Tucson temps flirted with our first century mark last week, and we know what you are thinking, all of you brave souls sticking it out for another Tucson summer: Time to crank the AC and hibernate.
Don’t do it; you will be missing out on so much fun stuff, from big-name concerts to sunset hikes, live theater to concerts in the park.
We’ve compiled a list of things for your summer to-do list starting Friday, May 24, and going through Aug. 31, from concerts and community events to opportunities to discover (or rediscover) a part of Tucson and the region that wasn’t on your radar.
We must warn you, though: schedules and events are subject to change, so check in advance before heading out.
May 24
Enjoy music in the courtyard of Pima County’s historic courthouse, 115 N. Church Ave., from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This week’s free event features Ted Ramirez performing American and Mexican folk songs. Info: tucne.ws/1pzs
The Summer Night Market at the MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento, is back with music, drinks, artisans and vendors from 6 to 10 p.m. You can also get your shopping fix on June 28, July 26 and Aug. 30. Details: tucne.ws/1pzt
May 25
Funnyman Carlos Mencia is back in Tucson with his “Laughin’ and Livin’” tour. It pulls into Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, for an 8 p.m. show in Sahuarita. Details: ddcaz.com
The play “2 Nogales” by Hugo Salcedo seeks to depict the struggles asylum seekers face in Nogales, Sonora, while waiting in a shelter. Details: tucne.ws/1pz9
May 26
Conductor Khris Dodge will lead the Tucson Pops Orchestra in the final concert of the 2024 spring Music Under the Stars series at Reid Park’s DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center, 900 S. Randolph Way. Honor guard members will perform Taps as part of the concert, which starts around 7 p.m. Details: tucsonpops.org
Two iconic Latin pop bands — Pandora and Flans — bring their “Inesperado USA Tour 2024” to Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave., for an 8 p.m. concert. Pandora is known for its signature pop and romantic ballads, while Flans brings infectious energy and catchy tunes. Details: tucsonconventioncenter.com
May 27
We get it; the kids have been out of school all of a week and are already moaning, “We’re bored!” Help them burn off some of that excess energy on family night at Elevate indoor trampoline park, 9705 N. Thornydale Road, on the northwest side. The family night discounts are available Mondays from 5-8 p.m. Info: elevatetrampolinepark.com/tucson
May 28
Take a haiku hike through downtown Tucson. Twenty haiku poems are on display now through June 1, printed on acrylic signage and placed in planters along Congress and Stone Avenue. This year’s theme: serenity. Info: tucne.ws/1pzr
Broadway In Tucson closes out its 2023-24 season of musicals with “Mrs. Doubtfire” at Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd., on the University of Arizona campus. The show, based on the 1993 movie starring Robin Williams and Sally Field, continues through June 2. Details: broadwayintucson.com
May 29
Express your inner child while exercising your over-21-adulting right to a cold beer during Pueblo Vida Brewing Co.’s monthly Coloring Day. From 3-9 p.m., order a beer and color a masterpiece at Pueblo Vida, 115 E. Broadway. Details: pueblovidabrewing.com
May 30
Comedian Nate Jackson brings his “Super Funny World Tour” to the Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress, for a 7 p.m. show. You might recognize Jackson as the Junk Yard Dog on NBC’s No. 1 comedy “The Young Rock.” Details: rialtotheatre.com
May 31
If you’re still treasuring your Tucson Jazz Festival memories from February, you’ll likely be in the audience with renowned jazz/pop/R&B saxophonist Boney James as he plays Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road. His show starts at 8 p.m. Details: ddcaz.com
Get your competitive juices flowing at Borderlands Brewing’s trivia night, Fridays at 9 p.m. through June 28 at 119 E. Toole Ave. Details: facebook.com/borderlandsbrewing
June 1
Watch your hometown Tucson Sugar Skulls take on the Duke City Gladiators at 6:05 p.m. at Tucson Arena, 260 S. Church Ave. The Skulls beat the Gladiators earlier this season in New Mexico on April 6. Info: tucsonconvention center.com
Fans of Infinity Rush say that when you see this Rush tribute band live, you’ll swear it’s the real deal. The band brings its “Rush Experience” show to Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress, for an 8 p.m. show. Details: rialto theatre.com
