The last weekend of July is almost here.
Close out the month with lots of back-to-school events, Tohono Chul's annual monsoon plant sale, pool parties, after-hours activities at museums, artisan markets, craft workshops and a youth basketball clinic led by Phoenix Mercury star Sam Thomas.
Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest info before heading out!
Kidz Expo
Arizona Bilingual Newspaper is throwing a Kidz Expo and back-to-school event where over 3,000 backpacks will be given away, in addition to 5,000 textbooks in Spanish. There will also be live music, raffles, kid-friendly activities and more.
When: 4-8 p.m. Thursday, July 25
Where: Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Just Between Friends Sale
Shop from more than 100,000 items for kids and babies at this consignment sale. Most items are used or "gently loved," but you may be able to find new items too. Items typically include clothes, toys, books, games, room decor, sports equipment, electronics, maternity items, baby items and more.
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 25; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, July 26; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: 6310 N. Oracle Road
Cost: Register for free tickets online, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge: A Sonoran culinary competition like no other!
Over 700 enthusiastic attendees celebrate the community at this vibrant event, voting for the best salsa, tequila and tacos crafted by acclaimed mixologists and chefs. This event masterfully combines culinary artistry, live music, captivating entertainment like live lucha libre wrestling, live artist painting and rich local culture, making it one of Southern Arizona's most colorful summer food festivals! Don't miss this sell-out event on Aug. 24 at El Conquistador Hilton Resort. Make it an even more memorable experience by booking a room to stay! Special rates starting at $180 plus taxes and fees.
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.
Summer Kids Event at Bookmans
Learn about desert wildlife with the help of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum at Bookmans East.
When: 10-11 a.m. Thursday, July 25
Where: Bookmans East, 6230 E. Speedway
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Preorder #ThisIsTucson's new monsoon shirt through July 26 ☔️
On the first official day of monsoon last month, #ThisIsTucson hosted a Monsoon Mini Market and debuted a brand-new T-shirt. If you couldn't make it to the market or if we were out of your size when you got there, now's your chance to order the monsoon-y tee designed and printed by the very talented Tucson artist Planet Gabu. Preorders will close on July 26, so get the shirt while ya can! ⛈
Christmas in July at Colliope Co
Local shop and craft space Colliope Co is continuing its Christmas in July series with two more holiday crafts this weekend.
When: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 25 for stamped wreaths; 11:30 a.m. Sunday, July 28 for ornaments
Where: Colliope Co, 2706 N. Silverbell Road
Cost: $32-$48, depending on the class
Visit the event page for more information.
Summer Night Market
Shop from around 60 local makers when the Summer Night Market takes over the MSA Annex every fourth Friday of the month through September!
When: 6-10 p.m. Friday, July 26
Where: MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
#ThisIsTucson's candle collaboration with Di Luna drops Aug. 3
We created the candle of our dreams with the help of local maker and shop Di Luna Candles. The candle, dubbed Desert S'mores, is scented like marshmallows blended with cactus and jade. The candle will be released at 8 a.m. Aug. 3 at Di Luna, 3061 N. Campbell Ave. See ya there! 🌵
Monsoon Madness Plant Sale
Bring home a new plant (or plants, plural) at Tohono Chul's annual Monsoon Madness Plant Sale!
When: 3-8 p.m. Friday, July 26; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Painting Party at The Coalition
Kickstarted by Community on Wheels and Community Care Tucson, five locations in Tucson are now home to community water stations. This Friday, the Historic Fourth Avenue Coalition is hosting an art party to beautify the water coolers.
When: 6-9 p.m. Friday, July 26
Where: Coalition Space, 311 E. Seventh St.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Local Love Presents
Enjoy a lineup of local music at 191 Toole during the venue's Local Love series.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, July 26
Where: 191 Toole, 191 E. Toole Ave.
Cost: $5-$8
Visit the event page for more information.
Find Monsoon Chocolate at 234 E. 22nd. St.
Chocolate Factory Tour
If you love "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," this might be your dream come true. Though not as extravagant as Willy Wonka's facility, take a tour of Monsoon Chocolate's factory to learn how the chocolate is made.
When: Noon and 2 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays
Where: Monsoon Chocolate, 234 E. 22nd St.
Cost: $20
Visit the event page for more information.
Disco Dive Rooftop Pool Party
Presented by Yes Good Pony, AC Hotel and Dusk Music Festival, this rooftop pool party is "made by music lovers for music lovers," including a curated lineup of house, tech house and UK garage music.
