el tour de tucson parking

Parking Update, 11/17 - News and Events

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For information about event road closures, click the Traffic Alert news release below.

Pima Pain Center, the City of Tucson, and Rio Nuevo invite you to skate on Tucson's outdoor ice rink over the holidays, Nov. 20, 2022 - Jan. 8, 2023.

Tucson Holiday Ice will be located at 260 S. Church Avenue, in front of the Tucson Convention Center Ticket Office.

Tickets can be  purchased online  and at the TCC Ticket Office. Each session will start at a designated time and last for 90 minutes.

The admission for adults is $20 per session, children 12 and under are $14 and skate assists can be rented for $5.

Skates are included with the ticket price and begin at size 8 for children and run as large as men's size 15.  Socks are required , and gloves are highly recommended.

To buy tickets and see the hours of operation, please visit  tucsonaz.gov/parks/tucson-holiday-ice .

For Parking Garages - The  Entervo Smart Pay  app allows visitors to pay at any of the five Park Tucson public garages, including Centro, Depot Plaza, Pennington Street, Library and City-State.

For Parking Meters & Surface Lots - The GoTucson Parking app is the easiest way to pay for metered parking in Downtown Tucson, 4th Avenue, and Main Gate Square.

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Pedal Adventures

Your resource for mountain bike travel

The Complete Guide to Riding El Tour de Tucson 2023

2023 marks the 40 th year for the El Tour de Tucson . Over 7,000 cyclists ride in this event (that’s huge!) and they have a ride for everyone. El Tour de Tucson is about charity, community, health and wellness and it is truly a ride you should check out at least one.

El Tour De Tucson is held every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Amateurs and pros of all ages and abilities participate. It’s a great way to see Tucson by bike and meet new people.

Our Experience

Our trip to Tucson happened to coincide with El Tour de Tucson.  Randy did the 109 mile ride while Kalden and I did the 6 mile fun ride. This is a great event attracting over 9,000 cyclists of all ages. Kalden and I got up early to watch the 109 mile ride take off at 7am. It was a huge group and it took about 10 minutes for all the riders to cross the start line.

At 8am we lined up for the fun ride. It was mostly families (except for #30). Kalden was very excited to be up front and start “the race.”  As always once we actually started he became cautious and made sure to stay in control and be aware of the cyclists around him. It was a good strategy as the group ability amounted to a bunch of kids and inexperienced cyclists. When the road opened up Kalden did put the hammer down. The event was very well run. There were police at every intersection stopping traffic for us and about 3 aid stations for the 6 miles. The crowd for the fun ride was also refreshing to see. In Colorado these types of events are dominated by hardcore cyclists trying to get their kids interested in the sport. Here it was mostly non-cycling families out to enjoy this event and spend time together. At the end everyone got a medal and there were smiles all around.

Since we had to wait a few hours for Randy we headed to Whole Foods and then In and Out for a well deserved burger! When we got back to the event around 11:30 the first cyclists were finishing. It was a tough year with 20-30 MPH winds. Randy came in around 6.5  hours and was beat. He pretty much did the ride “off the couch.” He was still very excited about the event and experience. It was amazing to see the amount of people and the different types of riders. Some people were out on the course for 11 hours! An event to keep on the radar if you are in Tucson around Thanksgiving!

El Tour de Tucson 2023 Dates

The event will take place on Saturday, November 18, 2023.

El Tour De Tucson 2023 Routes

All Rides/Routes start and finish in downtown Tucson.

• The Century (7:00am start) 102 Mile
• The Metric Century (9:00 am start) 62 Mile/100 Kilometer
• The Half Metric Century (10:15 am start) 32 Mile/50 Kilometer
• The FUN Rides! (8:00 am start) 10 Mile / 5 Mile / 1 Mile

The Century

The metric century, the metric half century, tour de tucson expo.

The Expo & Fiesta  is at the Eckbo Plaza of the Tucson Convention Center.  Most of the activities including the live music, food, beer garden and exhibitors are outside.

The longer routes enter the Sonoran desert including Davis Monthan Air Force Base, the mountainous and saguaro lined vistas of Old Spanish Trail, and Colossal Cave. The route will also pass through the communities of Corona de Tucson, Vail, Sahuarita and Green Valley.

Note: Rides close at 4:00 pm.  All support ends at that time.  Each aid station will close prior to that time according to a schedule that will allow finishes by 4:00pm.

The Fun Ride is only $15 per cyclist.

There are three to chose from and all start at 8AM on Cushing Street (just south of the Tucson Convention Center).

