'Tis the weekend before Christmas and Tucson is packed with tons of holiday lights, plenty of visits with Santa, lots of (fake) snow flurries and handfuls of last-minute shopping opportunities.
Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest info before heading out!
Patrons stroll through a light tunnel, one of the brightest spots at Zoo Lights: Holiday Magic at Reid Park Zoo.
ZooLights Holiday Magic 2024
Reid Park Zoo's annual ZooLights is here! Find colorful light displays, falling snow, festive music, a giant gingerbread house and visits from Santa Claus.
When: 6-8:30 p.m. through Dec. 23; encore nights are Dec. 26-30 and Jan. 2-5
Where: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court
Cost: $14 for general admission; $9 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 the event page for more information.
Winterhaven Festival of Lights
A holiday tradition for 75 years, the Winterhaven Festival of Lights is back for the season. Walk through this charming neighborhood decorated in holiday lights and displays.
When: 6-10 p.m. through Dec. 28. There are no drive-thru nights.
Where: Winterhaven neighborhood; north of Fort Lowell Road and south of Prince Road, west of Country Club Road and east of Tucson Boulevard.
Cost: Free to attend, bring a donation for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona
Visit the event page for more information.
Meet America's largest capybara herd!
Visit Ghost Ranch Exotics for a one-of-a-kind encounter with the largest group of capybaras in the USA. Book your exclusive tour today and create unforgettable memories!
Tucson Holiday Ice
Tucson's pop-up ice skating rink is back in town! 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.
When: Now through Jan. 5; closed Christmas
Where: Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave.
Cost: 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.
Visit the event page for more information.
LightsUp! A Festival of Illumination
Stroll through the Tucson Botanical Gardens where there are luminaria displays and 1 million twinkling lights.
When: 6-9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday through Jan. 12; closed Christmas
Where: Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way
Cost: $23 and up, depending on the day
Visit the event page for more information.
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Marana's Christmas Tree & Musical Light Show
Marana hosts nightly light shows at its 45-foot Christmas tree that include 13 minutes of holiday music synchronized to 200,000 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.
When: 6-9 p.m. on the half-hour nightly through Dec. 28
Where: Marana Municipal Complex, 11555 W. Civic Center Dr.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul
Walk through a wonderland of lights at Tohono Chul all while enjoying live entertainment, vendors, crafts and visits with Santa.
When: 6-9 p.m. Thursday-Sunday, Dec. 19-22
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: $25 for adults, $10 for kids ages 4-12
Visit the event page for more information.
Gigi and The Glow New Year's Eve Celebration
Tuesday, Dec. 31! Ring in the New Year while experiencing Tucson's premier dance music cover band starting at 10 p.m. This event is for ages 21 and up and is FREE.
SnO-V: An Oro Valley Holiday Event
A snowy event is taking over Oro Valley! There will be snow, visits with Santa, games, crafts, food and drinks.
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19
Where: Oro Valley Community Center, 10555 N. La Cañada Dr.; but park at town hall, 11000 N. La Cañada Dr.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
Congress Cinema
Hotel Congress, courtesy Sun Tran and Watershed Management Group, is screening "The Polar Express." Before the screening, you can board Sun Tran from Watershed and make a couple stops at local businesses before gathering at Hotel Congress.
When: Thursday, Dec. 19; 7 p.m. screening. Bus departs from Watershed at 5 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Arrive 15 minutes early.
Where: Watershed Management Group, 1137 N. Dodge Blvd.; movie is at Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Deck the halls with tons of COLOR and enjoy holiday fun the Crayola way NOW through Jan. 5.
This Colorful Christmas, craft handmade gifts from the heart, complete a seasonal scavenger hunt, pose in holiday photo-ops, meet the crayon crew, enjoy tasty treats and more at Crayola Experience in Chandler.