When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, July 26
Where: AC Hotel, 151 E. Broadway
Cost: $25 in advance, $40 at the door. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Ride with FUGA
Take a bike ride with organization FUGA, which advocates for mobility, accessibility and representation for Tucson's south-side and west-side communities.
When: 6-8 p.m. Friday, July 26
Where: El Pueblo Center, 101 W. Irvington Road
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Chillin at the Chul
Check out music, spirits and bites at Tohono Chul's summer series. On Saturdays, Tohono Chul has partnered with Children's Museum Oro Valley to provide family-friendly nature play.
When: 6-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays through Aug. 31
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
Kittens Armani, left, and Prada lounge around at El Jefe Cat Cafe, 3025 N. Campbell Ave. The business hosts cat bingo and yoga sessions with furry felines who are ready for adoption.
Cat events at El Jefe Cat Cafe
Spend time with the cats at El Jefe Cat Cafe! This weekend's events include a sound bath, yoga and bingo.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, July 26 for sound bath; 10 a.m. Sunday, July 28 for yoga; 6 p.m. Sunday, July 28 for bingo
Where: El Jefe Cat Cafe, 3025 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: $25 for sound bath; $18 for yoga; $14 for bingo, reservations required
Visit the event page for more information.
Libra & Thorn Events and Workshops
Metaphysical art shop Libra & Thorn is hosting three events this weekend, including a sound bath ceremony, a tarot deck study and a social all about interpreting tarot and oracle cards.
When: 6 p.m. Friday, July 26 for sound bath; 1 p.m. Saturday, July 27 for study; 3:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27 for social
Where: Libra & Thorn, 101 S. Pantano Road
Cost: $10-$35, depending on the event
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. Upcoming tours include Santa Cruz River History, Death After Dark and Barrio Viejo.
When: 6:30 a.m. Friday, July 26 for Santa Cruz; 8 p.m. Friday, July 26 for Death After Dark; 5:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27 for Barrio Viejo
Where: Locations vary based on tour.
Cost: $30-$35. Pre-registration may be required for these events.
Visit the event page for more information.
Night Wings at the Pima Air & Space Museum
The Pima Air & Space Museum is staying open late one more time this summer! Watch as the sun sets over the planes and enjoy themed activities.
When: 5-8:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Pima Air & Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Road
Cost: $10 for ages 13 and up, free for ages 12 and under
Visit the event page for more information.
Summer Safari Nights
Enjoy the cooler evening temperatures at Reid Park Zoo's after-hours Summer Safari Nights. Each event will have different themed activities including keeper chats, animal encounters, giraffe feedings, games and live music.
When: 6-8 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 10
Where: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court
Cost: $11.25 for adults, $7 for kids ages 2-14
Visit the event page for more information.
Visitors line up to get photos of the storm moving through to the west and the colorful sunset during the Mad About Monsoons edition of the Cool Summer Nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum on July 16, 2022.
Cool Summer Nights
Enjoy the sights of the Desert Museum at night — in cooler temperatures! Bring a flashlight to walk around and possibly spot a nocturnal animal, touch a stingray and check out themed activities.
When: 6-9 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 24
Where: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road
Cost: $29.95 for adults, $19.95 for kids ages 3-12. $24.95 for Arizona residents.
Visit the event page for more information.
Art Is Vital: An Art & Wellness Fiesta
Grab tickets to a concert sharing dubbed "Anita," a new musical by Borderlands Theater about "the power of joy to create a sense of home and belonging." Afterwards, enjoy music, food, art exhibits and interactive activities.
When: 6-10 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Speedway
Cost: $30 for the concert, free to attend the post-show fiesta
Visit the event page for more information.
29th Street Back to School Neighborhood Party
29th Street Thrive, an initiative by the City of Tucson, is hosting a neighborhood party and resource fair featuring food trucks, yard games, music, jumping castles, helmet giveaways, resource tables and a health clinic. The splashpad will be open!
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Freedom Park, 5000 E. 29th St.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Impact Tucson Family and Community Resource Fair
At this fair held by TUSD, families of TUSD children will be asked to sign in and will then be given a passport card. After visiting with at least seven community resources at the fair, kids will be able to grab a free backpack. Lunch will be provided for participating families!
When: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 27; doors may open at 9:30 a.m.
Where: Palo Verde High School, 1302 S. Avenida Vega
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Torrie Dueñas, the owner of Monsoon Mystics, rings up a customer on Feb. 10.
Microburst Market
Monsoon Mystics is hosting another indoor night market this weekend, where you can expect to find nine vendors selling stickers, oddities, soap and more.
