50 fun events happening in Tucson this weekend Nov. 9-12 🧚‍♀️🍸

On the roster: the annual Dusk Music Festival, lots of craft workshops and artisan markets, a free birthday bash for Valley of the Moon, a Nintendo-themed event in midtown and floating lanterns at Yume Japanese Gardens.

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

Readings at the University of Arizona Poetry Center 

The UA Poetry Center is hosting two poetry readings this month: one from Sawako Nakayasu and the second from Marilyn Chin. Both readings will also be live-streamed on the center's website.

When: 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 for Sawako Nakayasu; 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16 for Sawako Nakayasu

Where: University of Arizona Poetry Center, 1508 E. Helen St.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

TENWEST Impact Festival

This impact festival led by Startup Tucson is a "celebration of the growing innovation, creative and entrepreneurial ecosystems in Southern Arizona." There are talks, experiences and afterparties.

When: Now through Nov. 10

Where: Conference is held at Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave. Afterparties are at various locations around downtown Tucson. 

Cost: $99 for a general admission conference pass. 

Visit the event page for more information.

“Scrooge!” is coming Nov. 7 through Dec. 2

“Scrooge!” The Musical is a ground-breaking adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” filled with songs that are as impressive as the ones Bricusse wrote for “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.” In a new version created uniquely for Arizona Theatre Company, “Scrooge” will be the perfect holiday fare for families and audiences 7+. Get tickets here!

Gather A Vintage Market

Find all kinds of vintage and antique home and garden items at this four-day market.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 9-11; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12

Where: Gather A Vintage Market, 300 S. Park Ave.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Tucson Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival

Find all kinds of sewing, quilting, crafting and needle-art supply exhibits at this festival. There will be free demonstrations and daily drawings for prizes.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday-Friday, Nov. 9-10; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Tucson Expo Center, 3750 E. Irvington Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Connect, Give, Volunteer.

Your United Way of Tucson helped support more than 420,000 people in Southern Arizona last year — that’s 1 in 3 members of our community given a hand up. Whether your passion is education, financial well-being, healthy living, volunteering or enjoying fun community events, United Way of Tucson has a meaningful place for you. Find your purpose and connect, give or volunteer today!

Ceramic Ornament Workshop

Create a pair of ceramic saguaro-shaped ornaments with the help of local maker Marigold Fontana. 

When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9

Where: Creative Kind, 2905 E. Skyline Dr.

Cost: $50

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.

#ThisIsTucson's holiday merch is back for the season!

If you’re in search of a very Tucson gift, or you’re just looking to treat yourself, we have good news. We just released desert-themed holiday merch in our online shop! 🌵🎄 We now have ornaments, hoodies, greeting cards, coffee mugs, T-shirts, phone cases and hats! Shop here! (Please allow 14 days for shipping.)

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.

Dusk Music Festival

This two-day music festival is back for another year in Jácome Plaza. Headliners include Louis The Child, Seven Lions and 311. There are more than two dozen musicians on the lineup, plus you can check out food, art, vendors and yard games while you're there.

When: Nov. 10-11

Where: Jácome Plaza, 101 N. Stone Ave.

Cost: 2-day general admission tickets start at $149. Single-day tickets start at $75.

Visit the event page for more information.

Laser Taylor Swift

Flandrau has recently debuted a slew of music-themed laser shows from Lady Gaga to Journey to Daft Punk. Come Nov. 10, it's the Swifties' turn. Get your tickets fast — the Taylor Swift laser shows are known to sell out.

When: 8:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10

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.

Trivia at the Short Rest Tavern: Movie Musicals

Fridays are for trivia at the Short Rest Tavern, a hidden bar tucked inside Tucson Mall's Tucson Games and Gadgets. This Friday, test your knowledge on all things movie musicals.

When: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10

Where: Short Rest Tavern in Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for drinks. Tables are first come, first served. Park between Dillard's and Sears.

Visit the event page for more information.

Tasting History: Olives

Learn about the origins behind olives and how they became part of Tucson's agricultural and culinary traditions. Demonstrations and tastings are part of the fun.

When: 9-11 a.m. Friday-Saturday, Nov. 10-11

Where: Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane

Cost: Free to attend, donations accepted

Visit the event page for more information.

Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway

Injury attorneys Lerner and Rowe will be giving away 1,000 Thanksgiving meal packages that "include goodies to make a traditional holiday meal." This is a drive-thru event, serving community members on a first come, first served basis while supplies last and one package per vehicle.

When: 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10

Where: Pima County Fairgrounds, 11300 S. Houghton Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Evenings at Yume: Floating Lanterns

Toro Nagashi is known as a Japanese lantern festival where candle-lit lanterns are released into water with prayers for peace. At Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson, you can experience the tradition when you purchase a floating lantern and send it off in the gardens' koi pond. 