June 2
Comedian Wanda Sykes takes the stage at Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress, for her “Please & Thank You” tour at 7:30 p.m. Details: foxtucson.com/event/ wanda-sykes
El Jefe Cat Lounge, 3025 N. Campbell Ave., is hosting a game of Cat Bingo at 6 p.m. Try your luck for a chance to win a free lounge hour pass and El Jefe merch. Reservations are required for the event, geared toward ages 5 and up. Info: eljefecatlounge.com/events
June 3
Harkins annual summer movie program for kids opens with “Trolls Back Together” at the two Harkins locations: Spectrum 18 at 5455 S. Calle Santa Cruz and Arizona Pavilions 12 at 5755 Arizona Pavilions Drive in Marana. The eight-film series (movies change weekly) runs through July 26. Details: harkins.com
June 4
Bay Area musician/rapper TX2 is known for his catchy hooks, smooth flows and melodic beats, according to his bio. He brings it to 191 Toole, 191 W. Toole Ave., for a show at 7:30 p.m. Details: rialtotheatre.com
There’s only a handful of days left to check out Phoenix photographer/artist Annie Lopez’s “Origin Story” at the University of Arizona Museum of Art, 1031 N. Olive Road. The exhibit, which closes June 8, draws from Lopez’s family telling her story through text, images and cyanotype prints. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Info: artmuseum.arizona.edu
June 5
The Athens, Georgia, goth band Vision Video plays a standing-only show at 191 Toole, 191 W. Toole Ave., at 8 p.m. The Phoenix dark wave project Corbeau Hangs opens the show. Info: rialtotheatre.com
June 6
Invisible Theatre loves to intrigue us, and their summer show “Going It Alone” has piqued our interest. It’s a collection of monologues by local playwrights relaying what it’s like to write for a solo performer and performing solo. Catch it at 7:30 p.m. at 1400 N. First Ave. It continues through June 9. Details: invisibletheatre.com
June 7
Watch Disney’s “Wish” at Reid Park for free thanks to Cox Communications. There will be pre-show entertainment, including music, games, prizes and food trucks. The festivities, at DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center, 800 S. Concert Place, start at 6 p.m. Bring chairs or a blanket. Details: coxmoviesinthepark.com
Those bad boys are back in “Ride or Die,” the fourth film in the “Bad Boys” franchise with Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. It opens at theaters throughout the city including at Cinemark Century Park Place 20, 5870 E. Broadway. For movie times, visit cinemark.com.
June 8
See the beauty of space at Sahuarita’s free Star Dazzle event at Anamax Park, 17501 S. Camino De Las Quintas, from 7 to 9 p.m. The Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association will have telescopes available for astronomical viewing starting at 8. Info:
Every second Saturday of the month from 5 to 10 p.m., downtown Tucson’s streets, restaurants and venues are buzzing with business, shows and concerts. There’s also live music and food truck options. If you can’t make this one, you can catch it again on July 13 or Aug. 10. Info: 2ndsaturdaysdowntown.com
June 9
Visit the Tucson Museum of Art every second Sunday for pay-what-you-wish admission. Enjoy art-making, gallery activities and family yoga. It’s happening 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 140 N. Main Ave. Other Second Sundaze events on the calendar: July 14 and Aug. 11. Details: tucne.ws/1pzy
June 10
Angel Du$t, the Baltimore rock band comprised of members of Justice Tripp’s Turnstile and Trapped Under Ice, play a 7 p.m. show at Club Congress, 311 E. Congress. End It opens the show. Info: hotelcongress.com
June 11
In case you missed the real Pink Floyd’s legendary “Division Bell” tour in 1994-95, you can get a feel for what it was like when the Pink Floyd tribute band Brit Floyd brings “P
E” to the Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave. The 7:30 p.m. show will include a faithful recreation of “Division Ball” as well as cuts from the band’s legendary catalogue, including “Dark Side of the Moon,” “The Wall,” “Wish You Were Here,” “Animals” and “Meddle.” Details: tucsonconventioncenter.com
June 12
Austin’s renegade rocker Jesse Dayton mashes up East Texas/Louisiana blues with a little old-school country and punk rock. Check him out when he plays 191 Toole, 191 W. Toole Ave., at 8 p.m. Details: rialtotheatre.com
June 13
The clock is ticking down to view “Three Voices” by Marita Dingus, Carletta Carrington Wilson and Monad Graves Elohim at Blue Lotus Artists’ Collective, 15 E. Pennington St. The exhibit closes June 15. Info: bluelotusartistscollective.com
