Rollerskating, a birding festival, a dog pool party, Cat Video Fest, a fancy Iron Chef dinner and a mermaid parade in Bisbee — all within a weekend.
Of course, things can change quickly these days. Check for the latest info before heading out!
Laura Broyles, center, uses her binoculars to look at a bird during a guided tour by the Tucson Audubon Society through the Sweetwater Preserve on November 28, 2018.
Southeast Arizona Birding Festival
This birding festival, organized by Tucson Audubon Society, is hosting a big roster of activities including field trips, workshops and presentations throughout Southeast Arizona.
When:Now through Aug. 13
Where:Locations across Southeast Arizona
Cost:Many events arefree with registration. Field trips range in price.
People are also reading…
Visit thefor 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, Aug. 10-12; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13
Where:Gather A Vintage Market,
Cost:Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit thefor 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 when “Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” comes to Oro Valley this August and September.
When:Thursdays-Mondays in August and September
Where:Oro Valley Marketplace,
Cost:$25-$35
Visit thefor more information.
Free museum days, a birthday party for Tucson and more free events happening this August. Find more info .
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 thefor 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,
Cost:Free to attend
Visit thefor more information.
Bisbee Pirate Weekend
We know what you're thinking: Bisbee is miles away from Tucson! But if you're looking to take a mini road trip to explore the charming little town, this might be a good time to do it. Bisbee Pirate Weekend features performances, a pirate fashion show, a pirate circus and a mermaid parade.
When:Friday-Saturday, Aug. 11-13, though most of the activities take place Saturday
Where:Multiple locations in Bisbee
Cost:Some activities are free, others have a fee
Visit thefor more information.
Skate Country Roll Bounce
DJ company Bros Entertainment is hosting this adult-only '80s-themed event at Skate Country, featuring a DJ spinning era hits, a costume contest and food trucks.
When:10:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 11
Where:Skate Country,
Cost:$16 in advance, skates included. $20 at the door.This event is for ages 18 and up.
Visit thefor more information.
Y2K-themed Chez Peachy pop-up
Home baker Chez Peachy, known for her colorfully decorated lunchbox-size cakes, is hosting a three-day Y2K-inspired pop-up at Park Place Mall. She'll have cakes decorated with 2000s-themed cartoons like The Powerpuff Girls, Care Bears and Spongebob.
When:11 a.m. until sold out on Friday-Saturday, Aug. 11-12; Noon until sold out on Sunday, Aug. 13
Where:Park Place Mall,
Cost:$20 for a bento cake, $12 for kawaii cookies
Visit thefor more information.
4th Avenue Deli's 10th Birthday
4th Avenue Deli is celebrating its 10th birthday with free cake and a special on their popular Tucson Streetcar sub. What's normally $15 will be $10 on Friday.
When:11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11
Where:4th Avenue Deli,
Cost:Free to attend, bring money for food
Visit thefor more information.
The Rialto Theatre, 318 E. Congress Street.
Metal Fest 25
The Rialto Theatre is hosting Metal Fest 25 as part of its Local Love Presents series. The concert features an all-local lineup of musicians.
When:7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11
Where:The Rialto Theatre,
Cost:$5 in advance, $8 at the door
Visit thefor more information.
Free Mead Tasting
Superstition Meadery will be at 1912 Brewing Company for a free mead tasting! Also on the agenda: live music from Flatlander Jim.
When:Friday, Aug. 11. 4-6 p.m. for the tasting; 6-8 p.m. for live music.
Where:1912 Brewing Company,
Cost:Free to attend, bring money for additional drinks
Visit thefor more information.
Free Film Fridays
Catch a poolside movie every Friday at Hotel McCoy! This Friday, watch a screening of "The Lorax."
When:8-10 p.m. Fridays
Where:Hotel McCoy,
Cost:Free to attend and open to the public. Swimming is for hotel guests only, but day passes for the pool are available for $20.
Visit thefor 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:䴡,
Cost:Free to attend, donation suggested
Visit thefor 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:5-9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Sept. 2
Where:Tohono Chul,
Cost:Free to attend
Visit thefor more information.
Summer Concert Series at Old Tucson
Old Tucson's outdoor concert series features tribute bands performing music from artists like Garth Brooks, Journey and Stevie Nicks. Restaurants, bars and shops will also be open.
When:6 p.m. select Fridays and Saturdays through Aug. 26
Where:Old Tucson,
Cost:$34 for general admission, $80 for VIP
Visit thefor more information.
