We’ve had an unusually chilly week in Tucson. As soon as it warms up a bit more, I’ll be on the lookout for wildflowers! I’m hoping we’ve had enough winter rain for some bursts of spring color.

Regardless, I’ll keep doing my best to look for beauty, get outside, and cherish the good days (or moments) as much as I can.

 

Happenings List

To that end, here’s my handpicked list of standout seasonal Happenings. Not only does it include Arizona adventures, but also online goings-on you can join in from just about anywhere! There’s an upcoming worldwide wildlife photo hunt. Tucson has a festival-heavy spring schedule with celebrations of song, books, film, folk music, agave, and – new this year – the cultural and culinary traditions of corn. (Yep, the Pueblos del Maíz is actually a four-city affair presented by UNESCO!)

So read on…find something that brings you joy, and then jump in!

Virtually Anywhere…

Amerind Artist Talk: Writing our Stories

Fifth-generation Diné (Navajo) Master Weavers Barbara Teller Ornelas and Lynda Teller Pete present on storytelling traditions and discuss co-authoring the book Spider Woman’s Children.

March 19, 11am / online / free (advance registration recommended)

 

Tucson Folk Festival: Live Broadcasts

Live broadcasts from all three stages of a festival celebrating acoustic Americana/Folk Music traditions and variations. Performances will feature national headliners, local acts, songwriting competition winners, a family show, and young artist showcases!

April 2-3 / online / free (donations accepted)

• More about seeing the Tucson Folk Festival in person is below, under “Arizona.”

 

City Nature Challenge (CNC) 2022

International citizen science event, motivating people to find and document wildlife in their cities.

April 29 – May 9 / Around the world (44 countries and counting!) / free

• April 29 – May 2: Look for wild plants and animals and take photos of them.
• May 3-8: Identify the species you observed and upload photos to the iNaturalist app.
• May 9: Challenge results announced.
• There may be local events planned in your city. (In Tucson, for example, you can take part in a “bioblitz” at Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum or Tohono Chul.)

 

Arizona State Museum online exhibits

ongoing / online / free

• Introduction to the James S. Griffith Collection of Mayo and Yoeme Pascola Masks
• 19th Century Navajo Weaving
• Virtual Reality Tour of the Pottery Project Exhibit
• Info on in-person exhibits at Arizona State Museum (Tucson) below, under “Arizona.”

Find Your Virtual Park

In honor of National Park Week, check out NPS online events, games, and virtual tours!

ongoing / online / free

 

Across the U.S…

National Park Week

To celebrate National Park Week (April 16-24), you can visit any U.S. National Park on April 16 without having to pay an  entrance fee!

April 16 / All U.S. National Parks / Free admission.

Some Parks will also have special activities, like…

• Courtyard Jazz Concert at Lafitte National Historical Park’s French Quarter visitor center (New Orleans, LA)
• Nature Walk: It’s a Trap! exploring carnivorous plants at Big Thicket National Preserve (Texas)
• Full Moon Bike Tour through Everglades National Park (Florida) [the idea of hanging out in the Everglades at night sounds both beautiful and terrifying to me]
• It’s also National Junior Ranger Day, so many Parks will have activity books and things specifically for kids to do.
• If you can’t make it to a National Park that day, there are also upcoming free admission days on August 4, September 24, and November 11. Or try a virtual visit!

 

Arizona…

Tucson Desert Song Festival: Women of Song

A series of concerts, a full opera, and a musical play centered on the nuances of the female voice in both jazz and classical music.

Now – March 19, May 13 / Tucson area / Several of the events are free. Ticket prices for paid events range from $17-83.

• February 26 – March 19:  Nina Simone: Four Women at Temple of Music and Art. A play infused with music that imagines singer and activist Nina Simone in conversation with three Black women from different backgrounds. Tickets $25-73.
• May 13: Dianne Reeves (rescheduled concert). Tickets $65 – $80.

 

Through the Lens of Navajo Photographer Priscilla Tacheney

Fine art photography by Priscilla Tacheney, who is inspired by the beauty of southwestern landscapes and her Diné (Navajo) culture.

Now – March 31 / Dragoon (Southeastern Arizona) at Amerind Museum / Included with admission.

 

Radical Happiness: Lex Gjurasic

Exhibition of the Flower Mound series that Tucson-based artist Lex Gjurasic started making at the onset of the pandemic. Her art helps her combat anxiety, and she hopes it brings others joy, as well.

Now – April 9 / Chandler (Phoenix area) at Chandler Center for the Arts / free

 

Mexican craft exhibits

Now – July / Tucson at Arizona State Museum (University of Arizona) + online

• Wrapped in Color: Legacies of the Mexican Sarape explores how the iconic sarape design expresses Indigenous, Spanish, and Mexican traditions and innovative textile techniques, like producing dyes by cultivating wild plants and insects! The exhibit is co-curated by Zapotec textile artist Porfirio Gutiérrez. Included with museum admission ($8/adult).
• Pahko’ora/Pahko’ola: Mayo and Yaqui Masks. A collection of wooden masks worn by Pascola dancers from the Mayo and Yaqui communities of southern Arizona / northern Mexico. The exhibit examines their deep ritual significance and related traditions. Included with museum admission ($8/adult). The online introduction to the Collection is free.

