Your guide to 2023 festivals and markets in Tucson Arizona | to do
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After staying indoors and away from the heat for much of summer, festival season has arrived with a bang.
Fall and winter in Tucson marks the return of beloved events — Tucson Meet Yourself, Cyclovia, Winterhaven and all the artisan markets you can imagine.
Here’s a big list of festivals, markets and other larger-scale events happening through January. We’ll update this list as more events pop up.
Volunteer Fritzi Redgrave directs patrons through the gates during a soft re-opening of The Loft Cinema in May 2021.
Loft Film Fest
Loft Film Fest is back for its 13th year. The event screens independent, foreign and classic films while “celebrating the work of established and emerging directors, writers, producers and actors.”
When: Oct. 11-19
Where: The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway
Cost: General admission to individual movies is $12. Film badges, which grant you entry to every film, are $200.
Visit the event page for more information.
Marana Pumpkin Patch & Farm Festival
Pick your perfect pumpkin, explore the corn maze, and enjoy a number of kid-friendly activities such as carnival rides and a jumping pillow.
When: Now through Oct. 29; 3-8 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays.
Where: Marana Pumpkin Patch, 14950 N. Trico Road
Cost: Online prices are $18 on weekdays, $20 on weekends. It’s recommended to buy tickets online, as there are only a limited number of tickets available at the gate. Prices increase by $3 at the gate. Some activities cost extra.
Visit the event page for more information.
Angelica De La Paz, left, and her friend Celeste Campas react while walking through the Dead Man’s Grotto haunted house at Nightfall in Old Tucson outside of Tucson, Ariz. on Oct. 6, 2022.
Nightfall
Nightfall at Old Tucson is back for another year. The website says there are five new “terrifying haunted mazes,” plus four new scare zones, stunt shows, a seance and family-friendly attractions.
When: Thursday-Sunday through Oct. 29
Where: Old Tucson, 201 N. Kinney Road
Cost: $35-$40
Visit the event page for more information.
Glowing Pumpkins
Walk through a trail of intricate carvings on thousands of pumpkin replicas at this Halloween event. You’ll see carvings of animals, movie and TV characters, and Tucson icons. The experience was outside of Tucson Mall last year, but it’s at Tohono Chul this year!
When: 6:30-10 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday through Oct. 29. Also open Oct. 30-31.
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: Depending on the day, $15-$25 per person.
Visit the event page for more information.
The Slaughterhouse
Tucson’s haunted attraction The Slaughterhouse has opened for the season with its infested boiler room, creepy clowns and a graveyard. There’s also a zombie-shooting experience and “hellevators,” among other activities.
When: Thursday-Sunday through Oct. 29. Also open Oct. 30-31 and Nov. 3.
Where: The Slaughterhouse, 1102 W. Grant Road
Cost: $29 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Terror in the Corn
This haunted attraction is back for another year of scares. Your ticket gets you access to three scary attractions connected by a cornfield. The event is presented by Buckelew Farm, known for its now-closed pumpkin patch.
When: 6-10 p.m. select Thursdays and Sundays; 6 p.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays. Also open Oct. 30-31.
Where: 11820 W. Marana Road
Cost: Starting at $28 for general admission, starting at $38 for fast passes.
Visit the event page for more information.
Find pumpkins, sunflowers, a corn maze and more at Apple Annie’s annual Fall Pumpkin Celebration.
Fall Pumpkin Celebration at Apple Annie’s
It’s officially fall, y’all! Take a road trip to Apple Annie’s in Willcox for a hayride to the pumpkin patch. Walk through a sunflower field, make your way through the 12½-acre corn maze and pick some veggies to take home.
When: The corn maze is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Oct. 31. You can pick pumpkins 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily — but the hayrides to the patch are only open weekends.
Where: 6405 W. Williams Road, Willcox
Cost: Corn maze is $10 for ages 12 and up, $8 for ages 3-11. Hayrides are $5 for ages 3 and up. Pumpkins range in price.
Visit the event page for more information.
Film Fest Tucson
Film Fest Tucson, self-described as a destination film festival, focuses on short and feature-length narrative and documentary films.
When: Thursday-Saturday, Oct. 12-14
Where: Several locations, indoor and outdoor, at AC Hotel, Playground, Scottish Rite and Main Gate Square.
Cost: $12 per screening. $35 for a festival pass, which includes all screenings.
Visit the event page for more information.
