Cool Summer Nights

Visitors take sunset pictures and video at Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum during its Cool Summer Nights, when the museum stays open until 10 p.m. on most Saturdays through Aug. 29.

It's another hot summer weekend in Tucson, and we've compiled our list of nearly 40 fun events happening this weekend to keep you cool, from "Cold Shot" at Reid Park Zoo to night tours on the Sabino Canyon Crawler and summer nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.

New This Week:

Movie Night at the Library

Settle in for some popcorn and a family-friendly afternoon movie night atΒ Miller-Golf Links Library.

When:Β 2:30 p.m. Friday, July 10

Where:Β Miller-Golf Links Library,Β 9640 E. Golf Links Road

Cost: Free

Visit their event page for more information.

Poetry Open Mic Afternoon

Bring your original poetry, spoken word pieces, short stories, or simply listen and enjoy an afternoon of creativity and conversation.

When: 3-5 p.m. Friday, July 10

Where: Ley Amber Collective, 4664 E. Speedway

Cost: Free

Visit their event page for more information.

A couple in the planetarium looking up at the dome.

Science at Sunset: Songs of Starlight

Experience Science at Sunset: Songs of Starlight, a special evening of music, astronomy and stargazing at Flandrau.Β 

When: 6-10 p.m. Friday, July 10

Where: Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium, 1601 E. University Blvd.

Cost: $12-18

Visit their event page for more information.

Femme Drop

Relax with beer, wine and snacks, and experience a fantastic all-female stand-up comedy show.

When: 8:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, July 10

Where: Tucson Improv Movement, 414 E. 9th Street

Cost: $9

Visit their event page for more information.


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80s Dance Party at The Surly Wench Pub

Dance the night away to all of your favorite retro hits, including Prince, Madonna, QUEEN, Michael Jackson, and more. Dress in your favorite 80s attire, or come as yourself!

When: 9 p.m.Β Friday, July 10

Where: The Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. 4th Ave.

Cost: $5

Visit their event page for more information.Β 

Dog Days of Summer

Come meet your new best friend! PACC is hosting an adoption event where they will be offering free adoptions for all pets, along with local food trucks, games and raffles.

When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, July 11

Where: PACC, 4000 N. Silverbell Road

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for food

Visit their event page for more informationΒ 

Kitty Yoga

Chill with the adoptable felines of Hunter's Kitten Lounge and enjoy a relaxing hour-long yoga class! Who knows, maybe you'll find your new furry best friend!

When: 10-11 a.m. Saturday, July 11

Where: Hunter’s Kitten Lounge, 5319 E. Speedway

Cost: $20

Visit their event page for more information.

Cold Shot at Reid Park Zoo

It's Game Night at Reid Park Zoo, so bring a friend or your family and get ready for hopscotch and tic-tac-toe, or cool off with water sprinklers for the kids, kick back with lawn games in the Event Garden, and solve a puzzle as you stroll the grounds.

When: 6 p.m. Saturday, July 11

Where:Β Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Ct.

Cost:Β $9-13

Visit their event page for more information

Open Mic β€” Celestia Collective

Whatever you do, this open mic is your space to let it shine. Singing, stand-up, interpretive dance, poetry β€” the stage is yours.

When: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, July 11

Where: Celestia Collective, 1122 N Stone Ave.

Cost: Free to attend

Visit their event page for more information

Chad Lacy pets Joey while he rests on a book shelf at Hunter's Kitten Lounge on July 6 2024.

Bingo With Cats β€” Hunter's Kitten Lounge

Snuggle with rescue kitties and play some friendly bingo at Hunter’s Kitten Lounge!

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday, July 11

Where: Hunter's Kitten Lounge, 5319 E. Speedway.

Cost: $25

Visit the event page for more information.

Chatty Kathee, right, played by Missy Paschke-Wood chats with a contestant at a Retro Game Show Night at Hotel Congress. After 13 years as a monthly staple at Hotel Congress, Retro Game Show Night has found a new home at 191 Toole.

Retro Game Show Night- Family Fuss

Join the cast ofΒ Retro Game Show Night for a night of ridiculous fun, and enter for a chance to play for astonishing prizes!

When: 7 p.m., Saturday, July 11

Where:Β 191 E. Toole Ave.

Cost: $20

Visit the event page for more information.

Goth Haus

When: 9 p.m. Saturday, July 11

Where: La Rosa, 800 N. Country Club

Cost: $15 General Admission

Visit their event page for more information.

