Restaurants
OBON Sushi Bar Ramen
Sushi rolls, ramen bowls & cocktails are served at this casual venue with modern decor & a patio.
350 E Congress St, Tucson, AZ 85701
Phone: (520) 485-3590 | Web: obonsushi.com
Tumerico
Sunlit restaurant featuring an array of vegan & vegetarian Mexican plates in a laid-back atmosphere.
2526 E 6th St, Tucson, AZ 85716
Phone: (520) 240-6947 | Web: tumerico.com
Maynards
Historic venue with a takeaway counter, a gourmet shop & a bar & eatery with seasonal American fare.
400 N Toole Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701
Phone: (520) 545-0577 | Web: hotelcongress.com
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Daisy Mae’s Steak House
Rustic, Southwestern-style restaurant offering mesquitefired steak, baby back ribs & more.
2735 W Anklam Rd, Tucson, AZ
Tito and Pep
Neighborhood locale with cool decor for Southwestern bistro fare, original cocktails & local beers.
4122 E Speedway Blvd, Tucson, AZ
Renee’s Tucson
Compact eatery serving a diverse menu of organic dishes, including gluten-free pizza & vegan items.
7065 E Tanque Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ
Bobo’s Restaurant
Hearty comfort food is the order of the day at this homey & compact diner known for breakfast.
2938 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ
Yamato Japanese Restaurant
Unassuming, chef-owned Japanese fixture for sushi, teriyaki dishes & more, plus beer, wine & sake.
857 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ
El Berraco
Seafood with Latin flair, including tacos & tostadas, served in a colorful, submarinelike space.
2960 N 1st Ave, Tucson, AZ
Saigon Pho
U of Arizona-area nook for Vietnamese staples such as noodle soups & boba tea, plus veggie options.
943 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ
Mandarin Grill
Cantonese & Mandarin-style Chinese lunch & dinner specials served up in a basic setting.
505 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ
EVENTS 2024
Oct 18-27
Boo at the Zoo 2024
The Reid Park Zoo’s family-friendly Halloween event offers less “boo” and more “zoo” to provide the entire family with an enjoyable, but not too frightening, celebration. Show off your boo-tiful costumes for this Tucson Halloween tradition, presented by OneAZ Credit Union. Proceeds benefit Zoo animal care, operations, and education programs. Learn more and join us this month visittucson.org.
Oct 27
Trick-or-Treat the Avenue
Double, double toil and trouble! The Fourth Avenue Merchants Association and 4th Avenue Businesses will be serving some Tricks and Treats on October 27. EVERYONE is welcomed to enter into our Halloween costume contest - kids, adults and pets!! Costume contest awards ceremony will be held at 1pm at Haggerty Plaza. Bring the whole family and get your spooks & thrills while Trick-or-Treating the Ave! Learn more and join us at visittucson.org.
Nov 1-3
All Souls Procession
Tucson’s Dia de Los Muertos-inspired event, The All Souls Procession is one of the most significant, inclusive, and authentic public ceremonies in North America. It began in 1990 as a ceremonial performance by local artist Susan Johnson, who was grieving the loss of her father. This initial creative expression soon inspired many others to join in, evolving the event into the vibrant, community-powered celebration it is today. Learn more and join us at visittucson.org.
Nov 9-10
Dusk Music Festival
Entering its 7th year, DUSK Music Festival is a two-day, music, art and culinary festival held in the heart of downtown Tucson, at Jácome Plaza.
EVENTS 2024-25
Featuring 40 artists on 3 stages, DUSK provides the most unique and diverse entertainment experience Tucson has to offer. The lineup of artists set to perform at the 2024 Dusk Music Festival is nothing short of extraordinary. With a careful curation of diverse talents, the festival promises to deliver an unforgettable musical experience. Learn more at visittucson.org.
Dec 7
Tucson Tamal & Heritage Festival
Eat fresh tamales and celebrate local borderland heritage. Savor the rich tastes, smells and variations of tamales from the Southwest and Mexico and discover the culinary tradition of making tamales for Christmas at the 19th Annual Tucson Tamal & Heritage Festival at AVA Amphitheater, Casino Del Sol Resort. Enjoy a full day of live local entertainment and art and culture exhibits, local food, farmers market and artisan vendors, and a tamale-tasting contest. Fun for the entire family! Join us this year and learn more at visittucson.org.
Dec 13-15
Fourth Avenue Winter Fair
A family-friendly Top 100 event that has more than 350 artists who are excited to participate in this premier Tucson community event. Come, and stroll the streets, all on one floor and closed to automobile traffic, with wide aisles and ever-changing wares. See why this fair that started in 1971 has Tucson-event longevity — we’re now celebrating the 50+ Spring and Winter Street Fairs. Fair admission is free. Ample parking is available on side streets and in nearby garages. Learn more at visittucson.org.
