San Pedro River. Photo by Francie Hills.

I received a flyer in my email the other day about some upcoming events that look interesting. On one of our Sunday day trips last January, Ms. Karen & I visited the San Pedro River at two locations: the San Pedro House and the ghost town of Fairbank. The San Pedro House is the visitor center for this riparian conservation area. From here you can take a walk on a short nature trail near the House or take another trail that winds along the river for miles. At Fairbank, you can visit the ruins of this mining community on the east bank of the San Pedro. There are trails from here that go down to the river and also to the Fairbank Cemetery and the ruins of Santa Cruz de Terrenate.

You will find some interesting images of the San Pedro on our SouthernArizonaGuide.com.

Fairbank Post Office

On Saturday, March 2nd at Fairbank the Friends of the San Pedro River are putting on a show and I’m pretty sure we will be there to see it. Included are:

• Presentations by the Old Pueblo Archeology Center on the peleo-Indians and Hohokam who lived along the River.
• Spanish soldiers from El Presidio San Agustin de Tucson representing the Spanish colonial era.
• Re-enactments representing events from the Old West.
• Hikes, tours of the Fairbank townsite, including the restored school house, and demonstrations.
• Music + Food
• Displays including: Amerind Foundation,  Empire Ranch Foundation, Friends of Brown Canyon Ranch, Friends of Kentucky Camp, Friends of the San Pedro River,
  Tombstone Archives, Tubac Presido, U.S. Bureau of Land Management

• The 8 AM docent-guided hike to the ruins of Presidio Santa Cruz de Terrenate is considered a moderate 4-hour, 5 mile walk with two river crossings. Bring suitable trail shoes, hat, water, and snack.
• To view the flyer, click HERE.

Fairbank is about 10 miles west of Tombstone between Whetstone and Tombstone on Hwy 82, just east of the San Pedro River.

Click on this link to view our short article about our January 2013 visit to Fairbank.

For our 1776 video interview with a Spanish soldado at the Presidio, click on this link.

Yesterday, I witnessed my first La Fiesta De Los Vaqueros, AKA the Tucson Rodeo. This was the first day of a 12 day event that concludes next Sunday, February 24th. There was plenty of action, which you can see by the photographs I took from the grandstands. This event is very well organized. There was almost no delay between events, which include: bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, calf roping, team roping,  steer wrestling, barrel racing, and bull riding.

The announcer obviously knows rodeo, from the contestants to the sometimes complex and seemingly archaic rules. The wranglers were great, as were the clowns, and the audience was definitely engaged. And the contestants? Awesome. These folks are rugged cowboys & cowgirls, and terrific role models for our school-age children. If you’re looking for something to do with the young ones, take them to the rodeo. Lots of food and drink here, and plenty of merchandise to purchase at dozens of booths surrounding the grandstands.

Parking was $5 and the cheapest admission is $12. Some 700 contestants will compete for serious prize money this year. Proceeds from the rodeo go to the University of Arizona Scholarship Fund and other worthy charities.

Here are a few photos I took. You can see more at SouthernArizonaGuide.com.

The Tucson Rodeo began way back in the 1920′s during that era of high morals known as Prohibition: if it was fun, it was prohibited. Don’t miss the Rodeo Parade Museum on the rodeo grounds. And don’t miss the Parade this coming Thursday. Gabby & Mark are Grand Marshalls.

While Jim is out of commission, (back surgery) I will be hosting his blogs along with some knowledgeable guest bloggers. My name is Karen Ratte, wife and personal webmistress. Here is my first blog. My blogs will generally be about my personal favorites, I will leave the history lessons to my husband and his guest bloggers.

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As most Tucsonans know, there is plenty to see and do along the I-19 corridor any time of year. Perhaps this will just serve as a reminder; some suggestions for the next couple of weekends before Christmas.

Fiesta at Mission Tumacacori National Park

Saturday and Sunday, December 1 & 2 marks the 42nd Annual Tumacacori Fiesta where the park and grounds will be featuring music and dancers on stage, as well as foods, crafts tours and guided walks. The festivities are free and as is entrance to the park. The park as recently been refurbished with new walkways. For the kids there will be touch tables, live raptors, adobe making, mano and metate mesquite bean grinding as well as other exciting activities. Pinata breaking will take place twice a day. Photography will be limited at some of the events. For more information visit the Tumacacori National Park website. If you miss it this year, it is an annual event, the first weekend in December.