When: 6-10 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Monsoon Mystics and Heathen Haus, 657 W. St Marys Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Indigenous Takeover
Indigenous bands and musicians will take the 191 Toole stage at this event.
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: 191 Toole, 191 E. Toole Ave.
Cost: $12
Visit the event page for more information.
Cyber Night Market
Moe Moe Pop-Up, which hosts anime-themed events in Tucson, is putting together the Cyber Night Market featuring vendors, K-pop dancing, a cosplay contest, a scavenger hunt, karaoke and more.
When: 5-10 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: The Korean Rose, 6118 E. Speedway
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Phoenix Mercury guard/forward Sam Thomas plays defense during a WNBA basketball game against the Las Vegas Aces, Friday, May 6, 2022, in Phoenix.
Sam Thomas Hoop Group
Phoenix Mercury star and former Arizona Wildcat Sam Thomas will be at the Tucson J this Saturday for a youth basketball clinic. The day will include warm-ups, drill stations and scrimmage games led by Thomas, UA basketball trainers and Tucson J coaches.
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 27 for ages 6-9; 1:30-5:30 p.m. for ages 10-13
Where: Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 E. River Road
Cost: $85, register online
Visit the event page for more information.
Tanna's Botannas x Truly Backpack Drive
Tanna's Botannas is working with DJ Truly to host a backpack drive this Saturday. Get free backpacks, supplies and snacks while supplies last.
When: 4:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Tanna's Botannas, 4426 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Laser Shows at Flandrau
Flandrau is hosting three different music-themed laser shows this weekend, including Laser Radiohead, Laser Tool and Laser Nine Inch Nails.
When: Saturday, July 27; 6:30 p.m. for Radiohead, 8 p.m. for Tool, 9:30 p.m. for Nine Inch Nails
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.
Music on the Mountain
For years, Mount Lemmon was home to a weekly concert series. The series went on hiatus in 2013, but it's back for the season and beyond, featuring live music Saturdays through October.
When: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, July 27 featuring Max Goldschmid playing jazz
Where: Mount Lemmon Lodge, 12833 N. Sabino Canyon Park
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Las Milpitas Mercadito
The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona is hosting a market at its Milpitas de Cottonwood Community Farm. Expect to find handmade jewelry, Oaxacan clothing, handprinted hats, garden products and more.
When: 6:30-9 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Las Milpitas Community Farm, 2405 S. Cottonwood Lane
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping (cash is preferred)
Visit the event page for more information.
Sun sets on Sky Jewelry, one of the vendors sticking it out on a chilly, stormy night over the Tanque Verde Swap Meet, Tucson, Ariz., January 22, 2022.
Back-to-School Family Fun Fest
Head to the Tanque Verde Swap Meet for its back-to-school fest featuring face paintings, balloon art, $12 ride wristbands, live music and a school supply giveaway, while supplies last.
When: 6-11 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Tanque Verde Swap Meet, 4100 S. Palo Verde Road
Cost: $2 cash admission; kids ages 12 and under enter for free
Visit the event page for more information.
Summer Nights at Four Arrows Garden
Four Arrows Garden in Vail is staying open late this Saturday. The night will feature live music, a food truck and a play area for kids.
When: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Four Arrows Garden, 13499 E. Success Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Halfway to the Holidays
Tucson Improv Movement is celebrating the holidays early! Enjoy three holiday-themed shows this Saturday, including a comedy happy hour, a variety show and a performance in the vein of "Whose Line Is It Anyway."
When: Saturday, July 27; shows at 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Where: Tucson Improv Movement, 414 E. Ninth St.
Cost: All shows are $5 each
Visit the event page for more information.
Afternoon Tea at The Lavender Manor
The Lavender Manor, an extension of Oracle's Life Under the Oaks Lavender Farm, is hosting a tea party featuring lavender-themed treats.
When: 2 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: The Lavender Manor, 347 E. Fourth St.
Cost: $50
Visit the event page for more information.
Free Record Day at Heroes & Villains
This Saturday, Heroes & Villains will be giving away more than 1,500 records ranging from classic hits to rare finds. Hourly raffles are also part of the fun.
When: 10 a.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Heroes & Villains, 4533 E. Broadway
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Wall Hanging Succulent Holder
Pima County Master Gardeners is hosting this event where you'll be able to make your own plant hanger. You'll also learn about growing succulents!
When: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Pima County Master Gardeners, 4210 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: $35
Visit the event page for more information.
Beach Day Air Plant Hangers
Head to Green Things to make an air plant hanger inspired by the beach. A plant expert at the nursery will discuss the care and growth of the plants.
