50 fun events happening in Tucson this weekend Dec. 12-15 🎄❄️

That means holiday festivities are in full swing — see all the twinkling lights you can imagine during Saturday's Downtown Parade of Lights, not to mention light shows at Reid Park Zoo and Tohono Chul, among others. The Winterhaven Festival of Lights also kicks off this weekend, in addition to the Fourth Avenue Street Fair. 

Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest info before heading out!

ZooLights Holiday Magic 2024

Reid Park Zoo's annual ZooLights is here! Find colorful light displays, falling snow, festive music, a giant gingerbread house and visits from Santa Claus. 

When: 6-8:30 p.m. through Dec. 23; encore nights are Dec. 26-30 and Jan. 2-5

Where: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court

Cost: $14 for general admission; $9 for kids ages 2-14. Bring a donation of two cans of food, a pet toy, an unwrapped children's toy or non-functioning holiday lights to recycle and receive $1 off admission.

Visit the event page for more information.

Tucson Holiday Ice

Tucson's pop-up ice skating rink is back in town! Skates, which begin at size 8 for kids and go up to size 15 for men, are included in the admission price. Socks are required and gloves are recommended. 

When: Now through Jan. 5; closed Christmas 

Where: Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave.

Cost: A 90-minute session is $22 for adults, $15 for kids under 12 years old. The first session of each day is discounted to $12 for adults, $8 for kids. Book your tickets online. 

Visit the event page for more information.

Watch the Tucson Roadrunners twice this weekend 🏒

Calling all Swifties! On Friday the 13th, the Tucson Roadrunners are turning the rink into a Taylor Swift wonderland for Swiftie Night. Get ready to shake it off and cheer on the Roadrunners as they take the ice for an unforgettable night! The next day is the Teddy Bear Toss, when fans are encouraged to bring stuffed animals to throw onto the ice to be donated to kids. Get your tickets for Dec. 13 here and Dec. 14 here!

LightsUp! A Festival of Illumination

Stroll through the Tucson Botanical Gardens where there will be luminaria displays and 1 million twinkling lights.

When: 6-9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday through Jan. 12; closed Christmas

Where: Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way

Cost: $23 and up, depending on the day

Visit the event page for more information.

Marana's Christmas Tree & Musical Light Show

Marana will have nightly light shows at its 45-foot Christmas tree that include 13 minutes of holiday music synchronized to 200,000 twinkling lights. You can walk up to the tree or listen to the show from your car by tuning into the radio station listed on signage. 

When: 6-9 p.m. on the half-hour nightly through Dec. 28

Where: Marana Municipal Complex, 11555 W. Civic Center Dr.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

We put together 3 gift boxes filled with items from local artists for the holidays

To encourage the community to shop local, #ThisIsTucson collaborated with three Tucson shops to curate gift boxes for the holidays. They're packed with all kinds of fun finds, from monsoon-scented perfume to hand-poured candles to spicy candy. Check 'em out and place your order here!

Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul

Walk through a wonderland of lights at Tohono Chul all while enjoying live entertainment, vendors, crafts and visits with Santa.

When: 6-9 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays until Dec. 22

Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte

Cost: $25 for adults, $10 for kids ages 4-12

Visit the event page for more information.

Creative Kind & Friends Holiday Markets

Local shop Creative Kind had to close their brick-and-mortar space over the summer, but they'll offer in-person shopping for the holidays, also featuring other vendors. 

When: 3-7 p.m. Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays; through Dec. 22

Where: CATALYST in Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Enchanted Snowfall

Looking to enjoy a snowy evening? Head to La Encantada to see snow flurries, all while sipping hot chocolate and enjoying live entertainment. 

When: Thursdays-Saturdays through Dec. 21, plus Sunday, Dec. 22. Snowfall is 6-6:15 p.m. and 6:45-7 p.m.

Where: La Encantada, 2905 E. Skyline Dr.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Wigney: A Britney Spears Drag Variety Show

Queen Iona Hoya is kicking off the weekend early with a Britney Spears-themed drag variety show.

When: 10 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12

Where: R Bar, 350 E. Congress St.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for drinks. This event is for ages 21 and up.

Visit the event page for more information. 

PACC Fundraiser Paint and Sip 

Painting & Vino will guide you during this paint-and-sip class of a desert-themed pet painting. A portion of ticket sales will be donated to the Pima Animal Care Center. 

When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12

Where: Tandem American Eatery, 8864 E. Tanque Verde Road

Cost: $45

Visit the event page for more information.

Tucson Ghost Tour

Take a tour through downtown Tucson after dark, all while hearing haunted stories of spots around town. 

When: 7 p.m. Thursday-Friday, Dec. 12-13

Where: Downtown Tucson, detailed directions will be emailed upon ticket purchase

Cost: $25

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.

Fourth Avenue Street Fair

The biannual Fourth Avenue Street Fair is back! Shop from more than 350 artists from around the world, plus eat all the food of your dreams and listen to live music.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 13-14; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15

Where: Along North Fourth Avenue

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food

Visit the event page for more information. 

