It's that time of the year when cyclists make their way around Tucson's perimeter for the 40th annual El Tour de Tucson.
Beyond the massive cycling event, here's what's going on: lots of markets, a screening of "Finding Nemo" at Tohono Chul, a family festival at Reid Park, two stargazing opportunities, a new antique fair and the return of Tucson's pop-up ice rink.
Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest info before heading out!
The Museum of Contemporary Art was established in 1997 by artists exclusively for contemporary art.
Free Third Thursdays at MOCA
Third Thursday at Tucson’s Museum of Contemporary Art is a party. The art museum is open late with free admission — and free beer from Barrio Brewing Co. KXCI will be DJing!
When: 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson, 265 S. Church Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event site for more information.
"Friends"-themed Art Night
Maker shop Creative Kind is hosting a Friendsgiving art night with a "Friends" TV show theme. Expect coloring pages, embroidery supplies and place-card making, all while watching "Friends" Thanksgiving episodes alongside wine and snacks.
When: 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16
Where: Creative Kind, 2905 E. Skyline Dr.
Cost: $15
Visit the event page for more information.
Miracle en el Barrio Comedy for Charity
This show featuring seven comedians will benefit Miracle en el Barrio, a decades-long tradition that provides gifts to children each Christmas.
When: 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16
Where: O'Malley's, 247 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: $15. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Tucson History Social
Listen to a 10-15-minute presentation about the 1871 Camp Grant Massacre. Afterwards, mingle with other history-loving attendees.
When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16
Where: The Tuxon, 960 S. Freeway
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for drinks and food
Visit the event page for more information.
#ThisIsTucson's holiday merch is back for the season!
If you’re in search of a very Tucson gift, or you’re just looking to treat yourself, we have good news. We just released desert-themed holiday merch in our online shop! 🌵🎄 We now have ornaments, hoodies, greeting cards, coffee mugs, T-shirts, phone cases and hats! Shop here! (Please allow 14 days for shipping.)
Concerts in the Courtyard
Head to Marana for this monthly concert series. This month, enjoy music from Mr. Boogie Woogie. Food trucks will be onsite and the Marana Police Department will be hosting a Thanksgiving drive. Bring your own chairs or blankets!
When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16
Where: Marana Municipal Complex, 11555 W. Civic Center Dr.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food
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.
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.
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.
Fall Artisans Market
Get your holiday shopping started at Tucson Museum of Art's Fall Artisans Market, which is set to feature more than 100 artists bringing their pottery, glasswork, jewelry and other artwork to the market space. The museum will have pay-what-you-wish admission during the market!
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Nov. 17-18; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19.
Where: Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Sonoran Cinema at Tohono Chul
Visit Tohono Chul's Sonoran Cinema for an indoor screening of "Finding Nemo." Get cotton candy and popcorn from the concession stands!
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: $4
Visit the event page for more information.
Curtis Kapner uses a rock outcropping to get a cellphone video of the sunset from the Tanque Verde Ridge Trail in Saguaro National Park East.
Stargazing with Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association
Go stargazing with Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association! Several telescopes will be set up.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17
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.
Hearts & Guitars Benefit
Hotel Congress is hosting Hearts & Guitars, a benefit concert for the Giovanni Terranella Heart Transplant Research Fund through Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Beyond live music, find a silent auction with items from local artists.
When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: $10 in advance, $15 day of
Visit the event page for more information.
"Twilight" Trivia at the Short Rest Tavern
Fridays are for trivia at the Short Rest Tavern, a hidden bar tucked inside Tucson Mall's Tucson Games and Gadgets. This Friday, test your knowledge on all things "Twilight."
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17
Where: Short Rest Tavern in Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for drinks. Tables are first come, first served. Park between Dillard's and Sears.
Visit the event page for more information.
Self Love Market
More than 15 local artists will be part of the upcoming Self Love Market with items that range from candles to macrame. Beyond the vendors, the event will feature yoga, speakers, food and sound healing.
When: 2-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17
Where: Catalyst in Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Citlali Montoya fills up a container with dish soap at Cero. The store began as a pop-up shop in May 2019 and now has a retail space.
ECO VGN Pop-up Market
Cero Zero Waste Shop is hosting a mini market series featuring local and eco-friendly makers and small businesses. This Friday, find books from Barrio Books, wildlife prints and stickers from Aall Forms of Life and potted cacti-shaped glass from The Glass Desert.
When: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17
Where: Cero, 160 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Ballet Tucson Fall Concert
Ballet Tucson is hosting its fall concert at the Leo Rich Theater this weekend, featuring three masterworks.
When: Friday-Sunday, Nov. 17-19
Where: Leo Rich Theater, 260 S. Church Ave.
