'Tis the season for festive tunes, Christmas trees and all the twinkling lights.
This weekend has lots of holiday events in store: glittering lights at several locations around town, menorah lightings for Hanukkah, visits with Santa and plenty of faux snowfall. The Winterhaven Festival of Lights kicks off this weekend, as does the biannual Fourth Avenue Street Fair. You'll also find an anime fest, a rib cook-off and more.
Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest info before heading out!
Visitors pass a series of lights near the zoo's Pollinator Garden for Zoo Lights at Reid Park Zoo, Tucson, Ariz., December 7, 2022.
ZooLights Holiday Magic 2023
Reid Park Zoo's annual ZooLights is almost here! Find colorful light displays, falling snow, festive music and visits from Santa Claus.Β
When:Β 6-8:30 p.m. through Dec. 23; Dec. 26-30; Jan. 2-7
Where:Β Reid Park Zoo,Β 3400 E. Zoo Court
Cost:Β $13 for general admission; $8 for kids ages 2-14. Bring a donation of two cans of food, a pet toy, an unwrapped children's toy or non-functioning holiday lights to recycle and receive $1 off admission.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
LightsUp! A Festival of Illumination
Kick off the holiday season with a stroll through the Tucson Botanical Gardens. There will be luminaria displays, 1 million twinkling lights and dancing sculptures among the gardens' six themed light areas.
When:Β 6-9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday through Jan. 7
Where:Β Tucson Botanical Gardens,Β 2150 N. Alvernon Way
Cost:Β $20-$50 for adults and $18-$45 for kids, depending on the day.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Find the food bank at every Winterhaven entrance this holiday season
Join theΒ Community Food BankΒ at one of Tucsonβs favorite holiday traditions,Β Winterhaven Festival of Lights! Bring a canned food or monetary donation to help neighbors facing hunger this holiday season, orΒ donate online here.
Yuletide at Old Tucson
Old Tucson is hosting a holiday experience that will highlight "the unique Wild West history of Old Tucson" with live shows, interactive experiences and period costumes.
When:Β Fridays-Sundays through Dec. 24, plus Dec. 14 and Dec. 20-21
Where:Β Old Tucson,Β 201 Kinney Road
Cost:Β $39 for adults, $24 for kids ages 5-12
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Tucson Holiday Ice
Ring in the holiday season at Tucson's pop-up ice skating rink! Skates, which begin at size 8 for kids and go up to size 15 for men, are included in the admission price. Socks are required and gloves are recommended.Β
When:Β Now through Jan. 7
Where:Β Tucson Convention Center,Β 260 S. Church Ave.
Cost:Β A 90-minute session is $22 for adults, $15 for kids under 12 years old. The first session of each day is discounted to $12 for adults, $8 for kids. Book your tickets online.Β
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
#ThisIsTucson worked with 3 local shops to curate amazing gift boxes for the holidays
Our team visited three local shopsΒ β Di Luna Candles, Creative Kind and YΕlia BotΓ‘nicaΒ β and picked out our favorite items forΒ gift boxes for the holidays. Each of the gift boxes are available for in-store pickup or shipping.Β See what we picked and shop the boxes here! π
Marana's Christmas Tree and Musical Light Show
Experience nightly light shows at Marana's 45-foot Christmas tree. The show includes 13 minutes of holiday music synchronized to 100,000 twinkling lights. You can walk up to the tree or listen to the show from your car by tuning into the radio station listed on signage.Β
When:Β 5-9 p.m. on the half hour through Dec. 27
Where:Β Marana Municipal Complex,Β 11555 W. Civic Center Dr.
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for food and shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Enchanted Snowfall
Looking to enjoy a snowy evening? Head to La Encantada to see snow flurries, all while sipping hot chocolate and enjoying live entertainment.Β
When:Β Thursdays-Saturdays through Dec. 23. Snowfall is 6-6:15 p.m. and 6:45-7 p.m. Entertainment is 6:15-6:45 p.m. and 7-7:45 p.m.
Where:Β La Encantada,Β 2905 E. Skyline Dr.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
#ThisIsTucson's holiday merch is back for the season!
If youβre in search of a very Tucson gift, or youβre just looking to treat yourself, we have good news.Β We have desert-themed holiday merch in our online shop! π΅π We now have ornaments, hoodies, greeting cards, coffee mugs, T-shirts, phone cases and hats!Β Shop here!Β (Please allow 14 days for shipping.)
