'Tis the season for Oktoberfest, Tucson's annual community sing-along and events in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
This weekend also happens to be a special one for a handful of local businesses: Kon Tiki turns 60, Watershed Management Group turns 20, Pop Cycle turns 15 — and they're hosting parties for the community! What else is going on? A market highlighting Indigenous artists, a bike ride and party ahead of El Tour de Tucson and a free movie in the park.
Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest info before heading out!
Rachel Pazos, left, Taylor Hernandez and Alba Jaramilllo rehearsing for the upcoming performances of "El Tiradito" at the shrine of the same name.
Elaine Romero’s El Tiradito
A new immersive play honoring migrants who have died in the desert surrounding Tucson, and documenting the activism keeping their memory alive, happens this week at a legendary site in Tucson’s Barrio Libre: El Tiradito, known as the “Wishing Shrine.” The play is hosted by Coalición de Derechos Humanos and the University of Arizona Confluence Center for Creative Inquiry’s Fronteridades program.
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Sunday, Sept. 21-24
Where: El Tiradito Wishing Shrine, 418 S. Main Ave.
Cost: Suggested donation of $20
Visit the event page for more information.
Uncommon Knowledge Art Exhibition
SAACA is collaborating with Roche Tissue Diagnostics to host an art exhibit that highlights 21 people across the U.S. who received a disease diagnosis that affected their lives. "The show hopes to change the way we take notice of and manage our health," SAACA says. The opening reception takes place this Thursday, featuring both the patients and the artists, a live performance and light refreshments.
When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21
Where: Ventana Gallery at Roche Tissue Diagnostics, 1910 E. Innovation Park Dr.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
READY, SET, REC! FALL SHOWCASE 🎲🏀🎶
Tucson Parks and Recreation proudly presents the Ready, Set, Rec! Fall Showcase on Saturday, Sept. 23, 9 a.m. to noon at La Madera Park, 2700 E. La Madera Drive. Join in for music, games, jumping castle fun, raffle prizes and more. It's an opportunity for families, friends and neighbors to come together and enjoy a day filled with activities for all ages. The event is free and open to the public. Enter the coloring contest for a chance to win a prize. Must be present to win. There will be food trucks with food available for purchase.
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.
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
Imagine stepping into a painting by Vincent van Gogh. The colors swirl around you and the images of landscapes and self-portraits by the 19th century Post-Impressionist artist suck you into a 360-degree virtual world. That’s what you will experience at “Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience,” in Oro Valley.
When: Thursdays-Mondays
Where: Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Road
Cost: $25-$35
Visit the event page for more information.
Workshop with Di Luna Candles
Di Luna Candles is known for her beautiful candles scented like birthday cake, coconut and grapefruit mint. She recently opened her own brick-and-mortar where she not only sells her candles but teaches the community how to make them! At this workshop, create a pumpkin rum cake candle and a mosaic tray.
When: 6:15-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21
Where: Di Luna Candles, 3061 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: $65
Visit the event page for more information.
Workshop with Melrose Macrame
Learn how to make a macrame wall hanging from local maker Melrose Macrame! You choose the color of your piece.
When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21
Where: Coalition Space, 311 E. Seventh St.
Cost: $45
Visit the event page for more information.
Concerts in the Courtyard
Head to Marana for this monthly concert series, with food trucks onsite. This month, enjoy music from XPLOSION.
When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21
Where: Marana Municipal Complex, 11555 W. Civic Center Dr.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit the event page for more information.
Gardening Hour
Learn about gardening and bring home clippings all while connecting with The Garden Kitchen team.
When: 7-8:30 a.m. Thursdays
Where: The Garden Kitchen, 2205 S. Fourth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
A couple pairs of hand-beaded earrings from local Indigenous artist Josie Rios (Beads Over Diamonds). Rios is the organizer behind the Indigenous Night Market at the Fourth Avenue Coalition Space.
Indigenous Night Market
The Historic Fourth Avenue Coalition and Josie Rios are teaming up to host an Indigenous Night Market this Friday where you'll find around 30 Indigenous artists, makers and resources, plus food and entertainment.
