Soul Box Project. Eight years ago today on a truly terrible day in Tucson, 19 people, including U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords, were shot at a local Safeway. Six people died and 13 were injured. Gun Violence Prevention Arizona, a local Tucson organization that works to "increase public awareness of the effects of gun violence on our community and work with citizens, lawmakers and community leaders to build support for stronger gun violence prevention policies" is hosting their Soul Box Project at local libraries. Learn how to build a Soul Box to honor and represent those killed by guns and gun violence. Instruction and materials will be provided and then GVPA will send the boxes to the national art project that seeks to create a visual representation of the total number of Americans killed by guns each year. Woods Memorial Library 10 a.m. to noon. Martha Cooper Library 10 a.m. to noon. Murphy Wilmot Library 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Details here.

"Our Roots" Four Course Dinner at Elvira's. This special event at is a celebration of heritage and culture from the Frias Family Vineyards. The four-course meal will be paired with wine selections and feature local and authentic cuisine from Chef Alejandro Nevades. Dishes include filet mignon, braised veal, heart of palm, grilled chayote, blue corn tortillas and more. 7 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8. Elvira's Tucson–Tequila, Cocina & Vino. 256 E. Congress St. $70. Details here.

The Matrix. Harkins Theatres is screening the quintessential action film of the early internet age. It was a time when movie studios were experimenting with computers, with cyber realities, with virtual objects, with whether or not Keanu Reeves can act. In a world with giant robots and people moving as fast as bullets, perhaps the thing The Matrix got most incorrect is that people would still use pay phones in the future. 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8. 5455 S. Calle Santa Cruz. Details here. 

This week our cover story highlighted the triumph and talent of the  Tucson Jazz Festival, and here is your chance to go for free!

Enter to win a pair of tickets to one of four different shows happening between Jan. 11 and 20.

Shows included in the Giveaway are:

• Joey Alexander, Tucson Jazz Institute Ellington Band on Friday, Jan 11.
• Special EFX All-Stars, Groover Quartet on Saturday, Jan. 12.
• Tucson Swings Brightly with Nelson Riddle on Sunday, Jan. 13.
• Bobby McFerrin: Circlesongs on Sunday, Jan. 20.
  

Giveaway entrants may win tickets to one show only. Winners of the ticket giveaway will be notified by email and must come to the Tucson Local Media office to pick up their tickets.

To read our cover story about the festival, click here.

To find a full calendar of the shows and performances, click here.

Brains and Brews: Science Trivia. Do you love science? Then you'll love the chance to learn more about it and then answer some trivia about it for a chance to win a $25 Borderlands Brewery gift card. Are you intimidated by science? Then what more relaxed atmosphere to sit back and learn in than a local brewery, where you can drink some beer while you drink in the knowledge? This week, Liz Miller, a Ph.D student at the University of Arizona, will be speaking about ecology and evolutionary biology. Bottoms up and ignorance be gone! 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, Jan. 7. Borderlands Brewing Company, 119 E. Toole Ave. Details here.

Speed Dating Event for All Singles Ages 40s & 50s. Well... why not? If you're single and ready to mingle, but want to try something besides online dating or hitting the bar scene or starting to go to church again just so you can possibly run into someone nice, then why not try speed dating? You meet live people, you don't exchange any information unless you want to, and—because it's SPEED dating—if a conversation with someone goes horribly, you're not stuck with them for the whole excruciating night. 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, Jan. 7. Playground Bar & Lounge, 278 E. Congress St. $32. Details here.

Space Mutiny. For their recurring Mondo Mondays series, The Loft Cinema is showing a sci-fi flick as inspired and unique as its name suggests. Directed by the choreographer for the Star Wars Holiday Special, this B-movie is a cheesy mish-mash of lasers, spaceships, nonsensical dialogue, baffling plot choices and everything else you could hope for. 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 7. 3233 East Speedway Boulevard. $4. Details here.


Send Us Your Photos:

If you go to any of the events listed above, snap a quick pic and message it to us for a chance to be featured on our social media sites! Find us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @tucsonweekly.

Events compiled by Tirion Morris, Emily Dieckman, B.S. Eliot and Jeff Gardner.

Nieuwjaarsreceptie: New Year's Get Together. No, that wasn't a typo in the event title. The Dutch Eatery is getting ready for a traditional Dutch new year's celebration with special foods, drink and costumes. (As it turns out, a Dutch new year's costume is to just wear orange.) Featuring live music from Austin Hoffman and drink specials, it's time to get nieuwjaarsreceptie-tacular. 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 5. 943 E. University Blvd. Details here.