Music + Festival 2023
For 15 years, University of Arizona composing professor Daniel Asia has curated the UA School of Music’s annual Music + Festival, a weekend of concerts centered on a single musical figure. This week’s event turns its attention to its creator. The festival’s eight concerts will feature Asia’s works alongside the works of composers he taught, mentored or befriended. The festival is Asia’s last hurrah with the school, where he has taught for 35 years. He’ll retire at the end of the school year.
When: Thursday-Sunday, Oct. 12-15
Where: UA School of Music’s Holsclaw and Crowder halls, 1017 N. Olive Road
Cost: $10 per concert
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, Oct. 12-14; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15. This is a monthly market.
Where: Gather A Vintage Market, 300 S. Park Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Tucson Meet Yourself
Folklife festival Tucson Meet Yourself is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The annual event has brought hundreds of thousands of people to downtown Tucson to celebrate the food, music, dance and arts of our city’s many cultures.
When: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13 (no performances between 2-5 p.m.). 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15.
Where: Jácome Plaza, 101 N. Stone Ave.
Cost: Free to watch performances and demonstrations, bring money for food and shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Chinese Chorizo Festival
This month-long fest celebrates the lost historic food symbol of Chinese chorizo. Activities include a fundraiser at MOCA and a Queer AF American Horror Story dance party. Throughout the month, participating food vendors will also serve dishes using Chinese chorizo.
When: See the full list of dates here.
Where: Various locations across Tucson and Phoenix.
Cost: Varies based on event and menu item.
Visit the event page for more information.
Angelica Duran, owner of Raizes 420, shows off her CBD-infused products at the Las Mujeres Verdes Mercado on Saturday, Nov. 19.
Las Mujeres Verdes Mercado
Las Mujeres Verdes is a group with a goal: helping other minority-owned small businesses thrive through frequent artisan markets. Find about 30 vendors selling items like art, jewelry, self-care and food, plus $13 tattoos!
When: 6-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13. This market typically happens twice a month.
Where: Coalition Space, 311 E. Seventh St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
Chicano Vibez
With a goal of bringing the community together to celebrate Chicano history and Hispanic Heritage month, Chicano Vibez will feature performances, food trucks, drinks, vendors, a fashion show and a car show.
When: 5-10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14; 1-9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15
Where: MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: Free to attend, though tickets are needed for the Grupo Medal concert ($45) and meet-and-greet ($50).
Visit the event page for more information.
Spooky Season Mini Market
Creative Kind is hosting a mini market featuring six spooky-themed makers, plus flash tattoos and piercings. You’ll find prints, candles, treats and more.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14
Where: Creative Kind, 2905 E. Skyline Dr.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Foothills Community Markets
Visit this market at the Foothills Mall for items made by a variety of artisans, from jewelry to yard art to crochet.
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays; closed Dec. 30 and Jan. 6.
Where: Foothills Mall, 7325 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the website for more information.
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 Terrorfest Horror-Con and Film Festival
The annual Tucson Terrorfest Horror-Con and Film Festival celebrates all things horror with the film festival at The Screening Room and the Horror-Con at 191 Toole. The convention portion has been described as your typical convention experience, like Tucson Comic-Con — but horror.
When: Oct. 19-22
Where: The Screening Room, 127 E. Congress St.; and 191 Toole, 191 E. Toole Ave.
Cost: $10 for the convention at 191 Toole; $45 for a pass to see all films and attend both days of the horror-con.
Visit the event page for more information.
Boo at the Zoo
Meet with princesses, pirates and superheroes at Reid Park Zoo’s kid-friendly Halloween event. There will be comedic skeleton scenes, games, alien alley and candy stations.
When: 6-8:30 p.m. Fridays-Sundays, Oct. 20-29
Where: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court
Cost: $14. Timed tickets are required, purchase in advance.
Visit the event page for more information.
Marana Fall Festival
Celebrate fall in Marana! The annual festival is home to carnival rides, mutton busting, live music, a beer garden, a sunflower field, historic exhibits, artisan vendors and more.
When: 2-9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Marana Heritage Farm, 12375 N. Heritage Park Drive
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
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.
Oro Valley Fall Artisan Market
This two-day market in Oro Valley, hosted by SAACA, features more than 100 artisans, in addition to classic truck displays and live art demonstrations. Food vendors will be onsite, plus there will be music and crafts for kids.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 21-22
Where: Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit event page for more information.
Tucson Organic Gardeners Fall Fair
Head to this plant fair to find locally-grown plants and seeds from vegetables and herbs to flowers and native plants. There will be garden supplies and fertilizers for sale, too, plus you can get advice on gardening and composting while you’re there.