Registration for Pima County's dog pool parties closes July 31.
Pupapoolooza
Now that some of Pima County's public pools have closed to humans, they're opening back up for dogs. DubbedPupapoolooza, Tucson-area dogs will get to enjoy a swim at two Pima County pools on two Saturdays this month.Pima County will be onsite accepting donations of sealed dog food and used blankets for the Pima Animal Care Center.
³:Saturdays, Aug. 12-19;9:30-10:30 a.m. for dogs under 30 pounds; 11 a.m. to noon for bigger dogs.
Where: Picture Rocks Pool,, on Aug. 12;Kino Pool,, on Aug. 19.
Cost: Free to attend. Registration required.
Visit the for more information.
Spinnin’ Wheels Outdoor Roller Disco
DJ Herm will be rocking beatsat this outdoor roller disco and dance party.
When:7-10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:MSA Annex,
Cost:$10. Bring your own skates!
Visit thefor more information.
Crescent Moon Night Market
Rozet Nursery's upcoming market features more than a dozen makers and food vendors. You'll find baked goods, handmade earrings, acai bowls and ceramics, plus live music, palm readings and an herbs class.
When:7-10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Rozet Nursery,
Cost:Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit thefor more information.
Family Literacy Fiesta
Make Way for Books is turning 25 this year! To celebrate, the local nonprofit is hosting a Family Literacy Fiesta with literacy activities, giveaways and information about their free literacy programming.
When:10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Make Way for Books,
Cost:Free to attend
Visit thefor more information.
Di Luna Saturdays
Every Saturday, a handful of makers and bakers drop by Di Luna Candle Store to set up shop. This Saturday, find jewelry, plaster art, vintage clothing and treats like concha cupcakes and pop tarts.
When:10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Di Luna Candle Store,
Cost:Free to attend, bring money for shopping
Visit thefor more information.
"SWEAT" Party at The Royal Room
Head to The Royal Room where DJs will spin pop, alternative, techno, electronic and house music. There will be a full bar, board games and a water bottle donation drive.
When:9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:The Royal Room,
Cost:Free to attend, bring money for drinks. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit thefor more information.
Penelope tries to reach a treat during the public feeding time at Summer Safari Nights at Reid Park Zoo, Tucson, Ariz., June 10, 2023.
Summer Safari Nights
Enjoy the cooler nighttime temperatures during Reid Park Zoo's last after-hours Summer Safari Night of the summer. You'll find keeper chats, animal encounters and live music.
When:6-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Reid Park Zoo,
Cost:$10.50 for adults, $6.50 for kids ages 2-14
Visit thefor more information.
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. 26
Where:Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum,
Cost:$29.95 for adults, $19.95 for kids ages 3-12. $24.95 for Arizona residents.
Visit thefor more information.
Beer for Bikes
Dragoon Brewing Co. is teaming up with local nonprofit BICAS for an afternoon of beer, art, prizes and food from Bailey's Artisan Pizza.
When:2-5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Dragoon Brewing Co.,
Cost:$25 donation includes a pint of beer, a credit at BICAS and a T-shirt
Visit thefor more information.
Art After Dark at Children's Museum Tucson
Each month, Children's Museum Tucson hosts Art After Dark with local arts groups and free admission.
When:5:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Children's Museum Tucson,200 S. Sixth Ave.
Cost:Free to attend
Visit thefor more information.
Tucson Repair Cafe
Need something fixed? Bring it to the Tucson Repair Cafe to be fixed for free! All items are welcome.
When:4-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Xerocraft Makerspace,
Cost:Free to attend
Visit thefor more information.
Emo Nite at 191 Toole
Bust out that My Chemical Romance shirt in the back of your closet and your favorite black eyeliner— Emo Nite returns to Tucson.
When:9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:191 Toole,.
Cost:$16. This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit thefor more information.
Cat Video Fest
Cat Video Fest, a compilation of kitty videos, is back at The Loft Cinema! A portion of the proceeds will go to the Hermitage No-Kill Cat Shelter.
When:2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 12-13; 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 17
Where:The Loft Cinema,
Cost:$10
Visit thefor more information.
"Beyond the Lens" photography exhibition
The upcoming exhibit at Decode Gallery showcases photography including nature, still life and portraits by local and international photographers. An opening reception takes place Aug. 12.
When:5-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Decode Gallery,
Cost:Free to attend
Visit thefor more information.