Brewstillery Tour. So you want to learn more about your town's local brewing scene, but you have no one to go with? Fear not! Tucson Food Tours, the first walking culinary tour in Tucson (and certainly the first walking "brewstillery" tour in Tucson, as far as we're aware), is taking you behind the scenes of Tucson's brewery scene. You'll sample local beers as well as a few local bites. 1 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 5. Meet at East Congress Street and Fifth Avenue. $59. 21+ Details here. 

Fifth Annual "Over and Back" Gates Pass. Ride On Cycling is ringing in the new year with a celebratory bike loop ride up and over Gates Pass, a scenic tour through McCain Loop, and then back over Gates Pass. The ride concludes at Batch Cafe & Bar where there will be coffee, whiskey, donuts and more. Ride On Cycling will be collecting a $20 per participant donation in support of Tucson's very own El Grupo Youth Cycling. 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 6. 118 E. Congress St. Details here.

Dark Moon Labyrinth. The Web of Life Labyrinth Tucson and the Web of Life Intuitive Shamanic Animists explain the reasoning behind this event simply: "Each month, when the moon is dark, we need light." Sure we're only five days into the new year, but that doesn't mean you don't have a little bit of darkness in your life you'd like to banish, something you'd like to reflect on, or a problem you'd like to let go of. So take a walk through the light in the middle of all the darkness, and find the inner light to help carry you through. 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 5. 2016 E. Broadway Blvd. Donations accepted ($5 to $20 requested). Details here.
St. Philip's Market. The first Saturday of the year calls for your first trip to a local market of the year (unless you hit up one of those Friday markets). Whether you're looking for handmade pasta, handmade pottery, handmade jewelry or handmade dessert, you're going to find what you need at this market, and you're going to support small local businesses while you're at it. Plus, you'll be surrounded by gorgeous architecture, cobblestone entryways and the shelter of eucalyptus trees and sycamores. Would you believe you can get into this thing for free? 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 5. St. Philip's Plaza, 4280 N. Campbell Ave. Details here.

Azul Mexicano. If you haven't been down to Tubac to check out this exhibit by abstract artist Jimena Coronado, this is your last chance! Her work is all vibrant colors and good vibes—so good, in fact, that it's been exhibited at more than a dozen places, including in Spain and Mexico. Start your new year off right by immersing yourself in some beauty and supporting a Sonoran artist, courtesy of the Consulate General of Mexico, the Tubac Center of the Arts and the Cultural Arts Committee of Nogales. 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 4:30 p.m. Sundays. Through Sunday, Jan. 6. Tubac Center for the Arts, 9 Plaza Road, Tubac. Free. Details here.

BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS. Tiny Town is presenting an exhibition of books throughout the month by authors like Will Arnold, Maria Lee, Brendan Page and Erika Spreiser. So don't miss the exhibition, but also try not to miss the opening reception this week. Can you think of a more pleasant way to spend a Friday evening than celebrating books with fellow book lovers and book makers over at one of Fourth Avenue's cutest shops? We'd be hard-pressed. 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 4. Tiny Town Surplus, 408 N. Fourth Ave. Details here.

Gallery Chat with Tani Sanchez. Head on over to the Jewish History Museum to hear this associate professor of Africana Studies at the UA talk about a tough, important topic: the absence of representation and recorded history of African-Americans in Tucson. Sanchez spent several years working as an editor, broadcast journalist and media information specialist, and is also the first president of the Tucson chapter of the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society. Also, she has a doctorate in comparative cultural and literary studies. This woman knows what she's talking about, and we'd all do well to listen to what she's saying. 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 4. Jewish History Museum, 564 S. Stone Ave. Free. Details here.

West African Dance with Denise Bey. If your New Year's resolution was to get movin', it's worth trying out a few different ways of moving until you find one you really like. Maybe you've tried running, Pilates classes or playing tennis and have found none of them are for you. But you probably haven't tried a West African dance class, right? Let dance instructor Denise Bey show you the ropes, and then you can decide if traditional African-inspired movement and interpretive dance are for you. Hey, it's a new year—the perfect time to be open to new experiences. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 5. Movement Culture, 435 E. Ninth St. $10 cash, $12 with credit card. Details here.

Envision Your Year! Maybe you meant to take some time at the end of 2018 to reflect on everything that's happened and everything you hope for in the new year, but didn't get around to it. Never fear! It's never too late to start moving forward with intention. Lyndi Rivers will guide a class through some Yin and flow yoga to get your creative juices flowing, and offer journaling activities throughout so you can figure out exactly what it is you want this year. Then everyone is going to make vision boards! You're encouraged to bring a journal, magazines, images or art supplies to use on your board, but those items aren't required. Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 6. Tucson Yoga, 150 S. Fourth Ave. $60, or $42 for Tucson Yoga members. Details here.