• 10-mile course starting on Cushing Street (just south of the Tucson Convention Center) and heads to the Santa Cruz River multi-use path – scenic and mostly away from traffic.
• 5-mile course: easy and mostly flat along the Santa Cruz river path.
• 1-mile course a very easy, all flat ride out-and-back ! Starting on Cushing Street (just south of the Tucson Convention Center) to Stone, to 18th Street, to Meyer and then back to Cushing Street.

Family Notes : Pulling a child (pulled in a trailer or a kid in a seat on the bike) is FREE for the child but full registration is needed and the adult must register and fully pay the entry fee.

If you are signed up to ride in El Tour’s late morning events (the 63 mile or the 32 mile) you can ride one of these before the event with your kid!

Where to Stay in Tucson

You definitely want to be staying near downtown for this ride. Tucson is huge and even driving 10 miles and take forever with the traffic and lights. Tucson is just not an easy town to drive around. Plan to bike to the start line.

Best Spots (within 1 mile of start/finish)

Doubletree Convention Center – This hotel is right at the start/finish/expo! Can’t get a better location than this but book early.

Hampton Inn – Also a good location plus they have a nice pool and breakfast options.

The Downtown Clifton – If you want a more unique and vintage vibe check this hotel out. The price is also reasonable for being right downtown.

The Tuxon – Another unique and modern place is The Tuxon. They call it a hotel but think of it more like an upscale modernized motel. And that’s a good thing. the have a pool, a bar, and a fancy breakfast!

Things to Do in Tucson

Bike the loop.

Need to warm up for the event or want to spend more time biking after. Check out the loop for road riding routes around Tucson.

Visit Saguaro National Park

Both the East and West section of Saguaro National Park are amazing for biking, hiking, and sight seeing. We love the 8.3 mile The Cactus Forest Loop route around the east side. The views are unmatched and it’s an overall great experience on a bike. It’s one way so you don’t have to worry too much about speeding cars. The west side has a museum, campground, road and mountain biking!

Bike Mt Lemmon

If you’re in Tucson you need to bike up Mt. Lemmon at least once. You start off at about 2,500 ft surrounded by saguaro cactus and mesquite trees and climb to over 8,000 ft to pine trees and cool to cold temps. Mt Lemmon is a climbers dream road as the road is in great shape with a wide shoulder.

Tucson Bike Shops

Tucson is all about biking so there are plenty of shops for service, rentals, gear, and places to ship your bike.

El Tour De Tucson has a partner bike shop, Bicycle Ranch Tucson . They are able to receive your bike as well as assemble, disassemble and repack. Bicycle Ranch Tucson will receive your bike and reassemble, ensuring that things like your  shifting is good and there was no damage in shipping. The assembly cost is $55 and if you are needing to repack the bike after El Tour, then the total price to $90.

Fair Wheel Bikes. Fair Wheel Bikes is Tucson oldest and most reputable bicycle shop. They have a famous road ride that leaves from there on the weekends called the Shoot Out. They are well known for specializing in high end exotic road bikes, especially through the internet, but do have a strong local shop presence in Tucson

Have you ridden the El Tour de Tucson? What did you think?

I am an avid cyclist, wife, sometimes racer, full-time tech worker, non-profit founder, and, of course, mom. Cycling is my passion. Heck all the socks in my sock drawer are bike socks!

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El Tour de Tucson 5K

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Description

Welcome early-birds   el tour de tucson and run tucson are excited to bring you the 2nd annual el tour 5k run/walk, in the heart of lively downtown tucson. , join the fun: we expect over 9,000 bike riders and 1,000 in the 5k, so mark your calendars for the exciting el tour expo & fiesta festivities on thursday, november 21 and friday, november 22, with the bike and run on saturday, november 23rd., perfect for the active family -- ride the tour or walk or run the 5k -- either way, enjoy a downtown party, discounted hotels, and more open to all ages and abilities, every finisher in this chip-timed 5k will receive a souvenir medallion as they cross the finish line. , you can walk the 3.1 mile downtown course or you can race it, with overall winners and age-group winners receiving gift cards to fleet feet tucson . , the 5k will start at the el tour start line at 7:30am and cruise through the wide neighborhood streets of downtown tucson.  the finish is back near the convention center, at el parque de san cosme, just two blocks from the start line and expo., the el tour expo and fiesta is a 3-day expo that leads up to the big day.  enjoy exhibits, demos, celebrity signings, food trucks, live entertainment and the dragoon brewing beer garden, volunteers always welcome: don't wanna' run but still want to be part of the fun  sign up to volunteer here   you can be a course monitor, hand out water, or hand out finisher medals . . ., planned event week schedule, details tba.