 

Texas Canyon Mountain Bike Fun Ride

Bike ride through beautiful Texas Canyon. The scenic 7.8 mile loop is normally closed to the public.

March 5, rolling start 8-9am / Dragoon (Southeastern Arizona) at Amerind Museum / Entry fee $20 adults, $15 youth (ages 8-14)

• Funds raised help the Amerind Museum’s mission of fostering and promoting knowledge and understanding of the Native Peoples of the Americas.
• Ride registration includes free entry into the Amerind Museum and Art Gallery.

 

Hoya Plant Swap + Pop Up

Hoya plant swap open to both new and longtime collectors, who want to talk about plants and continue building this Arizona plant community! RSVP required due to limited space. There will also be vendors with plants, crafts, books, dessert, and coffee for sale.

March 12 / Phoenix at Palabras Bilingual Bookstore / free

 

 

Tucson Festival of Books

Beloved annual celebration of the written word. The Festival exists to improve literacy rates among children and adults.

March 12-13 / Tucson at University of Arizona campus / free

• Free parking in University of Arizona surface lots and in Park Avenue and Highland garages during Festival weekend.
• Cherry Avenue, 6th Street, Tyndall, South Stadium and Main Gate garages will be $5 during the day with free entry after 4pm.
• Skip parking by taking the bus or street car.

 

WineDown With Wildlife

Wine tasting evening to raise funds for the Desert Museum and celebrate World Wildlife Day. Enjoy local food and wine, stargazing, live music from local folk rock band Little Cloud, and time with desert animals.

March 19 / Tucson at Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum / Advance Tickets: General Admission $45, Designated Driver $20 / Ages 21+

• Food will be available for purchase from Ironwood Terraces and Phoebe’s Coffee Bar, as well as from local food trucks.
• General Admission includes 10 wine tastings and admission to Stingray Touch.
• Designated Driver Admission includes unlimited fountain drinks, tea, or coffee, Raptor Free Flight cup, and admission to Stingray Touch.
• Optional add-on experiences: night hikes and 30-45 minute Sonoran Desert Animal Spotlights for $7 each.

 

Haiku Hike

Self-guided walking tour of haiku poetry printed on acrylic signage and placed in planters along Congress Street and Stone Avenue. The 20 poems are winners of an annual literary competition, submitted by the public and chosen by Tucson’s poet Laureate, TC Tolbert.

March 20 – June 1 / Tucson in Downtown Tucson planters / free

• This year’s theme is Metamorphosis.
• Haiku submissions are due March 10.

 

Tucson Folk Festival

Accessible and family-friendly festival celebrating acoustic Americana/folk music traditions and variations, like American bluegrass, blues, country, jazz, and Latin music styles. Multiple stages will feature live performances from national headliners, local acts, songwriting competition winners, a family show, and young artist showcases!

April 2-3 / Tucson + online / free

• Drive-in stage at Park Place Mall.
• Concert livestream.

 

SOUNDspace

10 tap dancers and an acoustic bass player from NYC-based Dorrance Dance explore what is most beautiful and exceptional about tap dancing – movement as music. The company aims to expand tap dance’s audience with both an acknowledgment towards the past and a look into the future.

April 2 / Tucson at Centennial Hall / Tickets $35-65.

 

FRIED Festival

French fry + music festival with live bands and DJs, lawn games, and a kids’ zone with French fry themed crafts!

April 9 / Phoenix at Margaret T. Hance Park / Tickets $12 (advance purchase, food and drink not included), free for kids under 3.

• Craft brews, wine, soda, and bottled water will be available. (Cash only.)
• Leashed dogs under 25 lbs. are allowed.
• From the founders of Phoenix Pizza Festival.
• The event benefits Downtown Phoenix, Inc.

 

2022 Spring Made in Tucson Market

Market of goods handmade by Tucson artists, many of whom will be there demonstrating their work.

April 10 / Tucson on 7th St. between 4th Ave. + 5th Ave. (Historic Fourth Avenue District) / free

• Artist applications due March 5.

 

Arizona International Film Festival (AZIFF)

Film festival with a focus on independent cinema and diverse cultures. Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, AZIFF has exhibited over 3,000 films from 100 countries to over 168,000 Southern Arizona patrons.

April 20–30 / Tucson at The Screening Room, MSA Annex, Hotel Congress, and several other venues throughout Tucson. / Past ticket prices: Single admission/$8, all-access pass/$100

• April 20: World Premiere of Canyon Del Muerto at Fox Theatre. The festival begins with this portrayal of North America’s first female archaeologist, Ann Axtell Morris, who worked side by side with the Navajo in the 1920s in Canyon De Chelly. Ticket info TBA.
• April 23: INDIEYOUTH Shorts at The Screening Room. Films under 15 minutes by young filmmakers, ages 12 – 18. Free.