Jan 17-25 2025
Tucson Jazz Festival
Jazz lovers! Welcome to Tucson for Jazz in January! Marking its ninth year, the Tucson Jazz Festival promises a lineup that’s not to be missed. Click the link below for program events. The festival is celebrating 11 ears and some shows have already sold out! This ear is set to make an impact downtown.
EVENTS 2025
KGUN9 sat down with Khris Dodge, the Executive Director of the Tucson Jazz Festival about why this festival is great for anyone. Learn more at tucsonjazzfestival.org.
Jan 25 2025
Savor Southern Arizona Culinary Festival
The festival will feature over 60 of Southern Arizona’s finest chefs, wineries, breweries, and local food purveyors, each offering exceptional tastings that showcase the diversity and creativity of the Southwest. Attendees will have the chance to indulge in a wide array of heritage foods, from native ingredients like tepary beans and mesquite flour to innovative dishes that celebrate Tucson’s culinary evolution. Join us this year and learn more at visittucson.org.
Feb 5-9 2025
Tubac Festival of the Arts
The Village of Tubac hosts Southern Arizona’s longest running outdoor arts festival, now in its sixth decade. The Tubac Festival of the Arts draws tens of thousands of visitors each season. The juried event showcases the work of visiting artists from around the country and as far away as Canada. Each year, approximately 200 visiting artists exhibit their works along the village streets, mixed in with the more than 125 shops, fine art galleries and working artist studios. Join us this year and learn more at visittucson.org.
Feb 14-15 2025
A FUN Evening of Magic!
Direct from Hawaii… The Carnival of Illusion Theater features SPECIAL GUEST PERFORMERS and veterans of magic, John and Mari Lynn Shryock. Together, this magical duo has toured the world with performances on cruise ships, nightclubs, conventions, resorts, as well as the television series Masters of Illusion, and at the World-Famous Magic Castle in Hollywood. Performing downtown Tucson with FREE off-street
parking, this beautiful Scottish Rite Grand Parlour has been stunning select audiences for over 100 years. Learn more at visittucson.org.
Mar 2-9 2025
Tucson Winter Chamber Music Festival
The Winter Festival always demonstrates why it is among the top international chamber music festivals both in terms of program quality and artist musicianship. In 2025, AFCM is pleased and honored to announce that pianist Bernadette Harvey will join co-founder Peter Rejto as Artistic Co-Directors of the Festival. Join us this year and learn more at visittucson.org.
Mar 21 2025
Fourth Avenue Spring Street Fair
The 56-year-old, family-friendly tradition brings over 350,000 people to the heart of the Old Pueblo every year. The Fair hosts artists from around the world, decadent food, local entertainment and offers something for everyone of all ages. This bi-annual Top 100 nationwide event takes full advantage of our wonderful Sonoran Desert climate. The Fair is produced by the Fourth Avenue Merchants Association, Inc., a local nonprofit. Join us this year and learn more at visittucson.org.
Mar TBD 2025
Tucson Festival of Books
The Tucson Festival of Books arrives in March when the sun is beaming, desert wildflowers are blooming and University of Arizona students are gone bye-bye on spring break. It’s Tucson’s annual gift to bookworms -- a two-day bestseller for all ages. Much of the activity -- book panels and special events where literacy lovers can come together, meet their favorite authors, and discover new bookish companies and resources -- takes place on the pedestrian-friendly, open-air University of Arizona Mall. Learn more at visittucson.org.
Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:
1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~
In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.
2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~
Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,
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EVENTS 2025
Apr 23-27 2025
Tucson International Mariachi Conference 2025
As fans know, a mariachi band should be seen and heard live to be fully appreciated! Tucson’s mariachi conference includes a music festival with three public concerts that cap a week of rigorous student workshops led by masters of mariachi music and folkloric dance. On Sunday morning, a traditional mariachi Mass featuring live music and dance is open to all. You can experience this exuberant symbol of Mexican culture in Tucson, a mariachi hub of the United States, it happens every spring at the La Frontera Tucson International Mariachi Conference. Learn more at visittucson.org.
Apr TBD 2025
Agave Heritage Festival
After getting started as a tequila lover’s Cinco de Mayo celebration in 2008, Agave Heritage Festival has evolved into a unique event rooted in the historical and cultural significance of the agave plant. With seminars, trade shows, field trips, world-class culinary events, tastings of fine spirits unavailable in the United States, and an art exhibit, the festival is realizing its true potential. There are opportunities to learn about the plant’s inextricable role in the culture and history of the Arizona-Mexico borderlands and beyond. Learn more at visittucson.org.