El Tour Expo & Fiesta |  260 South Church Avenue, Tucson Convention Center Exhibition Hall in Downtown Tucson

Thursday, November 21: Noon – 9pm

Friday, November 22: Noon – 9pm

Saturday, November 23: 6am – 5pm

El Tour 5k Packet Pickup Pre-Race

Thursday, November 21, Noon – 9pm, Convention Center

Friday, November 22, Noon – 9pm, Convention Center

Saturday, November 23, 6:30 am - 7:15 am, Convention Center near starting line

Updated 5k Event Day Schedule

6:30 am - 7:15 am: Packet pickup and registration at the Convention Center near starting line

7:15 am: Start 5k Run/Walk, with ongoing festivities at race site and finish at El Parque de San Cosme, with finisher medals awarded to all finishers

9:00 am: Approximate time for El Tour 5k Awards staged at the Convention Center, awards by Fleet Feet

Ongoing morning and afternoon: bike rides begin, expo activities, music, and more

Click here for more information on the El Tour bike rides and weekend schedule

Event Details

Fun for Runners: fast and flat course with neighbor support will lead to fast times -- perfect for all runners from novices to speed-demons

Fun for Walkers: plenty of room to enjoy a 3.1 mile journey through beautiful Barrio Viejo and Armory Park neighborhoods in historic Downtown Tucson.  

Age Group and Overall Awards to top finishers courtesy of Fleet Feet

Click here for more race day details

El Tour de Tucson Website

Additional event information can be found at https://eltourdetucson.org/  

Accommodations and Travel

Book with our official lodging partners and save during your stay! Click on the hotel logo to book directly online now. Rates typically are valid during race weekend and are subject to occupancy and city taxes https://eltourdetucson.org/el-tour-de-tucson/accommodations-and-travel/

Event Directors

El Tour has partnered with Run Tucson , the local leaders producing running events for decades. Run Tucson has developed running events in locations like Downtown Tucson and in tourist destinations like Saguaro National Park, the Biosphere 2, and Old Tucson Studios.

Questions about the El Tour 5k?  Contact Randy Accetta at randy@runtucson.net . 

Questions about the El Tour bike events?  See www.eltourdetucson.org . 

The event will take place rain or shine.  There are no refunds, deferrals, or returns for this event.  Race items will not be mailed to participants.

Race Contact Info

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Salvation Army talks about El Tour Loop de Loop

TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) - Get ready to ride for a good cause.

The Salvation Amy Tucson stopped by the 13 News studio Thursday, September 19, to talk about this weekend’s El Tour Loop de Loop.

On Saturday, Sept. 21, the Pima County El Tour Loop de Loop will bring fun riding the Chuck Huckelberry Loop.

The event helps promote more than 60 nonprofit partners involved in El Tour de Tucson and is the official kickoff for one of the premier bicycling events in the country on Nov. 23.

El Tour Loop de Loop provides an opportunity for cyclists to pick the nonprofit they would like to ride for, look for new riding partners, and schedule training rides. The Salvation Army Tucson is hoping to get sign-ups at its booth that morning to help with getting bikes, helmets, and locks for less-fortunate kids in Tucson to give out at its Christmas Toy Distribution in December.

“It’s a blessing that El Tour de Tucson enables nonprofits to raise funds for their respective organizations,” said Major Andres Espinoza. “I am thrilled that The Salvation Army Tucson was chosen to be one of those nonprofits, and my hope is that many of the 9,000 plus riders will choose to ride for us and our cause.”

The main attraction will be along the Loop by Rillito Park, just Southeast of the racetrack near the pavilions at 4502 N. 1st Ave.

All activities will be there starting at 7 a.m. until noon, and live music, food, drinks, and amazing prize drawings will begin at 10 a.m. FREE raffle tickets will be available at all booths along the Loop.

To ride for The Salvation Army Tucson, please click on El Tour de Tucson to register . Doing this will assist with getting bikes, helmets, and locks for less fortunate kids in Tucson to give out during Christmas.

Be sure to subscribe to the 13 News YouTube channel:  www.youtube.com/@13newskold

Copyright 2024 13 News. All rights reserved.

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A Saguaro cactus in the vineyard at Old Pueblo Cellars, 10088 N. St. Patrick Road.