 

Agave Heritage Festival

Celebration of the agave plant, the culture surrounding it, and the spirits made from it – not just tequila but also other regional varieties like mezcal, sotol, bacanora, and lechuguilla. Throughout the festival, there will be a focus on sustainability and small agave spirits labels (Lamata, Rancho Tepúa, Rezpiral, Sotoleros, etc.). The newly-renovated Century Room Borderlands Jazz Club and Mezcal Lounge at Hotel Congress will also host several jazz concerts throughout the long weekend.

April 28 – May 1 / Tucson

• April 28: Lila Downs at Centennial Hall. Tickets $25-60.
• April 29: Larry Redhouse Trio at the Century Room (Hotel Congress). Tickets  $15 + one item minimum.
• April 29: Ignite Agave – Women of Mezcal at Leo Rich Theatre. 10-minute presentations from six women involved in agave growing or spirits production, plus a panel Q+A and live mariachi band.
• April 30: Agave Fiesta on the Hotel Congress Plaza. Over 40 agave spirits, an agave cocktail showdown, live music, presentations from industry experts, agave art and other goods. $50 entry includes 4 agave spirit tastings, 4 cocktail tastings, and paired food from the Cup Café Culinary team.

 

Pueblos Del Maíz: Tucson

Produced by UNESCO Tucson City of Gastronomy, this is the first weekend of a month-long international culinary celebration of maíz (corn). The inaugural festival will include regional food vendors, art, chef demonstrations, spirits, panels and lectures, and live music and entertainment.

May 5-8 / Downtown Tucson

 

Summerhaven Artisans Market

Local artisan market on Mt. Lemmon held Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer, starting Memorial Day weekend. Part of the proceeds benefit Southern Arizona Animal Food Bank (SAAFB).

May 28 – October / Summerhaven (Tucson area) next to the General Store

 

Tucson Comic-Con

Community-based pop culture convention with a mission statement of “Pop Culture For All!”

September 2-4 / Tucson at Tucson Convention Center / Ticket prices TBD (2019 full weekend price $50.)

 

 

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Finally, some things to keep in mind with the Happenings List:

• I’m not in charge of anything on the List, except for picking out stuff that sounds interesting to me and sharing it with you. 
• I do my best to share accurate information. But there’s a chance that something is not or that something may change.
• If you go to something on the List, I’d love to hear how it went! Feel free to contact me.

Happy new year! I’ve grouped this season’s Happenings into ones you can participate in from anywhere, ones with lots of locations across the U.S., and ones that are in-person in Arizona – where it’s great weather for being outdoors right now!

Happenings List

The Happenings List is my handpicked selection of events I think you artsy-crafty wanderers would be into! No one is paying for inclusion on the List. It’s simply my way to help support small businesses and artists and point you toward some neat things to take part in.

Virtually Anywhere

Yume Japanese Gardens of Tucson Online

• Virtual Sogetsu Ikebana Classes (ongoing): Learn traditional Japanese flower arranging via Zoom. $30 per class.
• Yume @ Home Virtual Membership (ongoing): Includes online garden visits, a member’s newsletter, and exclusive offerings with insight into the arts, customs and traditions of Japan. $35.

 

Tucson International Jewish Virtual Film Festival

January 6 – February 20 / Online / Individual screenings $12 per household. Full season pass $120.

Film festival celebrating Jewish history and values. This year’s online-only lineup includes 12 full length films, a mini-series, 6 shorts, and several post-film talks and Q+As.

A few of the upcoming screenings…

• Jan. 12-15: On Broadway, a musical documentary on Broadway theater.
• Jan. 21-24: Here We Are, a drama about the interdependence between a father and his adult son with autism.
• Feb. 11-17: Labyrinth of Peace, a miniseries based on the true stories of displaced Jewish children in a small Swiss village post-WWII.

SN: The Tucson Jewish Community Center that hosts this annual festival is near a couple of parks where we like to take Quijote, so I always see signs about upcoming events there when we drive by. There’s  also a sculpture garden (open to the public), which I’d like to check out sometime.

 

Annual Arizona MLK Celebration

January 14 / Online (YouTube) / Free

Virtual event recognizing the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his quest for equality for all people. You can watch it on the City of Phoenix’s Youtube channel.

 

Local Art Loves

February 1-28 / Online (Instagram) / Free

Local Art Loves is our annual online celebration of art and artists from different corners of the globe. During the month of February, use the hashtag #LocalArtLoves to share art you love wherever you are!

 

Across the U.S.

Martin Luther King Day of Service

January 17 / Sites across the U.S. / Free

The Martin Luther King Jr. holiday is designated as a national day of service to encourage Americans to volunteer in their communities, because working towards a more equitable world brings us closer to creating the Beloved Community of Dr. King’s Dream.

• To find a project to get involved in, go to the AmeriCorps Volunteer Search page. 
• Check the MLK Day box or search by keyword #MLK.
• To volunteer at an animal shelter, park, food bank etc. near you, enter your ZIP code.
• Some Phoenix-based volunteering ideas to get you started.
• For ways to help without being there in person, check the “virtual opportunities” box.

 

National Park Service Free Admission Days

January 17, April 16, August 4, September 24, November 11 / All U.S. National Parks / Free admission.