14th Annual Grease Collection & Recycling Event. OK, so maybe this isn't the most fun event you can attend this weekend, but it's one of those things you probably should, because you've been putting it off and you have a big old bucket of old cooking grease and oil sitting under your sink that you don't know what to do with. You can't pour it down the drain, because it'll clog your pipes. And you could throw it away, but why not bring it to one of five collection sites around town so it can be converted into biodiesel? 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 5. O'Rielly Chevrolet, 6160 E. Broadway. Pima Community College West Campus, 2202 W. Anklam Road. Tucson City Council Ward 3 Office, 1510 E. Grant Road. Pima Community College Northwest Campus, 7600 N. Shannon Road. Kino Sports Complex, 2500 E. Ajo Way. Details here.

Three Wishes Puppet Show with Gwen Ray. What would you do with three wishes (assuming, as the old caveat goes, that you aren't allowed to wish for more wishes?) World peace? A new car? The willpower to stay strong in your New Year's Resolution? In this kid-friendly puppet show, puppets Ralph and Ruby of Gwen Ray's Hanuman Puppet Theatre decide what they'd do with theirs. And we don't want to spoil too much of it, but the fun-filled show has a bit of an environmental twist. It might just give you an idea of what to wish for if you ever get a chance to make three real wishes. 2 to 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 4. Joel D. Valdez Main Library, 101 N. Stone Ave. Free. Details here.

Jeff Foxworthy at the Desert Diamond Casino–Sahuarita. If you live anywhere near Wilmot and Pima, then you've known Jeff Foxworthy was coming to town since, like, 2015. Because that's how long it seems like that billboard has been up. But in honor of the King of Rednecks himself coming to town, here are the punchlines to a few of his "You Might Be a Redneck If" jokes: "If you've ever raked leaves in your kitchen." "If you prefer car keys to Q-tips." "If you have ever spray-painted your girlfriend's name on an overpass." "If you were shooting pool when any of your kids were born." If you answered "no" to all of these, you're not necessarily home clear—you still might be a redneck. Best to have Jeff Foxworthy clear it up for you in person. 8 to 11 p.m. Friday, Jan. 4. Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment, 7350 S. Nogales Hwy. $81+. Details here.

Classic Car Show. You can always count on Little Anthony's for some classic family fun. You can especially count on Little Anthony's every other Saturday, when their parking lot becomes a colorful, chrome-y wonderland of classic cruisers. If you don't like cars, you'll still enjoy the delicious food and great music. And, actually, even if you don't like cars, you'll be able to find a car that you'll find interesting in some way—even if it's just the color of the paint or what's hanging from the rearview mirror. Finding the wackiest combinations of upholstery, tires and frame is half the fun of any car show. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 5. Little Anthony's Diner, 7010 E. Broadway Blvd. Details here.
The RunAround Tucson. No, this event doesn't involve you not answering the city's calls. It's a relay race on the Loop! Form a team of two to eight people to run a total of 53.8 miles. The individual leg lengths range from 4.85 miles to 8.6 miles, and there will be water at every exchange station. But if you form a team of fewer than eight, your runs will obviously be longer. If you do have fewer than two people, be sure to still check in at every exchange. There are prizes for fastest all-male team, fastest all-female team and fastest co-ed team; best dressed team; and best team name. On your marks, get set, go! 6 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 5. Brandi Fenton Park, 3482 E. River Road. $45 in advance or $55 on race day. Details here.

Let My People Go: South Dakotans Stop Predatory Lending. In South Dakota, predatory lending interest rates once reached a staggering 574 percent, but after passing Initiated Measure 21, rates capped at 36 percent. This half-hour documentary released by the Center for Responsible Lending depicts how the people of South Dakota fought to cap these interest rates against predatory payday loans. This rental of The Loft Cinema, presented by The Center for Economic Integrity, is free admission. 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 6. 3233 East Speedway Boulevard. Free. Details here. 

Tucson International Jewish Film Festival. Featuring 20 films over two weeks, this year's Tucson International Jewish Film Festival spans genre and nationality. While there are too many films to list and describe, a few standouts this year are: The Driver Is Red, an award-winning animated short film about a secret agent; A Quiet Heart, a drama about a secular woman living in fanatically religious modern-day Jerusalem; and Bye Bye Germany, a drama/comedy about Holocaust survivors trying to raise money to get to America. The Tucson International Jewish Film Festival runs from Jan. 6 to Jan. 20, and includes screenings at multiple venues around town. Details here.

Send Us Your Photos:

If you go to any of the events listed above, snap a quick pic and message it to us for a chance to be featured on our social media sites! Find us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @tucsonweekly.

Events compiled by Tirion Morris, Emily Dieckman, B.S. Eliot and Jeff Gardner.