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Nov. 10-11

Where: Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson, 2130 N. Alvernon Way

Cost: $19 for general admission, $5 for kids ages 15 and under. Lanterns are $5 each.

Visit the event page for more information.

Tucson Modernism Week

The Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation has coordinated 10 events in celebration of Tucson Modernism Week. Expect tours of neon signs and historic homes, lectures and a cocktail party. 

When: Nov. 10-12

Where: Various locations.

Cost: Some events are free; others range from $10-$35. The cocktail party is $125.

Visit the event page for more information.

Brewin at the Chul

Tohono Chul is hosting its second-ever fall series at its Garden Bistro! There will be music, spirits, brews and bites.

When: 5-8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Nov. 10-25

Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 Paseo del Norte

Cost: Pricing varies based on menu items ordered. The gardens will be closed during these events. 

Visit the event page for more information.

Artist Reception and New Art Exhibit

Desert Artisans' Gallery is hosting an artist reception for their new exhibit "It's a Wide World." You'll have the chance to meet artist members, view the exhibit and enjoy light refreshments. 

When: 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10

Where: Desert Artisans' Gallery, 6536 E. Tanque Verde Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Female Friday Self-Defense

These self-defense classes are for women, taught by a woman. 

When: 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10

Where: Combat Krav Maga, 3273 N. Freeway

Cost: Pay what you can

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! This weekend's events include sound bath meditation and cat bingo.

When: 7-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10 for sound bath; 6-7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12 for bingo.

Where: El Jefe Cat Cafe, 3025 N. Campbell Ave.

Cost: $25 for sound bath; $14 for bingo, reservations required.

Visit the event page for more information.

Desert Air Market

This pop-up market is run by local makers and creatives, featuring more than two dozen vendors selling everything from clothing and jewelry to pottery and candles. 

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Let's Sweat, 439 N. Sixth Ave.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Kirby's Boba Dreamland

K-pop and anime shop Kira Kira Collectibles is putting together a Nintendo-themed event with local vendors, karaoke, themed drinks and a cosplay contest.

When: 2-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: The Korean Rose, 6118 E. Speedway

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

Visit the event page 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: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Children's Museum Tucson, 200 S. Sixth Ave.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page 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: 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Xerocraft Makerspace, 101 W. Sixth St.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

2nd Saturdays

Check out food trucks, live music and local makers during this monthly outdoor street festival.

When: 5-10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Downtown Tucson along East Congress Street

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

Visit the event page for more information.

Emo Nite at 191 Toole

Bust out your favorite black eyeliner and that My Chemical Romance shirt in the back of your closet — Emo Nite returns to Tucson.

When: 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: 191 Toole, 191 E. Toole Ave.

Cost: $16-$20. This event is for ages 21 and up.

Visit the event page for more information.

Sun City Arts and Crafts Festival

Sun City, a retirement community in Oro Valley, is hosting an art festival this Saturday. Expect work from over 60 Sun City artists, including jewelry, home decor and ceramics.

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Sun City, 1495 E. Rancho Vistoso Blvd.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Truly Nolen Community Car Show

Truly Nolen is bringing back its car show for the fifth year. Expect to see Truly Nolen cars, in addition to entries from local car clubs. 

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Truly Nolen Training Center, 432 S. Williams Blvd.

Cost: Free to attend 

Visit the event page for more information.

Workshops at Monsoon Mystics

Witchy shop Monsoon Mystics is hosting three events this weekend. On Saturday, make your own hot sauce for Scorpio season. On Sunday, there will be a beginners tarot class and an herbal medicine workshop.

When: 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11 for hot sauce; 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12 for tarot; 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12 for herbal medicine.

Where: Monsoon Mystics, 657 W. St Marys Road

Cost: $30 for hot sauce; $23 for tarot; $35 for herbal medicine.

Visit the event page for more information.

Intention Candles with Libra & Thorn

Metaphysical art shop Libra & Thorn is hosting a workshop where attendees will be able to craft their own intention candles. 

When: Any time between 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Libra & Thorn, 101 S. Pantano Road

Cost: $25

Visit the event page for more information.

Workshops with Colliope Co 

Local shop Colliope Co is hosting two workshops this weekend: transform an old book into home decor on Saturday and make macrame Christmas ornaments on Sunday.

When: 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11 for books; 11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 12 for ornaments.

Where: Colliope Co, 2706 N. Silverbell Road

Cost: $30 for books; $20 for ornaments

Visit the event page for more information.