Chanukah at Downtown Tucson
Celebrate Chanukah at the 40th annual lighting of what's dubbed Tucson's tallest Menorah. In addition to the lighting, there will be music, crafts and treats.
When:Β 5-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7
Where:Β El Presidio Park,Β 160Β W. Alameda St.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Annual Tree Lighting Celebration + Holiday Food Drive
Head to Loews Ventana Canyon Resort's annual tree lighting, with a food drive benefitting the University of Arizona Campus Pantry. Enjoy live music, face painting, cocktail specials and visits with Santa.
When:Β 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7
Where: Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, 7000 N. Resort Dr.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Startup Tucson Downtown Holiday Market
Shop from local makers at Startup Tucson's upcoming mini market, all while mingling with fellow entrepreneurs.
When:Β 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7
Where:Β FORGE at Roy Place,Β 44 N. Stone Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Odyssey Live Storytelling
Attend this live storytelling event to hear stories surrounding the theme of "winterizing."
When:Β 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7
Where:Β The Screening Room,Β 127 E. Congress St.
Cost:Β $15
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Find this Wagon Burner Arts Mural on the west wall of Safe Shift, an estate sale/resale store, at 2801 E. Grant Road
Safe Shift Store 3-Day Sale
The Safe Shift estate store, which helps raise funds for firefighters and first responders through the Greater Tucson Fire Foundation, opens its doors for three days each month. Past items for sale have included furniture, home decor, kitchen items, books and more.
When:Β 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 7-9
Where:Β Safe Shift,Β 2801 E. Grant Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ 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.Β
When:Β 5-7 p.m. Thursdays
Where:Β Children's Museum Tucson,Β 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Gardening Hour
Learn about gardening and bring home clippings all while connecting with The Garden Kitchen team.Β
When:Β 7-8:30 a.m. Thursdays
Where:Β The Garden Kitchen,Β 2205 S. Fourth Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
A customer browses socks at the Art N Wordz tent during the Fourth Avenue Spring Street Fair in Tucson, Ariz. on March 24, 2023.
Fourth Avenue Street Fair
The biannual Fourth Avenue Street Fair is back this weekend! Shop from more than 350 artists, plus eat all the food of your dreams and listen to live music.
When:Β 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 8-9; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10
Where:Β Along North Fourth Avenue
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.Β
Marana Christmas Express
The Marana Pumpkin Patch will be transformed for the holidays and turned into the family-friendly Christmas Express. Check out train rides, farm animals, jumping pillows, a super slide and more. Santa will be there too!
When:Β 5-9 p.m. Fridays-Sundays, Dec. 8-23. Closed Dec. 24.
Where:Β Marana Pumpkin Patch,Β 14950 N. Trico Road
Cost:Β $20
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
BICAS Art Auction
Local nonprofit BICAS is hosting its 26th annual art auction filled with bicycle-themed art. Enjoy a night of art, music, drinks and food. This is BICAS' largest fundraising event of the year.
When:Β 5-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 8-9. Bidding ends Saturday, Dec. 9 at 8 p.m.Β
Where:Β Splinter Collective,Β 901 N. 13th Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Tasting History: Squash
Learn about the origins behind squash and how it became part of Tucson's agricultural and culinary traditions. Demonstrations and tastings are part of the fun.
When:Β 9-11 a.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 8-9
Where:Β Mission Garden,Β 946 W. Mission Lane
Cost:Β Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
A Happy Hive Holiday Market
Shop from 50 local makers and creatives at the upcoming Happy Hive market. Beyond the market, you can get tickets for a charcuterie boat or a gingerbread house workshop.
When:Β 4-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8Β
Where:Β Forty Niner Country Club,Β 12000 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Festive Fridays
Trail Dust Town is hosting four Fridays of holiday festivities. Enjoy snowfall, holiday drinks, discounts on wristbands for amusement rides and a Christmas-themed stunt show.
When:Β 4-8 p.m. Fridays through Dec. 29
Where:Β Trail Dust Town,Β 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for rides
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Holiday shows at Centennial Hall
Head to Centennial Hall this Friday for Cirque Dreams Holidaze, which is dubbed a "Broadway-style production around an infusion of contemporary circus arts," followed by The Spirit of Christmas on Saturday, which features Tucson Dance Academy.Β
When:Β 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8 for Cirque Dreams Holidaze; 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 for The Spirit of Christmas.