When: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22
Where: Coalition Space, 311 E. Seventh St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
Movie in the Park
The City of Tucson and Living Streets Alliance want your feedback on four bike boulevard projects coming to the west side. Share your thoughts at this event that will also feature free bike repair, ice cream and a screening of the movie "Luca."
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22
Where: Menlo Park, 325 N. Grande Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Uniquely Tucson Cooking
Watch cooking demonstrations from Tucson chefs Maria Mazon of BOCA Tacos and Roderick LeDesma of PY Steakhouse. The two will demonstrate recipes that "creatively interpret our region's Sonoran-influenced Mexican food heritage."
When: 1-3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22
Where: Pima County Attractions and Tourism, 115 N. Church Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Watershed Management Group's 20th Anniversary
Watershed Management Group is celebrating its 20th birthday! Enjoy art making, food trucks, rainwater refreshments, a beer and cider garden and music from DJ Dirtyverbs.
When: 6-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22
Where: Watershed Management Group, 1137 N. Dodge Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Poet Laureate at PCC
Arizona Poet Laureate Alberto Ríos will be at Pima Community College's downtown location for a discussion on what makes for good poetry, followed by a reading of his own.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22
Where: Pima Community College downtown, 1255 N. Stone Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Creative Kind, 2905 E. Skyline Dr. in La Encantada, hosts creative conversations and craft workshops.
Earring Workshop with Luna & Saya
Luna & Saya is a local maker known for her playful statement earrings. Now's your chance to learn how to make a pair of your own, using polymer clay and wood.
When: 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22
Where: Creative Kind, 2905 E. Skyline Dr.
Cost: $39
Visit the event page for more information.
Stargazing with Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association
Go stargazing with Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association! Several telescopes will be set up.
When: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22
Where: Saguaro National Park East, 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail
Cost: Free to attend, though the park entrance fee applies.
Visit the event page for more information.
Cat events at El Jefe Cat Cafe
Spend time with the cats at El Jefe Cat Cafe at these weekend events including cat trivia and cat bingo.
When: 7-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22 for trivia; 6-7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24 for bingo.
Where: El Jefe Cat Cafe, 3025 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: $15 for trivia, adults only; $14 for bingo, reservations required.
Visit the event page for more information.
Fire Show at Sky Bar
The Cirque Roots Fire Troupe puts on a 20-minute fire show every fourth Friday, right outside of Sky Bar.
When: 8:15 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22
Where: Sky Bar, 536 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Art Corner with BICAS
Get free access to recycled bike art parts, tools and other materials and get creative! Once you're finished, you can donate your creation to BICAS or give a suggested donation to the nonprofit, if you're able to. Check in at the front counter before heading to the art area.
When: 4-6 p.m. Fridays
Where: BICAS, 2001 N. Seventh Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, donation suggested
Visit the event page for more information.
The paint job of the new electric shuttles branded "Sabino Canyon Crawlers" during their launch at Sabino Canyon, on Nov. 9, 2019.
Sabino Canyon Crawler night tour
Take the shuttle through Sabino Canyon — at night! The night tours run every Saturday, depending on weather.
When: 7 p.m. Saturdays in September; 6:30 p.m. Saturdays in October
Where: Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, 5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road
Cost: $15 per adult, $8 per child ages 3 to 12
Visit the event page for more information.
Makers Market at The Tuxon
Find more than 40 local makers at this market created by Lilith & Daughters. Expect to see artists with items like candles, photography, stickers, baked goods and more.
When: Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: The Tuxon, 960 S. Freeway
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
El Tour Loop De Loop
Kick off the upcoming El Tour de Tucson season with a community bike ride! Local nonprofits will be set up along the route. Afterwards, head to a party at Rillito Park where there will be live music, food, drinks and raffles.
When: 7 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 23. The party begins at 10 a.m.
Where: Rillito Park Racetrack, 4502 N. First Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
People gather as they enjoy the weather, food and drink at the annual Mt Lemmon Ski Valley Oktoberfest.
Oktoberfest on Mount Lemmon
Get a taste of Alpine spirit on Mount Lemmon this fall. This Oktoberfest has all of the traditional hallmarks of the festival, like a large outdoor dance floor, live German-style music as well as German beer and food. Note: dogs aren’t allowed at the festival.