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: Select dates through Jan. 4
Where: Old Tucson, 201 Kinney Road
Cost: $39 for adults, $24 for kids ages 5-12
Visit the event page for more information.
Free Third Thursdays at MOCA
The third Thursday of the month is a party at MOCA. The art museum is open late with free admission, music from KXCI DJs, food from Bollywood Pizza and beer from Brick Box Brewery. This Free Third Thursday will also feature a sidewalk sale with books, games, locally made art and more for under $25.
When: 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson, 265 S. Church Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit the event page for more information.
We put together 3 gift boxes filled with items from local artists for the holidays
To encourage the community to shop local, #ThisIsTucson collaborated with three Tucson shops to curate gift boxes for the holidays. They're packed with all kinds of fun finds, from monsoon-scented perfume to hand-poured candles to spicy candy. See what's inside here!
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.
When: Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 19-22. Snowfall is 6-6:15 p.m. and 6:45-7 p.m.
Where: La Encantada, 2905 E. Skyline Dr.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Trivia at Crooked Tooth Brewing Co.
Test your knowledge in all things "The Nightmare Before Christmas" at this trivia night. Teams can have as many as five people!
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19. Teams are signed up on a first come, first served basis. It's suggested to get there by 6 p.m. to secure your spot.
Where: Crooked Tooth Brewing Co., 228 E. Sixth St.
Cost: Free to attend, recommended to buy a drink or two!
Visit the event page for more information.
Silent Adventures
Silent disco meets flash mob with Silent Adventures! Put on your headphones and dance your way through Winterhaven.
When: 6:30 p.m. Thursday-Monday, Dec. 19-23
Where: Winterhaven neighborhood
Cost: $25 for adults, $15 for kids
Visit the event page for more information.
Creative Kind & Friends Holiday Markets
Local shop Creative Kind had to close their brick-and-mortar space over the summer, but they'll offer in-person shopping for the holidays, also featuring other vendors.
When: 3-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: CATALYST in Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Art Cart with Caroline Martin
Caroline Martin recently started an art cart, visiting different cafes and bringing along supplies for three different self-guided crafts. This Thursday's crafts include a javelina ornament, Shrinky Dinks and holiday cards.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19
Where: The Korean Rose, 6118 E. Speedway
Cost: $5-$15
Visit the event page for more information.
Songwriters Central
This monthly showcase features eight performers over two sets, all showing off their most recent compositions.
When: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19
Where: Monterey Court, 505 W. Miracle Mile
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit the event page for more information.
The Stitching Hour’s Elyssa Gerber, who is also part owner of Celestia Collective, sells handmade crafts inside the new space.
Craft Night with The Stitching Hour
Bring a craft to work on and mingle with other makers during this casual art night at Celestia Collective.
When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19
Where: Celestia Collective, 657 W. Saint Marys Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring a craft to work on
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.
Christina Thorness, left, owner of Little Thorn Goods, talks with Kellie Nelson as shops Thorness’ booth during the Summer Night Market at the MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento in Tucson, Ariz. on May 24, 2024.
Holiday Bazaar
Each year, the Mercado District throws a three-day shopping experience featuring candles, jewelry, clothing and lots more. This year, the Holiday Bazaar will also feature a photo booth from flower shop Bloom Maven.
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 20-21; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: Mercado District (both the MSA Annex and the Mercado San Agustin), 100 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
Ballet Tucson's The Nutcracker
It's that time of year, Tucson. Ballet Tucson and the Tucson Symphony Orchestra are putting together five showings of The Nutcracker this holiday season.
When: Friday-Sunday, Dec. 20-22
Where: Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave.
Cost: $20 and up
Visit the event page for more information.
North Pole Rave
DJ Bex will spin Christmas classics while Hotel Congress pours holiday drink specials. Expect North Pole dancers, an appearance by Santa and a snow machine. There will also be a donation drive for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.
