Tucson Peace Fair back with renewed urgency, energy

The 42nd Annual Tucson Peace Fair & Music Festival will take over Reid Park on Saturday, Feb. 28, with a free, family-friendly event bringing together dozens of local organizations, live musical performances, food vendors and interactive children’s activities.

It’s all aimed at strengthening community connections and inspiring action across Southern Arizona at a time when economic pressures are mounting, social safety nets are strained, and people are looking for ways to get involved, said Peace Center Board President Elizabeth Putnam-Hidalgo.

“Everyone is saying, ‘What should I do?’” she said.

While the festival’s foundation of live music and advocacy remains the same, organizers say this year feels different.  

Putnam-Hidalgo said she’s seeing a noticeable surge in community engagement. More grassroots and youth-led groups are stepping forward, she said, driven by a shared sense of urgency and a desire to build stronger local connections.

Still, music remains at the heart of the festival with artists Ukulele Fight Club, Raging Grannies, Consciousness Collective, Kat Williamson, One Heartbeat, The Mysterious Babies Peace Band and Santa Pachita scheduled throughout the afternoon.

“Music, music, music,” said Peace Fair Coordinator Mary DeCamp. “We’ve got five hours of live, local outdoor music. Even if you’re not politically engaged, it’s still a fun time out in the park. These are our salt of the earth people.”

The fair also serves as a gathering space for dozens of local peace, social justice, environmental and labor organizations. Tables around the park will offer information on advocacy efforts, volunteer opportunities and community resources, giving attendees a chance to connect directly with groups working across Southern Arizona. 

The goal remains the same after 42 years, organizers say: Building relationships and turning shared concerns into collective action.

The festival offers a space to gather, learn and act together, Putnam-Hidalgo said.