Kaiden Guerra comes face to face with Darth Vader at Summer Safari Nights at Reid Park Zoo, Tucson, Ariz., June 10, 2023. Vader and several other Star Wars characters, and some others from the Marvel Comics universe cosplayers, were among the roving entertainers meeting and posing with the patrons.

Click here to head back to the giant list of August events.

First Thursday at TMA 

The Tucson Museum of Art offers pay-what-you-wish admission on the first Thursday of the month. Expect a cash bar, food pop-up Muncheez, a history social, a death cafe and gallery activities.

When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1

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

Cost: Pay what you wish

Visit the event page for more information. 

Tribute to Linda Ronstadt

The Tributaries, featuring Linda Ronstadt's niece, will take the stage to sing a tribute to the Grammy winner's greatest hits.

When: 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1

Where: The Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road

Cost: $27 for adults, $15 for kids ages 2-12

Visit the event page for more information. 


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Tucson Parks and Recreation's fall 2024 leisure classes schedule boasts hundreds of fun and engaging opportunities for the community.

Classes range from arts and crafts, Little Movers and Shakers, dance, gymnastics, jewelry making, glass fusing, music and more for youth and adults. Get active in a health and fitness class, learn digital photography skills or create beautiful pottery and ceramics pieces. There truly is something for everyone. Registration is open now and the deadline to register for session one is Tuesday, Aug. 20.


Monsoon Melon Celebration

The Santa Cruz River Farmers Market sets up shop at the MSA Annex every Thursday. This Thursday, though, the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona will be offering Tohono O'odham yellow watermelon. Demonstrations, tastings and music are part of the fun.

When: 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1

Where: MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

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.


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'90s-themed Cosmic Bingo at Casino Del Sol

It’s wild! It’s exciting! It’s Cosmic Bingo and it’s only at Casino Del Sol. On the first Friday of every month at 10:30 p.m. (sales start at 9 p.m.), the one and only Lucinda Holliday brings a special brand of madness to Bingo devotees, featuring Fiesta DJs and Divine’s Photo Booth. You don’t want to miss out on nights like these, full of fun and laughter! Plus, whoever’s best dressed can win up to $300!


Badges and Backpacks

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department will be giving away 1,000 backpacks with school supplies along with hearing, physicals, vision and dental checks, vaccines and coupons for free kid's meals and haircuts. The department will also give classroom supplies and law enforcement demos to the school with the highest attendance. The event is first come, first served and gives one backpack per child.

When: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1

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

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

KXCI’s 11th Annual House Rockin’ Blues Review

For the 11th anniversary of KXCI House Rockin' Blues Review this weekend, expect a performance by headliner R.J. Mischo & His Red Hot Blues Band.

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2

Where: El Casino Ballroom, 427 E. 26th St.

Cost: $30 in advance, $35 at the door

Visit the event page for more information.


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Chocolate Factory Tour

If you love "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," this might be your dream come true. Though not as extravagant as Willy Wonka's facility, take a tour of Monsoon Chocolate's factory to learn how the chocolate is made.

When: Noon and 2 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays

Where: Monsoon Chocolate, 234 E. 22nd St.

Cost: $20

Visit the event page for more information.

Bewitched: A Halloween-themed Birthday Party

Lady Haha is celebrating its third anniversary with a Halloween-themed party featuring prizes, a Halloween costume contest, comedic performances, drag performances and music. 

When: 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2

Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.

Cost: $10, this event is for ages 21 and up

Visit the event page for more information.

Pop Night

DJ Bex is spinning all the pop hits of your dreams, from Britney Spears and Madonna to Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter and Billie Eilish. 

When: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays

Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.

Cost: Free to attend, this event is for ages 21 and up

Visit the event page for more information.

Peter Piper Pizza Party Planet

Dusk Music Festival and Yes Good Pony are hosting a late-night party at Peter Piper Pizza, featuring music, drinks and pizza.

When: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday, Aug. 2

Where: Peter Piper Pizza, 3717 S. 12th Ave.