P.S. Across the street from the mission grounds is a great little gift shop.

Santa Cruz Chili & Spice Company

And if you are in the mood for some unique Christmas shopping, head further south on the frontage road just a bit to the Santa Cruz Chili & Spice Company, a small, family owned manufacturer and retailer of fine chili products, spices, herbs, cookbooks and more. they also have a quaint but interesting Western Museum documenting the rich history of the area. They are closed Sundays. You may also go online and order your gifts delivered.
www.santacruzchili.com/

Heading north again on the Frontage Road at Carmen on the right, look carefully, you will notice a mesquite lumberyard and gallery of products made from this fine wood.

Wisdom’s Cafe

Further on, heading north again towards Tubac, stop at Wisdom’s for lunch on the patio, margaritas or their famous Fruit Burro. Family owned for 4 generations, Wisdom’s is a local treat.
December 7th and 8th

If you can’t take in the Fiesta de Tumacacori this weekend, try heading on down for some Christmas shopping in Tubac, Friday, December 7th or Saturday, December 8th and enjoy Luminaria Nights from sunset to 9 PM. There will be a tree-lighting ceremony on Friday at 5:30 PM. Hundred of luminarias, refreshments and holiday music throughout the village.

Cochise County is a special place: still sparsely populated, but full of history and adventure. Here are a few upcoming events that I think will be worth attending: Buffalo Soldiers Tour; Bisbee Home Tour, and Bisbee Festival of Lights.

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What? Guided tour about the history and accomplishments of Fort Huchuca Buffalo Soldiers conducted by the Southwest Association of Buffalo Soldiers.
Where? Fort Huachuca at Sierra Vista
When? November 17th between 1 and 3 PM
More Info: 520-417-6960 or 800-288-3861

After the Civil War, the U.S. Army formed regiments of Negro men, most of whom were former slaves, and many of whom had served in the United States Colored Troops (U.S.C.T.). The cavalry units were the 9th and 10th Cavalry, and the infantry were the 38th, 39th, 40th, and 41st which several years later were consolidated into the 24th and 25th infantry units. Black infantry troops often fought side-by-side with the black cavalry.

These African-American soldiers were called “buffalo soldiers” by the Plains Indians. No one today is quite certain why.  Some say it was because the men were as rugged as buffalo and others say that it was because the Indians saw a resemblance between the Black soldier’s hair and the buffalo’s shaggy coat. It has also been pointed out that many Black soldiers favored long buffalo-robe coats. Although the name was primarily applied to the cavalry, it was sometimes extended to include the Black infantry.

After the Civil War, Blacks faced horrific discrimination. Some men enlisted to escape hopeless poverty and gain a certain respect, even though they were segregated from White troops. The Buffalo Soldiers fought in the Plains Indian Wars, the Apache Wars, the Spanish-American War, and The Punitive Mission against Mexico ordered by President Wilson and led by General John Pershing. Pershing had earned his nickname, ‘Black Jack,’ by leading Black regiments early in his career.

By all accounts, these Black regiments distinguished themselves in service to their country, despite being given inferior horses and equipment.

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What? 30th Annual Bisbee Historic Home Tour.
Visitors will see the miner’s shacks and other buildings that have been restored and decorated with Bisbee residents’ unique style. Ten homes, Saint Patrick’s Church and the Bisbee Woman’s Club building are featured on the tour.

Bisbee Festival of Lights
Also, Bisbee kicks off the holidays with its Festival of Lights all day Friday, Nov. 23 at City Park in historic Brewery Gulch. Live music, dancers, food, a craft fair, during the day, and the lighting ceremony that evening. Kids’ activities include an ornament-making class from 10 a.m. to noon and a decorating party from noon to 2 p.m. On Saturday, Nov. 24. Main Street will feature a “Small Town Holiday” with free horse-drawn wagon rides, carolers, window decorating contest, raffles and shopping until 8 p.m.
Where? Old Bisbee
When? November 23rd & 24th 9 AM to 4 PM
Cost? $15 for adults, children 12 and under FREE.
More Info: Bisbee Visitor Center at 520-432-3554 or 1-866-224-7233, www.DiscoverBisbee.com

Other Featured Homes

• “The Doll House,” a 1916 miner’s shack that and has been lovingly redone by the present owner. It’s a cozy 638-square-foot home with an eclectic combination of vintage shabby chic and Bisbee flair.
• A Mission-style bungalow built in 1915 during the Mexican Revolution and World War I. It features original woodwork and leaded glass in its inner entry door.
• A home built in the early 1900s as a miner’s shack. Much of the structure is made from mine timbers and 2” x 12” mine platform boards.