When: 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every weekend from Sept. 23-Oct. 15
Where: 10300 E. Ski Run Road, Mount Lemmon
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit the event page for more information.
Oktoberfest in St. Philip's Plaza
What might be Tucson’s only Oktoberfest event with a bratwurst-eating competition, Union Public House’s Oktoberfest is a free event at the St. Philip's Plaza. Live music will entertain in the background while attendants compete in German-themed contests. There will be specials on brats ($6 each) and Sam Adams Oktoberfest beer.
When: 5-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: St. Philip's Plaza, 4340 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
Oktoberfest at Crooked Tooth
Crooked Tooth Brewing Co. is releasing Oktoberfest brews this Saturday. Bavarian-style pretzels and German sausages will also be part of the party.
When: Noon on Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: Crooked Tooth Brewing Co., 228 E. Sixth St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
Forty Niner Country Club Oktoberfest
The east-side country club is hosting a party with cold beer and grilled brats, along with a stein-holding contest and live music. They’re encouraging visitors to come in Lederhosen and Dirndls.
When: 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: Forty Niner Country Club, 12000 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: $35 with additional beer vouchers going for $20 for two steins.
Visit the event page for more information.
Pop Cycle Owner Libby Tobey, left, talks with Nicole Carrillo about a locally designed cactus tea towel at the Fourth Avenue shop.
Pop Cycle's 15th Anniversary
Local shop Pop Cycle is celebrating its 15th birthday! Head to the Coalition Space off Fourth Avenue for an evening of food, drinks, music and an art show.
When: 7-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: Coalition Space, 311 E. Seventh St.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Hispanic Heritage Month at The Lavender Manor
The Lavender Manor is extending its hours this Saturday for an event in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. The event features food, music and vendors such as Yolia Botanica.
When: 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: The Lavender Manor, 347 E. Fourth St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
Reggaeton Party at The Rialto Theatre
The traveling "Gasolina: Reggaeton Party" is coming to The Rialto this weekend.
When: 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: The Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress St.
Cost: $20.50. This event is for ages 18 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Brecken Pfligler, left, and his brother, Nixon, look through an ocean sounds display at "The Undersea Discovery,” exhibit at the Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium on June 6, 2023.
Science at Sunset: OSIRIS-REx
Head to Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium to learn about the University of Arizona's role in NASA's OSIRIS-REx, the first U.S. mission to collect a sample from an asteroid. Explore the museum's science exhibits, watch presentations in the planetarium and stargaze on the lawn.
When: 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium, 1601 E. University Blvd.
Cost: $15 for an all-inclusive advance ticket; $5 for activities a la carte. Stargazing is free.
Visit the event page for more information.
Anniversary Pawty
Hermitage No-Kill Cat Shelter and Sanctuary is celebrating 10 years of being an accredited cat sanctuary. Their anniversary party will include cake, Eegee's, games and face painting.
When: 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: Hermitage No-Kill Cat Shelter and Sanctuary, 5278 E. 21st St.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Kids Create
The University of Arizona Poetry Center is hosting a free day of workshops, music and activities for kids up to age 10.
When: 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: UA Poetry Center, 1508 E. Helen St.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Flow for the Soul with Flam Chen
Flam Chen and In-Rave are hosting a flow night with DJs, vendors and flow art performances. Proceeds go to the All Souls Procession.
When: 7-11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: $10
Visit the event page for more information.
'90s Dance Party at Surly Wench
Surly Wench Pub is hosting a '90s-themed dance party. Dress in your best '90s attire!
When: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
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.
Tucson Big Sing
Bring your singing voice to Tucson Big Sing, an annual community-wide sing-along held at Reid Park.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center at Reid Park, 800 S. Concert Place
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Chinese Cooking Class: Mid-Autumn Moon Cakes
As part of the Tucson Chinese Cultural Center's Health and Wellness program, the center is hosting a series of hands-on cooking classes. This Saturday, learn to make moon cakes!
When: 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: Tucson Chinese Cultural Center, 1288 W. River Road
Cost: $65
Visit the event page for more information.
Mission Garden is located at the base of “A” Mountain, at 946 W. Mission Lane.