Cost: $30-$50
Visit the event page for more information.
TKMA Presents: Wayback & Friends, The Jane Heirs, and Heather, Nancy, & Danny
The Tucson Kitchen Musicians Association, aka the folks who put on the Tucson Folk Festival each spring, are hosting a concert this Friday featuring three performances. Proceeds support the upcoming festival!
When: 7-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 17
Where: Monterey Court, 505 W. Miracle Mile
Cost: $10
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, Nov. 17
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.
Tohono Chul's margarita uses Cheri's prickly pear syrup, whose sweetness is well balanced by the tequila, lime and salty rim.
Brewin at the Chul
Tohono Chul is hosting its second-ever fall series at its Garden Bistro! There will be music, spirits, brews and bites.
When: 5-8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays through Nov. 25
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 Paseo del Norte
Cost: Pricing varies based on menu items ordered. The gardens will be closed during these events.
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.
Bicyclists reach the turn at South Old Spanish Trail and South Freeman Road during the El Tour de Tucson bicycle race on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2014, in Tucson, Ariz.
El Tour de Tucson
El Tour de Tucson is celebrating its 40th birthday this year, bringing riders from around the globe to cycle the perimeter of the Old Pueblo. Ride day happens Nov. 18, but there's an expo and fiesta Nov. 16-18 with vendors.
When: Saturday, Nov. 18 is ride day. The expo is noon to 9 p.m. Thursday-Friday, Nov. 16-17 and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18.
Where: The expo is held at the Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave.
Cost: $15-$300 to ride. Expo is free to attend, bring money for shopping and food.
Visit the event page for more information.
Native American Arts Fair
Find ceramics, basketry, beads, clothing and more artwork from Native American artists. Some artists will also demonstrate their crafts during this fair.
When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane
Cost: Free to attend, donations appreciated
Visit the event page for more information.
Family Festival in the Park
Tucson Parks and Recreation, in partnership with Cigna, is hosting the 16th annual Family Festival in the Park where you'll find games, prizes, crafts, inflatables, demonstrations and food. There will also be free swimming at Edith Ball Adaptive Recreation Center and $1 admission to Reid Park Zoo.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Reid Park, 22nd Street and Country Club Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food. Reid Park Zoo will have $1 admission.
Visit the event page for more information.
Thanksgiving Benefit for Casa Maria
Hotel Congress will be the home of this concert benefitting Casa Maria Soup Kitchen ahead of Thanksgiving. Find performances by nearly a dozen musicians.
When: 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: $10
Visit the event page for more information.
Retro Game Show Night
Retro Game Show Night, an evening of off-the-cuff comedy that pays homage to old TV game shows with a funky twist, returns. The upcoming game show is "Battle Mimes."
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Club Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: $19.06. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Desert Haze Market
This market features a lineup of about a dozen vendors who curate vintage clothing.
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Button Brew House Chili Cook-off
Taste eight different chili creations and vote for your favorite!
When: 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Button Brew House, 6800 N. Camino Martin
Cost: $30, includes eight 3-ounce samples of chili and one vote.
Visit the event page for more information.
Potted stained glass made by Alex Berger, aka The Glass Desert, displayed at #ThisIsTucson’s artisan market on Feb. 18, 2023.
Local Magick Market
The Ninth House is putting together a mini market featuring needle crafts, essential oils, plants, curiosities, jewelry, glasswork and more.
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: The Ninth House, 2563 E. Fort Lowell Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Southwest Native Craft Market
About 10 vendors will be part of this craft market hosted by Native Music Coalition. You'll also find music, hoop dancers and food.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Southwest Native Trading Post, 301 W. Ajo Way
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Arizona Diaper Bank Baby Shower
The Arizona Diaper Bank is giving away free diapers in sizes 1-3. Light refreshments and baby shower games are part of the fun.
When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Arizona Diaper Bank, 1050 S. Plumer Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, sign up in advance
Visit the event page for more information.
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: 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: The Jackrabbit Lounge, 2000 N. Oracle Road
Cost: $10 in advance, $15 at the door. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Family Saturdays with Watershed Management Group
Head to Watershed Management Group for Family Saturdays to learn all about the return of beavers to Tucson's rivers. This family-friendly event features crafts, science experiments and the chance to build your own beaver dam model.
When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Watershed Management Group, 1137 N. Dodge Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Make N Take at Pima Air and Space
Kids ages 6 and up will receive a quick-build model aircraft kit that they'll be able to put together, all while learning about the aircraft itself. Kids will also get to visit the aircraft they're set to build.