88th Annual Las Posadas

Las Posadas has been a neighborhood tradition at Carrillo Magnet School for more than eight decades. The main part of the event is a procession from the school through the Barrio Viejo neighborhood, which commemorates the journey Mary and Joseph made in search of a place for Mary to give birth to baby Jesus. 

When: 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13

Where: Carrillo Magnet School, 440 S. Main Ave.

Cost: The procession is free to watch

Visit the event page for more information.

Yuletide at Old Tucson

Old Tucson is hosting a holiday experience that will highlight "the unique Wild West history of Old Tucson" with live shows, interactive experiences and period costumes.

When: Select dates through Jan. 4

Where: Old Tucson, 201 Kinney Road

Cost: $39 for adults, $24 for kids ages 5-12

Visit the event page for more information.

Krampus Naucht Market

Bloodless Tattoo Studio and Desert Designed Co. are back again for another night market, this time featuring Krampus, who might be Santa's evil counterpart. Take photos with Krampus all while shopping from 30 vendors. Flash tattoos, drag performances, music and food are also part of the fun.

When: 3-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13

Where: Bloodless Tattoo Studio, 236 S. Scott Ave.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Queen Astara's Fairy Lights

Take a walk through fantasy-themed park Valley of the Moon for an evening of fairy lights, music and mythical creatures. 

When: 6-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 13-14

Where: Valley of the Moon, 2544 E. Allen Road

Cost: $7 for adults, $5 for teens, free for kids ages 7 and under

Visit the event page for more information.

Festive Fridays

Trail Dust Town is hosting another round of Festive Fridays this season, complete with snowfall, holiday drinks, discounts on wristbands for amusement rides, a kid-friendly dance party and a holiday-themed stunt show.

When: 4-8 p.m. Fridays through Dec. 27

Where: Trail Dust Town, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for rides

Visit the event page for more information.

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: 9-11 a.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 13-14

Where: Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane

Cost: Free to attend, donations accepted

Visit the event page for more information.

Magic & Mystery Dinner Theater

Enjoy dinner from Dante's Fire alongside a magical theatrical performance. 

When: 6:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays in December; 5:30 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 22-29

Where: Dante's Fire, 2526 E. Grant Road

Cost: $49 without dinner, $89 with dinner

Visit the event page for more information.

Winterhaven Festival of Lights

A holiday tradition for 75 years, the Winterhaven Festival of Lights makes its return on Dec. 14. Walk through this charming neighborhood decorated in holiday lights and displays. 

When: 6-10 p.m. Dec. 14-28. There are no drive-thru nights.

Where: Winterhaven neighborhood; north of Fort Lowell Road and south of Prince Road, west of Country Club Road and east of Tucson Boulevard.

Cost: Free to attend, bring a donation for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona

Visit the event page for more information.

Downtown Parade of Lights

Tucsonans line the streets to watch the annual Downtown Parade of Lights as it snakes through the Armory Park area with its hundreds of participants, floats and twinkling lights.

When: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: Armory Park area, see the route here.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Christmas Balloon Glow

Head to Pima Air and Space Museum where four hot air balloons will be glowing in a static display. Crafts, an inflatable maze and circus performances are part of the fun. You'll also spot Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves while you're there. 

When: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: Pima Air & Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Road

Cost: Admission is included with a parking spot reservation, which is $45 per car

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, Dec. 14

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.

Button Brew House Annual Rib Cook-off

Six local chefs will compete in this St. Louis-style rib competition. Attendees will get to try six ribs and six sides and then vote for their favorite. 

When: 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: Button Brew House, 6800 N. Camino Martin

Cost: $29

Visit the event page for more information.

The Omni Tucson x The Happy Hive

The Happy Hive is partnering with The Omni Tucson for a holiday brunch market, complete with breakfast plates, cookie decorating and a local vendor market.

When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: Omni Tucson National Resort, 2727 W. Club Dr.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food

Visit the event page for more information.

Second Saturdays Family Fest

The Play District is hosting a free family-friendly event at Trail Dust Town, slated to feature music from Mr. Nature, family yoga, bilingual story time, crafts and resources.

When: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: Trail Dust Town, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Cat Video Fest

Cat Video Fest, a compilation of kitty videos, is back at The Loft Cinema! This time, The Loft says it's a holiday encore presentation. A portion of the proceeds will go to Friends of PACC.

When: 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway

Cost: $10

Visit the event page for more information.

Santa at Harlow Gardens

Kids can meet with Santa at Harlow Gardens, plus make their own ornament to take home.

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: Harlow Gardens, 5620 E. Pima St.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Curious Holiday Market

Woolly Fern is hosting a holiday market at Screwbean Brewing, set to include oddities, antiques and plants, in addition to gift wrapping, holiday pet photos and candle decorating. 

