Tucson summer bucket list: 100 things to do

Tuesday, May 29

There’s butterfly magic happening over at the Tucson Botanical Gardens’ Butterfly and Orchid Pavilion. Don’t forget to cruise through the frog terrarium, too. It’s at 2150 N. Alvernon Way. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

The gardens are open 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Admission is $15, free for members. 326-9686, tucsonbotanical.org

Wednesday, May 30

Ever wonder how the Pima County Master Gardeners get their gardens to grow? You’ll have your chance to ask during guided tours through the gardens, 4210 N. Campbell Ave., beginning at 9 a.m.

Admission is free. 626-5161, extension.arizona.edu/pima-master-gardeners

Thursday, May 31

Take a guided walk through Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road and check out the birds. They’ll even loan you the binoculars. It’s 7:30 a.m. every Thursday through June 28. Free if you’re a member, otherwise, $5.

Make reservations online at apm.activecommunities.com/nrpr

Friday, June 1

Ballet Rincon is on its toes with its performance of “Coppelia,” a romp through the intriguing life of a mysterious inventor. It’s 7 p.m. at Vail Theater of the Arts, 10701 E. Mary Ann Cleveland Way on the Empire High School campus. Another chance to catch it: 7 p.m. June 2. $12-$16. 574-2804 or ballet-rincon.com

Reservations open for the season’s last moonlit rides through Sabino Canyon. Reservations must be made by June 17. See June 25 for details.

Also, Flandrau’s Eos Planetarium Theater on the University of Arizona campus will present a new laser show, “Laser Stranger Things,” to transport you into this retro realm and the spooky Upside Down, starting on Friday, June 1. 

Find more information here. 

Saturday, June 2

You’ll get a full night of Frights at The Loft Cinema’s All-Nite Scream-O-Rama. It starts at 7 p.m. with “Scream” and continues showing movies all night long. The last, “The Beyond,” starts at 5:30 a.m. The Loft is at 3233 E. Speedway. It’s $15 in advance, $17 at the door. 795-0844, loftcinema.org

Sunday, June 3

Soul singer Carla Cooke — her dad was the great Sam Cooke — performs at Monterey Court, 505 W. Miracle Mile. The concert starts at 6 p.m. $15. Montereycourtaz.com

Monday, June 4

Cool off and be amazed: Take a guided tour of Colossal Cave, where the temperature is always 70 degrees. The hourlong tour is about one-half mile long, and spelunking gear isn’t necessary — wear what you are comfortable in. They are daily with the first starting at 9 a.m. and the last at 3:30 p.m. It’s $18; half that for children 5-12. 16721 E. Old Spanish Trail Road. 647-7275, colossalcave.com

Tuesday, June 5

The Sons of the Pioneers croon cowboy music better than most. They perform at 7 p.m. at the Green Valley Recreation West Center, 111 GVR Drive in Green Valley. Tickets are $32. 625-0288 or gvrec.org.

Wednesday, June 6

Etherton Gallery is hanging works by some of the greatest photographers of the last century, including Harry Callahan, W. Eugene Smith and Robert Frank. Also on view at the gallery through Aug. 31 are Kate Breakey’s large, hand-colored photographs. The gallery is at 135 S. Sixth Ave. While on view now, the reception is 7-10 p.m. June 9. The Gallery is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Free. 624-7370, ethertongallery.com.

Thursday, June 7

Tucson Museum of Art is free from 5-8 p.m. the first Thursday of each month. Cool programs and cool art. 140 N. Main Ave. 624-2333, tucsonmuseumofart.org.

Lisa Otey and Doña Oxford play boogie-woogie piano tunes requested by the audience. It’s happening at 6 p.m. at the Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road in Oro Valley. $15. 529-1000 or gaslightmusichall.com.

The Argentinean pop and rock band Enanitos Verdes and Hombres G liven up the stage at AVA Amphitheater, 5655 W. Valencia Road. The sounds start at 8 p.m. $35. 1-855-765-7829 or casinodelsol.com/event/enanitos-verdes-hombres-g.

Friday, June 8

Larry and His Flask cruises into Club Congress for a concert with one goal: stompin’, dancin’ and clappin’. The band starts at 8 p.m. and the show is 21 and over. Tickets are $15-$17. Club Congress is at 311 E. Congress St. 622-8848, hotelcongress.com.