Archaeology Day at Mission Garden
Kids can learn hands-on archaeology skills at Mission Garden's monthly Archaeology Day.
When: 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane
Cost: Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit the event page for more information.
Backyard Sale at Colliope Co
Find home decor, project pieces, holiday decor and more for yard sale prices at Colliope Co, a local shop that's home to refurbished furniture, handmade items and a resale clothing boutique.
When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: Colliope Co, 2706 N. Silverbell Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Bachata Fall Gala
Put on your dancing shoes for a night of music and mingling! Enjoy a bachata class followed by social dancing.
When: 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23
Where: Tucson Creative Dance Center, 3131 N. Cherry Ave.
Cost: $10, cash or Venmo
Visit the event page for more information.
St. Philip's Plaza Market
Visit St. Philip's Plaza to shop from local makers and enjoy live music. While you're there, grab a bite to eat at one of the plaza's several eateries.
When: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays and Sundays
Where: St. Philip's Plaza, 4280 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
Magic & Mystery Dinner Theater
At this event, you'll get to enjoy dinner from Dante's Fire, all while watching a magical theatrical performance.
When: 6:30 p.m. Saturdays in September
Where: Dante's Fire, 2526 E. Grant Road
Cost: $49 without dinner, $79 with dinner
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. This weekend's tours will take you through Barrio Viejo or on a route pointing out public art and murals.
When: 5:30-7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23 for Barrio Viejo and public art and murals. Tours are separate.
Where: El Tiradito Wishing Shrine, 418 S. Main Ave., for Barrio Viejo; Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, 196 N. Court Ave., for public art and murals.
Cost: $25. Pre-registration is required.
Visit the event page for more information.
Kon Tiki is one of the oldest operational tiki bars in America. The bar is celebrating its 60th anniversary on Sept. 24 with a party.
Kon Tiki's 60th Anniversary
Vintage pin-up photography business Flash in the Past is throwing a party in celebration of Kon Tiki's 60th anniversary. Celebrate the iconic lounge with an exclusive cocktail and dining menu, plus vintage vendors. Retro and/or tropical attire is encouraged.
When: 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24
Where: Kon Tiki, 4625 E. Broadway
Cost: $10, cash only. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Boomer Brunch
Lucid Lizard Entertainment and Playground Bar & Lounge are putting together a "throwback brunch experience" dubbed Boomer Brunch. Enjoy brunch favorites, bottomless mimosas and DJs spinning hits of the Golden Age.
When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24
Where: Playground Bar & Lounge, 278 E. Congress St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
Concert goers are treated to a beautiful sunset while watching the Tucson Pops Orchestra at the DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center on a Sunday night in 1999.
Tucson Pops Orchestra Concert Series
Tucson Pops Orchestra is back for its last free concert in the park this season.
When: 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24
Where: DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center in Reid Park, 800 S. Concert Place
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Harvest Garden Party
Community Gardens of Tucson is hosting a party with food, drinks, music and a silent auction featuring local art.
When: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24
Where: Pio Decimo Community Garden, 835 S. Seventh Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, RSVP by emailing admin@communitygardensoftucson.org
Visit the event page for more information.
Iron Crane Yoga Anniversary Celebration
Celebrate Iron Crane Yoga's anniversary with a free yoga class for all levels! Raffles, giveaways and a yoga class for kids will follow.
When: 9-11:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 24
Where: Riverfront Park, 551 W. Lambert Lane
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Magical Crafting Workshop
Darby Hunter will lead this magical crafting workshop at new shop Libra & Thorn. Choose from two figurines to DIY: an adorable mushroom or a frog!
When: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24
Where: Libra & Thorn, 101 S. Pantano Road
Cost: $15-$25
Visit the event page for more information.
Drag Queen Bingo
Roxi Starr is hosting Drag Queen Bingo at Bawker Bawker this Sunday!
When: 5-7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24
Where: Bawker Bawker Cider House, 400 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: Free to play, bring money for drinks. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Arts Guide Party
Tucson Lifestyle is launching its Arts Guide with a party at the Tucson Museum of Art. View artwork, meet with local art groups, watch performances and enjoy bites from Zio Peppe.
When: 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24
Where: Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