Where:Β Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd.
Cost:Β $34 and up for Cirque Dreams Holidaze; $35 for The Spirit of Christmas
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
A Taste of Japanese Teas
Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson is hosting an educational tea tasting where guests will enjoy and learn to brew Japanese teas.Β
When:Β 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8
Where:Β Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson, 2130 N. Alvernon Way
Cost:Β $25, advance registration is required
Visit theΒ event pageΒ 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 trivia and bingo.
When:Β 7-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8 for trivia; 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10 for bingo
Where:Β El Jefe Cat Cafe,Β 3025 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost:Β $15 for trivia, adults only. $14 for bingo, reservations required.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Perched atop the shoulders of her dad Matt Griebel, 3-year-old Grace Griebel basks in the fluttering snow scene at the corner of Kleindale Road and Forgeus Avenue during the first night of the 67th annual Winterhaven Festival of Lights on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2016.Β
Winterhaven Festival of Lights
A holiday tradition for more than 70 years, the Winterhaven Festival of Lights makes its return on Dec. 9. Walk through this charming neighborhood decorated in holiday lights and displays.Β
When:Β 6-10 p.m. Dec. 9-25.Β Local band Znora will be performingΒ select days.
Where:Β Winterhaven neighborhood; north of Fort Lowell Road and south of Prince Road, west of Country Club Road and east of Tucson Boulevard.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul
Walk through a wonderland of lights at Tohono Chul, set to also include live entertainment.
When:Β 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 8-9 and Dec. 15-16
Where:Β Tohono Chul,Β 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost:Β $20 for adults, $6 for kids ages 3-12
Visit theΒ event pageΒ 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! This special edition of Art After Dark features an outdoor screening of "The Grinch," thanks to The Loft Cinema.Β
When:Β 5:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Children's Museum Tucson,Β 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Bark in the Barrio
This dog-friendly event features adoptable dogs, games, food, music and local vendors. Your dog can even get a photo with Santa himself.Β
When:Β 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Armory Park,Β 220 S. Fifth Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Anime Wonder Festival
This two-day festival celebrates anime and Japanese culture through vendors, food, car displays, cosplay, music and more.
When:Β Noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9; Noon to 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10
Where:Β Rillito Park,Β 4502 N. First Ave.
Cost:Β $35
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
The Jackrabbit Lounge's take on a Blue Hawaiian.Β The Jackrabbit's food and drink menus recall tiki bars like Trader Vicβs.
Double Diamond Disco
This party at The Jackrabbit Lounge is set to feature burlesque, an exclusive wine menu and a Glamour Shots-inspired photo booth.
When:Β 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β The Jackrabbit Lounge,Β 2000 N. Oracle Road
Cost:Β $15 at the door. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Holiday Sale & Party
Find nearly a dozen local makers at this holiday sale on Adams Street. Expect to see pottery, glasswork, skin-care items and more.
When:Β 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β 2900 E. Adams St.
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Button Brew House Annual Rib Cook-off
Six chefs will compete in this annual rib cookout. Tickets include six ribs, six sides and one vote for your favorite creation.
When:Β 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Button Brew House, 6800 N. Camino Martin
Cost:Β $30
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Saturday with Santa
Celebrate the holidays with the Arizona Diaper Bank's Saturday with Santa event, set to include a jumping castle and climbing wall, face painting and visits with Santa.
When:Β 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Arizona Diaper Bank,Β 1050 S. Plumer Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Cirque du so-Gayla
Tucson LGBT Chamber of Commerce is hosting this upcoming Gay-la featuring cirque performances, tattoos, live music, food and local queer icons.Β
When:Β 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β The Downtown Clifton,Β 485 S. Stone Ave.
Cost:Β $125
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Santa at Harlow Gardens
Kids can meet with Santa at Harlow Gardens, plus make their own ornament to take home.
When:Β 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Harlow Gardens,Β 5620 E. Pima St.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
2nd Saturdays
Check out food trucks, live music and local makers during this monthly outdoor street festival.
When:Β 5-10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Downtown Tucson alongΒ East Congress Street
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit theΒ event pageΒ 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 byΒ Archaeology Southwest, crafts for kids, vendors selling their artwork and a farmers market.