Saturday, June 9

Ready for a trip back in time? You’ll get that with The Yardbirds, who gave us some of the greatest songs of the 1960s. They are at the Rialto Theatre at 8 p.m. Tickets are $28-$52.50. 740-1000, Rialtotheatre.com.

Sunday, June 10

Desert Voices brighten up a summer Sunday with its “Celebrating the Spectrum” concert. An eclectic music program is promised. It’s 3 p.m. at The Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave. $20 in advance, $25 at the door. 791-9662, eventbrite.com/e/celebrating-the-spectrum-2018-tickets-43957071785.

Monday, June 11

If you missed Woodstock, or want to relive it, here ya go: The Gaslight Theatre is packing those three days of peace and love and great rock ’n’ roll into a two-hour concert. It’s at 7 p.m. at the Gaslight, 7010 E. Broadway. $22.95. 886-9428, thegaslighttheatre.com.

Tuesday, June 12

One person’s trash is another person’s art. Debbie Gill uses only garbage-bound items for her miniatures, from plastic lids to magazines to small appliances. Her creations are on view at the The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, 4455  E. Camp Lowell Drive. It’s open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and noon-4 p.m. Sundays. The exhibit continues through Aug. 26. 881-0606, theminitimemachine.org. 

Also, the Star is hosting it's Tucson Storytellers: Food and Family event at the Mercado San Agustin. Join us as we celebrate the vibrant and diverse food culture in Tucson. From our love of tamales and tacos to family restaurateurs and growers, we’ll be sharing stories about the tastes that help bring us together.

Find more info here. 

Wednesday, June 13

The Postal History Foundation’s museum is a trip back in time. Exhibits include an 1895 Post Office that once served Naco, and another that chronicles the hazards of mail delivery in early Arizona through paintings by artist Cal Peters. The museum is open 9 a.m.-2:30 Mondays through Friday. It’s at 920 N. First Ave. Free. 623-6652, postalhistoryfoundation.org.

Thursday, June 14

Country music crooner Brantley Gilbert moseys into Casino del Sol’s AVA Amphitheater with his “The Ones That Like Me” tour at 8 p.m. $40. 5655 W. Valencia Road. 1-855-765-7829, casinodelsol.com/event/brantley-gilbert

Celebrate artist Ted DeGrazia’s birthday (he would have been 109 this year) at the Gallery in the Sun. Cruise through the grounds, see art, and indulge in cake and ice cream. Entry into the gallery is usually $8, but in honor of Ted's birthday, today it's free admission, free ice cream and free cake. The gallery is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily at 6300 N. Swan Road, 299-9191, degrazia.org

Friday, June 15

The LoBros band will liven things up with its Latin jazz at the Friday Night Live Jazz concert at 7:30 p.m. at Geronimo Plaza , 800 E. University Blvd. It’s free. maingatesquare.com.

Saturday, June 16

This one’s for the 21+ crowd: Brew at the Zoo will offer local craft beers, music, and some up-close-and-personal time with the animals (those that are awake, anyway). It’s 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court. $45, and that includes 14 tasting tickets. 881-4753 or reidparkzoo.org/event/brew-at-the-zoo-2018.

Local playwrights take center stage with “Three Lonely Plays and A Day At the Park,” four original short plays, at Live Theatre Workshop, 5317 E. Speedway. It’s at 10:30 p.m. Too late? Catch the 7 p.m. June 17 performance. $10. Age 16 and up. 327-4242 or livetheatreworkshop.org.

It took two years for the news that slavery had been abolished to reach Texas — that happened June 19, 1865. The Juneteenth celebration (a combo of June and 19) marks the occasion. Tucson event will feature music, historical presentations and arts and crafts. It’s at the Dunbar Cultural Center, 325 W. Second St. It’s 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and it’s free. Check out the Tucson Juneteenth Celebration on Facebook.

Sunday, June 17

Robert Shaw and the Lonely Street Band will make you think Johnny Cash is in the building with their “Man in Black: The Music of Johnny Cash” show. It’s at 2 p.m. at the Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road in Oro Valley. $30. 529-1000, gaslightmusichall.com.

Tucson playwright Monica Bauer pulls from her own experiences for her new play, “Brand New Jew, a DNA Comedy,” which she will perform at 2 p.m. at Invisible Theatre, 1400 N. First Ave. The solo show is about an adoptee who takes a DNA test and finds there was much she didn’t know about herself. It’s free.