For our Bisbee Dining Recommendations, click HERE. Bisbee has several very good restaurants, including Santiago’s Mexican; Rose’s Little Italy, Hazel’s Table 10, and Cafe’ Roka.

For our Lodging Recommendations, click HERE. We particularly like Joy Timber’s Calumet & Arizona Guesthouse B&B in the Warren District, and the Eldorado Suites Hotel on OK Street overlooking Brewery Gulch in Old Bisbee.

Neither Neighbor Roy nor I had ever been to an All Souls Procession. We had heard a lot about it, so last night we ventured Downtown to see what it was all about. Our plan was to find a location near the end of the parade route on the assumption that it would be less crowded and easier to find a place to park. We arrived near Alameda and Granada about 5:45 PM only to discover that half of Tucson was already there. It wasn’t the first time that I had to use my handicap permit to get a decent parking space.

We got Zippy, my 3-wheel electric scooter, out of the car and quickly joined the throngs making their way to the procession. We settled at the corner of Alameda & Church where the police had asked the crowd to stay on the sidewalk. At this point I had a good vantage point from which to take photographs. It was 6:15.

We had done our homework and knew that the procession was scheduled to start around Congress & Toole at 6 PM. We calculated that it wouldn’t reach us for at least a half hour. Wrong. If it started on time, it took only 20 minutes to reach us and the party at Church & Alameda was in full swing at 6:20. I got only a couple of shots off before my “good vantage point” was totally overwhelmed by thousands of Tucsonans moving off the sidewalk and on to the street ahead of me. It became nearly impossible to distinguish the bystanders from the procession.

I put my camera away and Neighbor Roy and I just enjoyed the procession for the next hour like everyone else.

Certainly there were several thousand participants and several tens of thousands of onlookers. Most everyone, participants and the people watching, had come in costume, or at least face-paint. There was no unruliness, just a mass of people having a good time.

Many of the participants carried signs or placards or banners referencing their now-deceased loved ones. I only observed one reference to the Bible, a quote from the Book of Revelations. And one anti-nuke political statement. There were no bands as such. Drummers mostly. An occasional horn-blower. And a couple of bagpipes wheezing out a sorrowful tune.

If the dead were paying any attention last night, they knew that they had been honored.

Things To Do Next Saturday & Sunday November 3^rd & 4th

What?  Tucson Museum of Art League holds its 24th annual Treasure House Estate Sale. Visitors will have the opportunity to view and purchase a wide range of fine tableware, jewelry, and furniture. This event is for those who love antiques and collectables. A portion of each sale benefits the Tucson Museum of Art.
Where? Campbell Plaza, 2980 North Campbell Avenue, Suite 130.
When? Saturday 10-3; Sunday Noon-4PM. Member Only Party Friday November 2nd 5-10 PM.
Cost? Free
More Info: Lisa Wilkinson, Director of Public Relations and Marketing at 520-616-2687 or lwilkinson@tucsonmuseumofart.org

What? Western Music Festival
Where? Tombstone
Notice: In case you missed the memo, this event scheduled for November 4^th-6^th has been cancelled.

What? An Art Experience: outdoor “working studios” set-up in tents in front of the village galleries and studios.
Where? Tubac
When? 10AM to 5 PM
Cost? Free

What?
26th Annual 
2012 Tucson Celtic Festival
& Scottish Highland Games.
Celebrate the heritage of Ireland, Scotland and Wales with lots of music, dancing, athletics plus food and drink.

There will be musical performances all day, massed Bagpipe Bands, unique Celtic Merchants & Eateries, Scottish Clans, Heritage & Cultural Booths, Highland Athletics & more. On the dance stage there will be Irish & Scottish performances including Highland Dance and Solo Bagpipe competitions! Also: games, crafts, jumping castles, storytelling, a petting zoo. Plus Saturday night concert and fire dance performances.
Where? Rillito Raceway Park 4502 N First Ave Tucson, AZ 85718
When? Friday 5:30-10PM; Saturday 9AM-10PM; Sunday 9AM-5PM
Cost? Under 5 Free; 5-15yo $5 each day; Adults $20 each day
More Info: http://www.tucsoncelticfestival.org

Sunday, November 4th
What? All Souls Procession & Dance of the Dead.
This annual event is uniquely Tucson. Everyone is invited to put on a costume and mask and join in the parade to honor the dearly departed.
Where? Downtown Tucson
When? Participants gather: 5 PM at Toole Ave. & Congress St. Parade begins at 6 PM
and proceeds along Alameda to West Congress and ends at Mercado San Agustin west of the freeway.