• Rebecca Sasnett, Arizona Daily Star
• Copy article link

A dragonfly sits on a tree branch at Sweetwater Wetlands in 2016. 

• Ron Medvescek / Arizona Daily Star

Ana Dawson, of La Luna Coyote, laughs and talks with Kelly Komives about her art made of concrete at the BICAS second annual Art Mart, in Tucson, Ariz., on April 24, 2022.

• Kyler Van Vliet, Arizona Daily Star

Casa Marana's color scheme is well-suited for the Bavarian aesthetic of Oktoberfest.

• Mike Christy / Arizona Daily Star

Emery Febes enjoys a piece of red velvet banana bread from Ducky’s Pineapple Bread during the Spring Fourth Avenue Street Fair.

• Grace Trejo, Arizona Daily Star

The evening sunlight bounces off the skin of a Boeing 97G Stratofreighter for photography and art night at Pima Air & Space Museum’s Night Wings, Tucson, Ariz., July 27, 2024.

• Kelly Presnell / Arizona Daily Star

Maestro László Veres conducts during his final concert with the Tucson Pops Orchestra at George DeMeester Performance Center inside Reid Park in Tucson, Ariz. on June 12, 2022. 

Spencer Peterson (right), a staff member with the new mobile recreation program "Ready, Set, Rec!," spins a hula-hoop around his waist while waiting for a ribbon cutting to begin to kick-off the new city program in 2021.

• Josh Galemore / Arizona Daily Star

Caroline Martin, right, owner of the art cart, checks in on Prairie Karwoski, 9, and her mother Geneva, as they enjoy snacks and make art at The Korean Rose.

• Mamta Popat, Arizona Daily Star

What's going on in Tucson, Arizona this weekend: night markets, plant sales, Oktoberfest, ghost tours, free live music and more in Tucson, Marana and Oro Valley.

60 fun events happening in Tucson this weekend Sept. 19-22 🥨

Things to do in tucson.

Gloria Knott

#ThisIsTucson Editor

• Author facebook
• Author email
• Sep 18, 2024

Say goodbye to the last official weekend of summer! Fall is upon us. 

This weekend is packed with things to do: night markets, ghost tours, Oktoberfest, a couple plant sales and The Buffet's 90th birthday party. 

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

Santa Cruz River Dragonfly Festival

Each year, the Sonoran Institute hosts a celebration of dragonflies on the Santa Cruz River. Enjoy several events as part of the festival, from tours and lectures to crafts and virtual presentations.

When:  Various dates in September 

Where:  Various locations

Cost:  Free to attend

Visit the  event page  for more information.

Karol G Paint & Sip Party

Divas Illusion Show and Painting & Vino are putting together a Karol G paint-and-sip party in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Expect a step-by-step painting session alongside a drag performance. A cocktail is included!

When:  6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19

Where:  Chela's Latin Cuisine,  256 E. Congress St.

Wellness and Wonder: a wellness expo for the entire family

Join the University of Arizona for  Wellness and Wonder Day, a FREE community wellness expo and educational showcase  featuring faculty experts who will help you explore the interconnections of wonder, well-being, health and the humanities from  9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21 . Expect a digital art collection, tours of the pharmacy museum, photography viewings, faculty talks, meditation lessons and more. See the full schedule  here !

Summer Sunsets at Mission Garden

Mission Garden is staying open late during this summer series that features live music and food truck OaxaRico. Cross your fingers for an immaculate sunset!

When:  5-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19

Where:  Mission Garden,  946 W. Mission Lane

Cost:  Free to attend, bring money for food

Free Third Thursdays at MOCA

The third Thursday of the month is a party at MOCA. The art museum is open late with free admission. Expect tacos from Ensenada Street Food, drinks, tunes from KXCI DJs and a 6 p.m. poetry reading. 

When:  5-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19

Where:  Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson,  265 S. Church Ave.

Join us for a bookish happy hour on Sept. 19 📚

We're hosting a bookish happy hour with Why I Love Where I Live from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19 at the MSA Annex , 267 S. Avenida del Convento. Meet four Tucson authors, sip on a book-themed cocktail (10% of the sales will be donated to Make Way For Books!), enjoy storewide discounts at Why I Love Where I Live and hunt for a free book courtesy Tucson Tome Gnome.  See ya there !

Movie and Wine Pairings

Catch a screening of the documentary "Blood into Wine" paired with tapas, desserts and local wine.

When:  5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19

Where:  RoadHouse Cinemas,  4811 E. Grant Road

Sunnyside Gives Week: Gives Day Block Party

Sunnyside Foundation is taking over American Eat Co. for a night of music, performances from Sunnyside Unified School District groups, a jumping castle and a photo booth.