Monday, June 18

If you are up for a bit of stargazing, check this out: Oracle State Park was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2014. The lack of light pollution there means you can easily spot the Milky Way and other celestial delights. The American Avenue parking area is accessible after dark. The Park is at 3820 Wildlife Drive, 896-2425, azstateparks.com/oracle.

Tuesday, June 19

Looking to improve your tennis game? Try the El Conquistador Summer Tennis Adult Clinics. You’ll be learning from pros. It’s $20 a class — $18 if you are a member. Lessons are at 9 a.m. at 10555 North La Cañada Drive. 544-1780, elcongolfandtennis.com.

Wednesday, June 20

Architectural preservationist Simon Herbert will lead a walk through Canoa Ranch in Green Valley, discussing the processes and materials used to restore the historic ranch. It’s free. It’s at 5375 S. I-19 Frontage Road in Green Valley. 724-5220, webcms.pima.gov.

Thursday, June 21

The up-and-coming rock band La Luz is on tour and makes a stop at Club Congress. Opening is Summer Twins. Doors open at 7 p.m. 311 E. Congress St. Tickets are $10. 622-8848, hotelcongress.com.

Friday, June 22

The University of Arizona Museum of Art will fill its galleries this summer with works from high school students. Art teachers made the selections for the exhibit. The works are on view through Aug. 26. The museum is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, and noon-5 p.m. Sundays. It’s in the UA’s Fine Arts Complex, near North Park Avenue and East Speedway. Admission is $8. 621-7567, artmuseum.arizona.edu/visit/hours-location.

Saturday, June 23

Tucson’s Iron Chef competition pits local chefs against each other. And just like that TV show of the same name, they will have a surprise secret ingredient they have to use. The competition starts at 5 p.m. The Culinary Experience — a showcase of products and services for foodies — is noon to 5 p.m. It’s all happening at Casino del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road. Tickets to the Culinary Experience alone are $25; that and the actual competition are $40. ironcheftucson.com.

Sunday, June 24

The Dia de San Juan Procession and Fiesta celebrates water and, hopefully, brings the rains. Music, food, dancing and the traditional procession are 6-10 p.m. at Mercado San Agustin, 100 S. Avenida del Convento. It’s free. 336-4654.

Monday, June 25

A moonlit ride through Sabino Canyon is a must-do, but you must do it this day or June 26 — the last time the shuttles go up the canyon until the fall. It leaves at 9 p.m. Cost is $10; $5 for 3-12 year olds. Reservations are a must — and they are taken between June 1 and 17. 749-2327, sabinocanyon.com.

Tuesday, June 26

The Sonoran desert in the summer means rattlesnakes. And dogs are so curious. The Humane Society of Southern Arizona’s Rattlesnake Avoidance Training will teach your pup how to steer clear. Pricey — $105 — but your canine pal is priceless, right? Training is at 635 W. Roger Road and classes are 5, 6 and 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Sept. 25. Registration is necessary. 327-6088, hssaz.org/services/education/education-for-adults/rattlesnake.

Wednesday, June 27

A full moon on a Tucson summer night is a special treat, especially if you are strolling the trails with a naturalist leading the way. It’s 7-9 p.m. at Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Road. Wear good walking shoes, and bring water and a flashlight. It’s free. Register online: apm.activecommunities.com. 724-5375.

Thursday, June 28

Live Theatre Workshop takes us back to Tuna, Texas, and all the wonderfully wacky characters there in “Red, White, and Tuna.” All those characters are played by two actors. You will laugh, we promise. It’s at 7:30 p.m. at Live Theatre, 5317 E. Speedway, and it continues through July 15. Tickets are $20. 327-4242, livetheatreworkshop.org.

Friday, June 29

Arts Express stages “Big Fish,” a musical about a man who tells extravagant tales to his son, who longs to find the truth behind the stories before his father dies. Performances are at Crowder Hall, in the University of Arizona School of Music at the UA Fine Arts Complex, North Park Avenue and East Speedway. Showtime is 7 p.m. and tickets are $20. Performances run through July 8. 319-0400, arts-express.org.

Saturday, June 30

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum’s Cool Summer Night zero in on pack rats, essential desert critters. It’s 5-10 p.m. at the museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road. Admission is $16.95 for Arizona and Sonoran residents; otherwise, it’s $21.95. 883-2702, desertmuseum.org.