Cost: $30, this event is for ages 18 and up

Visit the event page for more information. 

Story Time and Book Signing with J.M. Chrismer 

Author J.M. Chrismer is hosting a story time and book signing at the Marana Visitor Information Center. Story time is designed for kids ages 4-8 years old.

When: 11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 2

Where: Marana Visitor Information Center, 13251 N. Lon Adams Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information. 

Chillin at the Chul

Check out music, spirits and bites at Tohono Chul's summer series. On Saturdays, Tohono Chul has partnered with Children's Museum Oro Valley to provide family-friendly nature play.

When: 6-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays through Aug. 31

Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte

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

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. August tours include Death After Dark, Mansions of Main Avenue, Turquoise Trail, Barrio Viejo and the Santa Cruz River.

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.

Summer Safari Nights

Enjoy the cooler evening temperatures at Reid Park Zoo's after-hours Summer Safari Nights. Each event will have different themed activities including keeper chats, animal encounters, giraffe feedings, games and live music. 

When: 6-8 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 10

Where: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court

Cost: $11.25 for adults, $7 for kids ages 2-14

Visit the event page for more information.

Cool Summer Nights

Enjoy the sights of the Desert Museum at night — in cooler temperatures! Bring a flashlight to walk around and possibly spot a nocturnal animal, touch a stingray and check out themed activities.

When: 6-9 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 24

Where: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road

Cost: $29.95 for adults, $19.95 for kids ages 3-12. $24.95 for Arizona residents.

Visit the event page for more information.

Family Dive-in Movie in Oro Valley

Catch a showing of "Finding Nemo" all while splashing around the pool.

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3

Where: Oro Valley Aquatic Center, 23 W. Calle Concordia

Cost: $5

Visit the event page for more information.

Pupapoolooza

We've enjoyed the pool all summer long, but now it's time for our four-legged besties to get in on the action. Dubbed Pupapoolooza, Tucson-area dogs will get to enjoy a swim at two Pima County pools on two Saturdays this August.

When: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Aug. 3-10 for small dogs. The pool parties are currently at capacity for big dogs.

Where: Kino Pool, 2805 E. Ajo Way, on Aug. 3; Picture Rocks Pool, 5615 N. Sanders Road, on Aug. 10

Cost: Free to attend, registration required. Current license and up-to-date vaccinations are required.

Visit the event page for more information.

Back-to-school Pool Party

School is back in session and the Forty Niner Country Club is celebrating with a pool party featuring food, cocktails for the parents and a DJ. 

When: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3

Where: Forty Niner Country Club, 12000 E. Tanque Verde Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Free First Saturday at Valley of the Moon

Local fantasy park Valley of the Moon opens its doors for free this Saturday, this time featuring a talent show.

When: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3

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

Cost: Free to attend 

Visit the event page for more information.

Music on the Mountain

For years, Mount Lemmon was home to a weekly concert series. The series went on hiatus in 2013, but it's back for the season and beyond, featuring live music Saturdays through October. 

When: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3; 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10; 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17; noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18; 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24; 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31

Where: Mount Lemmon Lodge, 12833 N. Sabino Canyon Park

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! A portion of the proceeds will go to the Hermitage No-Kill Cat Shelter.

When: 2 p.m. Aug. 3, Aug. 4, Aug. 11; 7 p.m. Aug. 8

Where: The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway

Cost: $10

Visit the event page for more information.

South Tucson Mercadito

This market is set to feature food and art vendors, along with music and entertainment.

When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3

Where: The Arizona Motel, 1749 S. Sixth Ave.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

'80s Dance Party at Surly Wench

Surly Wench Pub is hosting an '80s dance party. Wear your best '80s-themed attire!

When: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3

Where: Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. Fourth Ave.

Cost: $5. This event is for ages 21 and up.

Visit the event page for more information.

#SplashSavvy Safety Resource Fair

Learn about water safety during this family-friendly resource fair hosted by Marana Parks and Recreation.