Karaoke Night Market

Proper Shops, which houses several shops and makers under one roof, will be hosting a mini night market on the patio — with karaoke! 

When: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Proper Shops, 300 E. Congress St.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Vail Vendor Fair

Hosted by Vail Coffee Stop, this market will feature vendors, food and live music.

When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Vail Coffee Stop, 13105 E. Colossal Cave Road

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

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, demonstrations led by Archaeology Southwest, crafts for kids, vendors selling their artwork, a farmers market and a bike swap.

When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Steam Pump Ranch, 10901 N. Oracle Road

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Craft Beer & Crafts Fair

Harbottle Brewing Company is hosting a mini market with around nine vendors. Three other breweries will also be onsite selling beer.

When: Noon on Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Harbottle Brewing Company, 3820 S. Palo Verde Road

Cost: One drink ticket is $7.50, three drink tickets are $16

Visit the event page for more information.

Puppy yoga with Barefoot Studio

Take this yoga class surrounded by puppies! Proceeds go to Pathways for Paws.

When: 1-2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Barefoot Studio, 7053 N. Oracle Road

Cost: $20. This event is for ages 13 and up.

Visit the event page for more information.

Veg Now

This fundraiser for Whisper's Sanctuary will feature at least seven food vendors, music and adoptable animals. 

When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Brandi Fenton Park ramada 6, 3482 E. River Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Bachata Social Dance Night

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

When: 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Nov. 11

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

Cost: $15, cash or Venmo

Visit the event page for more information.

Goat yoga

Enjoy an hour of yoga and goats with this class at Udall Park! 

When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Udall Park, 7290 E. Tanque Verde Road

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.

Walking tours with the Presidio Museum

Explore Tucson's downtown area with walking tours hosted by the Presidio Museum. This weekend's tour is of the Turquoise Trail, where you'll see historic buildings and learn the history to match.

When: 9-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11

Where: Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, 196 N. Court Ave.

Cost: $25. Pre-registration is required.

Visit the event page for more information.

Valley of the Moon's 100th Birthday Party

Local fantasy park Valley of the Moon is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year! Their birthday bash will feature fire performances, fairies, mermaids, bubbles, clowns, circus stunts, crafts, music and food trucks.

When: 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12

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

Cost: Free to attend 

Visit the event page for more information.

Second SundAZe at TMA 

Visit the Tucson Museum of Art every second Sunday for pay-what-you-wish admission. Enjoy art-making, gallery activities, family yoga and performances. In this edition of Second SundAZe, you'll also find community altars for Día de los Muertos.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12

Where: Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave.

Cost: Pay what you wish

Visit the event page for more information. 

Fruit Cocktail Lounge

Head downtown for an LGBTQ+ cocktail party and social at The Century Room at Hotel Congress! Enjoy cocktails, small plates and entertainment. 

When: 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12

Where: The Century Room, 311 E. Congress St.

Cost: $10. This event is for ages 21 and up.

Visit the event page for more information.

Mercado Flea

Check out more than 45 vendors selling antique and vintage items at the Mercado Flea. 

When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month through May.

Where: Mercado District, 100 S. Avenida del Convento

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Fifth Annual PLANTPOP Film Festival

PlantPop, dubbed a horticultural film studio, is hosting a mini film festival that tells stories of the "connection between people and plants." 

When: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12

Where: Harkins Theatres, 5455 S. Calle Santa Cruz

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information. 

KXCI 40th Anniversary Celebration

KXCI is celebrating its 40th birthday with a limited-edition whiskey barrel from Whiskey Del Bac. A limited number of bottles will be available for purchase at their anniversary bash where there will also be live music and Moroccan food pop-up La Merguez.

When: 4-8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12

Where: Che's Lounge, 350 N. Fourth Ave.

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

Visit the event page for more information.

Ride with FUGA

Take a bike ride with organization FUGA, which advocates for mobility, accessibility and representation for Tucson's south-side and west-side communities. 

When: 8-10 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 12

Where: Ward 1, 940 W. Alameda St.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information. 

Fundamentals of Photography

Local photographer Julius Schlosburg is hosting a workshop surrounding the fundamentals of photography.

When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12

Where: Coalition Space, 311 E. Seventh St.

Cost: Sliding-scale ticket prices. $25 is the recommended donation.

Visit the event page for more information.

Yoga + Pint

1912 Brewing Co. is collaborating with Veterans Yoga Project for a yoga and pint class, which includes an hour-long yoga session and either a pint of 1912 beer or a non-alcoholic beverage. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Veterans Yoga Project. 

When: 10:45 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 12

Where: 1912 Brewing Co., 2045 N. Forbes Blvd.

Cost: $15

Visit the event page for more information.