All Souls Parade Route

All Souls Parade Route

More Info: www.allsoulsprocession.org
Ticket Event: Dance of the Dead featuring the band Ozomatli. 8 PM.
Procession of Little Angels: Children are encouraged to create a fantasy persona at this event Nov. 3, the day before the main procession. Workshops and a parade are among the highlights; noon-10 p.m. Free.

As predicted several days ago, Neighbor Roy & I went to the American Indian Culture Fair today (Saturday). If you didn’t go to day, this events continues tomorrow (Sunday).

Early Saturday Morning started out with the first hot air balloon I have seen this season as it floats over Neighbor Mike’s home just to the north of our viewing deck. This will go on until the air gets too hot to allow lift – probably late April or early May.

This event is held at the Red Hills Visitors Center of Saguaro National Park (West). It was well attended. Here are a few of the exhibitors we encountered.

Here is the Master Navajo Flute Maker. We heard a demonstration of the sound these fine instruments produce. Stunningly beautiful.

Hubbell Trading Post Rugs. Brenda (left) is a master weaver. At the Hubbell Rug Show, she was particularly authoritative regarding the quality and value of Navajo rugs. So authoritative that Neighbor Roy bought a fine rug from her to add to his extensive collection.

Tohono O’odham Basket Weaver Elizabeth Jose. While Neighbor Roy got a Navajo rug from the Hubbell Trading Post, I got something far more valuable. Permission to conduct an on-camera interview with Ms. Elizabeth.

And, for me, the Pièce de résistance. An autographed CD by Navajo singer-songwriter Kristel Augustine. Eat your heart out, Tucson. Have you ever heard the National Anthem of the United States sung in Navajo? Didn’t think so.

Singer-songwriter Kreshel Augustine

For a lot more Southern Arizona history and culture, visit our website: SouthernArizonaGuide.com.

This weekend should be interesting. Western National Parks Association will sponsor the 11th Annual American Indian Culture Fair at Saguaro National Park West this Saturday, October 27th. Neighbor Roy & I intend to be there.

American Indian arts & crafts will be exhibited and some will be for sale. There will be activities for young children and the day will be sprinkled with special events, including music & dancing, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Participants include representatives from various nations, including: Tohono O’oham, Pasqua Yaqui, Hopi, Navajo, and others. At 1 PM, the Hubbell Trading Post will have a rug show.

Willcox Wine Tasting, October 2012.

Willcox Wine Tasting
Last weekend, we went to the Willcox Wine Tasting event in Railroad Park. Over the past year, I have discovered that the wineries in the Willcox area produce better wine than those near Sonoita and Elgin. This Willcox wine tasting event attracted about a dozen local wineries, each offering 4 to 6 wines to sample.

Tasters paid $15 for eight tastings … not cheap. In fact, the least expensive bottle of wine was $18. Most ranged from $24 to $48. While enjoyable, I was reminded that I can get better wine – red or white – at Safeway for a lot less.

Picnic Area at the Amerind Museum

A Picnic at the Amerind
A recent post offered our recommendations for Southern Arizona’s Best Picnic Areas. One is the picnic area at the Amerind Museum. On the way back from Willcox, we stopped at the Amerind to take in their 75th Anniversary celebration. Several thousand others attended as well.

What makes this picnic area one of our favorites? First, it’s located in scenic Texas Canyon between Benson & Willcox. Second, the picnic area is only a few hundred yards from one of the finest collections of Indian artifacts. The Amerind also has a fine art museum in the building next to the collection. For our 7 Best Picnic Areas, click HERE.

Texas Canyon, Arizona, near Willcox.

In November, Southern Arizona’s weather borders on perfect for just about any outdoor activity: hiking, picnicking, fishing, kayaking, (Sorry, skiers. You’ll probably have to wait until the January snows at Ski Valley.)

Here are a few worthwhile events, mostly free and family-friendly.

