop-punk and emo songs to The Rock.
When:Β 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β The Rock,Β 136 N. Park Ave.
Cost:Β $20
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.Β
A Saguaro cactus in the vineyard at Old Pueblo Cellars, 10088 N. St. Patrick Road.
Winter Wine and Craft FairΒ
Old Pueblo Cellars is hosting a craft fair featuring local artists, live music, charcuterie boards and wine tastings.
When:Β 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Old Pueblo Cellars,Β 10088 N. Saint Patrick Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping, food and drinks. Reservations are required for wine tastings, which are $18.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Rose Seminar and Pruning Workshop
Learn all about roses at this seminar and pruning workshop at Rillito Nursery.
When:Β 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Rillito Nursery, 6303 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Rose Care and Pruning Class
Harlow Gardens will teach you the basics of rose care in the desert. Attendees will also get to watch a pruning demonstration.
When:Β 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
Where:Β Harlow Gardens, 5620 E. Pima St.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Walking tours with the Presidio Museum
Explore Tucson's downtown area with walking tours hosted by the Presidio Museum. This weekend, learn more about Tucson history along the Turquoise Trail.Β
When:Β 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18; a shortened tour will be offered 9 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 19; a shortened tour with a wine tasting will be offered 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19
Where:Β Presidio Musuem, 196 N. Court Ave.
Cost:Β $30 and up. Pre-registration may be required for these events.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
BICAS Crafternoons
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:Β 1-4 p.m. SaturdaysΒ
Where:Β BICAS,Β 2001 N. Seventh Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend, donation suggestedΒ
Visit theΒ event pageΒ 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:Β 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays
Where:Β Foothills Mall,Β 7325 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Filipino-Inspired High Tea
New venue Himaya Garden is organizing a Filipino-inspired tea party featuring sweet and savory bites.
When:Β 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19
Where:Β Himaya Garden,Β 427 E. Limberlost Dr.
Cost:Β $59.99
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
TKMA Sunday Jam
The Tucson Kitchen Musicians Association, aka the folks who put on the Tucson Folk Festival each spring, are behind this jam session, where participants will get to sing or play songs among other performers.Β
When:Β 1:30-4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19
Where:Β Monterey Court,Β 505 W. Miracle Mile
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Silent Reading Party
Join the Silent Book Club for a silent reading party. After 90 minutes of reading silently, you can stay to chat with others about what they're reading.Β
When:Β 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19
Where:Β Coalition Space,Β 311 E. Seventh St.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Cat Bingo at El Jefe Cat Cafe
Spend time with the cats at El Jefe Cat Cafe, all while playing bingo.
When:Β 6-7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19
Where:Β El Jefe Cat Cafe,Β 3025 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost:Β $14, reservations required
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Gloria was born and raised in Tucson and is a 2018 University of Arizona grad. From wildflowers to wildlife, she loves all things Tucson and hopes to share her love of the city with readers β¨
Gloria Knott
#ThisIsTucson Editor