June 14
“Fancy Like” singer Walker Hayes brings his “Same Drunk Tour” to the AVA at Casino del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, in his first-ever Tucson concert. Tenille Arts opens the show at 8 p.m. Details: casinodelsol.com
Phoenix jazz pianist/composer Arsen Nalbandian brings his namesake trio to the Century Room, 311 E. Congress, for two shows, at 7 and 9 p.m. Nalbandian is touring on his latest release, “In Depth.” Details: hotelcongress.com
June 15
The Mexican pop band Reik brings its “Panorama” tour to Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave., for an 8 p.m. show. Tucson is the only Arizona city to get the show, which is crisscrossing the U.S. coasts through late June. Info: tucsonconventioncenter.com
On the first official day of monsoon, where else would you be but #ThisIsTucson’s Monsoon Mini Market. From 6 to 10 p.m., you can shop local vendors at the Coalition Space, 311 E. Seventh Street. Expect to see creosote-infused skin care, candles and soap that smell like desert rain; earrings shaped like clouds and more monsoon-related merch. Info: tucne.ws/monsoonmarket24
June 16
Sand Reckoner Vineyards and Sonoran Wines are hosting an evening of burlesque, music and wine at 191 Toole, 191 W. Toole Ave. Doors open at 4 p.m. for “Terroir Troubadours,” featuring Chanteuse Lola Torch, music by the Rosano Brothers Duo and burlesque performances by Lola Torch, Vera Morphosis and Ms. Midnight. Info: rialtotheatre.com
June 17
Nothing like solving a little whodunnit to spark your creativity. Ace of Escape, 406 N. Church Ave., has several different cases you can solve in groups of as little as two people to 10 or 12. We’re thinking “The Dorm Rooms” or “Illusionist: Murder Mystery” are right up our alley. Book in advance at aceofescape.com.
June 18
Today is a fine day to head over to the Center for Creative Photography, 1030 N. Olive Road, on the University of Arizona campus, to check out the ongoing exhibit, “The Place Where Clouds Are Formed.” A collaboration between the CCP and UA’s Poetry Center, it’s an interdisciplinary arts collective examining the intersection of spirituality, migration and current and historical policies impacting the Sonoran Desert borderlands. The exhibit runs through Aug. 31, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Details: ccp.arizona.edu
June 19
Tucson Botanical Gardens has laid down rail tracks and erected a model train for its “Great Garden Express” exhibit. The exhibit includes engines pulling passenger and freight cars through tunnels and state landmarks. The trains run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday at the gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way. Info: tucsonbotanical.org
June 20
Cookie Monster and all his Sesame Street pals are heading to Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave., for “Sesame Street Live: Say Hello.” The show, based on characters from the long-running PBS children’s program, starts at 6 p.m. Details: tucsonconventioncenter.com
Tohono Chul Park hosts its “Vine & Dine: 5-Course Wine Dinner at the Garden Bistro” from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the park, 7366 Paseo del Norte. Dos Cabezas Wineworks is the featured winery. Details: tohonochul.org
June 21
Make your way to Reid Park with chairs or a blanket and check out “Trolls Band Together” for free as part of Cox Movies in the Park. The movie will begin at dusk, but starting at 6 p.m., you can enjoy performances, games, food and prizes at DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center, 900 S. Randolph Way. Details: coxmoviesinthepark.com
Rock out with Warrant at Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress, at 7:30 p.m. The band is bringing Lita Ford along as part of the “Let the Good Times Rock” tour. Info: foxtucson.com/event/warrant
We love when we can say something truly wonderful and famous was born in Tucson, like “Sunday Night Slow Jams.” DJ R-Dub (aka longtime former Tucsonan Randy Williams) launched the show on KXCI when he was a teen in 1994. He brings the 30th-anniversary party to Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, at 8 p.m. featuring Hi-Five and 112. Details: ddcaz.com
June 22
Saguaro City Music Theatre is bringing “Willy Wonka” to the Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway. They have two performances today, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Details and tickets at saguarocity.org. The show repeats at 2 p.m. June 23.
Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium, 1601 E. University Blvd., on the University of Arizona campus, is bringing back its popular “Laser Taylor Swift” show at 6:30 p.m. It’s one of several laser music shows, including Journey at 8 p.m. and Foo Fighters at 9:30. For tickets and details: flandrau.org
June 23
Time is running out to take the kiddos to the Loft Kids Fest at the Loft Cinemas, 3233 E. Speedway. Beginning at 9:15 a.m., staffers from Mildred & Dildred Toy Story are hosting events to warm up the kids for the 10 a.m. movie. Admission is free. The Kids Fest is Saturday and Sunday mornings through June 30. Info: loftcinema.org
June 24
Head over to Oro Valley and check out the photo exhibit at Roche Tissue Diagnostics’ Ventana Gallery, 1910 E. Innovation Park Drive. The annual exhibit, a collaboration with Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance, features more than 450 photographs taken by 100 Roche employees from its operations in Arizona, California, New Jersey, Indiana and Massachusetts, depicting life moments from throughout the year. To schedule a tour, call 520-797-3959 or email eric@saaca.org. Details: saaca.org
June 25
Tucson country singer Mamma Coal is used to playing for country fans of all ages as she gigs around the nation, but from 2-3 p.m. at the Joel D. Valdez Main Library, 101 N. Stone Ave., the mother of two will turn her attention to little fans for her “Kids’ Country” show. Details: tucne.ws/1q0u
June 26
Corbett’s is more than pickleball and good eats. The restaurant also hosts events, like Lotería y mas, a celebration of Tucson’s Hispanic businesses and culture. Put your lotería skills to the test while listening to latin beats. Vendors will also be on-site for your shopping pleasure. It’s happening from 5 to 8 p.m. Info: tucne.ws/1q0w
June 27
Explore the history of the famed Old Tucson studios during a historical tour of the former movie lot. You can book a semi-private guided tour between 10:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. today at the park, 201 S. Kinney Road. Details: oldtucson.com
June 28
Saguaros and stargazing. It doesn’t get much better than that. The Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association is setting up telescopes at Saguaro National Park East, 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail. Get a look at planets, nebulae, galaxies, star clusters and more starting at 8 p.m. Info: tucne.ws/1q00
June 29
Veteran old-school rappers T.I. and Chingy team up for a show at Casino del Sol’s AVA, 5655 W. Valencia Road. Both have witnessed and influenced the evolution of today’s rap since the early 2000s. Their show starts at 8 p.m. Details: casinodelsol.com/event/ti-chingy
Settle into some smooth jazz with Flagstaff jazz guitarist Joshua Moore and his trio. The ensemble will perform the music of Pat Metheny at 7 and 9 p.m. at The Century Room, 311 E. Congress. Details at hotelcongress.com
June 30
Now’s the time to show off your cat pose at El Jefe Cat Lounge’s Yoga with Cats session. The hour-long class starts at 10 a.m,. but space is limited and registration is required. Find it at 3025 N. Campbell Ave. Details: tucne.ws/1q01
July 1
Have you caught the writing bug? Tucson author Elaine A. Powers, Pima County Public Library’s summer writer in residence, is ready to help writers of any age, experience or genre with advice, feedback and tips on writing, publishing and self-publishing. She’s hosting workshops and one-on-one sessions through July 29. Check out the calendar of events and register at library.pima.gov/writer.
July 2
Emma Wymore goes into the horizontal following a route at Rock Solid Climbing + Fitness.
If you love a physical thrill but also know the importance of AC in Tucson’s summer, try your hand, and feet, at an indoor rock climbing center. Rock Solid Climbing + Fitness, 3949 W. Costco Drive, has 12,000-plus square feet of climbing space, according to its website, rocksolidclimbing.com.
July 3
You know you’ve been waiting for it, the latest chapter in the lives of those squeaky and annoying minions. It’s here; Illumination’s “Despicable Me 4” reunites us with Gru as he welcomes Gru Jr., who’s intent on tormenting dear old dad. Check your local theater for showtimes.
July 4
Celebrate the Fourth of July with a fireworks display, of course. Sahuarita is hosting its Stars & Stripes event at Anamax Park, 17501 S. Camino De Las Quintas, from 5 to 9 p.m. Ahead of the fireworks, you can enjoy water rides, live music, vendors, food trucks and more (info: tucne.ws/1q11). On the other side of town in Marana, you’ll find the Star-Spangled Spectacular from 5 to 9:30 p.m. at Crossroads at Silverbell District Park, 7548 N. Silverbell Road. Attendees will have access to the splash pad, field games, inflatables, vendors and more (info: tucne.ws/1q12). Oro Valley will also have festivities and a fireworks show at James D. Kriegh Park, 23 W. Calle Concordia, from 5 to 9:15 p.m. (info: tucne.ws/1q13). The City of Tucson has yet to announce plans for its traditional A Mountain fireworks show.