When:  5-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19

Where:  American Eat Co.,  1439 S. Fourth Ave.

Disney Junior Live on tour. Let’s Play!

Live at  Centennial Hall in Tucson on Sept. 25 . VIP packages are available,  get your tickets now !

Ghost Tours at Old Tucson

Old Tucson, which is said to be haunted, is hosting ghost tours this fall. Hear stories of ghosts at Old Tucson during this guided 90-minute tour.

When:  6:45 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19

Where:  Old Tucson,  201 N. Kinney Road

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.

Fall Down the Rabbit Hole!

Fall out of reality into the rabbit hole with  Moses Pendleton’s newest creation, ALICE . Watch as dancers extend by props, ropes and other dancers in a magical experience inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic tale.  Get tickets now !

Concerts in the Courtyard

Head to Marana for this concert series, this time featuring Chalako the Band. Three food trucks will be onsite. Bring your own chairs or blankets!

Where:  Marana Municipal Complex,   11555 W. Civic Center Dr.

Park(ing) Day 2024

The City of Tucson is celebrating Park(ing) Day, a global event "where the public participates in temporarily rethinking curbside parking spaces and converts them" into community gathering spaces. Expect food vendors, games and news about upcoming transportation projects.

When:  9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20

Where:   Paseo de los Zanjeros , near Congress Street and Avenida del Convento 

BICAS Art Mart at Dark

Local nonprofit BICAS started an art market in 2021 after art events were canceled during the pandemic, taking away important revenue generators for Tucson artists. Find bicycle-themed art, ceramics, jewelry, paintings and more. There will also be live music and food!

When:  6-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20

Where:  BICAS,  2001 N. Seventh Ave.

Cost:  Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Marvin Gaye Listening Party

Roux Events is hosting a listening party at Revel Wine Bar, featuring hits by Marvin Gaye.

When:  8-10:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20

Where:  Revel Wine Bar,  416 E. Ninth St.

Cost:  $15 for reserved seating 

Divas! at 191 Toole

Dress as your favorite pop star diva for this diva dance party. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation.

When:  9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20

Where:  191 Toole,  191 E. Toole Ave.

Cost:  $18-20. This event is for ages 21 and up.

Hello Kitty Candle with Di Luna

Make your own Hello Kitty candle with local shop and maker Di Luna! Friendship bracelets are also part of the fun. 

When:  6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20

Where:  Di Luna Candles,  3061 N. Campbell Ave.

The September G3

G3 Tucson, the city's gay happy hour group, is hosting a party to kick off Pride Week. Expect more mellow tunes in the first hour, followed by a dance party by 6!

When:  5-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20

Where:  Playground Bar & Lounge,  278 E. Congress St.

Cost:  $9, your first drink is included. This event is for ages 21 and up.

Pool Party & Light Show

This pool party will be paired with a DJ and a light show in the pool. Burgers and hot dogs will be available for purchase, along with cocktails!

When:  7-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20

Where:  Forty Niner Country Club, 12000 E. Tanque Verde Road

Earshot CoLABoratory

In collaboration with the American Composers Orchestra, Tucson Symphony Orchestra will read the works of four Native composers in a workshop setting. The audience will have the chance to see the collaborative process in action, watching as the music director and orchestra work with composers on their pieces.

When:  7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20

Where:  Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave.

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, Sept. 20

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.

Chocolate Factory Tour

If you love "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," this might be your dream come true. Though not as extravagant as Willy Wonka's facility, take a tour of Monsoon Chocolate's factory to learn how the chocolate is made.

When:  11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Saturdays, Sept. 21-28

Where:  Monsoon Chocolate,  234 E. 22nd St.

Tucson Ghost Tour

Take a tour through downtown Tucson after dark, all while hearing haunted stories of spots around town. 

When:  7 p.m. select dates in September 

Where:  Downtown Tucson, detailed directions will be emailed upon ticket purchase

Guitars Under the Stars at Tohono Chul

Every Friday and Saturday through November, Tohono Chul will be staying open late with live music, drinks and bites from the Garden Bistro.

When:  5-8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays through Nov. 20, except Oct. 11

Where:  Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte

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

Magic & Mystery Dinner Theater

Enjoy dinner from Dante's Fire alongside a magical theatrical performance. 