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: 3809 E. Second St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for plants
Visit the event page for more information.
Desert Haze Market
Desert Haze is set to feature a lineup of about a dozen vendors who curate vintage clothing. There will be live music, too!
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Foul Fest
In a career spanning 30 years, the late Al Foul left his mark as a musician but it’s his legacy as a “remarkable human being” that his friends remember most. This second annual festival celebrates Foul with performances from nine musicians.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Che’s Lounge, 350 N. Fourth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
VailFest
Head to this family-friendly festival featuring vendors, food trucks, race karts, music, inflatables and a petting zoo.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Pima County Fairgrounds, 11300 S. Houghton Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit the event page for more information.
Barrio Bargains
Shop from local vendors when Strikes and Gutters Vintage brings Barrio Bargains to Screwbean Brewing this October. Expect to find jewelry, baked goods, fiber arts and more.
When: 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21
Where: Screwbean Brewing, 103 N. Park Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
The Best 23 Miles of Mexican Food
The Tucson International Mariachi Conference is putting together a foodie event, set to feature samplings of Mexican food — from tacos to raspados — made by local restaurants and food trucks. Folklorico and mariachi groups will perform throughout the evening.
When: 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22
Where: MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: $65. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit the event page for more information.
Randiesia Fletcher talks about the stories behind her paintings at her Living2Portraits booth during Blax Friday’s Soul Food Wednesday at the MSA Annex.
Soul Food Wednesday
Visit Blax Friday’s Soul Food Wednesday to support local Black-owned businesses and food vendors.
When: 7-10 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25
Where: Playground Bar & Lounge, 278 E. Congress St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
Chiles, Chocolate and Day of the Dead
Tohono Chul is hosting two days of food vendors, artisans and entertainers this October, along with ofrendas and Día de los Muertos face painting for kids. Vendors will be selling handmade chocolate, salsas and salts.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Oct. 27-28
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: $20 for adults, $5 for kids ages 5-12
Visit the event page for more information.
A Happy Hive Halloween Party
The Happy Hive Market is back: Halloween edition! Shop from 20 local vendors, get bites from food truck 420 Taco and see if you can take the top honors during a costume contest. Kids will get treat bags, too.
When: 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27
Where: Button Brew House, 6800 N. Camino Martin
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping, food and drinks
Visit the event page for more information.
Heathen Harvest Festival & Market
Local shops The Heathenry and Monsoon Mystics are hosting a market ahead of Halloween, set to feature 40 vendors, food trucks and activities for all ages including a costume contest.
When: 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28
Where: The Heathenry and Monsoon Mystics, 657 W. St Marys Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Cyclovia
Enjoy a day of car-free streets, where you can walk, bike or skate your way through Tucson neighborhoods. It’s essentially a big block party where you’ll find activity hubs and food vendors along the route.
When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29
Where: From the downtown area to Fort Lowell and Stone area. See the route here.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit the event page for more information.
Garden District Porch Fest
Head to the family-friendly Garden District Porch Fest for an afternoon of live music — from rock to jazz — on eight porches in the midtown Garden District neighborhood. Food trucks are also part of the fun.
When: 2:30-5:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29
Where: See the addresses here.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money to tip musicians and buy food
Visit the event page for more information.
Coalition Creature Feature Market
The Historic Fourth Avenue Coalition is hosting a creepy vendor market ahead of Halloween. The vendor list is TBA.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29
Where: The Coalition Space, 311 E. Seventh St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Merry Mercado
Local First Arizona is kicking off the season of giving with a vendor market of local artisans and the chance to meet Santa. The night ends with a couple hours of networking.
When: 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1
Where: Trail Dust Town, 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Tucson Comedy Arts Festival
Enjoy four days of comedy with Tucson Improv Movement’s Tucson Comedy Arts Festival. The schedule isn’t out yet, but expect performances and workshops.
When: Nov. 1-4
Where: Tucson Improv Movement, 414 E. Ninth St.
Cost: Last year’s tickets were $7 per show or $20 for a festival pass. Workshops were $20-$30.
Visit the event page for more information.
TENWEST Impact Festival
This impact festival led by Startup Tucson says it’s a “celebration of the growing innovation, creative and entrepreneurial ecosystems in Southern Arizona.” There are talks and experiences, plus afterparties and a huge downtown street fest with more than 100 vendors, live music, a fashion show and a beer garden.
When: Nov. 4-10. The street fest is Saturday, Nov. 4.