July 5
“Dancing Queen” meets “Bohemian Rhapsody.” That’s what Candlelight Concerts has in store for “Queen Meets ABBA.” If that’s not random enough, it gets better. This live, multi-sensory musical experience is going down at Old Tucson Studios, 201 S. Kinney Road, at 6:30 p.m. Info: tucne.ws/1q15
July 6
If you love all things neon, we’ve got the place for you. Ignite Sign Art Museum is home to hundreds of historic neon signs, many from Tucson’s past. On Saturdays, the Ignite team works on sign restorations and new displays. The museum, 331 S. Olsen Ave., is open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Details: ignitemuseum.com
July 7
Take a dip at a city pool. Admission is free through July 31. Find locations and schedules at tucne.ws/1q0y. Pima County pools are also open, charging $1 for kids, $3 for adults. If you’re looking to go big, the county is now offering private pool rentals for $250 at Manzanita Pool, Northwest YMCA – Thad Terry Pool and Wade McLean Pool from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 3. Get county pool schedules, locations and rental information at tucne.ws/1nan.
July 8
There’s not much you can’t do at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. There’s an indoor playground for the kids, a stingray touch pool, wildlife, gardens and more. Plus, if you’re trying to beat the heat, you can check out Cool Summer Nights on Saturdays. It’s open daily, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the summer months. Learn more at desertmuseum.org.
July 9
Roll back in time with a trip to Skate Country, 7980 E. 22nd St. Rent skates or bring your own seven days a week. Info: skatecountry.com
July 10
There’s nothing like a night out in a big city. But there’s no need to hop on a plane or take a road trip up north. Look no further than The Moonstone — 14 stories up at the Graduate Tucson hotel, 930 E. Second Street. You can get dinner and a drink at the rooftop bar seven days a week while taking in Tucson’s glittering lights. Info: tucne.ws/1khe
July 11
Large-scale hanging sculptures by Los Angeles-based artist Fay Ray — her first solo museum exhibition — are on display at MOCA Tucson, 265 S. Church Ave. In Portals, the artist fills the museum space with distinctive metal sculptures and an immersive black and white collage created with images taken in the Sonoran Desert. MOCA is open Thursday through Sunday. Info: moca-tucson.org
July 12
Visit Reid Park Zoo’s big babies — elephant calf Meru and giraffe Moyo — plus a slew of other wild animals. The zoo, open daily from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. June through September, is also now home to a large children’s playground. If you’re more of a night owl, check out Summer Safari Nights on Saturdays through Aug. 10. Info: reidparkzoo.org
July 13
Classic cars, milkshakes and a ‘50s feel. Count us in. Head to Little Anthony’s classic car show from 5 to 9 p.m. at 7010 E. Broadway. There will also be a jumping castle and giveaways. Info: tucne.ws/1q10
July 14
Guns N’ Roses axman Slash brings his S.E.R.P.E.N.T. (Solidarity, Engagement, Restore, Peace, Equality N’ Tolerance) tour to the AVA at Casino del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, at 8 p.m. The all-star blues lineup includes Slash, Warren Haynes Band, Samantha Fish and Eric Gales. Details: casinodelsol.com
July 15
Perfect your golf swing at Tucson’s Top Golf, 4050 W. Costco Place. Or putt your way through a game of mini golf at Funtasticks, 221 E. Wetmore Road, or Golf N’ Stuff, 6503 E. Tanque Verde Road. Both mini-golf spots also offer attractions like go-karts and bumper boats. Info: topgolf.com/us/tucson, golfnstuff.com and funtasticks.com
July 16
There’s nothing quite like roaming the vast University of Arizona campus on a quiet summer day. Make sure to stop by the turtle pond, a tiny oasis near North Park Avenue and East Second Street. For an instant serotonin boost, watch some slider turtles sunbathing on rocks or taking a dip in the pond to cool off. Info: arboretum.arizona.edu/presidents-pond
July 17
Ever wished you could fly to the moon? Four University of Arizona artists (a poet, non-fiction writer, dancer/choreographer and textile artist) took a six-day simulated trip to the moon to shape their art. Slip into the Century Room, 311 E. Congress, at 5 p.m. to hear how that experience is influencing their current projects. Info: tucne.ws/1q0t
July 18
Take flight with the “Wings” exhibit at WomanKraft Art Center, 388 S. Stone Ave. The exhibit, which kicks off June 1, runs through July 27. All mediums and all flights of creative imagery will be featured, from butterflies and bats to fantasy world dragons and fairies. The gallery is open 1 to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Info: womankraft.org
July 19
Punk Fest at 191 Toole will feature Manslaw, PS9, The Besmirchers, Standard Deviance, Gutter Town, Bleach Party USA and Pretty Ugly. The 21-and-up event at 191 E. Toole Ave. starts at 7 p.m. Info: tucne.ws/1q14
July 20
Head over to Bookmans East, 6230 E. Speedway, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to meet your best friend. Every third Saturday, the book exchange teams up with Tucson animal rescue groups to introduce pets (dogs, cats and reptiles) to potential forever families. Details: bookmans.com
July 21
