Winter Happenings List: Jan/Feb 2022

Willcox

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!

Stagecoach
See antique stagecoaches and buggies in the Tucson Rodeo Parade Feb. 24.

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.

Japanese Garden
Japanese Garden at Denver Botanic Gardens.

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.

 

MLK art
Portrait of Dr. King at the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center in Phoenix.

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.

 

Sculpture
Sculpture at Huntington Library, Pasadena.

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!

 

MLK Day Celebration
MLK Day Celebration in Mesa, 2018.

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.

 

Find your National Park
Phillip at a National Park Service booth at Phoenix Comicon.

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!

 

oscar-munoz invisibilia
Screenshot from virtual Slow Art session of an Oscar Muñoz self-portrait.

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.

 

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.

 

Priscilla Tacheney self portrait taken at White Sand National Park in New Mexico
“Serenity” by Priscilla Tacheney via her Squash Blossom Fotos site.

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.

 

Ikebana
Ikebana via Yume Garden.

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.

 

back of hotel congress sign at sunset

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.

 

Lex Gjurasic
Pieces by Lex Gjurasic at a holiday market booth.

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.

 

Fox Theater

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.

 

Mesa Historical Museum

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.

 

Tiger
Tiger sculpture from Tucson Meet Yourself.

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.

 

Rock wall at Tohono Chul
Rock wall at Tohono Chul.

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.

 

Rodeo parade
Rope trick demonstration during last year’s drive-through version of the Rodeo parade.

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.

 

Tomkins pottery in Yuma
Pottery by Neely and George Tomkins, who helped found the Symposium.

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.

 

Amerind Museum site

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.

Holiday Markets + Happenings: Nov/Dec 2021

MSA

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!

Christmas lights in Palo verde trees

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!

 

Holiday envelopes
Festive printable envelopes by Amy Christie of This Heart of Mine.

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!

 

Arizona Historical Musuem

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.

 

Ofrenda
Altar for All Souls Day in progress during Tucson Meet Yourself 2019.

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.

 

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.

 

Embroidered hat.
Photo via Good Things Tucson.

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

 

Catalina State Park in Tucson
Phillip and Quijote walking in a picnic area at Catalina State Park.

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.

 

Cloudy day in Flagstaff

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.

 

Mural at the loft Cinema
Loft Cinema mural by Jessica Gonzales.

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.

 

Lacy and Wendys pizza

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.

 

Chalk art festival in sahuarita, arizona
Photo via Southern Arizona Arts + Cultural Alliance (SAACA).

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.

 

Concert at Marana Tree Lighting Festiva
Concert at Marana Tree Lighting Festival. Photo via Town of Marana.

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!

 

Zoom screen cap
Screenshot of “Slow Art” Zoom session.

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.

 

MSA Annex craft fair booths

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!

Jessica Melrose Art

 

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.

 

Phoenix

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!

 

Historic Fourth Ave sign

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.

 

4th Ave
Fourth Avenue (sans fair)

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.

Flagstaff

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.

 

Mercado San Agustin

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.

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

Fall 2021 Happenings + Goodies (Sep/Oct)

Ofrenda

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!

Tucson Meet Yourself
Tucson Meet Yourself 2019.

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!

 

Night sky over Phoenix

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 market

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.

 

Ofrenda
Altar for All Souls Day in progress during Tucson Meet Yourself 2019.

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 - the sampler

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.

 

Maynards Baked Eggs
Brunch at Maynards, which reopened just in time for Sonoran Restaurant Week!

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.

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

 

Mission Garden

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.

 

SMOCA

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.

 

Floral arrangement and painting at Phoenix Art Museum.
“The Green Snake” painting by Joe Jones. Taken during Arts + Flowers at Phoenix Art Museum.

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.

 

Vendors at MSA Annex Night Market

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!

 

Jessica Melrose Art
Jessica Melrose will be selling her handmade macrame wall hangings and plant hangers at the Oro Valley Fall Artisan Market.

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.