Sunday, July 1

Take in the night sky at a place where there’s a great view: Kitt Peak National Observatory. The observatory’s Nightly Observing Program is a four-hour gig that’ll teach the fundamentals of stargazing. It starts with a light supper, moves to watching the sunset and then the stars come out. You’ll need reservations. The cost is $50 if you reserve online, $55 if by phone. 318-8000, noao.edu.

Monday, July 2

Head south.

The average high in Bisbee for July is 87 degrees — in Tucson, it’s 100. Frommer’s dubbed the town one of the best places to go in 2018. And there’s plenty to do: explore the art galleries; have a brew at St. Elmo Bar, which claims to be the oldest bar in the state; climb the famous stairs.

Stay a couple of extra days and catch Arizona’s 4th of July coaster race, a tradition since 1914. Bisbee is about 94 miles southeast of Tucson. Bisbeeaz.gov.

Tuesday, July 3

The Tucson Children’s Museum is designed for curious kids. Exhibits are on gravity and electricity, the Discovery Garden is a slide-lover’s paradise, and the Bodyology exhibit has oversized body parts that kids can explore — and learn from. It’s open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesdays through Fridays, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is $7, but on the third of each month, it’s only $3. It’s at 200 S. Sixth Ave. 792-9985, childrensmuseumtucson.org.

Wednesday, July 4

Get ready to feel all mushy about your country at the annual “Let Freedom Sing” concert, courtesy of Arts Express. It’s at 3 p.m. at Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd. on the UA campus. It’s $25 for adults, $10 for 12-18 years olds, and free for the younger set. 319-0400. arts-express.org/event/let-freedom-sing.

Look to the skies in the north, west, east and south. Fireworks all over the city celebrate our country’s birth.

Thursday, July 5

The Tucson Museum of Art opens its Arizona Biennial 2018 exhibit. The juried show features artists from around the state. It’s always a compelling show, and impressive to see what Arizona artists are creating. The show continues through Sept. 16. And here’s a bonus: admission is free the first Thursday of the month from 5 to 8 p.m. Other times, the museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays and admission is $12. The TMA is at 140 N. Main Ave. 624-2333, tucsonmuseumofart.org.

Friday, July 6

Sharpen your daubing skills with Casino Del Sol’s Cosmic Bingo Neon Party. There are more ways to win than playing bingo, too, like a $300 prize for the most creative neon outfit. Expect raucous fun: Lucinda Holliday hosts. It’s at 11 p.m. the first Friday of every month. Casino del Sol is at 5655 W. Valencia Road, casinodelsol.com/promo/cosmic-bingo-neon-party.

Saturday, July 7

Neon Prophet turns it up Saturday nights at the Chicago Bar. The band’s reggae sounds start at 9:30 p.m. It’s at 5954 E. Speedway. 748-8169, chicagobartucson.com.

Sunday, July 8

Pit Bull brings his Latin hip hop to Casino del Sol’s AVA Amphitheater, 5655 W. Valencia Road. Show time is 8 p.m. 1-855-765-7829, casinodelsol.com/event/pitbull.

Monday, July 9

As it gets hotter, you want to get cooler. You can do that on Mount Lemmon.

Hop the ski lift at Ski Valley, 102000 Ski Run Road, and take the mile-long ride up. It seems to get cooler with every foot you rise. You can hop off and enjoy the view at the top or stay on and head right back down. The lift runs 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Mondays, and 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. It’ll set you back $15. 576-1321, skithelemmon.com.

Tuesday, July 10

The 390th Bomb Group flew 301 combat missions against the Germans during World War II. They were so efficient that many credit the group for the war’s victory. Learn all about the brave men and their missions — and get an eyeful of the fully restored B-17 — at the 390th Memorial Museum, on the grounds of the Pima Air and Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Road. Admission to the museum is $15. It’s open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily. 574-0286, 390th.org.

Wednesday, July 11

Get up bright and early and join the Tucson Audubon Society for a guided tour through the Sweetwater Wetlands. There are lots of birds to discover there. Luke Safford leads the walk and participants step out at 6 a.m. If this doesn’t work for you, check it out the next week — the walk happens every Wednesday at 2511 W. Sweetwater Drive. It’s free. 209-1811, tucsonaudubon.org.