When: 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Pima Air and Space Museum's administrative building north of the parking lot, 6000 E. Valencia Road
Cost: $20 per child. An adult is required to be present with the child during class. Admission to the museum is not included and admission is not needed to participate in the class.
Visit the event page for more information.
A Night Under the Stars
Local nonprofit Reach For The Stars is hosting a night of stargazing. Learn about the stars and planets, all while gazing through telescopes and binoculars.
When: 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead, 16248 E. Marsh Station Road
Cost: Free to attend, donations accepted
Visit the event page for more information.
Floor guard Nick Hayes dances to the music as he monitors the skaters and keeps the traffic flowing at Skate Country, 7980 E. 22nd St.
Skate Country Late Skate
Skate Country after hours! The local roller rink is hosting Late Skate, for adults only.
When: 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Skate Country, 7980 E. 22nd St.
Cost: $15, skate rental included. This event is for ages 18 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
'80s Dance Party at Surly Wench
Surly Wench Pub is hosting an '80s-themed dance party. Wear your best '80s attire!
When: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
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.
Sip & Stroll at Westbound
Westbound is hosting this Sip & Stroll event featuring 12 spirits from around the world.
When: 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Westbound, 267 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: $45
Visit the event page for more information.
Trunk Show at The National Parks Store
Head to The National Parks Store for a two-day trunk show featuring Native American artists. Expect to see paintings, jewelry and more.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 18-19
Where: The National Parks Store, 12880 N. Vistoso Village Dr.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Cumbia Social Dance Night
Put on your dancing shoes for a night of music and mingling! Enjoy a cumbia class followed by social dancing.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Tucson Creative Dance Center, 3131 N. Cherry Ave.
Cost: $10. This event is for ages 15 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Goat yoga
Enjoy an hour of yoga and goats with this class at Udall Park!
When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18
Where: Northeast of the Udall Pool building at Udall Park, 7290 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: $25
Visit the event page for more information.
Shoppers browse the wares at the St. Philips Plaza Artisan Farmer's Market, 4280 N. Campbell Ave., Feb. 23, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz.
St. Philip's Plaza Market
Visit St. Philip's Plaza to shop from local makers from silversmiths to candle makers. While you're there, grab a bite to eat at one of the plaza's several eateries.
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 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.
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.
When: Nov. 19-Jan. 7
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.
Second Annual Harvest Fest at Rillito Park
Heirloom Farmers Markets host a market at Rillito Park every Sunday, but this Sunday's market will be extra special. It's the second annual Harvest Fest, set to feature educational presentations from local farmers, more than 90 food vendors, a demonstration from a chef and live music.
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19
Where: Rillito Park, 4502 N. First Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Bikestuffing: A Bicycle Scavenger Ride and Food Drive
Hop on your bike and go on this ride that's part scavenger hunt, part food drive in support of Tucson Food Share.
When: 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19
Where: Transit Cycles, 267 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: $20-$25 for groceries
Visit the event page for more information.
First Avenue Flea
There's a new antique market in town — and it's indoors! The inaugural market takes place this Sunday, featuring antiques and vintage items.
When: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19
Where: 3239 N. First Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Clothing Swap with Tucson Village Farm
Drop off clothes that you're no longer in love with and come back on Sunday to peruse new-to-you items.
When: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19
Where: Tucson Village Farm, 2201 E. Roger Road
Cost: $10
Visit the event page for more information.
50th Anniversary of Hip-hop Old School Jam
This all-ages old-school jam is set to celebrate 50 years of hip-hop. Expect music, dancers and live graffiti artists.
When: Noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19
Where: Playground, 278 E. Congress St.
Cost: $5. Kids ages 12 and under get in for free, though music may be explicit and parental guidance is suggested.
Visit the event page for more information.
Kitchen Witch: Cranberry Sauce
Witchy shop Monsoon Mystics is hosting a cranberry workshop! Owner and former chef Torrie Dueñas will cover all the basics and history of cranberry sauce and you'll get to take home two 8-ounce cans.
When: 5:30-7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19
Where: Monsoon Mystics, 657 W. St Marys Road
Cost: $32
Visit the event page for more information.
Tucson Masterworks Chorale
Dubbed Southern Arizona's oldest chorale arts organization, Tucson Masterworks Chorale is hosting a fall concert called "Songs of Peace."
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19
Where: Grace St. Paul Episcopal Church, 2331 E. Adams St.
Cost: $20
Visit the event page for more information.
Cat bingo at El Jefe Cat Cafe
Spend time with the cats at El Jefe Cat Cafe all while playing bingo.
When: 6-7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19
Where: El Jefe Cat Cafe, 3025 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost: $14, reservations are required
Visit the event page for more information.