This year, there are five dates when you can visit any U.S. National Park without having to pay an  entrance fee!

• The entrance fee waiver does not apply to camping, boating, special tours, or other activity fees.
• There is at least one National Park in every state. Search for a Park that piques your interest at FindYourPark.com.
• If you can’t go on one of those dates, keep in mind that only 110 out of over 400 National Parks even charge admission. The rest are entrance fee-free year round!

 

Arizona

Oscar Muñoz: Invisibilia 

Now – January 16 / Phoenix Art Museum, Phoenix

Exhibition featuring the work of Colombian artist Oscar Muñoz, especially his self portraits and the unusual methods he uses to create his art.

• Located in the Katz Wing for Modern Art.
• Free days and discounts at the Museum.
• SN: I was able to take some time to learn about and contemplate several of his pieces during a virtual Slow Art session.

 

Arizona Highways: The Art of Our Photography

Now – January 16 / Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, Scottsdale / Included with admission.

Works by 10 artists who each chose a photo from the Arizona Highways magazine archive to interpret as a painting.

• At least half the price of each painting sold will go to a charity of the artist’s choice.
• H/T Best Things Arizona.

 

Through the Lens of Navajo Photographer Priscilla Tacheney

Now – March 31 / Amerind Museum, Dragoon / Included with admission.

Fine art photography by Priscilla Tacheney, who is inspired by the beauty of southwestern landscapes and her Diné (Navajo) culture.

 

In-person Ikenobo Ikebana Classes

January 11, 18, 25 / Yume Japanese Gardens, Tucson / $105 for a package of 3 classes

Outdoor classes in Ikebana, the art of traditional Japanese flower arranging. Learn to make the type of striking displays you see in the Garden’s Ikebana exhibitions yourself.

• All classes require prior registration and payment in advance.
• H/T Southern Arizona Japanese Cultural Coalition.

 

Tucson Jazz Festival

January 14-23 / Multiple venues in Downtown Tucson / Ticket prices vary by event.

10-day destination festival with world-class musicians. It was created to influence the discovery and celebration of live jazz performance and music education.

• January 15: Jazz Jam at Hotel Congress. An afternoon of jazz improv on 3 stages. Tickets $35.
• January 17 (MLK Day): Downtown Jazz Fiesta at Hotel Congress. Annual day of free performances.

 

Radical Happiness: Lex Gjurasic

January 15 – April 9 / Chandler Center for the Arts, Chandler / Free.

Exhibition of the Flower Mound series that Tucson-based artist Lex Gjurasic started making at the onset of the pandemic. Her art helps her combat anxiety, and she hopes it brings others joy, as well.

 

Tucson Desert Song Festival: Women of Song

January 19 – March 16 / Multiple venues throughout Tucson

A series of concerts, a full opera, and a musical play centered on the nuances of the female voice in both jazz and classical music.

• Several of the events are free.
• Ticket prices for paid events range from $17-83.

 

Book Fair Fundraiser

February 5-6 / Mesa Historical Museum, Mesa / Free admission to the sale.

Used book (and DVD / CD) sale outdoors on Museum grounds with thousands of bargain-priced items starting at $1.

• Includes rare and unusual books.
• Most of the remaining books will be half off on the final day, Feb. 6.
• SN: If you head east on Lehi Road past the Museum this time of year, you may find small roadside citrus stands where people sell extra oranges, lemons, and grapefruit from their backyard trees for about $3-5 a bag.

 

Tucson Chinese New Year Festivities

February 5-12 / Tucson Chinese Cultural Center (TCCC), Tucson

• Feb. 5: Chinese New Year Celebration for the community with a gift shop, Chinese cuisine, and performances.
• Feb. 12: Limited-seating Year of the Tiger Gala with a traditional 8-course Chinese menu, performances, and a silent auction.
• Proceeds of both events benefit TCCC.

 

Tucson Gem and Mineral Show®
February 10-13 / Tucson Convention Center, Tucson / Single-day admission $13, 2-day admission $22.

The world’s oldest and largest gem and mineral show. The 2022 “Show That Glows” will include a Fluorescent Mineral Pavilion with over 80 exhibits.

• Tickets will be available starting January 16.
• PDF coupon for $3 off single-day admission.
• Children 14 and under are free with a paying adult.
• There actually are dozens of shows under the umbrella of the Tucson Gem, Mineral + Fossil Showcase from January 18 to February 13!

 

La Fiesta de los Vaqueros: Tucson Rodeo

February 19-27 / Tucson / Weekend rodeo tickets start at $18.

A tucson tradition since 1925, the nine-day Fiesta celebrates real-life ranch skills and cowpoke culture. Events include bull and bronco riding, barrel racing, roping competitions, junior rodeo events, and a big parade.

• Full event schedule at tucsonrodeo.com.
• Parking at the Tucson Rodeo Grounds is $7 per vehicle.
• The Parade is free to watch from the curbside. Grandstand tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-12).

 

Yuma Art Symposium

February 24-26 / Yuma / Registration fee $190.

Series of presentations by both internationally recognized and emerging artists across a variety of disciplines.