Thursday, July 12

If “let’s go shopping” is music to your ears, you can do that and really hear music at the Oro Valley Marketplace, where the Oro Valley Concert Series is at 6 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month. It could be jazz, country, classical — the offerings change each Monday. The Marketplace is at 12155 N. Oracle Road. It’s free, and you might want to bring a chair — no seating is available. saaca.org/ovconcertseries.

Friday, July 13

Sonoran Sol brings its Latin jazz, funk and fusion to Geronimo Plaza for the Friday Night Live summer concert series. They play at 7:30 p.m. at 800 E. University Blvd. It’s free. maingatesquare.com.

Saturday, July 14

Want to learn your lizards? You can do just that at Leapin’ Lizards, a guided lizard walk with a naturalist. Binoculars and lizard ID cards are provided. It’s 8:30-11 a.m. at Sabino Canyon, 5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road. Free. 749-8700 or sabinonaturalists.org.

Sunday, July 15

Take a leisurely drive out to Oracle and check the revamped Under the Glass tour at Biosphere 2. You’ll stroll through the tropical rainforest, the savanna, ocean and desert, check out the former living quarters, and get a deeper sense of our planet. Tours are continuous during the day and on a first-come, first-served basis. Bisophere 2 is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, but last admissions are at 3:45 p.m. Tours are included in admission, $20. 621-4800, biosphere2.org.

Monday, July 16

The Tucson Botanical Gardens are heavy with quilts these days. “A Garden of Quilts” from Quilt for a Cause, which raises money for cancer research, is on view through July 30 at the gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way. The gardens are open 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily, and on Thursday and Friday, it’s also open 4:30- 8 p.m., as well. Admission is $15; free for members. 326-9686, tucsonbotanical.org

Tuesday, July 17

Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters Speck rock out at the Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress St. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. and will set you back $22. 547-3040, foxtucson.com.

Wednesday, July 18

Historically, horses have played major roles in the United States’ military. So it makes sense that the Museum of the Horse Soldier honors those four-legged beauties. The museum is at 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road and is open 11 a.m.- 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $3. 722-2706, museumofthehorsesoldier.com.

Thursday, July 19

How about a bit of history? You’ll get it at Arizona State Museum’s “Paths of Life” exhibit, which explores 10 Indian tribes from Northern Mexico to Northern Arizona. It’s open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. And it’s air conditioned. $5. The museum is at 1013 E. University Blvd. on the UA campus. 621-6302, statemuseum.arizona.edu.

Friday, July 20

The Loft’s 12th annual Kids Fest takes off on this day — nine days of films kids will love and the popcorn to go with it. And it’s free. 3233 E. Speedway. 795-0844, loftcinema.org.

Saturday, July 21

Dreamy rockabilly crooner Chris Isaak is touring with his new music and he stops at 7:30 p.m. at the Fox Tucson, 17 W. Congress St. Tickets are $37-$99. 547-3040, foxtucson.com.

Sunday, July 22

They’re back: The Osmond sibs, Donnie and Marie, bring their summer tour to Casino del Sol’s AVA Amphitheater. It’s at 8 p.m. at 5655 W. Valencia Road. Tickets are $30. 1-855-765-7829, casinodelsol.com/event/donny-marie-summer-2018-tour.

Monday, July 23

Visit Flandrau and land on Mars. The planetarium’s “Destination: Mars” exhibit explores the history of space travel to the red planet and includes the world’s largest scale model of the planet’s surface. You’ll even get to see a meteorite that came straight from Mars. Flandrau is at at 1601 E. University Blvd. and is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturdays, and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $16. 621-4516, flandrau.org.

Tuesday, July 24

Dent May calls himself a hotel bar lounge singer and aspiring daytime TV talk show host. Yes, he is eccentric, but he makes some fine music. He croons at Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St., at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10. 622-8848, hotelcongress.com.

Wednesday, July 25

With winter visitors gone, now may be your chance to snag reservations to tour Davis Monthan Air Force Base’s Boneyard — where good military planes go to rest or retire. The tour, operated by the Pima Air & Space Museum, wends through the yard in an air-conditioned motor coach while a docent talks you through what you are seeing. But this will take some planning: reservations are necessary, must be made at least 10 days in advance of the tour day, and you’ve got to go through a security clearance, which will be done based on the information you give when you make a reservation. Tours, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily start at the museum, 6000 E. Valencia Road. It’s $10. 618-4805, pimaair.org.