May 7-10 2025
SouthWest Wings Spring Fling
Southwest Wings is an educational celebration of the diversity of birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects in their environment; the sky islands in southern Arizona. The unique confluence of three climate zones ensures that the species count is high, and many are only found in this area of the United States. We average about 200 species each festival. Our high elevation location guarantees moderate temperatures during our field trips. We offer small group trips limited to a maximum of ten people plus a guide. Learn more at allaboutbirds.org.
cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.
3. India: Samosas ~ Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.
4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~ Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.
5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.
6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.
7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.
8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.
Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!
SOUTHERN ARIZONA SENIOR PRIDE
We celebrate, support and unite LGBTQIA+ older adults. We recognize and respond to the unique concerns of LGBTQIA+ older adults who are 55+ and their younger allies by delivering social and support programming sponsored by Senior Pride in three areas: social & learning, health & wellbeing, and arts and culture; vetting and sharing LGBTQIA+ welcoming information & services offered by other organizations in the community, and increasing awareness of LGBTQIA+ and aging issues.
SOAZSENIORPRIDE.ORG | (520) 312-8923
SOUTHERN ARIZONA AIDS FOUNDATION
Providing HIV/AIDS and LGBTQIA+ care, support,outreach, and education. SAAF’S mission is to promote health, well-being, and social justice for those living with HIV, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and communities marginalized by society.
SAAF.ORG | (520) 528-7223
TUCSON PRIDE
Tucson Pride was founded in 1977 making it Arizona’s first and longest established LGBTQ Organization. Our mission is to empower the LGBTQ+ Community of Southern Arizona through community building, enhanced visibility, and unwavering support.
TUCSONPRIDE.ORG | (520) 622-3200
INSTITUTE FOR LGBT STUDIES
Our mission at the UA Institute for LGBT Studies is tot promote LGBTQ research, curricula and public programming.
LGBT.ARIZONA.EDU | (520) 626-3431 .
EVENTS 2025
May 17-19 2025
Willcox
Wine Country Festival
Willcox Wine Country is Arizona’s premier wine region. It is a wine region located in Cochise and Graham counties in far southeastern Arizona. The Willcox area leads Arizona wine grape production by growing 74% of the state’s wine grapes. Wines from the region and wines made with Willcox grapes have been highly rated by Wine Spectator, San Francisco Chronicle, tastings.com and the Arizona Republic. Join us this year and learn more at willcoxwinecountry.org.
Jun 14 2025
Ted DeGrazia’s Birthday Celebration
Every year on June 14th, from 10-4, we celebrate Ted DeGrazia’s birthday with free cake and ice cream (while supplies last)! Stroll through the 10acre gallery grounds on this special day to see the art and architecture of Arizona’s acclaimed artist as we celebrate his birth in the copper mining camp of Morenci on June 14, 1909. This event is open to the public and admission is free for the day! Learn more online and join us this year at degrazia.org.
Jun TBD 2025
World Margarita Championship
This lively cocktail competition has become one of the most anticipated culinary events in the region. It also features music performances, interactive arts experiences, and meet and greets with many Tucson area chefs and personalities. SAACA and Tucson Originals Restaurants partner to bring you the newest edition of the World Margarita Championship! This spirited competition event features some of the Southwest’s premier chefs and restaurants as they duke it out for Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice awards for Signature Margarita and Best Bite. Learn more at saaca.org.
EVENTS 2025
Jul 30 - Aug 2 2025
Southwest Wings Birding Festival
This family friendly event is our main one with expertly guided field trips, pre-festival Jamboree, free programs, including some new ones just for kids, exhibitors, vendors, live animals and Keynote Buffet Dinner. The small-group guided field trips will be mainly in Group Vans but there will also be several Car Caravan style, in participants’ own vehicles, to nearby easily-accessible locations. Learn more online and join us this year at swwings.org.
Aug TBD 2025
Salsa, Tequila, & Taco Challenge
The 12th Annual Salsa, Tequila, & Taco Challenge is bound to elevate cocktail craft and culinary creativity once again. Attendees of this trademark culinary competition can anticipate a variety of unique food and cocktail samples ready for their enjoyment. Previous iterations of this event hosted such master craft creations as salsa infused with chicharrones, a dulce de leche dessert taco, and even a watermelon Sour Patch Kids margarita! Learn more at visittucson.org.
Sep TBD 2025
Sonoran Restaurant Week
Our culture is vibrant, the flavors are always sizzlin’, and taste buds are unquestionably treated 365 days a year. Then, when Sonoran Restaurant Week rolls around in September each year, the 10-day city-wide event shines an added light on dozens of restaurants and the customized menus they put on display. There is no charge for restaurants to take part. From time to time, restaurants even go above and beyond, creating special offerings at multiple price points for diners to explore. Learn more at visittucson.org.
