Here’s some free events occurring in Tucson, leading up to the State of Arizona’s 100th Birthday celebration.

On February 14, 1912, Arizona became the 48th state and the last of the contiguous states to be admitted to the United States of America. But the lens through which we look at Arizona goes back much further than 100 years and as well peers forward to the years ahead.

The Colleges of Letters, Arts and Science invite you to explore with us Arizona’s rich history and its promise for the future.

In January 2012 we embark upon a journey of reflection and discovery in Southern Arizona venues from Tumamoc Hill to the Tucson Scottish Rite Cathedral, from San Xavier del Bac to the UA Poetry Center, in activities and events that encompass our cultural heritage and showcase the diversity of people and places that make us what we are.

Our exploration culminates with Arizona 100: A Celebration on Saturday, February 11, 2012, as the community comes together in Centennial Hall on the university campus for a multifaceted view of our past, present and future.

Sponsored with generous support from the University of Arizona’s offices of the President, Provost and Vice President for Research and by Confluence: Center for Creative Inquiry, join us as the University of Arizona celebrates Arizona – 100 and Counting!

Go online now to get complimentary tickets to some of these events, starting Sat. January 21 — The Arizona Radio Hour (with musical theatre company Encore!) at the Tucson Scottish Rite Cathedral downtown at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are also required for the AZ 100: A Celebration closing event at Centennial Hall on Feb. 11, followed by a reception in front of the AZ State Museum. Website: www.Az100.arizona.edu, or call 520-621-9062.

Other events:

Tumamoc Hill Open House (two weekends: Jan. 21, 22, 28, 29 – 10 a.m to 5 p.m.);

UA Poetry Center event on Jan. 26 with opening reception (5 to 7 p.m.) for an exhibit entitled “Voices from Arizona’s Past: Sharlot Hall & Hattie Lockett”;

Architectural tour on Jan. 28 of Mission San Xavier del Bac by architect Bob Vint at 11 a.m., followed by a concert by the Tucson Arizona Boys Choir at 1 p.m.