Thursday, July 26

High school students with theater in their blood have been toiling away at Arizona Theatre Company’s Summer on Stage, learning all aspects of theater. The fruits of their labor: “Polaroid Stories,” can be seen at 7 p.m. this day, and you can catch it again at 8 p.m. July 28. The other play they are doing is the musical “American Idiot,” with music by Green Day. You can see that at 7 p.m. July 27, or 1 p.m. July 28. Performances are at the Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave., 622-2823, arizonatheatre.org.

Friday, July 27

Reid Park Zoo’s Summer Safari Nights are winding down — the last one is Aug. 3. So if you want to explore the zoo, check out the animals and listen to music in the cooler hours of the day, best hurry. It’s $10.50. The zoo is at 3400 E. Zoo Court. 881-4753 or reidparkzoo.org.

Saturday, July 28

How can you refuse this: The 2nd annual Harry Potter Charity Ball. Dress as your favorite character while you indulge in some wizardly fun, such as music, food and meeting fellow Potter fans. It’s organized by the arts advocacy group Strada Company and will raise money for four different charities. Tickets are $16, unless you opt to be a professor — they are VIPs and pay $50. It happens from 5:30-10 p.m. at the Tucson Scottish Rite Cathedral, 160 S. Scott Ave., stradacompany.org.

Sunday, July 29

If you’ve longed for the 1980s, consider this trip down memory lane: The Retro Futura Tour comes to Casino del Sol’s amphitheater and it has a load of biggies from the ’80s, including Belinda Carlisle, ABC and Modern English. It starts at 7 p.m. at 5655 W. Valencia Road. Tickets are $25-$65. 1-855-765-7829, casinodelsol.com/event/retro-futura-tour-2018.

Monday, July 30

The Phil Davis Trio plays jazz at the Royal Sun Hotel from 7-9 p.m. Mondays. The hotel is at 1015 N. Stone Ave. 622-8871, bwroyalsun.com.

Tuesday, July 31

Maybe it’s time to cut a rug. Tucson Blues Dancers meet from 7-10:30 every Tuesday at Cee Dee’s Jamaican Kitchen, 5305 E. Speedway. Lessons are 7-7:30, and dancing takes up the rest of the evening. Don’t worry about a partner — you don’t need one. It’s free, but they would love a $1 donation to help the group promote dance. 795-3400, tucsonbluesdance.com

Wednesday, Aug. 1

There is little that is as impressive as watching thousands of bats take flight for their evening feeding. During the summer, they hunker down under bridges — the expansion cracks are ideal roosting spots for them — and at sunset they fly away en masse in search of insects. It’s the take-off that’ll have you oohing and ahhing. Arrive before sunset at the Campbell Avenue bridge over the Rillito River, 4209 N. Campbell Ave., or at the bridge at Pantano River Park, at South Pantano Road and East 22nd Street.

Thursday, Aug. 2

Maybe this is the day to steal some diamonds. At the Fox in a Box Bank Robbery escape room, you can try to do just that. Your job, if you chose to take it, is to break into a bank manager’s office and steal the stash of diamonds he has hidden there before you’re caught. And chances are you’ll be caught: The game has a 33 percent escape rate. A minimum of two are needed to play ($36 each), but if you can find six friends (the maximum), it’s $28 each. It’s at 972 E. University Blvd., 488-4393, foxinaboxtucson.com

Friday, Aug. 3

On stage at Live Theatre Workshop is “The Effect,” a play about a couple who have fallen hard for each other. Is it chemistry or a side-effect of the antidepressant they both are taking? Curtain is 7:30 p.m. and tickets are $20. It plays through Aug. 25. 5317 E. Speedway. 327-4242 or livetheatreworkshop.org

Saturday, Aug. 4

The glorious sounds of Linda Ronstadt will be on the Gaslight Music Hall stage at 6 p.m. for “Just One Look: Tribute to Linda Ronstadt.” It’s at 13005 N. Oracle Road. Tickets are $25. $12.50. 529-1000, gaslightmusichall.com