When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3

Where: Marana Pool, 13250 N. Lon Adams Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Monsoon Story Time

Local author Megan Carthel will be at Bookmans River to read her story "The Silver Lining," which is said to combine "meaningful lessons and scientific information with a heartfelt message of finding yourself."

When: 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3

Where: Bookmans River, 4841 N. Stone Ave.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Monsoon Madness: Artist Demonstrations

Head to Desert Artisans' Gallery where five artists will be at work. Enjoy light refreshments and watch as they create their art. 

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

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

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information. 

Movies at The Fox

The Fox might be better known for its concerts, but this summer the theater is screening movies, too. Catch showings of "Death Becomes Her" and a sing-along version of "Bohemian Rhapsody."

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3 for "Death Becomes Her"; 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24 for "Bohemian Rhapsody" 

Where: Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress St.

Cost: $8-$10

Visit the event page for more information.

Summer Wine-Down Party

Sip and shop at Apricot Lane Boutique! The shop will have light snacks and refreshments, plus 20% off sales on summer clothing.

When: Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3

Where: Apricot Lane, 5350 E. Broadway

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Goat yoga

Enjoy an hour of yoga and goats with these classes!

When: 9-10 a.m. or 6-7 p.m. select Saturdays and Sundays

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

Cost: $25

Visit the event page for more information.

Summer Festivities at Apple Annie's

Take a road trip to Willcox, where U-Pick orchard Apple Annie's is hosting two fun celebrations: Peach Mania and Sweet Corn Extravaganza. 

When: Both take place Saturdays-Sundays, Aug. 3-11; Peach Mania extends to Saturdays-Sundays, Aug. 17-25

Where: Sweet Corn Extravaganza is at the farm, 6405 W. Williams Road in Willcox; Peach Mania is at the orchard, 2081 W. Hardy Road in Willcox. Farm is open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; orchard is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and produce picking

Visit the event page for more information.

Nuestro Tianguis Tucson

Every Saturday and Sunday, head to Flowers & Bullets' Midtown Farm for a swap meet featuring vendors, food and music. 

When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays 

Where: Midtown Farm, 3538 E. Ellington Place

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Cricut Classes at Crafty Flamingo Studio

Get access to a Cricut machine and make your own custom crafts at this art studio. Cricut classes take place every Saturday where you'll learn everything from basics to special techniques. 

When: 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2:30-5 p.m. Saturdays 

Where: Crafty Flamingo Studio, 6061 E. Broadway

Cost: $45

Visit the event page for more information.

Libra & Thorn Workshops

Metaphysical art shop Libra & Thorn is hosting a slew of workshops and events in August. Among them: a sound bath, a book club and a social all about interpreting tarot cards. 

When: Various dates 

Where: Libra & Thorn, 101 S. Pantano Road

Cost: $10-$50, depending on the event 

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: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays

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

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

August Happenings with Desert Rose Social Club

This new social club is hosting a slew of events in August, including clubs for pickleball, running, pilates, books and walking. 

When: Various dates in August

Where: Various locations

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Medella Vina Antique and Vintage Fair

Once a month, Medella Vina Ranch hosts an antique fair where you can shop vintage items from more than 100 vendors, plus take a break at an onsite food truck.

When: 7 a.m. to noon on the first Sunday of the month

Where: Medella Vina Ranch, 4450 S. Houghton Road

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

Visit the event page for more information.

TKMA Presents: Sunday Patio Sets

The Tucson Kitchen Musicians Association, aka the folks who put on the Tucson Folk Festival each spring, are hosting a concert featuring songwriters Oscar Fuentes and Erika Segura, followed by a casual song circle. Bring your own instrument!

When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 4

Where: Monterey Court, 505 W. Miracle Mile

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food

Visit the event page for more information.

Cat Bingo at El Jefe Cat Cafe

Spend time with the cats at El Jefe Cat Cafe, all while playing bingo.

When: 6-7 p.m. Sundays

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

Cost: $14, reservations required

Visit the event page for more information.


Our coverage on things to do is supported by Children's Museum Tucson:

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.


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