Click here to head back to the giant list of October events.
On Wednesday, Oct. 18, we'll publish a list with even more events. Keep your eyes peeled for that or sign up for our Weekend Planner email newsletter to get the list sent straight to your inbox.
Loft Film Fest
Loft Film Fest is back for its 13th year. The event screens independent, foreign and classic films while "celebrating the work of established and emerging directors, writers, producers and actors."
When: Oct. 11-19
Where: The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway
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Cost: General admission to individual movies is $12. Film badges, which grant you entry to every film, are $200.
Visit the event page 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: Select dates through Oct. 24.
Where: Various locations on the University of Arizona campus.
Cost: Most events are free.
Visit the event page for more information.
Sign up for Arizona’s largest volunteer event
United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona’s Days of Caring Event brings together thousands of volunteers, just like you, to roll up their sleeves and improve our community. Choose from over 100 inspiring projects, a perfect event for families, teens, businesses and individuals. This year’s event is happening on Oct. 20-21 so sign up soon to get the project you want!
Nightfall
Nightfall at Old Tucson is back for another year. The website says there are five new "terrifying haunted mazes," plus four new scare zones, stunt shows, a seance and family-friendly attractions.
When: Thursday-Sunday through Oct. 29
Where: Old Tucson, 201 N. Kinney Road
Cost: $35-$40
Visit the event page for more information.
Glowing Pumpkins
Walk through a trail of intricate carvings on thousands of pumpkin replicas at this Halloween event. You'll see carvings of animals, movie and TV characters, and Tucson icons. The experience was outside of Tucson Mall last year, but it's at Tohono Chul this year!
When: 6:30-10 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday through Oct. 29. Also open Oct. 30-31.
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: Depending on the day, $15-$25 per person.
Visit the event page for more information.
Your vote will help decide Tucson's cocktail of the year
Get ready for the ultimate cocktail showdown on Oct. 5, where five top mixologists battle it out for Tucson Cocktail of the Year! This event is a must-attend for all cocktail enthusiasts in the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the USA. Get tickets here!
Marana Pumpkin Patch & Farm Festival
Pick your perfect pumpkin, explore the corn maze, and enjoy a number of kid-friendly activities such as carnival rides and a jumping pillow.
When: Oct. 7-29; 3-8 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays.
Where: Marana Pumpkin Patch, 14950 N. Trico Road
Cost: Online prices are $18 on weekdays, $20 on weekends. It's recommended to buy tickets online, as there are only a limited number of tickets available at the gate. Prices increase by $3 at the gate. Some activities cost extra.
Visit the event page for more information.
The Slaughterhouse
Tucson's haunted attraction The Slaughterhouse has opened for the season with its infested boiler room, creepy clowns and a graveyard. There's also a zombie-shooting experience and "hellevators," among other activities.
When: Thursday-Sunday through Oct. 29. Also open Oct. 30-31 and Nov. 3.
Where: The Slaughterhouse, 1102 W. Grant Road
Cost: $29 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Come for the baseball, stay for the fiesta
This Oct. 5-8, the 12th annual Mexican Baseball Fiesta makes its return to Kino Veterans Memorial Stadium during the Liga Arco Mexicana del Pacifico's version of Spring Training. Watch teams Obregon, Navojoa, Hermosillo, Mexicali and the Arizona Wildcats during the four-day fiesta. Come Sunday, Oct. 8, Sonoran band La Brissa will take the stage. Get your tickets now!
Fall Pumpkin Celebration at Apple Annie's
It's officially fall, y'all! Take a road trip to Apple Annie's in Willcox for a hayride to the pumpkin patch. Walk through a sunflower field, make your way through the 12½-acre corn maze and pick some veggies to take home.
When: The corn maze is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Oct. 31. You can pick pumpkins 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily — but the hayrides to the patch are only open weekends.
Where: 6405 W. Williams Road, Willcox
Cost: Corn maze is $10 for ages 12 and up, $8 for ages 3-11. Hayrides are $5 for ages 3 and up. Pumpkins range in price.