Desert forager at Tucson meet yourself

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.

 

Dragoons

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.

 

Lacy and Wendys pizza

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?

 

Hello pumpkin
Illustration by House Fenway.

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.


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

Summer 2021 Happenings + Goodies (Jun/Jul/Aug)

With all the conversation around rethinking work in a post-lockdown world, I’d like to add an item to the collective agenda: the siesta. Let’s not miss this opportunity to restructure our schedules around not having to go anywhere when it’s really hot!

Summer events where things stay open later to take advantage of cool evening temps are a good start. There are a couple of those on this season’s Happenings List.

You’ll also find….

  • Sculpture exhibitions: from large-scale outdoor works to some so small they literally fit on the head of a pin.
  • Unusual ways to appreciate nature: from the night sky to the desert flora and fauna.
  • Events you can experience from anywhere, in addition to the ones you can go to in person here in Southern Arizona.

I’ve also asterisked goodies that go along with some of the events. Have fun!

 

 

Art for Thirst
left: “Desert Monsoon Mobile” by Ashley Ambrosio / right: “Flask + Cup” by Jennifer Lowell / photos via THIRST

THIRST 2021 Shop

now – Jun 26 / anywhere 

Sale of artwork contributed by artists from all over the country. Proceeds are split between the artists and two organizations supplying humanitarian aid in the desert, Casa Alitas and No More Deaths/No Mas Muertes.

H/T Spring + Vine, whose beautiful Desert Monsoon Mobile has already sold, but there are still lots of great pieces available!

 

Tiny bus sculpture
“Chiva Bus” by Flor Carvajal / photo via Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures

In the Eye of a Needle: Micro Miniatures by Flor Carvajal

now – Jun 27 / Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, Tucson / Admission $11.50, Youth (3+) $8

U.S. debut of Flor Carvajal’s micro-miniature resin sculptures – which are tiny enough to be mounted along the edge of a sewing needle.

  • *$1 off tickets purchased online.

 

Sculptures
“Seated Diana” sculpture by Curt Brill with “Constrained Geometries #2” by Hector Ortega in the background

Rough Terrain

now – Jul 4 / Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, Tucson / free

Inaugural exhibition of SculptureTucson’s Sculpture Park! It currently features 20 large-scale works on two acres in the northwest corner of Brandi Fenton Park (across River Rd. from the Visitors Center).

  • Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 12pm to 5pm – or whenever the gates are open.
  • SN: Phillip, Quijote, and I stopped by the other night around 6pm, and the gate was ajar. We practically had the place to ourselves! The evening light was beautiful. However, it seemed like a lot of the sculptures were facing east, so a morning visit might be better if you’re planning to take photos.

 

2020 MFA Alumni Exhibition

Now – Jul 11 / anywhere / free

Virtual exhibition of works by grad students, whose Master of Fine Arts Thesis Exhibition had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Patio bar
Patio bar outside the Rialto Theatre.

The Rialto Theatre Gallery Project

now – Jul 24, weekly / Rialto Theatre, Tucson / free (donations accepted)

Exhibition of photography and posters from past shows at the historic Rialto Theatre.

  • Open Fridays + Saturdays, 6-9pm.
  • Patio bar with local beverages and live music from Tucson artists.
  • Merch for sale and donations accepted to support The Rialto.
  • SN: We got to hear Sharkk Heartt, a singer/songwriter with an amazing voice!

 

Elephant sculpture
Reid Park Zoo elephant sculpture

Summer Safari Nights

now – Aug 14, weekly / Reid Park Zoo, Tucson / Tickets $10.50, Kids (ages 2-14) $6.50

The zoo opens up on summer Saturday evenings from 5:30-8:30pm for live music, games, activities, food and drink specials, and theme nights.

  • Jun 26 theme: “Art in the Animal Kingdom” with music performed by native Tucsonan singer/songwriter Leila Lopez.
  • *Listen to Leila Lopez’s music and download free tracks on her site.
  • *Not nocturnal? Here’s a daytime deal: $3/person admission on 6/22 + 6/29! Purchase $3 Tuesday Tickets at the gate. (Safari Nights are not included. Regular 8am-2pm visits only.)