Time to give into the temptation: “Let it go, let it go/Can’t hold it back anymore.” Yes! That one. And Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress, is giving you and your little princesses permission to sing it loud and proud during the “Frozen Sing-Along” at 2 p.m. Details: foxtucson.com
July 22
This is the final week of Harkins’ kids movie series. Catch “Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget” at Tucson’s two Harkins theaters: Spectrum 18 at 5455 S. Calle Santa Cruz and Arizona Pavilions 12 at 5755 Arizona Pavilions Drive in Marana. The movie runs through July 26. Details: harkins.com
July 23
Grammy-winning Ziggy Marley’s Circle of Peace tour stops at Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress, at 7:30 p.m. He’s bringing Lettuce, a six-member musical collective that combines funk with hip-hop, rock, psychedelia, jazz, soul, jam, go-go and avant-garde. Info: foxtucson.com
Arts Express Theatre’s monthlong “Grease Musical Theatre Camp” concludes when the young cast puts on the musical. The first performance is at 7 p.m. at the group’s theater, 5870 E. Broadway, in the Park Place mall. The performance repeats at 7 p.m. July 24 and 25. Info: arts-express.org
July 24
Introduce your toddlers to the splendor of Sabino Canyon during the nature-themed storytime at the visitor center, 5900 N. Sabino Canyon Road. It’s from 9-10 a.m. and is geared toward 3- to 6-year-olds, with crafts, stories, activities and prickly pear lemonade. Admission is free. Info: tucne.ws/1q0v
July 25
Watch the Tucson Saguaros take on the Roswell Invaders at 7 p.m. at the Kino Sports Complex, 2500 E. Ajo Way. The teams are part of the Pecos baseball league. Info: saguarosbaseball.com
July 26
The stars are aligning at Desert Diamond Casino in Sahuarita when The Marshall Tucker Band and Jefferson Starship share top billing. We’re thinking the link that connects their dots is their shared 1970s-80s heydays. The show starts at 8 p.m. at the Diamond Center, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road. Info: ddcaz.com
July 27
Stop by the Pima Air and Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Road, to view the aircraft as the sun sets. Night Wings features themed activities, discounted admission and kids 12 and under get in free. It’s happening from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Info: pimaair.org/night-wings
July 28
Spend some time with a pet in need. Pima Animal Care Center, 4000 N. Silverbell Road, is always looking for volunteers. Whether you’d like to take a furry friend out for a walk, assist with playgroups or help out at the front desk, they’ve got a job for you. Info: tucne.ws/1q1f
July 29
Head downtown for this weekly free walk and run that begins and ends at Maynard’s Market, 400 N. Toole. Participants receive discounts to local restaurants and bars and giveaway awards. It’s at 6 p.m. Mondays. Info: tucne.ws/meetmaynards
July 30
That wacky blue heeler pup Bluey and her tagalong buddies are putting on a play, and they’re bringing it to the Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave. “Bluey’s Big Play” starts at 6 p.m. The show repeats on July 31. Details: tucsonconventioncenter.com
July 31
One way to beat the heat: head under ground. Colossal Cave is open seven days a week, offering a variety of cave tours on Tucson’s southeast side, 6721 E. Old Spanish Trail. The mountain park also has a number of trails accessible by foot or horseback, plus campsites if you’re looking for a longer stay. Pick your adventure at colossalcave.com.
Aug. 1
Wilde Meyer Gallery, 2890 E. Skyline Dr., hosts an art walk the first Thursday of every month. Visitors can enjoy art, refreshments and live music by harpist Vanessa Myers from 4 to 7 p.m. Info: wildemeyer.com
Aug. 2
You can’t help but sing the famous tune when you hear that the “Hotel California: A Salute to the Eagles” tribute is coming to Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Info: foxtucson.com/event/hotel-california
Aug. 3
You can’t help but gaze in awe when you come across one of Tucson’s many murals. The 2-mile Mainly Murals walking tour, by Presidio San Agustin del Tucson Museum, encourages just that. Participants will view many of the murals in the downtown area, learning about the artist, history of the mural and the inspiration behind the pieces. It kicks off at the museum, 196 N. Court Ave., at 8 a.m. Info: tucsonpresidio.com/walking-tours
Aug. 4
Reggae is in the house when UB40 headlines a show with Inner Circle and Third World at the AVA at Casino del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road, at 8 p.m. Details: casinodelsol.com
Aug. 5
Discover a bit of Southern Arizona history with a self-guided tour of Tumacácori National Historical Park and its historic mission, off Exit 29 on Interstate 19, about 45 miles south of Tucson. It’s open from. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Info: nps.gov/tuma/index.htm
Aug. 6
It’s getting pretty hot in the Old Pueblo, so we suggest taking an hour drive south to Kartchner Caverns State Park, 2980 S. Highway 90 in Benson, where the temperature in the caverns is a chilly 70 degrees. Tours run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and there are several from which to choose. But you need to register in advance at azstateparks.com/kartchner/cave-tours/tours.