Sunday, Aug. 5

It’s peach season at Apple Annie’s. Pick your own peaches, indulge in peach delights, sit in the shade of an old peach tree. If you miss this day, you’ve more chances: The fun continues on Saturdays and Sundays through Aug. 19. It’s 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. Apple Annie’s Fruit Orchard is at 2081 W. Hardy Road in Wilcox. 520.384.2084, appleannies.com

Monday, Aug. 6

Early mornings are tolerable, so grab your bicycle and head for The Loop trail. Ride along the trail free of traffic — not counting other cyclists and walkers. With any luck, the river will be running. webcms.pima.gov/government/the_loop

Tuesday, Aug. 7

Stephen Marley — son of the late, great Bob Marley, brings his reggae sounds to The Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress St. There’s lots to live up to when you have such a famous dad, but Stephen Marley is up to the challenge: He has won eight Grammys for Best Reggae Album. Tickets are $30-$32. 740-1000, rialtotheatre.com

Wednesday, Aug. 8

The Tucson Audubon Society opens its annual Southeast Arizona Birding Festival, which includes treks to such places are Madera Canyon and Ramsey Canyon to spy some of our winged friends. The festival continues through Aug. 12. Check the Audubon Society’s website for a schedule and prices: tucsonaudubon.org

Thursday, Aug. 9

Tucson is loaded with funny folks, some of whom aspire to do comedy professionally. And there are others from around the Southwest with the same dream. You can check out a few at Laff’s Open Mic nights at 8 p.m. Thursdays. It’s free. Laff’s is at 2900 E. Broadway, 323-8669, laffstucson.com

Friday, Aug 10

Tucson Originals’ World Margarita Championship means there will be some mighty fine spirits to taste. And food, too — Tucson Original chefs will have samplings of their fare. It’s happening at the El Conquistador Tucson, 10000 N. Oracle Road. It all starts at 6 p.m. Tickets are $55, which includes the samplings. This is a 21-and-over event. saaca.org/worldmargarita.html

Saturday, Aug. 11

Tombstone’s annual “Doc Holli-Days” begins today. The weekend-long event (the last day is Aug. 12) saluting the good doctor includes an appearance by actor Dennis Quaid, who is the parade’s grand marshal. Later, he and his band, The Sharks, play. Lots more is happening, too. It’s in Tombstone’s Historic District. Theannualdochollidays.com and on Facebook.

Sunday, Aug. 12

The Tucson Museum of Art’s Second Sundazes has families in mind: Admission to the museum is free to Arizona residents, and family activities include art-making and entertainment. It’s 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at 140 N. Main Ave. 624-2333, tucsonmuseumofart.org

Monday, Aug. 13

As summer winds down and the busy school/social/etc. season heats up, get ready by taking a meditation class. The Tucson Community Meditation Center has 6:30 p.m. guided meditations on Mondays. The class is ideal for beginners. Free, but a $3-$5 donation to help pay for the facility is welcomed. It’s at 1231 E. Edison St. 775-1625, tucsonmeditation.org

Tuesday, Aug. 14

You say you are a good speller? Are you willing to prove it? If so, sign up for the Adult Spelling Bee at the Tap and Bottle, 403 W. Sixth Ave. It’s at 7 p.m. and happens the second Tuesday of every month. It’s free. 344-8999 or facebook.com/Tucson-Adult-Spelling-Bee-1119433074753134

Wednesday, Aug. 15

How does zipping over the Sonoran Desert sound? That’s what Arizona Zipline Adventures offers. The guided tour includes five ziplines — the highest is 80 feet. Tickets are $79, and reservations are a must. Arizona Zipline is at 35406 S. Mt. Lemmon Road  in Oracle. 308-9350, ziparizona.com

Thursday, Aug. 16

You’ve seen swing dancers glide across the floor. You want to do it. You are in luck: The Tucson Swing Dance Club meets every Thursday from 7-10:30 p.m. The first 45 minutes are devoted to teaching the moves to those who want to learn. Don’t worry about a partner. It happens at Dream Dance Studio, 405 E. Wetmore Road, Suite 125. Be sure to check the website, as the location may change. It’s $5 for club members, $7 for non-members, but if it’s your first time, it’s free. tsdc.net

Friday, Aug. 17

The University of Arizona Museum of Art’s exhibit of Richard Slechta’s abstract works incorporating light, paint and photography is stunning. The large-scale pieces will draw you right in. The show continues through Sept. 9. UAMA is in the UA Fine Arts Complex, East Speedway and North Park Avenue. It’s open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and noon-5 p.m. Sundays.. Admission is $8. 621-7567, artmuseum.arizona.edu