• Feb. 24-26: Online auction.
• Feb. 25: Presenter exhibition at the Yuma Art Center Galleries. Open to the public.
• Symposium attendee registration is now open. Due to the pandemic, registration fees will be fully refundable or transferable to the following year.
• Early registration discount: $10 off if you register by Feb. 6.

 

Texas Canyon Mountain Bike Fun Ride

March 5 / Amerind Museum, Dragoon / Entry fee $20 adults, $15 youth (ages 8-14)

Bike ride through beautiful Texas Canyon. The scenic 7.8 mile loop is normally closed to the public.

• Rolling start between 8 and 9am.
• Funds raised help the Amerind Museum’s mission of fostering and promoting knowledge and understanding of the Native Peoples of the Americas.
• Ride registration includes free entry into the Amerind Museum and Art Gallery.

There are lots of great things coming up over the next couple months! The in-person holiday Happenings I’ve listed this time are in Arizona. However, I’ve also highlighted ways you can join in from ANYWHERE!

I’m especially excited about upcoming holiday markets, so I gave them their own section. If you’re looking for craft fairs and artist pop-ups, scroll on down to the “Holiday Market” section. It’s an excellent year to shop early and shop local!

 

Goodies

Throughout the List, I’ve asterisked (*) goodies. These are free or discounted extras inspired by the places and events on the List, like shop sales or a map of nearby trails. (Unintentional rhyme!)

Although some goodies are specific to a particular activity (like free parking for the Arizona History Museum), there are others you can enjoy without being there in person (like free digital puzzles with images from Arizona History Museum collections).

In fact, here are a couple seasonal goodies to kick things off!

• *Festive printable envelopes
• *DIY Holiday Spice Mix

 

Happenings List

Ready to Launch: Arizona’s Place in Space
now – Nov 30 / Arizona History Museum, Tucson / Admission $10, Youth (ages 7-13) $5
Exhibition investigating the impact that the people, landscape, and universities in Arizona have had in space exploration.

• *Free validated parking at the Main Gate Garage (815 E. 2nd Street).
• *ANYWHERE: Digital jigsaw puzzles of postcards and other images from the Arizona Historical Society archives.

 

All Souls Procession Weekend
Nov 5-7 / Tucson
A weekend of events to deepen your connection to the community, leading up to a two-mile long procession to both celebrate and mourn of the lives of our loved ones and ancestors.

• Luz de Vida II Benefit Concert / Nov 6 / Tickets start at $25 + proceeds support Homicide Survivors, Inc.
• Procession and Ceremony / Nov 7, 6-9pm / Free. (Donations accepted.)
• Casa De Los Muertos After Party / Nov 7, 9:30-11pm / $10
• ANYWHERE: Join the Livestream November 7 at 6pm

 

Art in Unexpected Places Festival
Nov 5-7 / Kierland Commons and The Westin Kierland Resort + Spa, Scottsdale
3 days of immersive experiences, including a community art festival, 5K run/walk, and arts + crafts marketplace.

• *Sales at Kierland Commons.

 

Beginner Embroidery: Pay-What-You-Can Community Class
Nov 6, 12pm / Good Things Tucson Studio, Tucson / Free. (Donations accepted.)
Learn 8 basic stitches and other embroidery fundamentals. Then use what you’ve learned to embroider a simple desert-themed pattern onto a baseball cap.

• Bring your own canvas baseball cap to embroider or purchase one supplied by a local shop, Mi Reina Boutique, for $10.
• Donations to cover the cost of supplies are welcome but not required.
• Reserve your spot by emailing info@goodthingstucson.com

 

Music in the Mountains Concert Series
Nov 6 – Dec 18 / Catalina State Park, Tucson / Included with Park admission ($7/vehicle).
Outdoor performances by local musicians on stage in a Catalina State Park picnic area.

• Way Out West / Nov 6, 4pm
• Dan Levinson + The Cat Mountain Rounders / Dec 4, 3pm
• Rick Volante + Vicky Smith / Dec 18, 3pm
• *Save on admission to Arizona State Parks with a standard ($75) or premium ($200) annual pass.

 

Lunchtime Virtual Lecture: On the Front Lines of Arizona Weather: Blizzards, Fires, and Floods
Nov 8, 12:15pm / ANYWHERE (via Zoom) / Free.
From Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, Dr. Brian Klimowski, Meteorologist in Charge for the Flagstaff National Weather Service office, will talk about wild weather in Northern Arizona, including some of the incredible storms of the past couple years, the current “megadrought,” climate change, and what the NWS is doing to help us all prepare for high-impact weather events.

• Join in via Zoom.

 

Loft Film Fest
Nov 10 – Nov 18 / The Loft Cinema, Tucson 
Eight-day showcase of independent, foreign and classic cinema. Film fans can experience hand-selected festival favorites from Cannes, Sundance, SXSW, etc. and meet internationally-renowned artists from the world of independent cinema.

• Full festival badges ($180) have sold out. You can get on the waiting list, in case more are added, or purchase tickets for individual screenings.
• The 2021 festival will be 100% in person, with all screenings and special events taking place in The Loft Cinema’s Screen 1 and in the Open Air Cinema.
• Select screenings will also feature live or pre-recorded virtual interviews with filmmakers.
• *ANYWHERE IN THE U.S.: Loft Cinema masks are on sale, and so are some of their t-shirts and hoodies.