Aug. 7
Today is the opening day of the Southeast Arizona Birding Festival, which runs through Aug. 11 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Tucson, 445. S. Alvernon Way near Reid Park. Don’t miss out on the birding field trips and talks by bird experts. Details and reservations at tucsonaudubon.org/festival.
Aug. 8
The University of Arizona poet-in-residence Dana Levin will host a reading from her latest book of poetry, “Now Do You Know Where You Are.” The event will be held at 7 p.m. at the UA Poetry Center, 1508 E. Helen St. Details: poetry.arizona.edu
Grammy-winning ensemble La Santa Cecilia, out of Los Angeles, is rolling into Tucson’s Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress, for an 8 p.m. show. Named for the patron saint of music, La Santa Cecilia has a sound that moves effortlessly between modern pop, rock and folk, and traditional Latin musical styles ranging from bossa nova to boleros. Info: tucne.ws/1q1d
Aug. 9
David Spade, Jerry Seinfeld, Damon Wayans, Ellen Degeneres, Robin Williams. All comedy greats who have performed at Tucson’s Laffs Comedy Caffe, 2900 E. Broadway. Arizona’s oldest comedy club is open Thursday through Saturday. Check out the lineup at laffstucson.com.
Aug. 10
Nicolas Reyes and The Gipsy Kings make their annual Tucson trek with an 8 p.m. show at Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road. Reyes has led the flamenco ensemble for more than 30 years. Details: ddcaz.com
Aug. 11
Take a road trip to Sonoita for a musical wine-tasting experience at the cheeky little sisters-owned winery Arizona Hops and Vines, 3450 Arizona 82. There’s live music from 1 to 4 p.m. Details: azhopsandvines.com
Aug. 12Nothing says dog days of summer like sitting on the beach of a cool lake. Might we suggest taking a 90-minute road trip to Patagonia Lake, 400 Patagonia Lake Road, in Patagonia. Park gates are open 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. If you’re thinking of camping, make a reservation at azstateparks.com/patagonia-lake.
Aug. 13
Three new splash pads are being unveiled this summer, expected to open in late June or July. Test them out at Fort Lowell Park, 2900 N. Craycroft Road; Freedom Park, 5000 E. 29th Street; and Jesse Owens Park, 400 S. Sarnoff Drive. All of the city’s splash pads are open 8 a.m. to sunset. Info: tucne.ws/1q0y
Aug. 14
Let’s face it, we’ve all had those days where we’ve reached our wits’ end. For that, we have The Breaking Point, home of the rage room, where you can take a bat to any number of breakable glass items. The midtown business, at 5740 E. Broadway, is open seven days a week. Book a session through www.thebreakingpointtucson.com.
Aug. 15
Head out to Children’s Museum Tucson, 206 S. Sixth Ave., for a free night of science and art from 5-7 p.m. Activities include bilingual storytime, interactive pop-up science experiments (cloud in a bottle, ooblek, catapults or robot hands) and arts projects (nebula spin art, pumpkin playdough or sound sandwich). The exhibits also are open. Details: childrensmuseumtucson.org
Aug. 16
We love a good sequel, or, in the case of “Alien,” eight. But the latest, “Alien Romulus,” is out of this world; no really, it’s based in the depths of space as a group of young space colonizers are scavenging a derelict space station. It opens today; check your local theater for showtimes.