Saturday, Aug. 18

Retro Game Show, hosted by the delicious Tempest Du Jour, has been doing hilarious spinoffs of classic game shows for seven years. This night, however, will be different: The Retro folks will present their first original game show, called BattleMimes. We suspect it’ll be just as outrageous. It’s 7 p.m. at Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St. Tickets are $10-$12. 622-8848, hotelcongress.com

Sunday, Aug. 19

The Deacon and Friends Jam Session from 4-8 p.m. at Rockabilly Grill often features a who’s-who of musicians in the Old Pueblo. Also, there’s a dance floor — and it’s free. Rockabilly is at 3700 N. Oracle Road. 888-1900, rockabillygrill.com

Monday, Aug. 20

Wish Tucson a very happy 243nd birthday! Along with Tucson’s favorite elephant — Nandi, who was born at the zoo on Aug. 20, 2014. Hey, where did the summer go? Classes begin at the UA.

Tuesday, Aug. 21

Eager to show off your trivia knowledge? You can do that at the Geeks Who Drink trivia quiz at 8 p.m. at Frog and Firkin, 874 E University Blvd. It takes place every Tuesday and the subjects change. It’s free. 623-7507, geekswhodrink.com

Wednesday, Aug. 22

The Welsh band The Alarm brings its alt-rock sounds to 191 Toole at 191 E. Toole Ave. The concert starts at 8 p.m. and tickets are $24-$26. 445-6425, 191toole.com

Thursday, Aug. 23

This region has a deep tradition of weaving. The Arizona State Museum’s permanent exhibit features works by Indians that range from the ancient to the contemporary. It’s open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays; admission is $5. Find the museum at 1013 E. University Blvd. on the UA campus. 621-6302, statemuseum.arizona.edu

Friday, Aug. 24

The Tucsonics take the stage at the Gaslight Music Hall for a Western swing dance party. The dance floor opens at 7 p.m. The Gaslight is at 13005 N. Oracle Road in Oro Valley. Tickets are $12.50. 529-1000, gaslightmusichall.com

Saturday, Aug. 25

The St. Philips’ Farmers Market doesn’t just have fresh produce, it has music, too. And treats such as lavender lemonade, breads and pastries. All fresh. It’s open from 8 a.m.-noon. If you miss today, it’s open the same hours on Sunday. It’s at 4300 N. Campbell Ave. in St. Philips’ Plaza. foodinroot.com/farmersmarkets/stphilipsplaza

Sunday, Aug. 26

Steve Martin and Martin Short yuck it up at 7:30 p.m. at the Tucson Convention Center Arena. They’re calling it “An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life.” We doubt that. Tickets are $53-$173 through TicketMaster, 1-800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com

Monday, Aug. 27

You don’t have to travel hours to go fishing. You can do it at Chuck Ford Lakeside Park, 8300 E. Stella Road. It’s stocked with catfish, trout, bass and sunfish. It’s open 6 a.m.-10:30 p.m., 791-4873, azgfd.com/fishing/community/tucson/lakeside

Tuesday, Aug. 28

Take the Ladder Tour at Colossal Cave and you’ll see things that you would miss with the traditional tour. You’ll climb ladders, shimmy through narrow passages and scramble across bridges. Tours are daily, with the first at 9 a.m. and the last at 3:30 p.m. It’s $18. 647-7275, colossalcave.com

Wednesday, Aug. 29

The Bad News Blues band takes the stage at 7:30 every Wednesday at the Chicago Bar, 5954 E. Speedway. Bad News does the blues right. There’s no cover before 9 p.m. 748-8169, chicagobartucson.com

Thursday, Aug. 30

The Gaslight Theatre opens “Vampire.” Sounds creepy, but this is Gaslight: great music, thoroughly silly script, loads of fun. Show starts this day at 7 p.m. Continues through Nov. 4; show times vary. Tickets are $21.95. 886-9428, thegaslighttheatre.com

Friday, Aug. 31

Cool, smooth and very good jazz fills the Cushing Street Bar and Restaurant when the Pete Swan Trio takes over the patio from 6-9 p.m. on Fridays. It’s at 198 W. Cushing St. 622.7984, cushingstreet.com