Oro Valley Festival of the Arts and Holiday Tree Lighting (copy)

Artist James Lee paints on a canvas in his booth during the Festival of the Arts and Holiday Tree Lighting in Oro Valley Marketplace on Dec. 4, 2021. Lee will be at the Oro Valley Spring Festival of the Arts this weekend.

Wildflowers are in bloom, the sun is shining and event season is in full swing. 

On the roster for this weekend: artisan markets, plant sales, an underwater Easter egg hunt, two parades, green beer for St. Patrick's Day and lots more happening in our favorite desert city. 

Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest info before heading out!

Blaire Manalisay, left, 6, plays grocery store with her uncle Ryan Bustamante at the Children's Museum Tucson, 200 S. 6th Ave., in Tucson, Ariz. on March 25, 2021. 

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.

Gather A Vintage Market

Find all kinds of vintage and antique home and garden items at this four-day market.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, March 14-16; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 17

Where: Gather A Vintage Market, 300 S. Park Ave.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information. 


Sponsored

Tucson Parks and Recreation is hosting a summer job fair March 15

Tucson Parks and Recreation is hosting a summer job fair on Friday, March 15 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Parks and Recreation administration building, 900 S. Randolph Way. Summer opportunities include KIDCO recreation workers, lifeguards, sports recreation workers, park maintenance and therapeutic recreation workers. For more information on the event, or to apply, click here.


House Party at Thunder Canyon Brewery

Dance the night away to a fusion of hip-hop and R&B, alongside brews from Thunder Canyon.

When: 8-11 p.m. Thursday, March 14

Where: Thunder Canyon Brewery, 220 E. Broadway

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for drinks. This event is for ages 21 and up.

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: 3-6 p.m. Thursdays

Where: BICAS, 2001 N. Seventh Ave.

Cost: Free to attend, donation suggested 

Visit the event page for more information.


Sponsored

Enjoy cookie-themed desserts and drinks while supporting Girl Scouts!

Celebrate the Girl Scout Cookie Program at their signature event this year at Corbett's! Taste and vote on delectable Girl Scout-themed desserts, take a spin on the Wine Wheel, buy raffle tickets and ensure that Girl Scouts have access to incredible skill-building opportunities here in Southern Arizona.


Sonoran Cinema at Tohono Chul

Visit Tohono Chul's Sonoran Cinema for an indoor screening of "Cars." Get cotton candy and popcorn from the concession stands!

When: 7 p.m. Friday, March 15

Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte

Cost: $4

Visit the event page for more information.

Indigenous Takeover

Indigenous bands and musicians will take the 191 Toole stage at this event. Reservation Sensation will serve food!

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 15

Where: 191 Toole, 191 E. Toole Ave.

Cost: $15

Visit the event page for more information. 


Sponsored

The Southern Arizona Home Show Returns to the Convention Center

Three days only to shop, compare and save with hundreds of local, trusted home experts in kitchens and baths, flooring, windows, décor and more. This is the ideal place to find great deals, new ideas and practical advice to jump start your next home project. Learn more here!


Stargazing with Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association 

Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association is hosting an evening of stargazing in Catalina State Park this Friday.

When: 7-9 p.m. Friday, March 15

Where: Catalina State Park, 11570 N. Oracle Road

Cost: Stargazing is free, park admission may apply

Visit the event page for more information.

Spring Bonanza at Trail Dust Town

Every Friday in March, Trail Dust Town will host Spring Bonanza, complete with discounted amusement rides, a kids' play area, a scavenger hunt and stunt shows. 

When: 5-8 p.m. Fridays in March

Where: Trail Dust Town, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for rides, food and drinks

Visit the event page for more information.

Shoppers browse Coy Creative's booth. Owner Megan Coy will bring monsoon earrings to #ThisIsTucson's event on June 15. 

Happenings at Monsoon Mystics 

Visit metaphysical shop Monsoon Mystics this Friday for a coffee and charms pop-up featuring drinks from Colibri & Renard Coffee and a charm bar (where you can make your own charm bracelet) from Sui Gen Femme. On Saturday and Sunday, the shop will host a rummage sale with vintage clothing, housewares and witchy items. 

When: Noon to 6 p.m. Friday, March 15 for coffee and charms; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 16 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 17 for rummage sale

Where: Monsoon Mystics, 657 W. St Marys Road

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Microorganisms in Mission Garden Soil

This event features a discussion about the role of microbes in soil health and a closer look at the soil microorganisms that help Mission Garden. 

When: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday, March 15

Where: Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane

Cost: Free to attend, donations accepted

Visit the event page for more information.

TKMA Presents: Frankly Scarlett, Katie Haverly and the Nancy McCallion Band

The Tucson Kitchen Musicians Association, aka the folks who put on the Tucson Folk Festival each spring, are hosting a concert featuring a lineup of female-fronted music. 