When:  6:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Sept. 20-21

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

Cost:  $49 without dinner, $89 with dinner

Traveler's Tales Demonstration

Learn how people found their way around Southern Arizona before the days of GPS. You'll see maps, compasses and an astrolabe on display, plus a re-enactor will tell stories of the people who used the tools.

When:  9 a.m. to noon and 1-3 p.m. Fridays in September

Where:  Presidio Museum,  196 N. Court Ave.

Cost:  Included with admission, which is $9 for adults, $6 for kids ages 6-13

Walking tours with the Presidio Museum

Explore Tucson's downtown area with walking tours hosted by the Presidio Museum. This weekend's tours include Death After Dark, Public Art & Murals, Pioneer Women of Main Avenue, Barrio Viejo and Murals & More.

When:  Various dates Friday-Sunday, Sept. 20-22

Where:  Locations vary based on tour.

Cost:  $30 and up. Pre-registration may be required for these events.

Casa Marana Oktoberfest

Not only will Casa Marana host the Haus of Brats food truck, the brew pub is also hosting stein-holding and pretzel-throwing contests. Wear your best Oktoberfest attire to participate in the costume contest!

When:  11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Location:  Casa Marana,  8225 N. Courtney Page Way

Kickball and a Movie

Watch as Northwest Fire District and Marana Police Department play a round of kickball. Food trucks will be onsite, along with games for kids and a screening of "DC League of Super-Pets."

When:  5-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21; kickball starts at 6 p.m., movie starts at 6:30 p.m.

Location:  Crossroads at Silverbell District Park,  7548 N. Silverbell Road

Cost:  Free to attend, bring money for food 

Ducky's Banana Bread Bonanza

Ducky's is well-loved for their pineapple banana bread and now they're organizing a market of their own! Ducky's will bring 10 banana bread flavors to the market (and banana bread ice cream), plus you'll be able to shop from 21 local artists and get a bite to eat from five food trucks. 

When:  4-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  Coalition Space,  311 E. Seventh St.

Makers Market at The Tuxon

This seasonal market created by Tucson maker Lilith & Daughters features 40 local vendors selling items like apparel, sweet treats, crocheted plushies, soap, jewelry and more!

When:  7-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  The Tuxon,  960 S. Freeway

The Buffet Bar's 90th Anniversary Party

The Buffet is turning 90! Their anniversary party will benefit United Way of Tucson, featuring drink specials, live music, raffles and giveaways. 

When:  Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  The Buffet Bar,  538 E. Ninth St.

Cost:  Free to attend, bring money for drinks

Twisted Wonderland Cafe

Kira Kira Collectibles is organizing a mini cafe event at The Korean Rose, slated to feature local vendors, cosplayers and photo opportunities. 

When:  5-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Location:  The Korean Rose,  6118 E. Speedway

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

Buds & Blooms 

Local garden center Eco Gro is hosting Buds & Blooms, an event featuring food and art vendors, cannabis and a DJ.

When:  6-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  Eco Gro,  657 W. St Marys Road

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

Libra & Thorn's First Birthday

Celebrate metaphysical art shop Libra & Thorn's first anniversary! Expect in-store sales, a food truck, walk-in tarot readings and four local vendors. 

When:  11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  Libra & Thorn, 101 S. Pantano Road

Oktoberfest in Mount Lemmon

Head up to Mount Lemmon to celebrate Oktoberfest alongside food, beer and music.

When:  Weekends through Oct. 13

Where:  Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley, 10300 E. Ski Run Road

Cost:  Free to attend, parking is $5

Make N Take at Pima Air and Space

Kids ages 6 and up will receive a quick-build model aircraft kit that they'll be able to put together, all while learning about the aircraft itself. Kids will also get to visit the aircraft they're set to build.

When:  10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  Pima Air and Space Museum's administrative building north of the parking lot,  6000 E. Valencia Road

Cost:  $20 per child. An adult is required to be present with the child during class. Admission to the museum is not included and admission is not needed to participate in the class.

Flow for the Soul 

In-Rave is hosting a flow night with DJs, vendors, food trucks and flow art performances. Proceeds go to the All Souls Procession.

When:  6-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  MSA Annex,  267 S. Avenida del Convento

The Bandit's Western Market

Head to Whiskey Roads for drink specials, a brunch buffet and a market complete with western goodies. A raffle is part of the fun, with proceeds supporting local nonprofit Chicks N Chaps.

When:  11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  Whiskey Roads,  2290 W. Ina Road

Cost:  Free to attend; $25 for brunch buffet, bring money for shopping

Book Block Party

Celebrate your love of books during this community event that will include story times, book exchanges, costumed characters, games, a car show and food trucks.