 

Phoenix Pizza Festival
Nov 13-14 / Margaret T. Hance Park, Phoenix / Tickets $12 (advance purchase only), free for kids under 5.
Festival of pizza makers selling $2-4 slices. Plus live bands, lawn games, local vendors, and a kids’ zone.

• Arizona Wilderness Brewery will offer local craft brews. Wine, soda, water, lemonade, and other beverages will be available, too. (Cash only.)
• The event benefits Downtown Phoenix, Inc.
• We went to the Phoenix Pizza Festival a few years ago. Something about pizza seems to put people in celebratory – sometimes silly – mood!

 

Whiskey Del Bac Ten-Year Anniversary Celebration
Nov 13, 4:30 pm / Westbound, Tucson / Free
Tucson-based Whisky Del Bac is celebrating 10 years of crafting their mesquite-smoked whisky. The party will be open to the public with cocktails, special Private Barrel releases, a Del Bac farmer’s market, limited edition merchandise, music and food.

• *ANYWHERE IN ARIZONA: Free shipping when you purchase two or more bottles from Whiskey Del Bac directly.
• Outside of Arizona, check their site for other retailers.

 

Sahuarita Chalk Art Festival
Nov 13, 10am-3pm / Sahuarita Lake Park / Free.
In one day, a collection of chalk artists will transform park pavement into colorful works of art. Attendees can watch professional artists create stunning murals or create their own masterpiece.

Slider Throwdown
Nov 14 / High Street, Phoenix / $40 admission
Food truck battle to see who makes the best slider! There will also be music by Josh West Trio and a silent auction. The event raises money for the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation (AFFCF). Admission includes samples of all sliders, one (non-alcoholic) drink coupon, one lemonade coupon, one frozen yogurt coupon, and one People’s Choice vote.

 

Marana Holiday Festival & Christmas Tree Lighting
Dec 4, 3-8pm / Town of Marana 
This year’s festivities in Downtown Marana include the lighting of a 25-foot Christmas tree with synchronized music and dancing lights, live holiday music performances, activities for kids, a holiday market, and more than 40 food trucks.

• 3pm: Beginning of performances (local musicians, youth choirs and dance troupes)
• 6pm: Christmas tree lighting and show.
• Kids’ activities include a make-and-take ornament station, foam snow dance party, bounce zone, kiddie train, and visits with Santa.
• *Marana has a free hiking and biking map you can download or pick up in person!

 

Slow Art
Dec 23 / ANYWHERE (Zoom) / Pay what you wish.
Spend some extra time with Phoenix Art Museum pieces during meditation sessions lead by museum educators and mindfulness guides.

• RSVP required.
• SN: I participated in one of these a couple months ago. It was a refreshing way to calm my mind and reset, while also learning about an artist and his process!
• H/T Downtown Phoenix Inc.

 

Holiday Markets around Arizona!

Good Stuff Pop-up
Nov 7, 10am-2pm / 2734 E. Exeter St., Tucson / Free admission.
A micro art market in a Broodmoor neighborhood backyard with just seven select vendors, organized by Tawney Weir (Little Toro Designs) and Lex Gjurasic.

• *Free mimosas!

 

La Encantada Fine Art Market
Nov 20-21 / La Encantada Shopping Center, Tucson, AZ / Free admission.
The open-air La Encantada Fine Art Market is an opportunity to support local artisans and fine art crafters creating metalwork, locally-designed fashion, sculptural pieces made from fallen old-growth trees, art glass, and paintings on canvas.

• *Free parking is available at La Encantada Shopping Center. When the lot is full, attendees can park at the Plaza Colonial Shopping Center (Campbell Ave and Skyline).
• Dogs on leashes are allowed.
• Their next market will be Jan. 29-30, 2022.

 

Early Bird Makers Market
Nov 20, 9am-3pm / The Shops at Town + Country, Phoenix / Free admission.
Pop-up market by Local Trade AZ, featuring over 120 local makers with one-of-kind art, jewelry, furniture, decor, clothing, food, and health and beauty products.

• Live music and raffles.
• Proceeds benefit Phoenix Children’s Hospital.
• *Special offers from The Shops at Town + Country.

 

Crafeteria
Nov 27, Dec 4, Dec 11, Dec 18 / behind Frances Boutique, Phoenix
Award-winning independent craft fair with local handmade original work, as well as live music and food vendors. This year, instead of a single evening event, Crafeteria will be held on 4 Saturdays.

• *ANYWHERE IN THE U.S.: You can shop online yearround at Frances, the boutique that hosts Crafeteria. They offer free gift wrapping and free shipping on orders of $50 or more!

 

Made in Tucson Market
Nov 28, 10am-5pm / Historic Fourth Avenue District, Tucson
Outdoor market of local + handmade goods on 4th Ave. in Downtown Tucson.

Desert Air Market
Dec 4, 10-4pm / 6th Ave. + 6th St., Tucson
Reoccurring popup market created and run by local makers + artists.