When: 7-10 p.m. Friday, March 15

Where: Monterey Court, 505 W. Miracle Mile

Cost: $12 in advance, $15 at the door

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, March 15

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.

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 weekend, test your knowledge in all things "Friends."

When: 7 p.m. Friday, March 15

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.

Jazz under the Stars at Tohono Chul

Visit Tohono Chul's Garden Bistro on Friday and Saturday nights through May 11 for cocktails, brews and bites, all while listening to local jazz. 

When: 5-8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays through May 11

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.

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. Friday, March 15

Where: Dante's Fire, 2526 E. Grant Road

Cost: $49 without dinner, $89 with dinner

Visit the event page 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 cat trivia and cat bingo.

When: 7-8 p.m. Friday, March 15 for trivia; 6-7 p.m. Sunday, March 17 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.

Claire Pennington, 1, gets a little help from her mother in hula hooping during Marana Founders' Day at Ora Mae Harn Park in Marana, Ariz. on Saturday, March 25, 2017. Founders' Day celebrates the history and people of Marana. 

Marana Founders' Day

It's a day to celebrate Marana! There will be a parade, car show, performances, art station, food trucks, vendors, inflatables and more.

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Town of Marana, 11555 W. Civic Center Dr.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Oro Valley Spring Festival of the Arts

This two-day market in Oro Valley features fashion, food, home goods, paintings and visual arts from 120+ local artisans, in addition to live performances. Food trucks will be onsite, too!

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 16; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 17

Where: Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Road

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Spring Fair with Tucson Organic Gardeners

Shop plants and gardening supplies at this spring plant fair with Tucson Organic Gardeners, where you can also get advice from plant experts about gardening in Tucson. You'll find plants and seeds, compost, fertilizers and more. The Arizona State School for the Deaf and the Blind will also be holding a rummage sale. 

When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, 1200 W. Speedway

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

People gather around the Cactus Courtyard where growers sell plants and give advice during a Monsoon Madness Plant Sale at Tohono Chul Park in 2015. 

Spring Plant Sale at Tohono Chul

Tohono Chul will have more than 1,000 species of cacti, succulents, shrubs, trees and flowers at their upcoming plant sale.

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, March 16-17. Members get early access from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 13.

Where: Tohono Chul's main parking lot, 7366 Paseo del Norte

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for plants

Visit the event page for more information.

Desert Air Market

This pop-up market is run by local makers and creatives, featuring nearly three dozen vendors selling everything from pottery and jewelry to baked goods and home items. 

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: 439 N. Sixth Ave.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Splash n’ Hunt

It’s an Easter egg hunt ... in the pool! Kids can hunt for eggs to win a prize, plus there will be photo ops and games.

When: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Edith Ball Adaptive Recreation Center, 3455 E. Zoo Court

Cost: Free to attend, reserve your spot in advance

Visit the event page for more information.

Pop-Up Fest

More than two dozen vendors are popping up at this festival that's happening at several locations in the downtown and University of Arizona area. Find jewelry, tumblers, cosmetics, baked goods and more.

When: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Locations near the University of Arizona and downtown Tucson

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

Movie at the Ranch

Watch a free outdoor screening of "Back to the Future" at Steam Pump Ranch this month. The sequel will be played in April!

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Steam Pump Ranch, 10901 N. Oracle Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

The works of Phoenix artist Hector Ortega will be on display at Sculpture Tucson’s sculpture park through May 30.

Tucson Sculpture Festival

Sculpture Tucson is hosting the free Sculpture Tucson Festival this weekend featuring more than 50 sculptors. The festival was first held in 2018 and has since become the largest outdoor juried sculpture show in Arizona, organizers say.

When: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, March 16-17

Where: Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, 3420 E. River Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Flandrau's Science at Sunset

Flandrau after hours! Visit Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium for its Science at Sunset series, this time all about black holes. Tickets include admission to the center's science exhibits, along with a lecture from Dr. Kate Alexander, astronomy talks and a planetarium show. 

When: 5:30-10 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium, 1601 E. University Blvd.

Cost: $20

Visit the event page for more information.

Traditional O'odham Agriculture at Mission Garden

Attend this event to learn about Tohono O'odham agricultural practices, including demonstrations and talks about Native American crops.

When: 8-10 a.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane

Cost: Free to attend, donations accepted

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, March 16

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.

"Food Fight!" Group Art Exhibition

&gallery is hosting an opening reception for its newest art exhibit dubbed "Food Fight!" which celebrates food and features more than 40 artists.

When: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: &gallery, 419 N. Fourth Ave.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information. 

Family Saturdays with Watershed Management Group

Head to Watershed Management Group for Family Saturdays where you'll learn about rain gardens and planting native edible plants. 