 

Mixed media artwork
Fuss + Frills by Maria Cazzato / photo via UA Museum of Art site

Our Stories: H.S. Artists

now – Aug 29 / anywhere

Annual exhibition of work by high school artists from across Pima County, selected by local teachers. Artwork in this show was created during the 2020-2021 school year.

  • *The free Carnegiea webzine also featured a couple of the students’ work in their Winter edition.

 

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 – all inspired by Arizona’s magnificent night sky. A percentage of artwork sales will benefit the Presidio, which was the first State Park in Arizona.

 

 trees at a picnic area on Mt. Lemmon

Mt. Lemmon Art Show

now – Oct, weekends only / next to the General Store, Summerhaven / free admission

Local artisan market in Summerhaven on Mt. Lemmon.

  • Saturdays and Sundays through October.
  • Benefits Southern Arizona Animal Food Bank (SAAFB).

 

Ready to Launch: Arizona’s Place in Space
now – Nov 30 / Arizona History Museum, Tucson / Admission $10, Youth (ages 7-13) $5

New 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).
  • *The K-2 Museum in a Box curriculum, an online collection of lesson plans and activities that uses primary sources from the Arizona Historical Society’s collections, is free for educators until June 30, 2021.
  • H/T Visit Southern Arizona

 

 

Tucson Juneteenth Virtual Celebration

Jun 19, 9-10pm / anywhere / free

Celebration of Black culture, history, dance, and song that will be livestreamed by Pima Community College.

 

Mesquite Bean Harvesting Walk with Borderland Restoration Network 

Jun 19, 9-11am / Patagonia / free

Walk through mesquite bosques with local mesquite expert, Martha Muffin. Learn about the natural history of mesquite, its nutritional value, how to select pods to harvest, and how to store them. You’ll also receive mesquite recipes and informational resources.

  • ​Space is limited.
  • Sign up is required. Email Denisse Ortega Lorona at dortega(@)borderlandsrestoration.org.
  • Exact location provided after RSVP.

 

Agave
An agave plant at Mission Garden in Tucson.

Agaves for Bats with Borderlands Restoration Network

Jun 22 / Appleton-Whittell research station, Elgin

Agave planting with Borderlands Restoration Network staff and Bat Conservation International in celebration of National Pollinator Week.

  • ​Space is limited to 20 participants.
  • Email horticulture(@)borderlandsrestoration.org to sign up.
  • *Recipe: “Batman of Mexico” is both the nickname of Dr. Rodrigo Medellín, co-founder of the Bat Friendly Tequila and Mezcal Project, and a cocktail named for him.

 

MSA Annex

MSA Summer Night Market

Jun 25, Jul 30, Aug 27, Sep 24 / Tucson / free admission

MSA Annex shops stay open late (6-10pm), joined by over 40 local vendors, the last Friday of the month, May through September.

  • SN: We went to one of the first Night Markets after we moved here in 2019. I’m happy that the market is back!
  • H/T Why I Love Where I Live, one of my favorite Mercado San Agustin shops!

 

Mosaic
Detail of mosaic by Donna Stoner, made with Santa Theresa tile.

Santa Theresa Tile Workshops

Santa Theresa Tile Works, Tucson

Hands-on classes using beautiful Santa Theresa tiles. These workshops are currently limited to 8-10 participants. No art experience is necessary.

  • Mosaic Table Workshop / Jul 11, 10am – 4pm / Fee starts at $255 for a 10″ table.
  • Mosaic Sunset Workshop / Jul 17, 11am – 3pm / Fee starts at  $148 for an 8” x 8”piece.
  • Intensive Tile Making / Aug 9-14 / $675 for the week.