 

Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair
Dec 10-12 / 5 blocks of Fourth Avenue
51-year-old fair that hosts artists from around the world, local entertainment, and food! Funds are used to support the Avenue’s infrastructure and events.

• *Free shuttle service from the Pennington Street Garage and the Tyndal Avenue Garage.
• You can also park along the streetcar line + take Sun Link in.
• No pets.

Winter Art Market
Dec 11-12 / Museum of Northern Arizona (MNA), Flagstaff / Free admission.

Come admire, browse, and bring home some of the diverse arts created on the Colorado Plateau, from traditional weavings to contemporary paintings, as well as unique cards and gifts.

• *ANYWHERE: Fine art on sale at the MNA Shop.
• *ANYWHERE: Visit the American Southwest Virtual Museum.

 

Annual Holiday Bazaar
Dec 17-19 / Mercado San Agustin, MSA Annex and on Avenida del Convento, Tucson
Local artists, artisans, and makers will be selling their wares at Mercado San Agustin, MSA Annex, and down Avenida del Convento.

• Vendor applications are due by December 1.

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Happenings on this list are handpicked by me. List items are not ads – just stuff that sounded neat!

As the fall weather approaches, so does Arizona’s festival/getting-outside season. And it’s great to see how many events are re-emerging after being on hold last year!

A few things to know about this season’s Happenings List:

• Goodies: Free and discounted extras are asterisked (*).
• All the cities mentioned are in Arizona, however…
• You’ll also see ways to join in from ANYWHERE!

 

Happenings List

Following the Stars

now – Sep 30 / Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and Museum, Tubac / Included with admission: $7, Youth (7-13): $2

Exhibition of works in diverse media – printmaking, painting, photography, glass art – inspired by Arizona’s magnificent night sky. A percentage of artwork sales will benefit the Presidio, which was the first State Park in Arizona.

 

Mt. Lemmon Artisan Market

now – Oct / next to the General Store, Summerhaven / Free admission.

Outdoor market with local artisan vendors in Summerhaven on Mt. Lemmon (north of Tucson), Saturdays and Sundays through October.

• SN: We stopped by the market this past weekend. There were maybe 15 booths with all kinds of unique gifty things – woodworking, jewelry, candles, photography, etc. Plus, a coffee and kettle corn food truck that smelled delicious!
• Market benefits Southern Arizona Animal Food Bank.

ANYWHERE: You can also donate directly to Southern Arizona Animal Food Bank.

Ready to Launch: Arizona’s Place in Space

now – Nov 30 / Arizona History Museum, Tucson / Admission $10, Youth (ages 7-13) $5

Exhibition investigating the impact that the people, landscape, and universities in Arizona have had in space exploration.

• *Free validated parking at the Main Gate Garage (815 E. 2nd Street).
• *Free admission for Museum Day with advance registration.

*ANYWHERE: Digital jigsaw puzzles of postcards and other images from the Arizona Historical Society archives.

 

All Souls Procession Workshops

Sep – Nov / Tucson / Free.

Art workshops in preparation for All Souls Procession Weekend (11/5-11/7) happen throughout September and October. Details are still being finalized for several of these, so watch their site and Facebook page for details.

• Mask and Puppetry Craft with Red Herring Puppet Company: Oct 3, 10, 17, 24 at MSA Annex.
• Broken Heart Workshop with Nadia Hagen at East Hive Tucson (schedule TBA). A crafty experiential opportunity to grapple with heartfelt emotions while getting your hands dirty.
• OBON Drum and Dance Workshops with Odaiko Sonora by Rhythm Industry (schedule TBA). Learn the traditional Japanese arts of dance, drumming, and chant.

ANYWHERE: You can participate in the Ancestors Project by submitting a photo of a loved one you wish to be memorialized during the Finale Ceremony of the Procession.

 

Quilt, Craft, Sew Festival

Sep 2 – Sep 4 / WestWorld, Scottsdale / $12 for all 3 days

Expo with sewing, quilting, needlework, and craft supply vendors (both local and national), as well as workshops and presentations.

• You can now buy tickets online and enter door prize drawings in advance.
• *$2 off admission online OR bring a printed coupon to the ticket booth.

ANYWHERE: You can shop featured festival vendors in the online Quilt-Craft-Sew Mall.

 

Sonoran Restaurant Week

Sep 10 – Sep 19 / Tucson

A week (plus) when Tucson-area restaurants offer special prix fixe menus for $25 or $35. This year 50 locally-owned eateries are participating!

• Sonoran Sip Room: Sep 9-11 + 16-18 in the Hotel Congress. Pop-up tasting lounge with a rotating selection of regional wines, agave spirits, and local craft beer.
• Part of the proceeds benefit San Xavier Co-op Farm, which is a cooperative of Tohono O’odham landowners committed to using healthy farming practices to grow traditional crops.
• Since Museum Day happens during Sonoran Restaurant Week, you could (for example) visit the Desert Art Museum and then go across the street for dinner at Renee’s (reservations required). Or check out the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum – both Blanco and North Italia are about 5 minutes away.