When: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday, Dec. 20
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: $15 in advance, $20 day of. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Festivus at The Rialto
The Rialto's Local Love Presents is putting together a concert with an all-local lineup of musicians including Sophia Rankin & The Sound and Orchadia.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20
Where: The Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress St.
Cost: $5-$8
Visit the event page for more information.
Home for the Holidays Pet Adoption Event
The Humane Society of Southern Arizona is hosting a weekend of pet adoptions featuring waived adoption fees, gifts for each adopted pet, festive treats and hot chocolate for the humans.
When: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 20-21; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: Humane Society of Southern Arizona, 635 W. Roger Road
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Bun Bun Vending Holiday Pop-up Market
Bun Bun Vending, the makers behind the artsy vending machine inside Tucson Hop Shop, is hosting a pop-up featuring five vendors and treats from Ciao Down Pizza.
When: 4-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20
Where: Tucson Hop Shop, 3230 N. Dodge Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping, food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
The December G3
G3 Tucson, the city's gay happy hour group, is hosting their monthly party at Playground. Expect music, specialty cocktails and an ugly sweater contest.
When: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20
Where: Playground Bar & Lounge, 278 E. Congress St.
Cost: $9, your first drink is included. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Isabella Ortiz-Castillo smiles big while she plays in the snowfall during Festive Fridays at Trail Dust Town in 2023.
Festive Fridays
Trail Dust Town is hosting another round of Festive Fridays this season, complete with snowfall, holiday drinks, discounts on wristbands for amusement rides, a kid-friendly dance party and a holiday-themed stunt show.
When: 4-8 p.m. Fridays through Dec. 27
Where: Trail Dust Town, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for rides
Visit the event page for more information.
Queer Speed Dating
Find your next date or make a new friend at this queer speed dating event!
When: 7-9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20
Where: Bawker Bawker Cider House, 400 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: Free to participate with the purchase of one drink. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Magic & Mystery Dinner Theater
Enjoy dinner from Dante's Fire alongside a magical theatrical performance.
When: 6:30 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays in December; 5:30 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 22-29
Where: Dante's Fire, 2526 E. Grant Road
Cost: $49 without dinner, $89 with dinner
Visit the event page for more information.
Once a month, the Desert Haze Market takes over the Hotel Congress patio.
Desert Haze Market
Shop all kinds of vintage clothing when this market pops up at Hotel Congress.
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
19th Annual Holiday Express
The Southern Arizona Transportation Museum is hosting its Holiday Express for the 19th year, set to feature meet-and-greets with Santa, museum exhibits, a reading of "The Polar Express" and holiday music.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Where: Southern Arizona Transportation Museum, 414 N. Toole Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
A Very Merry Winter Solstice
Witchy shop meets community space meets coffee shop Celestia Collective is hosting a Yuletide celebration featuring holiday movies, cookie decorating, make-and-take tie-dye, holiday card crafts and local vendors.
When: 3-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Where: Celestia Collective, 657 W. Saint Marys Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Movies at The Fox
The Fox is screening two movies right before Christmas: "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" and "It's A Wonderful Life."
When: 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21 for "The Grinch"; 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22 for "Wonderful Life"
Where: Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress St.
Cost: $8
Visit the event page for more information.
Movie Night with Cats
Tucson's newest cat lounge is hosting movie nights! Watch "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" alongside adoptable cats.
When: 7-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Where: Hunter's Kitten Lounge, 5319 E. Speedway
Cost: $25, includes a drink and candy
Visit the event page for more information.
Nana and Tata's Miracle in Barrio Anita
Anita's Street Market is hosting a Christmas party with free pizza, hot dogs and hot chocolate. Santa will be handing out toys and candy for kids!
When: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Where: Anita's Street Market, 849 N. Anita Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Sonoran Snowfall
Snow will fall at Park Place Mall's center court through Dec. 22! The snowfall will last around 10 minutes, accompanied by holiday music.