 

The Loft Kids Fest At Home

Jul 22 – Jul 25 / anywhere / free

At-home film festival for kids. Each day includes…

  • Movie recommended by The Loft Cinema that you can stream on Kanopy (free signup with a library card).
  • Animated short.
  • *Kids Fest bonus video, created by The Loft Cinema, that includes an introduction to the film.
  • *Crafting project with the staff of Mildred + Dildred Toy Store.
  • Prize raffles.

 

 


Happenings on this list are handpicked by me. It’s not an ad – just some good things I wanted to share!

Happenings + Goodies: Spring 2021 (Mar/Apr/May)

Bougainvillea

It’s the season of spring fever. Everywhere. Even in the Southern Hemisphere where it is, in fact, not spring but autumn.

We are antsy to get out, to gather, to return to so many activities we used to take for granted.

Ant sculpture at Brandi Fenton Park.

While we would not have chosen this time of crisis and quarantine, the choice we have – as Gandalf would remind us – “is what to do with the time that is given us.”

And, in this restless time, you can still find ways to break from your routine. Hike a lesser-known trail. Start some seedlings on your windowsill. See a concert with your dog on your lap. Chat with a friend from across their patio. Take a cooking class in your own kitchen.

Phillip and Quijote walking at Mission Garden.

Who knows? After this is all over, there may even be a moment you miss some of this madness, waxing nostalgic about way back when you could take a puppeteering workshop from your couch or attend a tequila tasting without worrying about a ride home – because you were already there.

Quijote screen hog

With this in mind, here’s this season’s list of online and socially distanced Happenings!

Which would you like to try?

Near the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.

Upcoming

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Classes and Activities for Adults: Tucson + online

  • INVASION! exhibition: now – Mar 7 in the Museum’s Baldwin Gallery. Conservation artist Rachel Ivanyi explores the complicated concept of invasion. Included with admission.
  • Tucson Mountain Botany Hikes: Mar 5, 13, 20. Approximately 2-mile nature walks from different trailheads. Limit nine participants. $33 per person
  • Animal Training Behind the Scenes: Mar 11 + 25, May 13 + 27. Opportunity to watch keepers’ training sessions with several animals and talk to the keepers while they work. The trainings take place on the museum grounds, and the price includes museum admission. Limited to 10 participants. $35 per person
  • Free instructional videos and handouts!

 

Working from Home exhibition
Large-scale cyanotypes by Mark McKnight, part of the Working from Home exhibition at Tucson MOCA.

Working from Home: Tucson

now – Mar 28 / Museum of Contemporary Art Tucson (MOCA) / free (donations accepted)

Exhibition featuring new commissions from five artists (Miguel Fernández de Castro, Nazafarin Lotfi, Mark McKnight, Nicole Miller, and Rocki Swiderski) and two poets (Dot Devota and Raquel Gutiérrez) connected to the Tucson region and who each have a unique perspective on this moment of pandemic and protest, as well as on the local landscape. Since the smaller East Galleries remain closed, the entire exhibition is in the Great Hall.

  • We really enjoyed visiting MOCA in November and seeing this exhibition!
  • The on-site gift shop is temporarily closed, but MOCAshop lists their artists so you can support their online stores directly.
  • Frontline healthcare workers can receive a complimentary Individual Membership at MOCA.

 

Sage
Chaparral sage in Tucson.

Plant Portraits: Culinary and Aromatic: online (Zoom)

Mar 2 – Mar 30 / $250

Class on herbs and other plants that are used in aromatherapy and cooking, like lavender, lemongrass, and tulsi (holy basil). Each day, attendees will learn about the history and practical uses of a plant and then create a portrait of it using various media. This class will be online with possible in-person options at the Urban Forest (a non-profit space created by Randiesia Fletcher) in Tucson.

 

Tucson botanical garden

Tucson Botanical Gardens Classes: online (Zoom)

Upcoming workshops on topics like gardening, art, and cooking. (A few examples are below.) Fees are usually around $30. Materials not included.