Lip Gloss & Body Oil Workshop

Create your own custom lip gloss and luxurious body oil blends from scratch at this Winx Clubβ€”inspired workshop.

When: 1:30-4 p.m. Sunday, July 12Β 

Where: Di Luna Candles, 2700 N. Campbell Ave.

Cost: $50

Visit the event page for more information.

Exhibition on Screen: Frida Kahlo β€” The Loft

This film explores the life and art of the legendary Frida Kahlo. Take a journey through the life of a true icon, discover her art, and uncover the true story of her rebellious, passionate and turbulent life.

When: 2 p.m. Sunday, July 12Β 

Where: The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway

Cost: $12 General Admission

Visit the event page for more information.

Ravensburger Puzzle Race Mini Tournament β€” Snakes & Lattes

Bring your competitive spirit and pair up with your friends to compete against other teams and fight for first place! If you love puzzles, you won't want to miss the fun. Your ticket includes a refreshing soda or iced tea for each team member, a shareable treat, and a captivating 500-piece puzzle to take home.

When: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, July 12

Where: Snakes & Lattes, 988 E. University Blvd.

Cost: $25

Visit the event page for more information.

Love Island Watch Party & Craft Night

Watch the finale of Love Island USA with Keep Tucson Crafty and Tucson Love Letter. There will beΒ themed junk journal packs for sale and snacks for sale, andΒ snack purchases will benefit the lovely Coalition Community.

When:Β 5:30 p.m. Sunday, July 12

Where:Β The Coalition Space,Β 311 E. 7th St.

Cost:Β Free to attend

Visit the event page for more information.

Summer-long events:Β 

A meerkat pokes through watermelon during Watermelon Wednesdays at the Reid Park Zoo in Tucson, Ariz. on July 1, 2026. Every Wednesday in July guests can watch a variety of animals enjoy the juicy fruit.

$3 Ticket Tuesdays at Reid Park Zoo

Every Tuesday throughout June and July, admission to Reid Park Zoo will be $3 for everyone!

When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays in June and July

Where: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Ct.

Cost: $3Β 

Visit their event page for more information.Β 

$5 Fridays at the Tucson Botanical Gardens

Enjoy $5 admission to the Tucson Botanical Gardens every Friday through September 25.Β 

When: Fridays through September 26Β 

Where: Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon Way

Cost: $5

Visit their event page for more information.

One of the two new cougar cubs at the Arizona-Sonora desert Museum watches visitors watch him from a nook in its enclosure.

Cool Summer Nights

Enjoy the sights of the Desert Museum at night β€” in cooler temperatures! Bring a flashlight to walk around and possibly spot a nocturnal animal, touch a stingray and check out themed activities.

When: 6-10 p.m. Saturdays, June 6 through August 29

Where: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road

Cost: $29.95 for adults, $24.95 for kids ages 3-12.Β 

Visit the event page for more information.

Night Ops at the Pima Air & Space Museum

The Pima Air & Space Museum is staying open late twice this month! Watch as the sun sets over the planes and enjoy themed activities.

When: 5-8:30 p.m. Saturdays, July 18 and 25Β 

Where: Pima Air & Space Museum, 6000 E. Valencia Road

Cost: $15 for ages 13 and up, free for ages 12 and under

Visit the event page for more information.

Chillin at the Chul

Check out music, spirits and bites at Tohono Chul's summer series. On Saturdays, Tohono Chul has partnered with Children's Museum Oro Valley to provide family-friendly nature play.

When: 6-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays through Aug. 28

Where: Tohono Chul, 7366 N. Paseo del Norte

Cost: $5

Visit the event page for more information.

Penzi dries off with a trunkful of dust after a swim in the African elephant pond at Summer Safari Nights at Reid Park Zoo, Tucson, Ariz., June 6, 2026.

Summer Safari Nights

Enjoy the cooler evening temperatures at Reid Park Zoo's after-hours Summer Safari Nights. Each event will have different themed activities, including keeper chats, animal encounters, face painting, games and live music.Β 

When: 6-8 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 8

Where: Reid Park Zoo, 3400 E. Zoo Court

Cost: $12 for adults, $8.50 for kids ages 2-14

Visit the event page for more information.

12 Weeks of Foodie Summer

Every week, Tucson Foodie is picking a foodie theme, and you’re tasked to go to a locally owned restaurant that fits the theme. You then snap a picture of your receipt, submit them online, and you’ll be entered for the chance to win some fun prizes!