When: Noon, 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 21-22
Where: Park Place Mall, 5870 E. Broadway
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
An individual enjoys the Laser Taylor Swift show at the Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium in Tucson.
Laser Shows at Flandrau
Flandrau is hosting three different laser shows this Saturday, one of which is set to Disney songs. The later two are Taylor Swift-themed.
When: Saturday, Dec. 21; 6:30 p.m. for Disney, 8 p.m. for holiday-themed Taylor Swift, 9:30 p.m. for the regular Taylor Swift showing
Where: Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium, 1601 E. University Blvd.
Cost: $20.95, admission to science exhibits is included
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 or in a "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" theme!
When: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
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.
Goth Xmas
Desert Goth Club is hosting a goth Christmas party featuring a cursed gift exchange, music, holiday treats, flash tattoos, food vendors and a haunted gingerbread house decorating contest.
When: 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Where: Slow Body Beer, 831 E. 17th St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Don your ugliest Christmas sweater and head to Unicorn Zebra for their Ugly Christmas Sweater Party. While you're there, enjoy music and festive drinks.
When: 8-11 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Where: Unicorn Zebra, 82 S. Stone Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
The Game Show Show
Tucson Improv Movement is hosting an improvised game show! Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase.
When: 9-10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Where: Tucson Improv Movement, 414 E. Ninth St.
Cost: $9
Visit the event page for more information.
"Elves Gone Bad" at Unscrewed Theater
Families are encouraged to participate on stage and from their seats during this family-friendly improv holiday play.
When: 1 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 21-22
Where: Unscrewed Theater, 4500 E. Speedway
Cost: $5
Visit the event page for more information.
Holiday Hot Cocoa Cart & Scavenger Hunt
Enjoy hot cocoa as you explore the Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum during a scavenger hunt.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21
Where: Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum, 115 N. Church Ave.
Cost: $5 for adults, kids enter for free
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: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays
Where: Foothills Mall, 7325 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
BICAS Crafternoons
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: 1-4 p.m. Saturdays except Dec. 28
Where: BICAS, 2001 N. Seventh Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, donation suggested
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 show you public art and murals, along with a walk through the Presidio District.
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.
Ramon’s Miracle on 31st Street Car Show collects toy donations for an annual fundraiser.
Ramon's Miracle on 31st Street
The Miracle on 31st Street Christmas party and toy giveaway has grown from a backyard barbecue to a seasonal celebration gifting toys to local kids for more than five decades. Expect a lowrider parade, food, drinks, face painting, games and Santa.
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: Kennedy Park, 3357 S. La Cholla Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Sonoran Sundays
Bruja shop Yōlia Botánica is hosting a market this Sunday, expected to include vendors, flash tattoos, face painting and games.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: Yōlia Botánica, 1307 W. Saint Marys Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Filipino-Inspired Holiday High Tea
New venue Himaya Garden is organizing a Filipino-inspired tea party featuring treats that are only served during the holidays.
When: 2:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: Himaya Garden, 427 E. Limberlost Dr.
Cost: $59.99
Visit the event page for more information.
Holiday Tipsy Tea
Café à la C'Art is hosting an afternoon tea with a holiday twist. Expect winter-inspired tea cocktails paired with sweet and savory dishes like holiday pinwheels and cranberry tarts.
When: 3:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: Café à la C'Art, 150 N. Main Ave.
Cost: $80
Visit the event page for more information.
Anime Artist Market
Shop stickers, candles, tumblers and more during this mini market at kawaii anime shop Kira Kira.
When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: Kira Kira Collectibles, 2903 E. Speedway
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Desert Goth: A Benefit Show
Desert Goth Club is putting together an art show benefitting the Primavera Foundation. Expect art by Paigne Antone along with music, raffles, food and vendors.
When: 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22
Where: Slow Body Beer, 831 E. 17th St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for drinks; bring an item to donate to Primavera
Visit the event page for more information.
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.