Sunday, November 4th
What? All Souls Procession & Dance of the Dead.
Where? Downtown Tucson
When? Participants gather: 5 PM at Toole Ave. & Congress St. Parade begins at 6 PM and proceeds along Alameda to West Congress and ends at Mercado San Agustin west of the freeway.

All Souls Parade Route

More Info: www.allsoulsprocession.org
Ticket Event: Dance of the Dead featuring the band Ozomatli. 8 PM.
Procession of Little Angels: Children are encouraged to create a fantasy persona at this event Nov. 3, the day before the main procession. Workshops and a parade are among the highlights; noon-10 p.m. Free.

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Tuesday November 6^th: VOTE, if you haven’t already. The idea here is not to vote because it’s our civic duty. Rather, vote to celebrate the end of what seemed like an endless campaign season.

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Saturday & Sunday November 10^th  & 11^th:
What? La Encantada Performing & Fine Arts Festival.  Live music, art exhibitions, ballet, and activities for the kids.
Where? La Encantada Shopping Center, Skyline & Campbell.
When? Saturday

11a.m.  Full Sail – blues
12 p.m. Violin Stars – youth violin group
1 p.m.   Desert Deuce – guitar / cello
2 p.m.   Cobblestone – Irish folk (fiddle) – Irish
3 p.m.   ForTheLuvvaMusic – piano vocal jazz
4 p.m.   CDO Youth String Quartet – string quartet

Sunday
11 a.m  TBA
12 p.m. Jeff & Patricia – folk, country, Americana
1 p.m.   Ballet Rincon Performance Ensemble – ballet dancing
2 p.m.   Those Beatle Guys – Beatles cover band
3 p.m.   Butch Diggs – jazz sax

Dralion: Cirque du Soleil

Wednesday – Sunday November 21^st to 25^th
What? “Dralion” by Cirque du Soleil
Where? Tucson Arena: 260 South Church Street, Tucson, AZ 85701
When? Afternoon & Evening Performances. Click here for details.

Click here for discount tickets

Friday August 31^st through September 3^rd

Hotel Congress HoCo Fest 2012

What? HoCo Fest 2012. Party like it’s 1979! HoCo Fest started in 2004 and is Arizona’s longest running solar-powered music festival. Beginning on Friday, August 31 and continuing through Monday, September 3, HoCo Fest 2012 will take over Hotel Congress featuring local and national music acts playing on indoor and outdoor stages, with all ages welcome.
Where? Hotel Congress – Club Congress
When? Doors open at 7 p.m.
How Much? $15
More Info: http://www.hotelcongress.com/club/

Saturday September 1^st.

What? Tucson Museum of Miniatures – FREE ADMISSION TODAY ONLY
Come celebrate their 3^rd anniversary. The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, located in a 15,560 square foot, state-of-the-art museum displays an entertaining and interactive array of antique and contemporary miniatures as well as enchanting artifacts.

The Museum is a miniature time machine, by which the visitor sets off on a self-guided tour through different lands and times both real and imagined. Over 275 miniature houses, room boxes and enchanting collectibles are part of the extraordinary collection in this educational and magical environment, appealing to visitors of all ages, interests and talents.
Where?  4455 East Camp Lowell Drive, Tucson, AZ, 85712.

What? Concert for Kids
Children from all over Tucson, and as young as 2 years old, can explore a “magical” opportunity to interact and learn from a widely-recognized and talented educator, conductor and performer.

Exploring music since his roots in Europe and now working with children through local arts organizations, László Veres of the Tucson Pops Orchestra will engage with kids and teach the musical workings of instruments and sound during Musical Magic for Kids.
Where? Town of Oro Valley’s Council Chambers, 11000 N. La Canada Dr.
When? Concerts begin at 10 a.m. -”Peter and the Wolf” on Saturday, Sept. 1 and “The Nutcracker” on Saturday, Oct. 6
How Much? Free
More Info: www.saaca.org

What? Free Lecture: Wyatt Earp, Capitalist
Historian/author Garner Palenske presents this intriguing story of Wyatt Earp’s involvement in horse racing, gambling, and mining at Tombstone City Archives. Palenske is the author of the much acclaimed book, Wyatt Earp in San Diego, Life After Tombstone.