When: 10 a.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Green Things, 3384 E. River Road
Cost: $35, sign up by emailing sales@greenthingsaz.com or calling 520-299-9471
Visit the event page for more information.
Back-to-School Carnival
Park Place Mall is hosting an afternoon of carnival games, face painting and balloon art to celebrate back-to-school season.
When: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Park Place Mall, 5870 E. Broadway
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
AZ Hops and Vines's Shannon Zouzoulas talks with a taster about one of the wines offered in the tasting flight, Sonoita, Ariz., July 29, 2022.
Wine and Ice Cream Pairing
AZ Hops & Vines in Sonoita is hosting a pairing event featuring six wines and six different kinds of ice cream.
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: AZ Hops & Vines, 3450 AZ-82, Sonoita
Cost: $25
Visit the event page for more information.
Summer Festivities at Apple Annie's
Take a road trip to Willcox, where U-Pick orchard Apple Annie's is hosting two fun celebrations: Peach Mania and Sweet Corn Extravaganza.
When: Saturday-Sunday, July 27-28
Where: Sweet Corn Extravaganza is at the farm, 6405 W. Williams Road in Willcox; Peach Mania is at the orchard, 2081 W. Hardy Road in Willcox. Farm is open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; orchard is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and produce picking
Visit the event page for more information.
Nuestro Tianguis Tucson
Every Saturday and Sunday, head to Flowers & Bullets' Midtown Farm for a swap meet featuring vendors, food and music.
When: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays
Where: Midtown Farm, 3538 E. Ellington Place
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Cricut Classes at Crafty Flamingo Studio
Get access to a Cricut machine and make your own custom crafts at this art studio. Cricut classes take place every Saturday where you'll learn everything from basics to special techniques.
When: 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2:30-5 p.m. Saturdays
Where: Crafty Flamingo Studio, 6061 E. Broadway
Cost: $45
Visit the event page for more information.
Foothills Community Markets
Visit this market to shop from vendors who have items like yard art, home decor, jewelry, baked goods and more.
When: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays
Where: Foothills Mall, 7325 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Bachata Social Dance Night
Put on your dancing shoes for a night of music and mingling! Enjoy a bachata class followed by social dancing.
When: 8-11 p.m. Saturday, July 27
Where: Tucson Creative Dance Center, 3131 N. Cherry Ave.
Cost: $15, cash or Venmo
Visit the event page for more information.
Sky Island Pool Parties
'Tis the season for pool parties! Head to Hotel McCoy for a free pool party featuring DJ Humblelianess.
When: 5-8 p.m. Sunday, July 28
Where: Hotel McCoy, 720 W. Silverlake Road
Cost: Free to attend, sign a waiver at the front desk
Visit the event page for more information.
The inner courtyard and some of the original buildings still in use at Hacienda del Sol.
Sonoran Splash Pool Parties at Hacienda del Sol
When the triple-digit heat strikes, there's almost nothing more refreshing than a dip in the pool. Hacienda del Sol is opening up its pool for Sonoran Splash Pool Parties. Enjoy drinks, food, lawn games and DJ sets.
When: 3-7 p.m. Sundays, July 28, Aug. 11, Aug. 25
Where: Hacienda del Sol, 5501 N. Hacienda del Sol Road
Cost: $35, includes a welcome gift and a free drink. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Fine Wines for Felines
Enjoy three tastings of Arizona wines, plus vegan-friendly hors’ d’oeuvres. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the cats at Pawsitively Cats No-Kill Shelter. The shelter will be accepting donations of canned Friskies!
When: 4-6 p.m. Sunday, July 28
Where: Arizona Wine Collective, 4280 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: $25
Visit the event page for more information.
Movies at The Fox
The Fox might be better known for its concerts, but this summer the theater is screening movies, too. Catch a matinee showing of "The Muppets Take Manhattan" this Sunday.
When: 2 p.m. Sunday, July 28
Where: Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress St.
Cost: $8
Visit the event page for more information.
Puzzle Race Mini Tournament
Spend your Sunday piecing together a jigsaw puzzle for a chance to win a prize! A non-alcoholic drink for each team member is included, in addition to a shareable snack. You'll also get to take home a 500-piece puzzle.
When: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, July 28
Where: Snakes & Lattes, 988 E. University Blvd.
Cost: $20 for a 2-person table; $40 for a 4-person table
Visit the event page for more information.
Chunky Knit Blanket Workshop
Make your own chunky knit blanket with the help of This n' That Creative Studio.
When: Noon on Sunday, July 28
Where: This n' That Creative Studio, 1066 S. Pantano Road
Cost: $75
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!
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