When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 16

Where: Watershed Management Group, 1137 N. Dodge Blvd.

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. 

Creative Kind Workshops

Maker shop Creative Kind has three artsy events on the calendar for March, including a DIY bouquet this weekend.

When: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Creative Kind, 2905 E. Skyline Dr.

Cost: $35

Visit the event page for more information.

Archery Expo Day

Oro Valley Parks and Recreation is hosting an expo for all things archery! You'll find archery equipment and other items, basic archery instruction, raffles and more.

When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 16

Where: Oro Valley Archery Range, 660 W. Naranja Dr.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Funbox

Dubbed the world's biggest bounce park, Funbox is currently in town with its 25,000 square feet of jumping zones and 10 play areas.

When: Weekends through April 7

Where: Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road

Cost: $19-$28

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 downtown Tucson.

When: 4 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Joel D. Valdez Main Library, 101 N. Stone Ave.

Cost: $25 for adults, $15 for kids

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, March 16

Where: Tucson Creative Dance Center, 3131 N. Cherry Ave.

Cost: $15

Visit the event page for more information.

Cars and Candy

Local candy shop Candy World is hosting a car show. All models are welcome, though it's first come, first served. An Easter egg hunt is part of the fun!

When: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Candy World, 9136 E. Valencia Road

Cost: Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Tomato Tips at Harlow Gardens

Harlow Gardens will teach you tips and recommendations for growing tomatoes in Tucson.

When: 2 p.m. Saturday, March 16

Where: Harlow Gardens, 5620 E. Pima St.

Cost: Free to attend 

Visit the event page for more information.

St. Philip's Plaza Market

Visit St. Philip's Plaza to shop from local makers from silversmiths to candle makers. 

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.

Nuestro Tianguis Tucson

Every Saturday and Sunday, head to Flowers & Bullets' Midtown Farm for a swap meet featuring vendors, food and music. 

When: 9 a.m. to 3 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.

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

Where: Foothills Mall, 7325 N. La Cholla Blvd.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

A pair with the Haunted Sprockets, who ride along in everything from motorcycles, mopeds and dirt bikes, scoot along the route during the St Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival in the downtown area in 2015.

St. Patrick's Day Festival of Tucson

This festival kicks off with a parade in downtown Tucson, followed by live Irish music, dancers, an area for kids, food and vendors. 

When: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 17

Where: Armory Park, 222 S. Fifth Ave.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food

Visit the event page for more information.

St. Patrick's Day at Casa Video

Casa Video and Film Bar has two movies on the lineup this St. Patrick's Day: "Leprechaun" (1993) and "The Banshees of Inisherin" (2022). The bar will have green beer and Under Pressure Panini Grill will be serving lunch and dinner.

When: Sunday, March 17; "Leprechaun" starts at 2 p.m.; "The Banshees of Inisherin" starts at 8 p.m.; Food truck will serve 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6-9 p.m.

Where: Casa Video and Film Bar, 2905 E. Speedway

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks

Visit the event page for more information.

St. Patrick's Day at Hotel Congress

Nancy McCallion and Friends will hit the stage at this St. Patrick's Day party, which also features green beer and Irish food specials. 

When: 2-10 p.m. Sunday, March 17

Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.

Cost: $10

Visit the event page for more information.

St. Patrick's Day at Hacienda del Sol

Hacienda del Sol is celebrating St. Patrick's Day with live music, a beer garden and an Irish-themed buffet. 

When: 4-7 p.m. Sunday, March 17

Where: Hacienda del Sol, 5501 N. Hacienda del Sol Road

Cost: $80

Visit the event page for more information.

St. Patrick's Day at 1912 Brewing

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with green beer from 1912 Brewing, along with corned beef and cabbage prepared by Daniela's Cooking. 

When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, March 17

Where: 1912 Brewing Co., 2045 Forbes Blvd.

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks

Visit the event page for more information.

St. Patrick's Day at The Parish

Head to The Parish this St. Patrick's Day for live music, drink specials and Irish eats like corned beef and cabbage and Irish stew. 

When: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, March 17. Music is 4-7 p.m.

Where: The Parish, 6453 N. Oracle Road

Cost: Prices vary based on menu items

Visit the event page for more information.

St. Patrick's Day at The Maverick

Country bar The Maverick is celebrating St. Patrick's Day with plates of corned beef and cabbage alongside drink specials and live music.

When: 11 a.m. Sunday, March 17

Where: The Maverick, 6622 E. Tanque Verde Road

Cost: $13.95 for corned beef and cabbage; bring money for drinks

Visit the event page for more information.

Goat yoga

Enjoy an hour of yoga and goats with this class!

When: 2-3 p.m. Sunday, March 17

Where: Silverbell Park, 7548 N. Silverbell Road

Cost: $25

Visit the event page for more information.


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