When:Β 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Steam Pump Ranch,Β 10901 N. Oracle Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
The Presidio San AgustΓn del Tucson was awarded the Museum Association of Arizonaβs 2023 Institutional Award of Excellence.
Presidio Museum Holiday Celebration
Visit this holiday celebration at the Presidio Museum where you'll experience different traditions that include a Hanukkah activity from the Jewish History Museum and Las Posadas from Carrillo K-5, among other festivities.Β
When:Β 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Presidio San AgustΓn del Tucson Museum,Β 196 N. Court Ave.
Cost:Β Included with admission, which is $9 for adults and $6 for kids ages 6-13
Visit theΒ event pageΒ 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:Β 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Xerocraft Makerspace,Β 101 W. Sixth St.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Three Artist Photography Exhibit
This Saturday marks opening night for Decode Gallery's next exhibit, which features three photo projects.Β
When:Β 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Decode Gallery, 314 S. Convent Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Vail Vendor Fair
Hosted by Vail Coffee Stop, this market will feature vendors, food and music.
When:Β 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Vail Coffee Stop,Β 13105 E. Colossal Cave Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Goat yoga
Enjoy an hour of yoga and goats with this class at Udall Park!Β
When:Β 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Northeast of the Udall Pool building at Udall Park,Β 7290 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost:Β $25
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
St. Philip's Plaza Market
Visit St. Philip's Plaza to shop from local makers from silversmiths to candle makers.Β
When:Β 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays
Where:Β St. Philip's Plaza,Β 4280 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit theΒ event pageΒ 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. Dress in Christmas colors!
When:Β 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Dec. 9
Where:Β Tucson Creative Dance Center,Β 3131 N. Cherry Ave.
Cost:Β $15, cash or Venmo
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Auguste Rodin's Adam stands on the lowest level of the Tucson Museum of Art, in one of several galleries utilizing underground space, Tucson, Ariz., July 8, 2021.
Second SundAZe at TMAΒ
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 a Nutcracker ballet class and photos with Santa.
When:Β 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Β Sunday, Dec. 10
Where:Β Tucson Museum of Art,Β 140 N. Main Ave.
Cost:Β Pay what you wish
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.Β
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.Β
When:Β 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10
Where:Β The Century Room,Β 311 E. Congress St.
Cost:Β $10.Β This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Mercado Flea
Check out more than 45 vendors selling antique and vintage items at the Mercado Flea.Β
When:Β 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month through May.
Where:Β Mercado District,Β 100 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Alex! Jimenez, a local artist, takes a closer look at a clay design during a workshop at the Quincie Douglas Recreation Center on April 4. Jimenez is creating a public memorial to people who have died of COVID-19 in the south side of Tucson. The memorial will be made of interlocking clay tiles that will be hand-built by residents who have lost a loved one to Covid-19 or other causes.
"In Memory Of" Mosaic Memorial UnveilingΒ
Celebrate the lives of loved ones lost to COVID-19. A mosaic memorial, created by Alex! Jimenez and installed by Paloma Jacqueline, will be unveiled this Sunday, along with a candle-lighting ceremony, a name reading and music.
When:Β 3-5:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10
Where:Β Mission Manor Park, 6100 S. 12th Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Ride with FUGA
Take a bike ride with organization FUGA, whichΒ advocates for mobility, accessibility and representation for Tucson's south-side and west-side communities.Β
When:Β 9-11 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 10
Where:Β Ward 1,Β 940 W. Alameda St.
Cost:Β Free to attend
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.Β
The Northwest Chanukah Festival
Chabad of Oro Valley is putting together a Chanukah celebration with music, free latkes and doughnuts, Jewish art, crafts, inflatables, cookie decorating, challah braiding and a menorah lighting.Β
When:Β 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10
Where:Β Oro Valley Marketplace,Β 11695 N. Oracle Road
Cost:Β Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Grand Chanukah Celebration
Chabad of Vail is hosting a community menorah lighting with doughnuts, latkes and a chocolate gelt drop.
When:Β 5-6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10
Where:Β Purple Heart Park,Β 9800 E. Rita Road
Cost:Β Free to attendΒ
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
Virgen de Guadalupe & Tonantzin Art Show
Galeria Mitotera is hosting its last art opening of the year, featuring 13 artists and sweet treats.
When:Β 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10
Where:Β Galeria Mitotera, 1802 S. Fourth Ave.
Cost:Β Free to attendΒ
Visit theΒ event pageΒ for more information.