Visit the event page for more information.
Terror in the Corn
This haunted attraction is back for another year of scares. Your ticket gets you access to three scary attractions connected by a cornfield. The event is presented by Buckelew Farm, known for its now-closed pumpkin patch.
When: 6-10 p.m. select Thursdays and Sundays; 6 p.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays. Also open Oct. 30-31.
Where: 11820 W. Marana Road
Cost: Starting at $28 for general admission, starting at $38 for fast passes.
Visit the event page for more information.
Los Trompos
You might remember the red swing sets on the University of Arizona campus two years ago, and the glowing seesaws last year. Arizona Arts Live recently debuted a new installation — sit inside large colorful spinning tops, woven by Mexican artisans.
When: Now through Nov. 5.
Where: Student Success District, near the Main Library, on the University of Arizona campus
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page 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.
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.
Gardening Hour
Learn about gardening and bring home clippings all while connecting with The Garden Kitchen team.
When: 7-8:30 a.m. Thursdays
Where: The Garden Kitchen, 2205 S. Fourth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
Imagine stepping into a painting by Vincent van Gogh. The colors swirl around you and the images of landscapes and self-portraits by the 19th century Post-Impressionist artist suck you into a 360-degree virtual world. That’s what you will experience at “Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” in Oro Valley.
When: Thursdays-Mondays
Where: Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Road
Cost: $25-$35
Visit the event page for more information.
Tucson Terrorfest Horror-Con and Film Festival
The annual Tucson Terrorfest Horror-Con and Film Festival celebrates all things horror with the film festival at The Screening Room and the Horror-Con at 191 Toole. The convention portion has been described as your typical convention experience, like Tucson Comic-Con — but horror.
When: Oct. 19-22
Where: The Screening Room, 127 E. Congress St.; and 191 Toole, 191 E. Toole Ave.
Cost: $10 for the convention at 191 Toole; $45 for a pass to see all films and attend both days of the horror-con.
Visit the event page 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: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19
Where: Marana Municipal Complex, 11555 W. Civic Center Dr.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit the event page for more information.
Not Too Frightful Fridays
Trail Dust Town is playing it safe this Halloween — no scares or haunts, just fun! On three Fridays this month, you can go trick-or-treating near the amusement rides, watch a pirate-themed stunt show and enjoy fall-themed drinks and snacks.
When: 5-8 p.m. Fridays, Oct. 13-27
Where: Train Dust Town, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: $8 wristbands for unlimited rides.
Visit the event page for more information.
Boo at the Zoo
Meet with princesses, pirates and superheroes at Reid Park Zoo's kid-friendly Halloween event. There will be comedic skeleton scenes, games, alien alley and candy stations.
When: 6-8:30 p.m. Fridays-Sundays, Oct. 20-29
Where: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court
Cost: $14. Timed tickets are required, purchase in advance.
Visit the event page for more information.
Listening Party at Revel
DJ Impeccable and Roux Events are hosting a listening party at Revel Wine Bar featuring hits by Jill Scott and Erykah Badu.
When: 8-10:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20
Where: Revel Wine Bar, 416 E. Ninth St.
Cost: $15-$55
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, Oct. 20
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.
The Hotel Congress Séance Experience
The Hotel Congress Séance Experience is a live recreation of a Victorian Era-theatrical séance "exactly as performed in 1800s" in the hotel's only third-floor room to survive its 1934 fire (be prepared to go up a few flights of stairs).
When: 6:30 p.m., 7:45 p.m. and 9 p.m. on various Fridays and Saturdays in October.
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: $12.50 for general admission, $25 to participate. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Chinese Chorizo Festival
This month-long fest celebrates the lost historic food symbol of Chinese chorizo. Activities include a fundraiser at MOCA and a Queer AF American Horror Story dance party. Throughout the month, participating food vendors will also serve dishes using Chinese chorizo.