When:  4-7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  Vail Coffee Stop, 13105 E. Colossal Cave Road

Ready, Set, Rec! Fall Kickoff

The goal of Tucson Parks and Recreation's Ready, Set, Rec! program is to bring recreational activities to the community through several mobile vans. Their fall kickoff event will feature games, a jumping castle, music, food trucks, information booths and a superhero costume contest.

When:  9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 21

Where: Reid Park , southwest side

Traditional O'odham Agriculture + Plant Sale at Mission Garden

Mission Garden has two festivities in store for Sept. 21: during the first, you'll be able to learn about Tohono O'odham agricultural practices, including demonstrations and talks about Native American crops. Mission Garden is also hosting a plant sale the same day.

When:  Saturday, Sept. 21; 8-9 a.m. for O'odham agriculture; 8-11 a.m. for plant sale

Cost:  Free to attend, donations accepted. Bring money for plants!

Family Saturdays with Watershed Management Group

Head to Watershed Management Group for Family Saturdays, this time to learn about using native plants to create rain gardens. Kid-friendly activities are part of the fun.

When:  8-11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

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

Propagation Workshop 

Pima County Master Gardeners is partnering with Free Plant N Garden Stands for a propagation workshop this Saturday. Expect to learn skills needed to propagate seeds and cuttings, including seven stations with topics like seed storage and the value of trees.

When:  9-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  Pima County Master Gardeners, 4210 N. Campbell Ave.

Cost:  $30 for adults, kids 12 and under enter for free; cash and checks are accepted at the door

Visit the  event page  for more information 

'80s Dance Party at Surly Wench

Surly Wench Pub is hosting an '80s dance party. Wear your best '80s-themed attire or in a "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome" theme!

When:  9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  Surly Wench Pub,  424 N. Fourth Ave.

Cost:  $5. This event is for ages 21 and up.

August Wine and Craft Fair

Old Pueblo Cellars is hosting a craft fair featuring local artists, wine tastings and charcuterie boards.

When:  Noon to 5:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 21-22

Where:  Old Pueblo Cellars,  10088 N. Saint Patrick Road

Cost:  Free to attend, bring money for shopping, food and drinks. Reservations are required for wine tastings.

Tucson Area Iris Society Rhizome Sale

Head to Harlow Gardens to learn how to grow iris plants in Arizona and purchase stems of your own. 

Where:  Harlow Gardens,  5620 E. Pima St.

Cost:  Free to attend, bring money for plants

Sabino Canyon Night Tours

Take a ride through Sabino Canyon after dark! The tour features a narrative program in English and Spanish with details about Sabino Canyon's history, fauna and flora.

When:  6:30 p.m. Saturdays in September

Where:  Sabino Canyon Recreation Area,  5700 N. Sabino Canyon Road

Cost:  $15 per adult, $8 per child ages 3 to 12

Visit the  event page  for more information. 

Art Events with Caroline Martin

Local artist and teacher Caroline Martin is sharing her love of art with the community! She recently started an art cart, where she brings craft supplies to tea shop The Korean Rose and gluten-free bakery Dedicated. Choose from three self-guided crafts to complete at the cafes! She'll also host a paint class on Sept. 21 where attendees will have the chance to paint atop a vinyl. 

When:  1-3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21 for paint class; various dates in September for the art cart

Where:  Paint class and art cart is The Korean Rose,  6118 E. Speedway ; art cart is also at Dedicated,  4500 E. Speedway

Cost:  Crafts at the art cart range from $5-$15; paint class is $35

Visit the  art cart page  or  paint class page  for more information.

Family Organization Workshop

Learn all about organization! You'll hear how an organized environment can affect children's mental health, ways to get kids interested in organizing and tips on organizing your home. 

Where:  440 & Co., 440 N. Fourth Ave.

Visit the event page  for more information.

Music on the Mountain

For years, Mount Lemmon was home to a weekly concert series. The series went on hiatus in 2013, but it's back for the season and beyond, featuring live music Saturdays through October. 

When:  1-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

Where:  Mount Lemmon Lodge,  12833 N. Sabino Canyon Park

Music in the Park

Arizona Symphonic Winds is hosting a fall concert series, this time featuring special guests. Bring your own chairs and blankets! 

When:  7 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 5

Where:  Udall Park,  7200 E. Tanque Verde Road

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:  8-11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21

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

Nuestro Tianguis Tucson

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

When:  7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays 

Where:  Midtown Farm,  3538 E. Ellington Place

Foothills Community Markets

Visit this market to shop from vendors who have items like yard art, home decor, jewelry, baked goods and more.