Aug. 17
We usually don’t see Arizona shock-rocker Alice Cooper until October, when he takes his famed Halloween-themed show on the road. But he’s paying us a special summertime visit with his theatrical brand of hard rock at the AVA at Casino del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road. The show starts at 8 p.m. Info: casinodelsol.com
The legendary Tejano supergroup La Mafia brings its “Estoy Tocando Fuego Tour 2024” to the Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave., for an 8 p.m. show. The concert is centered on one of the band’s top-selling albums, “Estás Tocando Fuego.” Details: tucsonconventioncenter.com
Aug. 18
When the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band takes the stage at Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress, at 7 p.m. for their farewell tour, it won’t necessarily be goodbye forever, but it’ll be the last fans see of multi-city runs for the country and roots band. Info: foxtucson.com
Aug. 19
We’re expecting a full moon tonight, which means it’s the perfect time to take that nighttime trek up Tumamoc Hill, off North Silverbell Road across from St. Mary’s Hospital. The hill closes at 10 p.m. but the moon will be in full splendor around 8, which is plenty of time to make the nearly 3-mile hike up and down the paved hill. Info: tucne.ws/1m3k
Aug. 20
What would a Pink Floyd tribute show be without a light and laser display? You’ll get that and more at the critically acclaimed Australian Pink Floyd Show at Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress, at 7:30 p.m. Details: foxtucson.com/event/aussie-pink-floyd-2024
Alan Parsons Live Project brings its “Reset and Power Back On” show to Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress. The all-ages show starts at 7:30 p.m. Info: rialtotheatre.com
Aug. 21
In recent years, Tucson has seen a boom of entertainment venues opening their doors, offering arcade games and more. Take your pick from Round1 at Park Place, 5950 E. Broadway, where you can also bowl; Dave & Busters, 1390 E. Tucson Marketplace; or Main Event, 4700 S. Landing Way, which also has laser tag and bowling. Info: round1usa.com, daveandbusters.com, mainevent.com
Aug. 22
Take your pooch to Park Place mall, 5870 E. Broadway, for the monthly Yappy Hour from 6-8 p.m. Your fur baby can make new friends, mingle with humans and enjoy puppy mocktails. Details at tucne.ws/1q1p
Aug. 23
It’s the ’70s all over again, or it will sound like it, when the Little River Band takes the stage at Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, at 8 p.m. Details at ddcaz.com/events/little-river-band
Aug. 24
This one’s for the train enthusiasts. Every Saturday, the Southern Arizona Transportation Museum hosts Locomotive Saturdays. Get all of your steam locomotive questions answered by knowledgeable volunteers and explore transportation history in Southern Arizona through interactive museum exhibits. The free event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 414 N. Toole Ave. Info: tucne.ws/1q1g
The 11th annual Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge pits local chefs and mixologists to come up with the most innovative takes on foods central to Tucson’s culinary identity. It takes place from 6-8:30 p.m. at El Conquistador Tucson: A Hilton Resort, 1000 N. Oracle Road. It’s presented by the Southern Arizona Arts and Culture Alliance. Details: saaca.org
Comedian Aries Spears is rolling into the Rialto for an 8 p.m. show at 318 E. Congress. Info: rialtotheatre.com
Aug. 25
Head to Flowers & Bullets’ Midtown Farm for Nuestro Tianguis, a swap meet featuring vendors, food and music. It’s held Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 3538 E. Ellington Place. Info: facebook.com/FlowersBullets
Aug. 26
Swap out saguaros for towering pine trees with a trip to Mount Lemmon, where you can enjoy a hike, fishing and a ride on the ski lift in cooler temps. Close it all out with a trip to the Mt. Lemmon Cookie Cabin, open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Get more info and directions at tinyurl.com/tucmtlemmon.
Aug. 27
If your kiddo is a fan of LEGO, Bricks & Minifigs, 6145 E. Broadway, is the place to be. Find all things LEGO here, both new and used seven days a week. Info: facebook.com/BricksAndMinifigsTucson
Aug. 28
Get the family moving as part of Meet Me Wednesdays, a social walk/run that kicks off at St. Philips Plaza, 4310 N. Campbell Ave. After you’ve worked up an appetite, show your handstamp for a discount at one of several nearby eateries. Info: tucne.ws/meetwednesdays
Aug. 29
BICAS, 2001 N. Seventh Ave., wants to motivate your artistic tendencies with free recycled bike art parts, tools and other materials from its Art Corner. Once you finish your masterpiece, they hope you will donate it to BICAS or give a suggested donation to the nonprofit. It’s from 3-6 p.m. Info: bicas.org/art
Aug. 30
Eddie Montgomery will take the stage at Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress, celebrating 25 years of his country duo Montgomery Gentry. Montgomery says he always feels the presence of his late partner, Troy Gentry. The concert kicks off at 7:30 p.m. Info: foxtucson.com/event/eddie-montgomery
Aug. 31
Spend the weekend at Tucson Comic-Con. Celebrating its 15th year, the event has grown from a single day attended by 500 people to three days of festivities that last year drew more than 21,000 cosplay enthusiasts, sci-fi aficionados, art lovers, comic book collectors, gaming enthusiasts and more. It kicked off on Aug. 30 and runs through Sept. 1 at the Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave. Info: tucsoncomic-con.com