When: See the full list of dates here.
Where: Various locations across Tucson and Phoenix.
Cost: Varies based on event and menu item.
Visit the event page for more information.
Haunted Ruins Presents Legler's Legacy
Local fantasy park Valley of the Moon is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and they're celebrating with a play that honors founder George Phar Legler and the legacy he left behind.
When: Fridays-Saturdays in October, plus Monday, Oct. 30. Shows start at 6 p.m. and run every 20 minutes. The last show is at 8 p.m.
Where: Valley of the Moon, 2544 E. Allen Road
Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 7 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Free Film Fridays
Catch a poolside movie every Friday this month at Hotel McCoy!
When: 8-11 p.m. Fridays
Where: Hotel McCoy, 720 W. Silverlake Road
Cost: 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 the event page 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: 4-6 p.m. Fridays
Where: BICAS, 2001 N. Seventh Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, donation suggested
Visit the event page for more information.
Cat events at El Jefe Cat Cafe
Spend time with the cats at El Jefe Cat Cafe! October events include trivia, movie nights, bingo, sound bath meditation and yoga.
When: Various dates in October.
Where: El Jefe Cat Cafe, 3025 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: Prices vary based on event.
Visit the event page 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: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Lincoln Park soccer fields, 4325 S. Pantano Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit the event page 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: 2-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Marana Heritage Farm, 12375 N. Heritage Park Drive
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Oro Valley Fall Artisan Market
This two-day market in Oro Valley, hosted by SAACA, features more than 100 artisans, in addition to classic truck displays and live art demonstrations. Food vendors will be onsite, plus there will be music and crafts for kids.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 21-22
Where: Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit event page for more information.
Tucson Organic Gardeners Fall Fair
Head to this plant fair to find locally-grown plants and seeds from vegetables and herbs to flowers and native plants. There will be garden supplies and fertilizers for sale, too, plus you can get advice on gardening and composting while you're there.
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: 3809 E. Second St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for plants
Visit the event page for more information.
Tunes Under the Moon
Help support youth programming at Tucson Village Farm during the third annual Tunes Under the Moon concert featuring live music by local artists. This time, expect a Halloween theme — a costume contest awaits, along with a zip line and a kids' area.
When: 3:30-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Tucson Village Farm, 2201 E. Roger Road
Cost: $10
Visit the event page for more information.
Halloween in the Wild
Halloween-themed crafts, games and treats amid a haunted house at the International Wildlife Museum this month. Don't forget to bring your trick-or-treating bag!
When: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: International Wildlife Museum, 4800 W. Gates Pass
Cost: $12 for adults, $6 for kids ages 4-12
Visit the event page for more information.
Desert Haze Market
Desert Haze is set to feature a lineup of about a dozen vendors who curate vintage clothing. There will be live music, too!
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Foul Fest
In a career spanning 30 years, the late Al Foul left his mark as a musician but it’s his legacy as a “remarkable human being” that his friends remember most. This second annual festival celebrates Foul with performances from nine musicians.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Che's Lounge, 350 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Pancakes & Booze Art Show
You know what would make an art show better? Pancakes. This LA-based show does just that. Come Oct. 21, you'll see artwork by dozens of local artists amid all-you-can-eat pancakes and live body painting.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Whistle Stop Depot, 127 W. Fifth St.
Cost: $10-$20
Visit the event page 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.
When: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead, 16248 E. Marsh Station Road
Cost: Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit the event page for more information.
Las Cafeteras: Hasta La Muerte
Described as a "vibrant musical adventure," this production at Centennial Hall celebrates life and death in the spirit of Día de los Muertos. Before the show, Arizona Arts Live will host a fiesta with food trucks, music and ofrendas.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd.
Cost: $20
Visit the event page for more information.
University of Arizona Band Day
The 70th annual UA Band Day is happening this month at Arizona Stadium! High school marching bands from across Arizona will compete at the event in categories ranging from visual execution to musical presentation.