When: Running until August 9

Where: Various locations

Cost: Free to enter, visit their website to sign up and get started.Β 

Visit their event page for more information.Β 

The lights of Tucson as seen from Sabino Canyon during the first Night Crawler tour of the season on June 28.

Sabino Canyon Night Crawler

The Sabino Canyon Crawler's night tour returns on Saturdays, now through October 25!

When: 7:30- 9 p.m. on Saturdays

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

Cost: $15 for adults, $8 for children

Visit their event page for more information.Β 

Recurring Events:

Events at Life Under the Oaks Lavender Farm

Summer is the perfect time to experience the Life Under the Oaks Lavender Farm! The owners are celebrating with tours, themed workshops, and exciting events! Check out their seasonal teas at Lavender Manor!

When: Various dates in July

Where: Life Under the Oaks Lavender Farm, 1221 N. Rancho Robles Road, Oracle. (Some workshops are available in Tucson at The Lavender Manor, 347 E. Fourth Street.)

Cost: $15 for tours and tastings

Visit the event page for more information.

Walking tours with the Presidio Museum

Explore Tucson's downtown area with walking tours hosted by the Presidio Museum. There's a long list of tours on the calendar, including the Turquoise Trail, Armory Park, Barrio Viejo, Death After Dark and Public Art & Murals.Β 

When: Various dates, check out the calendar here.

Where: Locations vary based on tour.

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

Visit the event page for more information.

Sunset Yoga at MSA Annex

Sunset Yoga will be held every Tuesday in July, guided by instructor Joanna!

When: Tuesdays, 6:15 p.m.Β 

Where: MSA Annex, 267 South Avenida del Convento

Cost: $10

Visit the event page for more information.

Dirty T Run Club

This run club meets on Thursdays for a 4-mile run at a slower pace. During the route, you’ll get to run past iconic murals and the rattlesnake bridge. Plus, they stop by a bar for after-run drinks.Β 

When: Thursdays at 6 p.m., rain or shineΒ 

Where: Meeting place is at the corner of 6th Ave. and 7th Street

Cost: Free to attend

Visit their Instagram page for more information.

West Side community rides

Join the West Side community on the third Thursday of every month for a fun group ride from Transit Cycles to Dragoon Brewing. The brewery will also be serving $1 pints and Muncheez food truck will be cooking up food.Β 

When: 5:30 p.m. meet up at Transit Cycles and the ride starts at 6 p.m.

Where: Transit Cycles, 267 S. Avenida del Convento Bldg. 10

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

Visit the event page for more information.

Paint & Sip Party

Unwind, listen to great music, and learn real painting techniques from professional artists.

When: 6-8 p.m. every Friday

Where: Catalyst Creative Collective, 4500 N. Oracle Road, Suite 110

Cost: $35

Visit the event page for more information.

Snakes After Dark β€” Snakes & Lattes

Snakes & Lattes is bringing the late-night energy, immersive music, hosted games, prizes and craft cocktails!

When: 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays in July

Where: Snakes & Lattes, 988 E. University Blvd.

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

Visit the event page for more information.

Magic & Mystery Dinner Theater

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

When: 6:30 p.m. Saturdays and most Fridays

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

Cost: $49 without dinner, $89 with dinner

Visit the event page for more information.

Foothills Community Markets

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

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays

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

Cost: Free to attend, bring money for shopping

Visit the event page for more information.

James Hall helps a customer with their purchase at the Ceramics by James booth during the St. Philip's Plaza Market on Nov. 28, 2025.

St. Philip's Plaza Market

Visit St. Philip's Plaza to shop from local makers and enjoy live music. While you're there, grab a bite to eat at one of the plaza's several eateries.

When: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturdays and SundaysΒ 

Where: St. Philip's Plaza, 4280 N. Campbell Ave.

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

Visit the event page for more information.

Events at Poppin' Off Pop Culture Gifts & More

Stop by Poppin' Off for their many creative workshops, trivia nights, and other exciting events! You'll find something for all ages and interests.

When: Various dates throughout July

Where: Poppin' Off Pop Culture Gifts & More, 4570 E. Broadway.

Cost: Typically $0 to $15

Visit their event page for more information.

Workshops and Events at Di Luna

Di Luna is hosting fun, creative workshops and exciting events all month long! From a creative writing workshop to a book bedazzling event, there's something for everyone to enjoy

When: Various dates in July

Where: Di Luna Candles, 2700 N. Campbell Ave.

Cost: Prices vary

Visit the event page for more information.


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