Free book given away and opportunity to meet the author immediately following at Tombstone Old West Books, 4th and Allen Streets.
Where? Tombstone City Archives 6th And Fremont Streets
When? 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM

 Saturday-Sunday-Monday September 1^st – 3^rd

What? Rendezvous of the Gunfighters
Gunfighter groups from throughout the U.S. gather in Tombstone to perform. Activities include a Most-Authentic Costume Contest. Sponsored by the Tombstone Wild Bunch.
Where? Tombstone / Allen Street / OK Corral
When? The 1880’s costume parade will begin Sunday, September 2^nd at 12 noon.
More Info: www.tombstonewildbunch.com/

 Sunday September 2nd

 What? Member-Only Pancake Breakfast in Celebration of The Desert Museum’s 60^th B’day.
Where? Ironwood Terrace Restaurant in the Desert Museum
When? 8 AM – 11 AM
How Much? Members 8 and older: $12. Ages 4-7: $5. Three & under and anyone born in 1952: FREE.

What? Bisbee’s 47th Annual Brewery Gulch Daze.
Events will include a the Soiled Dove Race, Wacky Pet Parade, Kids Games, Recycled Art Auction, Silent Auction, Miz Ole’ Biz Contest & live music by Buzz & the Soul Senders.
Where? Brewery Gulch in Old Bisbee.
When? 8 AM – 5 PM.
How Much? FREE (except food & drink, of course)

What? Jeff Kashiwa & Crystal Stark in Concert
Kashiwa is one of the most diverse, in demand sax players in all of contemporary jazz. A year after leaving The Rippingtons, Kashiwa was an immediate smash on the smooth jazz charts, scoring a #1 hit for over eight weeks on the Radio & Records chart.  His sound ranges from funky pop to more classic traditional jazz – this show will have it all.  Joining Kashiwa for several numbers will be Tucson favorite, singer Crystal Stark.
Where?  Loews Ventana Canyon, 7000 N. Resort Rd.
When?  7:30 PM
How Much? $20 – $35
More Info:  http://tucsonjazz.org/

 Throughout September

 What? Phantom of the Opera.
“Will the chorus girl Christine rise to the occasion after Diva Soprano, Carlotta, storms off the stage during dress rehearsal? Who will be seated in the mysterious Box #5…where programs disappear and ghoulish laughter echoes? Join the Gaslight artistes as they transform the stage back to post-Revolution Paris to revive The Phantom Of The Opera – a love story of musical inspiration and hidden longing, along with a palate-pleasing portion of goofy song and dance.“

Popcorn is complimentary to all theatre-goers, but there are also servers on-hand if you want to order from the menu.
Where? Gaslight Theater. 7010 E. Broadway.
When? Sundays at 3:00pm and 7:00pm; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 7:00pm; Fridays and Saturdays at 6:00pm and 8:30pm.
How Much? $17.95/adults. $15.95/students, seniors, military. $7.95/children under 12.
More Info: http://www.thegaslighttheatre.com.

 September 5th

 What? Crosby, Stills & Nash
The music of David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash is a cornerstone of rock & roll. This trio of legendary singer-songwriters has been actively collaborating since 1969, when they first harmonized in either Joni Mitchell’s living room or Mama Cass Elliot’s dining room, depending on which member you hear the story from.
Where? AVA amphitheater, 5655 West Valencia Rd
When?  8:00 p.m. Gates open 7:00 p.m.
How Much? $22 – $77
More Info: http://www.casinodelsol.com/events/crosby-stills-and-nash

What? Labor Day Jazz All-Star Celebration of Motown
The festivities will include tribute performances by an all-star jazz and R&B group, drink and dinner specials and a special resort price ($99) for guests staying overnight, followed by a Sunday brunch concert.
Where? Westin La Paloma Resort.
When? 7:30 PM.
How Much? $35 – $75.
More Info: www.azentertainmentandevents.com.

September 6^th – 9th

 What? JOGS Gem & Jewelry Show
A 4-day trade show of jewelry & gems from around the world with both wholesale & retail sales.Where? Tucson Expo Center, 3750 East Irvington Road.
When? September 6^th at 10 AM to September 9^th at 6 PM.
More Info: http://jogsshow.com

 Saturday Nights, September 8, 15, 22, & 29^th.

What? Band Concert
The Arizona Symphonic Winds, under the direction of László Veres, is Southern Arizona’s Premiere community concert band. Comprised of 65 volunteers, this musical organization presents concerts throughout the Tucson area and has been doing so for 20 years. Included in its repertoire are Broadway show tunes, orchestral transcriptions, movie themes, marches, and traditional band literature.