When: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Arizona Stadium, 1 N. Championship Dr.
Cost: $12, buy tickets online or with cash at the gate
Visit the event page 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.
When: 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Watershed Management Group, 1137 N. Dodge Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend
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 traditional crops like corn, beans and squash.
When: 8-10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane
Cost: Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit the event page for more information.
Kitten yoga with Barefoot Studio
Take this yoga class surrounded by kittens! Proceeds go to Southern Arizona Cat Rescue.
When: 1-2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Barefoot Studio, 7053 N. Oracle Road
Cost: $20
Visit the event page for more information.
Laser Shows at Flandrau
Head to Flandrau for a slew of laser shows this October: a show paired with the music of Journey; two showings of a Pink Floyd show; a "Stranger Things"-inspired show; and one of the center's newest shows Laser Daft Punk.
When: Various dates.
Where: Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium, 1601 E. University Blvd.
Cost: $18.95, admission to science exhibits is included.
Visit the event page for more information.
Workshops at Creative Kind
Creative Kind is hosting four artsy events this October: sketching for mindfulness, a "Hocus Pocus"-themed art night, journal making and a spooky cake-decorating workshop with Chez Peachy.
When: Various dates in October.
Where: Creative Kind, 2905 E. Skyline Dr.
Cost: Workshops range from $15-$75.
Visit the event page for more information.
Sabino Canyon Crawler night tour
Take the shuttle through Sabino Canyon — at night! The night tours run every Saturday, depending on weather.
When: 6:30 p.m. Saturdays in October.
Where: Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, 5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road
Cost: $15 per adult, $8 per child ages 3 to 12
Visit the event page for more information.
Tucson Ghost Tour
Spooky season is here! Take a tour through downtown Tucson after dark, all while hearing haunted stories of spots around town.
When: Various dates in October.
Where: Downtown Tucson, a more detailed location will be emailed after purchasing tickets.
Cost: $25
Visit the event page for more information.
Barrio Bargains
Shop from local vendors when Strikes and Gutters Vintage brings Barrio Bargains to two locations this month. Expect to find jewelry, baked goods, fiber arts and more.
When: 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7 at Proper Shops; 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21 at Screwbean Brewing.
Where: Proper Shops, 300 E. Congress St.; Screwbean Brewing, 103 N. Park Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
House Plant Masterclasses
Pop culture-themed plant shop Plantney is hosting two masterclasses all about house plants, including one for beginners and one for those who are ready for something a bit more intermediate. Attendees will go home with a cutting and a hand-painted pot.
When: 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 14 for the Level 1 class; 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21 for the Level 2 class.
Where: Plantney, 439 N. Sixth Ave.
Cost: $25
Visit the event page for more information.
St. Philip's Plaza Market
Visit St. Philip's Plaza to shop from local makers from silversmiths to candle makers. While you're there, grab a bite to eat at one of the plaza's several eateries.
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays
Where: St. Philip's Plaza, 4280 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
The Best 23 Miles of Mexican Food
The Tucson International Mariachi Conference is putting together a foodie event, set to feature samplings of Mexican food — from tacos to raspados — made by local restaurants and food trucks. Folklorico and mariachi groups will perform throughout the evening.
When: 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22
Where: MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: $65. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Drag Shows at The Hut
Plantney, Hause of Brix and The Hut are hosting a number of drag shows this month. Tickets include a drink voucher and merch.
When: Various dates in October.
Where: The Hut, 305 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: $10 for individuals or $32 for a table. These events are for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Drag Queen Bingo
Roxi Starr is hosting Drag Queen Bingo at least twice in October!
When: 7-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7; 5-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22
Where: Button Brew House, 6800 N. Camino Martin, on Oct. 7; Bawker Bawker Cider, 400 N. Fourth Ave., on Oct. 22.
Cost: Free to play, bring money for drinks
Visit the event page for more information on the Button Brew House bingo. Visit the event page for more information on the Bawker Bawker bingo.