Where: Conference is held at Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave. Afterparties are at various locations around downtown Tucson. Street fest is also downtown.
Cost: $60 for a general admission conference pass. The street fest is free to attend.
Visit the event page for more information.
Love of Literacy: A Children’s Book Festival
This book fest for kids features a slew of activities: create your own bookmarks, write poetry, craft your own storybook and enjoy performances of stories written by kids. You’ll also find a story corner, giveaways and snacks. Admission to the Children’s Museum is free!
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4
Where: Children’s Museum Tucson, 200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
All Souls Procession
More than 150,000 people head to Tucson’s west side each year for the annual All Souls Procession, where attendees walk in remembrance of lost loved ones. The event started in 1990 when founder and local artist Susan Johnson was grieving the loss of her father.
When: The main procession takes place 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5. Other events, such as a procession of little angels and a concert, will take place Friday-Saturday, Nov. 3-4.
Where: The procession is south of Speedway, along Grande Avenue to the MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento. The front of the procession usually arrives in the Mercado District between 7 and 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Procession is free to attend, other events may have a fee.
Visit the event page for more information.
The 35th Annual Tucson Celtic Festival and Scottish Highland Games at Rillito Park, Nov. 7, 2021.
Tucson Celtic Festival & Scottish Highland Games
This festival is put on by the Tucson Celtic Festival Association and features Scottish food, classic cars, a kids’ area, Celtic dance and music and more. It’s now in its 37th year!
When: 5-9:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3; 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5.
Where: Rillito Racetrack, 4502 N. First Ave.
Cost: General admission starts at $18, depending on the day.
Visit the event page for more information.
La Encantada Fine Art Festival
SAACA is hosting a fine art festival at La Encantada, featuring artists selling items that range from mixed media to paintings to sculptures. You’ll also find live music and art demonstrations.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5. This festival also takes place Jan. 27-28.
Where: La Encantada Shopping Center, 2905 E. Skyline Dr.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
The Holiday Marketplace at Harlow Gardens
Harlow Gardens is hosting a market in anticipation of the holiday season, featuring more than 50 artists.
When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4
Where: Harlow Gardens, 5620 E. Pima St.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Medella Vina Antique and Vintage Fair
Once a month, Medella Vina Ranch hosts an antique fair where you can shop vintage items from more than 100 vendors, plus take a break at an onsite food truck.
When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the first Sunday of the month
Where: Medella Vina Ranch, 4450 S. Houghton Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
A fan gets video of Gaby Moreno performing during the Dusk Music Festival at Rillito Park, Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016, in Tucson, Ariz.
Dusk Music Festival
This two-day music festival is back for another year in Jácome Plaza. Headliners include DJ Snake, Seven Lions and 311. There are more than two dozen musicians on the lineup, plus you can check out food, art, vendors and yard games while you’re there.
When: Nov. 10-11
Where: Jácome Plaza, 101 N. Stone Ave.
Cost: 2-day general admission tickets start at $109. Single-day tickets start at $75.
Visit the event page for more information.
Desert Air Market
This pop-up market is run by local makers and creatives, featuring more than two dozen vendors selling everything from clothing and jewelry to pottery and candles.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11
Where: Bhava Wellness, 439 N. Sixth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Mercado Flea
Check out more than 45 vendors selling antique and vintage items at the Mercado Flea.
When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month through May.
Where: Mercado District, 100 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
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.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Nov. 17-19
Where: Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
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.
Black Owned Business Festival
Blax Friday, a local organization with a directory of Black-owned businesses throughout Arizona, is hosting its second Black Owned Business (BOB) Festival in November. Last year, the festival featured 60 vendors, food trucks and live entertainment.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25
Where: MLK Lot, 55 N. Fifth Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
Arts & Crafts Fair in Reid Park
This Arts & Crafts Fair held by Tucson Parks and Recreation boasts more than 140 vendors from the Southwest typically including painters, jewelers, photographers and more.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 25-26
Where: Reid Park, 920 S. Concert Place
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
The biannual Made In Tucson market happens in spring and fall.
Made in Tucson Market
The Made in Tucson Market featured around 300 makers at its last market in March. Although the vendor list is TBA, the market supports local artists and in the past has featured items like paper goods, clothing, jewelry, home decor and photography.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26
Where: Seventh Street west of Fourth Avenue
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
LightsUp! A Festival of Illumination
Kick off the holiday season with a stroll through the Tucson Botanical Gardens. There will be luminaria displays, 1 million twinkling lights and dancing sculptures among the gardens’ six themed light areas.