The Winds perform an average of sixteen concerts yearly including their outdoor series at Udall Park, a winter indoor series, and performances to the communities of SaddleBrooke and Oro Valley. The band frequently showcases both professional and amateur soloists, as well as talented young performers at its concerts, and continues the old American tradition of the free concert in the park for our community.Where? Udall Park; 7200 East Tanque Verde Road
When? 7 PM
How Much? FREE
More Info: http://www.azsymwinds.org

 Saturday September 8^th:

What? 2^nd Saturday Downtown Tucson
Downtown’s monthly family-friendly block party featuring live music, dance, & other performances.
Where: 125 E. Congress Street
When: 6 PM to 10:30 PM
How Much? FREE
More Info: http://www.2ndsaturdaysdowntown.com

What? The final Blue Grass concert of the summer season
Where? Crossroads at Silverbell Park; Marana
When? 6:15 PM: Desert Bluegrass Association Member Jam; 7 PM Superstition Ridge ensemble.
How Much? FREE
More Info: http://saaca.org/Marana_Backyard_Concerts.html

 Every Saturday In September

What? San Pedro River Walk from San Pedro House.
Join docents on a two-mile interpretive walk over easy terrain along the river every Saturday morning. The San Pedro River features some of the richest wildlife habitat in the United States. Wear appropriate attire for hiking and weather conditions. Bring at least one quart of water per person.

The San Pedro Riparian area is a stretch of some 40 miles (56,000 acres) along the San Pedro River, which flows north from near Cananea, Mexico to the Gila River. This riparian habitat is rare in the desert Southwest. It’s a place where plants and animals thrive because of the availability of water, either at or near the surface of the soil. The river can be spotted from far off because of the band of cottonwood trees that grow densely along its shores, drawing migrating birds and other wildlife.

The river has long had an attraction for man as well. Evidence of prehistoric hunters of 11,000 years ago has been found at Lehner Mammoth Site and Murray Springs Clovis Site.
Where? Sierra Vista – San Pedro House 9800 E. Highway 90.
When: Saturdays 8 AM to 12 Noon.
How Much? Donations are appreciated.
More Info: http://www.discoverseaz.com/Attractions/SPRNCA.html

 Saturdays & Sundays In September

 What? Concerts: Folk Songs & Ballads
Where? Arizona Folklore Preserve. South of Sierra Vista off Ramsey Canyon Road; 56  East Folklore Trail, Hereford, Arizona  85615.
When? Matinees start at 2 PM; doors open at 1 PM.
How Much? Adults: $15. Children 17 & under: $6.
More Info: http://arizonafolklore.com

Sunday September 9th

 What? Comedy Concert: Stand Up to Stop Violence
Get ready to go to a funny place you’ve never been before, where basketball heroes and talented comedians come together for charity. The Second Annual Stand Up to Stop Violence comedy fundraiser benefits the Emerge Center to Prevent Domestic Abuse and the Blair Charity Group.
Where? Fox Theater, Downtown Tucson
When? 7:00 pm
How Much? $15 – $100
More Info: FoxTheater.com

 Saturday September 15th

What? Bisbee Blues Festival featuring Leon J, Sean Trackman, Bad News Blues, Eddie Turner, Diunna Greenleaf.
Where? Warren Ballpark
When? Gates open at Noon. Show starts around 1 PM
How Much? $20 in advance; $25 at gate
More Info: thebisbeebluesfestival.com to purchase advance tickets

 Saturday, September 22^nd

What? Oro Valley Classics Car and Truck Show
Antique automobiles, old-time rock ‘n roll, and all-American food.  Live music: with rockabilly from The Outlaw Rebels at 11 a.m. and rock and country from Good Question at 1 p.m. 
Where? Oro Valley Marketplace, on the southwest corner of Oracle Road and Tangerine Road. 
When? 10 AM to 3 PM.
How Much? FREE

 Thursday Through Sunday September 20th – 23rd

 What? 37^th Annual Tucson Greek Festival
Real Greek food, beer, & wine. Live music & folk dancing. Kids’ rides & much more.
Where? St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church: 1145 E. Ft. Lowell Road. Tucson.
When? Thursday: 5 PM – 10 PM. Friday: 5 PM – 11 PM. Saturday: 4 PM – 11 PM. Sunday: Noon – 6 PM
How Much? Daily Pass: Admission $3; Children Under 12 Free. 4-Day Pass: $5. Active Duty Military & Seniors: Free Saturday 4 PM – 6 PM. Free Parking & Shuttle Service.
More Info: www.TucsonGreekFestival.com.