Vail Vendor Fair
Hosted by Vail Coffee Stop, this market will feature dozens of vendors, food trucks, live music and a giveaway for movie tickets.
When:7 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Vail Coffee Stop,
Cost:Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit thefor more information.
The northeast corner of Seven Cups Fine Chinese Teas. Graphic designer Jodie Lewers Chertudi completed this mural late last year.
Teas from China’s Far South
Seven Cups Teahouse is hosting a morning of uncommon tea tastings from China'sFujian and Guangdong provinces. You'll also hear stories of the origins behind each tea.
When:9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Seven Cups Teahouse,
Cost:$45
Visit thefor more information.
Ice Cream Social with Literacy Connects
Learn all about Literacy Connects' after-school program Youth Theatre and Film Collective during this ice cream social. While you're there, enjoy surprise activities and mingle with community members.
When:1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Literacy Connects,
Cost:Free to attend
Visit thefor more information.
Goat yoga
Enjoy an hour of yoga and goats with this class at Udall Park!
When:8-9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Udall Park,
Cost:$25
Visit thefor more information.
Walking tours with the Presidio Museum
Explore Tucson's downtown area with walking tours hosted by the Presidio Museum. Upcoming tours include the Turquoise Trail and Mansions of Main Avenue.
When:7-9:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12 for Turquoise Trail; 8-10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12 for Mansions of Main Avenue.
Where:Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum,, for Turquoise Trail;Café a la C’art, 150 N. Main Ave., for Mansions of Main Avenue.
Cost:$25. Pre-registration is required.
Visit thefor 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. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where:Dante's Fire,2526 E. Grant Road
Cost:$49 without dinner, $79 with dinner
Visit thefor more information.
St. Philip's Plaza Market
Visit St. Philip's Plaza to shop from local makers and enjoy live music. While you're there, grab a bite to eat at one of the plaza's several eateries.
When:8 a.m. to noon Saturdays and Sundays
Where:St. Philip's Plaza,4280 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost:Free to attend, bring money for shopping and food
Visit thefor more information.
Dante's Fire's Kenneth Foy is the third chef in Iron Chef Tucson's 15 years to win back-to-back titles.
Iron Chef Dinner
For the second year in a row, Dante's Fire's Chef Kenneth Foy has won the Iron Chef Tucson title. The Dante's Fire team will prepare the winning dishes (the secret ingredient was peanut butter) in a special dinner this Sunday. (If you want to try out the meal made by Foy's competitor Devon Sanner, Zio Peppe is !)
When:5:30-9 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13
Where:Dante's Fire,2526 E. Grant Road
Cost:$125
Visit thefor more information.
Second SundAZe at TMA
Visit the Tucson Museum of Art every second Sunday for pay-what-you-wish admission. Enjoy art-making, gallery activities and family yoga.
When:10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Sunday, Aug. 13
Where:Tucson Museum of Art,
Cost:Pay what you wish
Visit thefor more information.
Fruit Cocktail Lounge
Head downtown for an LGBTQ+ cocktail party and social at The Century Room at Hotel Congress! Enjoy cocktails, small plates and entertainment.
When:4-7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13
Where:The Century Room,
Cost:$10.This event is for ages 21 and up.
Visit thefor more information.
Make & Take Frogs
If you've ever shopped at curiosity shop The Heathenry, you've likely seen colorful decorative frogs for sale, sitting atop shelves and tables. Now's your chance to make your own!
When:10 a.m. to noon Sunday, Aug. 13
Where:The Heathenry,
Cost:$15-$25
Visit thefor more information.
Ride with FUGA
Take a bike ride with organization FUGA, whichadvocates for mobility, accessibility and representation for Tucson's south-side and west-side communities.
When:8-10 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 13
Where:Ward 1,
Cost:Free to attend
Visit thefor more information.
Cat events at El Jefe Cat Lounge
Spend time with the cats at El Jefe Cat Lounge at these weekend events, including yoga and bingo.
When:10-11 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 13 for yoga; 6-7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13 for bingo.
Where:El Jefe Cat Lounge,
Cost:$18 for yoga; $14 for bingo, reservations required.
Visit thefor more information.
Sunset Sundays
Explore the Tucson Botanical Gardens after hours!
When:6-8 p.m. Sundays through August
Where:Tucson Botanical Gardens,
Cost:$15 for adults, $8 for kids ages 4-17
Visit thefor more information.