When:  8 a.m. to noon Saturdays

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

Tucson Pops Orchestra Concert Series

Tucson Pops Orchestra is back with three concerts in the park this fall. Expect a beer garden and food trucks!

When:  7 p.m. Sundays, Sept. 22-Oct. 6

Where:  DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center in Reid Park,  800 S. Concert Place

Cost:  Free to attend, bring money for food and drinks. Bring your own chair or blanket!

Swap-Tember

Soil Sisters Swaps is hosting a plant swap featuring bingo, prizes and a donation drive for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.

When:  11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22

Whiskey Dinner at Dante's Fire

Chef Kenneth Foy of Dante's Fire is preparing a five-course dinner with whiskey pairings. Both smoked duck and short rib are on the menu.

When:  6-9 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22

Cost:  $105

Underwater! Floozy Flea Market

Shop clothing, jewelry and art during the upcoming Floozy Flea. Live music is part of the fun!

When:  2-7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22

Where:  Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.

Cost:  $5 suggested donation

Symphony Showcase

Enjoy an hour-long concert featuring highlights of Tucson Symphony Orchestra's 2024-25 season, along with excerpts and commentary about the pieces.

When:  2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22

Where:  Linda Ronstadt Music Hall,  260 S. Church Ave.

Cat Events at El Jefe Cat Cafe

Spend time with the cats at El Jefe Cat Cafe, all while playing bingo or enjoying a yoga session.

When:  Sunday, Sept. 22; 10-11 a.m. for yoga; 6-7 p.m. for bingo

Where:  El Jefe Cat Cafe,  3025 N. Campbell Ave.

Cost:  $18 for yoga;   $14 for bingo, reservations required 

Explore nature through fun, hands-on exhibits at Children’s Museum Oro Valley at Tohono Chul

CMOV@TC  has indoor and outdoor exhibits with daily activities and programming for kids and families that mesh with the environmental focus of Tohono Chul,  teaching all about the culture, animals and plants of the Sonoran Desert !

What does "supported by" mean?  Click here  to learn more.

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Gloria was born and raised in Tucson and is a 2018 University of Arizona grad. From wildflowers to wildlife, she loves all things Tucson and hopes to share her love of the city with readers ✨

• Tohono Oʼodham
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Corey Spector to perform at Saturday’s Loop de Loop at Rillito Park from 10 a.m. to noon

• September 18, 2024
• Uncategorized

Corey Spector has been a friend of the El Tour family for a couple of years now and by the sound of it – and, well, him – he’ll be with us for a while.

He’ll be in the spotlight once again for our annual Pima County/El Tour Loop de Loop on Saturday at Rillito Park. He’ll sing his variety of tunes from 10 a.m. to noon.

“It’s gone wonderfully,” he said of his performances for El Tour events the last couple of years. “The crowds, the cyclists and the families of the cyclists have been appreciative. They love the music.”

He sings the songs for those in our El Tour wheelhouse demographics:  35 and older but songs younger riders remember.

It’s from the late 50s of Elvis to the Everly Brothers to Bruce Springsteen of the 1980s and every artist in between like James Taylor, the Eagles, Elton John, Jim Croce, the Beatles and Carol King. Memorable songs of that era.

“People from 25 to 85 years old have memories,” he said. “The songs are iconic to a generation of music lovers.”

Of the “contemporary pop,” as he calls it.

“A reason why people like what I do is because I put a QR on the tables in the audience and they have a chance at picking the songs of the era that I perform,” he said. “They come up and tell stories about why they picked the songs they requested.”

He was influenced by his hometown hero Billy Joel, who lived just outside of New York, where Spector grew up.

About 26 years ago, he moved to Tucson and has been here since.

And in that time, he found out he’d love to perform for El Tour.

“TJ (Juskiewicz), El Tour’s executive director) reached out to me and I always thought it’d be a great thing to do because I’ve always loved the El Tour in the sense of the kind of people that are there and the event itself is.”

Come see listen to him and visit with over 30 non-profits that will field El Tour teams. We’ll have food trucks, great raffle prizes and the @dragoonbrewing  beer garden!  @cowpig13   @oldpueblo. coffee   @filipinafiesta   @ nauticalbowlsorovalley

Loop de Loop is presented by  @pima_county  and  # eltourdetucson  for details  https://eltourdetucson.org/ loop-de-loop/

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