True, the Tucson Festival of Books can be all-consuming — so much to see, hear and do.
But, that’s not the only thing going on around town this weekend.
Here are a few other enticing events:
- The annual Wa:k Pow Wow — now 35 years old — is Saturday and Sunday, March 11-12, at 1950 W. San Xavier Road, on the Tohono O’odham reservation behind San Xavier Mission del Bac.
Powwows are massive celebrations of the Indian culture.
There are dance competitions with performers decked out in gorgeous traditional costumes, with drum circles competing and providing the soundtrack for the dancers, inter-tribal dancing, hoop dancing, and even two-step dancing.
Powwows are rich, thrilling celebrations of the American Indian. When non-Indians are invited to watch, they gain a deeper understanding of the culture and are kind of awe struck.
Bring your camera — photos are allowed, unless the announcer says otherwise.
Grand entries — a procession of all the tribes involved — are at 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday and at noon on Sunday. Catch gourd dancing at 1 and 6 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday.
Entry is $7, with discounts. Parking is $3 a vehicle.
Check the Wa:k Pow Wow Facebook page for more information.
- Car geeks, you’ll want to head over to North Fourth Avenue and East Sixth Street from 9 to 3 p.m. Sunday. There you will find Fords on Fourth, a car show hosted by the Southern Arizona Mustang Club.
But this is much more than Mustangs — you’ll find all kinds of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury cars and trucks, lined up, bodies gleaming and ready for your close inspection. It’s free.
- Animal lovers have a chance to support furry critters and acquire some fine art at Pima Paws for Life’s
- Whiskers and Wags Silent Art Auction
- . It’s happening from 4-8 p.m. Saturday at the Ina Corporate Center, 3275 W. Ina Road.
The $30 cost includes drink tickets, hors d’oeuvres and entry into a drawing to win a sitting for six at the Hilton El Conquistador’s chef table. And, of course, the chance to bid on art created and donated by Tucson artists.