When: 11 a.m. to dusk Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 14-15

Where: Screwbean Brewing, 103 N. Park Ave.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and drinks

Visit the event page for more information.

Sonoran Snowfall

Snow will fall at Park Place Mall's center court through Dec. 22! The snowfall will last around 10 minutes, accompanied by holiday music. 

When: Noon, 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 22

Where: Park Place Mall, 5870 E. Broadway

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Christmas Market and Wine at Old Pueblo Cellars

Old Pueblo Cellars is hosting a craft fair featuring local artists, charcuterie boards and wine tastings.

When: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

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, which are $18.

Visit the event page for more information.

Silent Adventures

Silent disco meets flash mob with Silent Adventures! Put on your headphones and dance your way through Winterhaven.

When: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 14-15 and Dec. 19-23

Where: Winterhaven neighborhood

Cost: $25 for adults, $15 for kids

Visit the event page 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, live music, crafts for kids, vendors selling their artwork and a farmers market.

When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: Steam Pump Ranch, 10901 N. Oracle Road

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

A Frontier Christmas at the Presidio Museum

Experience Christmas traditions spanning from the 18th century Spanish fort to the 19th century American Territorial period. Expect musket and cannon demonstrations, "Twas the Night Before Christmas" readings, photos with Santa, a Virgen de Guadalupe discussion and crafts.

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: Presidio Museum, 196 N. Court Ave.

Cost: Included in admission, which is $9 for adults, $6 for kids ages 6-14

Visit the event page for more information.

Desert Artisans Market

Shop from local makers when this market returns to Tucson Mall. 

When: Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: CATALYST in Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Free Succulent Saturday

Although kids always get to plant for free at Four Arrows Garden, the nursery hosts "Free Succulent Saturday" each quarter where everyone can take home a free succulent.

When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: Four Arrows Garden, 13499 E. Success Dr.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Goat yoga

Enjoy an hour of yoga and goats with these classes!

When: 10 a.m. Saturdays, Dec. 14 and Dec. 28; Sunday, Dec. 15

Where: Udall Park, 7290 E. Tanque Verde Road, on Saturday dates; and Silverbell Park, 7548 N. Silverbell Road, on Sunday dates

Cost: $25

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: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays

Where: Foothills Mall, 7325 N. La Cholla Blvd.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page 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: 1-4 p.m. Saturdays except Dec. 28

Where: BICAS, 2001 N. Seventh Ave.

Cost: Free to attend, donation suggested 

Visit the event page for more information.

Walking tours with the Presidio Museum

Explore Tucson's downtown area with walking tours hosted by the Presidio Museum. This weekend's tours will take you through the Turquoise Trail, Barrio Viejo and Main Avenue to look at mansions.

When: Various dates, check out the calendar here.

Where: Locations vary based on tour.

Cost: $30 and up. Pre-registration may be required for these events.

Visit the event page for more information.

Bachata & Salsa Christmas Glow Party

Put on your dancing shoes for a night of music and mingling! Enjoy a bachata class followed by social dancing. 

When: 8-11 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14

Where: Tucson Creative Dance Center, 3131 N. Cherry Ave.

Cost: $15, cash or Venmo

Visit the event page for more information.

"The Nightmare Before Christmas" Movie Party

Catch a screening of "The Nightmare Before Christmas" at The Loft Cinema, dressed in a themed outfit to enter the costume contest. There will be props to use during the movie, plus a sing-along! 

When: 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15

Where: The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway

Cost: $10

Visit the event page for more information.

Soul Food Sundays

Blax Friday is teaming up with local caterer Cortnie Smith for this weekend's Soul Food Sundays. The event is set to feature Black-owned businesses with treats by three vendors, along with a full menu of Cajun chicken and fried wings from Smith. Expect an open mic, a DJ and a pajama contest while you're there.

When: 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15

Where: Brick Box Brewery, 220 E. Broadway

Cost: $10 suggested donation to Blax Friday, bring money for food

Visit the event page for more information.

Dinner with Santa

After you get your tie chopped off by the folks at Pinnacle Peak, join Santa for dinner! The evening also includes crafts and a free ride on the train. 

When: 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15

Where: Pinnacle Peak, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road

Cost: $41.99 for adults, $19.99 for kids. Reservations are required.

Visit the event page for more information.

Sip: Themed Musical Experience

Roux Events is hosting its next event inside Sonora Moonshine's speakeasy Prohibicion. Dress in black and red and listen to live holiday music by local musicians, all while sipping festive drinks.

When: 9-11 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15

Where: Sonora Moonshine Company, 124 E. Broadway

Cost: $25 for table seating, $10 for bar seating, must RSVP in advance. This event is for ages 21 and up.

Visit the event page for more information.

Blues and Vines

During this monthly celebration at Medella Vina Ranch, guests can expect live blues music, local wine, food trucks and art vendors. 

When: Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15

Where: Medella Vina Ranch, 4450 S. Houghton Road

Cost: $6-$25, this event is for ages 21 and up

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.