ANYWHERE in the U.S.: You can order products from the San Xavier Cooperative Farm’s online shop.

 

ASU Jazz Ensemble Concert

Sep 10, 7pm / Tempe History Museum, Tempe / Free.

The Natalie Gallatin Quartet will perform, followed by a Q+A session with the band.

• Limited seating, masks required.
• *Admission to Tempe History Museum is always free, and they’re also participating in Museum Day.

*ANYWHERE: You can see Natalie Gallatin’s Master’s recital on YouTube.

 

How to Eat Weeds

Sep 11, 8-10am / Mission Garden, Tucson / $35 per person.

Guided walk through the garden to see and taste edible weeds, followed by a presentation on incorporating these healthy (and free) plants into your diet.

• Samples of mallow chips and purslane pickles will be provided.
• Masks required while indoors.

 

Museum Day

Sep 18 / U.S. / Free.

Many U.S. museums are offering free admission on September 18, as part of Smithsonian magazine’s Museum Day. You need to reserve tickets in advance by choosing a participating museum from the list on their site, and then hit the “get a ticket” button to sign up with your email address. You’ll receive free general admission (good for 2 people)!

• While admission is free, museums may have a place for optional donations.
• Some of my previous picks aren’t participating this year, so watch for an updated list!

*ANYWHERE: Check out this list of 50 museums that have virtual tours!

 

Jerome Indie Film + Music Festival

Sep 23 – Sep 26 / Jerome / Day Pass $75.

Festival that screens independent films in unconventional locations throughout the mountainside ghost town of Jerome. Past venues have included a train, a haunted gold mine, wineries, hilltop residences, and the basement hallway of a hundred year-old high school.

• *Jerome’s Haunted Hamburger has nightly specials from 5-9pm, including $2 margaritas on Mondays and half-price burgers on Wednesdays.

 

Slow Art

Sep 23, Oct 28, Dec 23 / ANYWHERE (Zoom) / Pay what you wish.

Spend some extra time with Phoenix Art Museum pieces during meditation sessions lead by museum educators and mindfulness guides.

• RSVP required.
• H/T Downtown Phoenix Inc.

 

MSA Summer Night Market

Sep 24, 6-10pm / MSA Annex, Tucson / Free admission.

MSA Annex shops stay open late, joined by over 40 local vendors, the last Friday of the month, May through September.

• Read about the Night Market I went to earlier this summer!

 

Oro Valley Fall Artisan Market

Oct 2 – Oct 3 / Oro Valley Marketplace, Oro Valley / Free admission + parking.

Outdoor market with a curated selection of artisan fashion, food, home goods, and visual art sold directly by local makers. Entertainment will include pop-up music performances and grab-and-go art activities.

• Food trucks.
• Dogs on leashes are allowed!

ANYWHERE: Follow the market’s featured artists and visit their online shops.

Tucson Meet Yourself

Oct 8 – Oct 10 / Jacome Plaza, Tucson / Free admission.

Annual celebration of the folk arts of the Sonoran region. It features artisans, home cooks, dancers, musicians and special exhibits from Southern Arizona and Northern Mexico. This year’s “Reconnect” themed event will be slightly smaller and centered on education.

*ANYWHERE: Watch performances and panels from last year’s virtual edition of Tucson Meet Yourself.

 

Sky Islands Artisan Market

Oct 9 – Oct 10 / Patagonia Town Park, Patagonia / Free admission.

Formerly known as the Patagonia Fall Festival, the 2021 market will focus on bolstering small businesses, wineries, shops, and restaurants throughout the entire Sky Islands region (particularly the communities of Patagonia, Sonoita, and Elgin). While capacity will be reduced, there will still be up to 90 artisans, food vendors, and exhibitors, as well as live music, entertainment, and an animal experience with Double G Alpacas.

*ANYWHERE: Watch the birds at The Paton Center for Hummingbirds in Patagonia.

 

Art in Unexpected Places Festival

Nov 5 – Nov 7 / Kierland Commons and The Westin Kierland Resort + Spa, Scottsdale

3 days of immersive experiences, including a community art festival, 5K run/walk, and arts + crafts marketplace.

• *Sales at Kierland Commons.

 

Phoenix Pizza Festival

Nov 13 – Nov 14 / Margaret T. Hance Park, Phoenix / Tickets $12 (advance purchase only), free for kids under 5.

Festival of pizza makers selling $2-4 slices. Plus, live bands, lawn games, local vendors, and a kids’ zone.

• Arizona Wilderness Brewery will offer local craft brews. Wine, soda, water, lemonade, and other beverages will be available, too. (Cash only.)
• The event benefits Downtown Phoenix, Inc.
• We went to the Phoenix Pizza Festival a few years ago. Something about pizza seems to put people in celebratory – sometimes silly – mood!

Have you gone to any of these Happenings? What are you making and doing this season?

 

Here’s one more goodie for you….

*ANYWHERE: Free “Hello Pumpkin” printable by House Fenway! Make it into a card or use it as part of a fall decor project.

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Happenings on this list are handpicked by me. List items are not ads – just stuff that sounded neat!