When: 6-9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, Nov. 24 through Jan. 7
Where: Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way
Cost: $20-$50 for adults and $18-$45 for kids, depending on the day.
Visit the event page for more information.
18th Tucson Tamal & Heritage Festival
This festival celebrating all things tamales is back for another year at Casino Del Sol. Attendees will enjoy a tamale contest, live entertainment, and food and artisan vendors.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2
Where: AVA Amphitheater at Casino Del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Road
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Hundreds gather at the Marana Civic Center to get up close to the lighted Christmas tree during the Marana Holiday Festival.
Marana Holiday Festival & Christmas Tree Lighting
Ring in the holiday season at Marana’s holiday festival and Christmas tree lighting. Snap a photo with Santa, order food from one of 30 food vendors, watch live performances, shop from artisans, plus enjoy lots of kid-friendly activities like crafts, train rides and inflatables. At 6 p.m. Marana will light their 40-foot Christmas tree.
When: 3-10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2
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.
Oro Valley Festival of the Arts & Tree Lighting
Check out more than 100 Southern Arizona artists at this two-day festival, all while enjoying performances, food trucks, art activities and the lighting of Oro Valley’s 35-foot tree alongside carolers and a parade.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4. The tree lighting is 6 p.m. Saturday.
Where: Oro Valley Marketplace, 12155 N. Oracle Road
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul
Walk through a wonderland of lights at Tohono Chul, set to also include live entertainment.
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, plus Friday-Saturday, Dec. 8-9 and Dec. 15-16. Member-only night is Dec. 1!
Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte
Cost: Tickets are not yet on sale but last year they were $20 for adults, $6 for kids.
Visit the event page for more information.
Makers Market at The Tuxon
Local maker Lilith & Daughters puts together this seasonal makers market at The Tuxon, where you can usually find at least 40 Tucson makers selling everything from jewelry to prints to baked goods.
When: Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2
Where: The Tuxon, 960 S. Freeway
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
Mary Huggins takes a look at copper wind sculptures before purchasing one at the Brighten Your Life Creations tent during the Fourth Avenue Spring Street Fair on March 24, 2023.
Fourth Avenue Street Fair
The biannual Fourth Avenue Street Fair is back this December! Shop from more than 350 artists, plus eat all the food of your dreams and listen to live music.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Dec. 8-9; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10
Where: Along North Fourth Avenue
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit the event page for more information.
Winterhaven Festival of Lights
A holiday tradition for more than 70 years, the Winterhaven Festival of Lights makes its return on Dec. 9. Walk through this charming neighborhood decorated in holiday lights and displays.
When: 6-10 p.m. Dec. 9-25
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
Visit the event page for more information.
The 25th annual Parade of Lights in downtown Tucson on Nov. 30, 2019, looking west on Pennington Street from Scott Ave.
Downtown Parade of Lights
Back for its 29th year, the Downtown Parade of Lights will snake through the Armory Park area this holiday season. Last year’s parade had more than 30 floats and 1,000 participants. Before the parade starts, a festival will take place at 4 p.m. with food trucks, vendors and music.
When: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16. Festival begins at Armory Park at 4 p.m.
Where: Armory Park area, see the route here.
Cost: Free to attend
Visit the event page for more information.
Zoppé Family Circus
Zoppé Family Circus, featuring Nino the Clown and a cast of seven generations of Zoppés, makes its way back to Tucson this winter. Expect acrobatic acts, a trapeze artist, a ringmaster and more. The circus has been a January tradition in Tucson since 2011.
When: Jan. 5-21
Where: Mercado District, 100 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost: Tickets are not yet on sale, but last year’s tickets were $25 for general admission, $45 for ringside.
Visit the event page for more information.
Tucson Trades
Indoor market Tucson Trades made its debut last summer and they’re doin’ it again this winter. Around 100 vendors are set to be at the market.
When: Saturday, Jan. 6
Where: Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave.
Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
SAVOR Food and Wine Festival
SAACA hosts this annual festival in celebration of Southern Arizona’s culinary arts. Walk the Tucson Botanical Gardens for tastings from more than 50 of our region’s chefs, wineries, breweries and restaurants.
When: Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20
Where: Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way
Cost: $115
Visit the event page for more information.
Tucson, Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase
The giant Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase is back for yet another winter season, bringing people from allover the world to shop the dozens of shows spread out across the city. Find jewelry, rocks, fossils and more.
When: Jan. 27-Feb. 11
Where: Various locations across Tucson
Cost: Most shows are free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit the event page for more information.
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