 

Puppet Pie at Phoenix comicon

Puppet Pie Virtual Workshops: online

Phoenix Geekiness + Cosplay Panels #PHXCC

Old Pima County courthouse

Tucson Festival of Books: online

Mar 6 – Mar 7 / free

Beloved annual celebration of authors, reading, and literacy.

SN: I haven’t been, but I’ve heard rave reviews from multiple people. Last year, there was so much lament when it had to be canceled due to COVID. I’m glad it can happen in some form this year.

 

Glasses
Image via Public Glass.

Hot Glass Cold Beer: online

Mar 6, 5pm PST / $5

Virtual version of a long-running event that normally combines glass demonstrations, live music, craft beer and local food. Hosted by Public Glass, San Francisco’s public access glass studio and school.

House of Glass

Yuma field

Ag to Art Market: Feeding the Body and Soul: Yuma (southwest Arizona)

Mar 7 / City Hall (front parking lot) / free (no admission fee)

Combined farmers market and artist market with local art, fresh produce, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Monthly on the first Sunday from 10am to 3pm.

Yuma Favorites: Part 2

 

Paul and Suzie Fish
Screenshot from February’s virtual lecture by Paul and Suzie Fish about agave and archaeology on Tumamoc Hill.

Agave Renaissance: online (Zoom)

Mar 10 +11, Apr 14+15, May 12+13 / free

Series of virtual lectures and agave spirit tastings held monthly, featuring agave experts from around the globe. Registration required.

Ancient Agave Tour

 

by Tim Trumble
Photo by Tim Trumble from Arizona Opera’s Riders of the Purple Sage.

Arizona Opera Costume Shop Masterclasses: online (Zoom)

Mar 12 + 26

The final two masterclasses in this series by Arizona Opera’s Costume Shop team introduce the skills of fabric painting and using resin. Most materials are covered by class fees and can be picked up the Arizona Opera Center in Phoenix or shipped to you. Class fee $75 or $90 with shipping.

  • Find Arizona Opera videos, interviews, and musical story time at the Arizona Opera OnDemand channel.
  • New video series LOUD! created by Teniqua Broughton and Luis Egurrola highlights stories about music with sometimes-surprising connections to the world of opera.

 

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts.

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts concerts: Scottsdale + online

Many upcoming Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts shows are either all virtual or offer both in-person and livestream viewing options. Livestream tickets vary by show ($20-39).

  • MusicaNova Orchestra: On Wings of Hope: Mar 21 at 2pm MST, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts or livestream / tickets $27-37. Socially distanced performance of works by Haydn, Mozart, and young composer Quinn Mason (written for MusicaNova).
  • Burkina Dreams in the Desert Featuring AZ63: Mar 27 at 2pm MST, Scottsdale Civic Center Park or livestream / tickets $24-28: Performance of a mix of string and percussion instruments from Burkina Faso, the African Diaspora, and beyond.

 

Hotel Tucson
Hotel Tucson.

The Big Gem Show: Tucson

Apr 8 – Apr 25 / Hotel Tucson City Center, Tucson, AZ / free

More than 300 gem, minerals, and fossil vendors throughout Hotel Tucson’s 10-acre courtyard. The Show’s focus will be on quality Gems, Minerals, and Fossils. The show is open to the public.

Tumamoc Hill signOngoing

Arizona State Museum OnView+OnLine+OnDemand: online

ongoing / fees vary
Digital collections, classes, and resources from Arizona State Museum (ASM), University of Arizona’s anthropolgy museum.

Sculpture at Tohono Chul

ENCOMPASSING ARIZONATucson + online

Tohono Chul (Main Gallery)

Rotating invitational exhibition that presents a wide variety of artworks from a diverse roster of established and emerging artists from across Arizona.

  • New work installed frequently.
  • 50% of all art sales from ENCOMPASSING ARIZONA help fund programs at Tohono Chul.

Other Tohono Chul Goodies:

Tohono Chul


Happenings on this list are handpicked by me. As far as I know, all the information was accurate when I posted this. 

Also, this is not an ad. No one asked for this. I just compulsively need to share good stuff I hear about. So there you go.