 Friday September 21st

What? Oktoberfest in Sierra Vista
Beer garden, live music, oompah bands, dancing, carnival rides, food vendors, and crafts.
Why celebrate Oktoberfest in September? In October of 1810, Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig I (later King Ludwig I) married Princess Therese. That year, the festivities lasted five days. But five days wasn’t enough time to enjoy all the music, singing, eating and drinking. As the years went on, the festivities lasted longer and began earlier to take advantage of Germany’s nicer weather in September. So, the 16-day celebration takes place up to and including the first Sunday in October.
Where? Veterans’ Memorial Park
When? 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday, Sept. 14; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 15.
How Much? FREE Admission
More Info: 520-417-6960, 520-458-7922.

 Thursday September 27^th – Sunday September 30^th

What?  4^th Annual Tucson Flamenco Festival. This four-day festival features an outdoor stage with guest artists from around the world, plus Spanish wine tasting, an outdoor bar, flamenco fashion show, and a late-night Spanish Fiesta atmosphere.
Where? Casa Vicente Restaurant: 375 S. Stone – Downtown Tucson.
When? Thursday PM though Sunday PM. Thursday, September 27th: 8 pm–10 pm. Doors open 8 PM; 8:30 PM – Moda Flamenca, a flamenco fashion show featuring a dozen designers and their flamenco and flamenco-inspired couture; 9:30 PM – Guitarras Flamencas y Guitarras Espanol, Misael Barraza, Chuscales, and others.
How Much? $15 – $200. Click here for tickets: http://www.tucsonflamencofestival.com/tickets/
More Info: http://www.downtowntucson.org/event/4th-annual-tucson-flamenco-festival.

 Friday September 28th

What? Nightfall at Old Tucson.
Old Tucson becomes a haunted ghost town, with hideous beasts and monsters, ghoulish stunts, and frightening shows.Where? Old Tucson: 201 S. Kinney Road, Tucson, AZ 85735
When? Thursday through Sundays in October from 6 PM to Closing. Preview weekend is September 28-30.
How Much? Unknown at time of post.
More Info: http://oldtucson.com. Phone: 520-908-4833.

 Friday September 28^th & Saturday the 29^th

What? Desert Museum 12^th Annual Plant Sale.
Go to the ASDM digital library for images and information on many of these plants. You are encouraged to bring your empty 1 gallon nursery pots to the sale. They will reuse them next year, saving earth’s resources, landfill space, and helping us keep costs down. The gallon size is the only one they currently need.
When? Friday, Members Only: 2:00 – 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Open to Public: 7:30 AM to 3 PM.
How Much: Regular Admission Price
More Info: http://www.desertmuseumdigitallibrary.org/public/index.php

What? Arizona’s Salsa Trail – SalsaFest
Arizona’s Salsa Trail celebrates the annual SalsaFest featuring the salsa challenge, Jalapeno eating competition, Chihuahua races, car show and hot air balloons. Arizona’s Sprinkled through the small Southern Arizona communities of Safford, Pima, Thatcher, Solomon, Clifton, Duncan, Willcox, and York are a dozen Mexican restaurants ready to serve up fine Mexican food.

The scenic Old West Highway connects the communities and businesses which are within a 40 mile radius of Safford – about and hour and a half east and slightly north of Tucson.

In addition to good food and friendly folks, tourists are beginning to discover the natural beauty and tucked away attractions that dot the map along the Salsa Trail®. There are over 4 million acres of National Forest and protected Wilderness lands, pristine high desert beauty, the lush Gila Valley, and towering pines on Mount Graham. Graham County is filled with so many things to do throughout its little communities, and has some of the most beautiful scenic terrain in the entire Southwest.
Where? Safford Town Square. 1111 Thatcher Blvd. (Hwy 70), Safford, AZ 85546
When? Starts Friday 5 PM on Main Street; Safford. Saturday, Hot Air Balloons take flight from the Fair Grounds at Day Break. Saturday AM Salsa Contests, live entertainment, etc. plus Car Show on Main Street.
How Much? Mostly FREE, except if you want to taste the Salsa, you have to buy chips ($4). Proceeds go to Lions Club charities.
More Info? http://www.salsatrail.com/salsafest. Phone: 928-428-2511