Mezcal Tastings at Exo Roast Co. Feel like drinking and learning at the same time? How about learning about what you drink? Mezcal tasting proprietor Doug Smith is at Exo Roast, and will give you a high-quality education about high-quality mezcal. Come on, you live in Tucson—you're surrounded by agave! You might as well know a bit about the plant and the drinks made from it. 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 3. 403 N. Sixth Ave. $20. Details here. 

John Slaughter's Changing West: Tombstone, Bullets, and Longhorns. If your New Year's resolution was to start incorporating more art into your life, there are so, so many opportunities in Tucson to do it. For example, head over to the Arizona History Museum to see their ongoing exhibit about the Slaughter family. In the wake of the OK Corral shootout, Sheriff John helped bring peace to Cochise County so it could be safer for his cattle, his wife and daughter and—ultimately—all of the people there were to come. The Slaughters were living in the period where large cattle ranching was just coming to an end, so the exhibit explores the transitional nature of the period. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Arizona History Museum, 949 E. Second St. $10 adults, $8 seniors, $5 student adults, $4 students 7 to 17. Free for kids 6 and under, veterans and museum members. Details here.


Free First Thursday at the Tucson Museum of Art. It's the very first Thursday of the new year, and you know what you gotta do! Seize the day! Soak up some art! And do it for free! As always, there will be live music, art-making and a cash bar. Be sure to check out the 30 Americans exhibit, featuring sounds by Mother Tierra. And enjoy conversations in the galleries with the Southern Arizona Psychological Association. This is the year you're finally going to be able to confidently answer the question, "What's your favorite painting?" or "Who's your favorite artist?" 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 3. Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block, 140 N. Main Ave. Free. Details here.

We Are All Kin: Intro to Shamanic Animism. If you're wondering what the hell Intuitive Shamanic Animism is, well, that's exactly why this event exists: to explain it to ya. Shamanic practitioner and founder of Intuitive Shamanic Animism, Quynn Red Mountain, will also help you explore questions like "What do I do with my intuitive abilities in this world?" "How can these ideas help you live more fully in the dreamed reality of our culture?" and "How can I enhance and share my intuitive gifts?" When has some serious, deep self reflection ever served you wrong? 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 3. Web of Life-Intuitive Shamanic Animists, 2016 E. Broadway Blvd. Requested donation $10 to $20. No one will be turned away. Offer what you can. Details here.

Odyssey Storytelling Presents: Magical. What does the word "magical" make you think of? For some, it's childhood stories by Edward Eager or J.K. Rowling. For others, it's the way the air feels right before it's about to snow. Others' minds go to angels, or first kisses or watching a baby take her first steps. There's magic all around us! Hear Tucson storytellers, including Miles Schneiderman, Bella Vivante, Kermie Wohlenhaus, Joe Silins and Stephen Hall, share their stories about magic in a night curated by Ana Gaskin. 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 3. Sea of Glass Center for the Arts, 330 E. Seventh St. $10, or $7 for students with ID. Details here.

One of the ponds at Agua Caliente Park is scheduled for restoration, but first, grab your fishing gear and head out to the water. From Jan. 2 to Jan. 31 anglers can fish in Pond 1 for bluegill, bass and catfish.

Pima County recommends using top-water lures or weedless lures and are asking that grass carp are not taken.

Beginning in the summer the pond will be restored to increase its depth by removing sediment build-up, reducing water loss from the bottom of the pond and replanting cattails inside containers to control the spread of the invasive plants. The overall goal of the restoration is to conserve water as the natural spring has not produced measurable flows since 2014.

Agua Caliente Park is home to a seasonal warm spring and ponds that host a rich environment filled with diverse plants and animals. After Pond 1 is restored there will be no fishing, so grab your gear and head out to the water for this one-time opportunity!

Agua Caliente Park is located at 12325 E. Roger Road and is open from 7 a.m to sunset. 

Taco Techno Tuesday. Celebrating Batch Cafe's birthday just got a little more lively—and tasty! It's the third anniversary of Batch Café & Bar, so they're busting out some awesome tacos and electronic beats. This event falls on the first Tuesday of every month, and this time it happens to be Jan. 1. So if you feel like continuing the New Year's party, this is the place to be. Noon to midnight on Tuesday, Jan. 1. 118 E. Congress St. Details here.

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108 Sun Salutations. What better way to start the new year than by greeting the sunshine with open arms? Barefoot Yoga is hosting this opportunity to do just that—and you don't even have to get up super early, because it starts at 11 a.m. The class will consist of 108 sun salutations, done in increments of nine. 108 has lots of symbolic meanings (it's a "Harshad number," which means its divisible by the sum of its digits. There are said to be a total of 108 energy lines converging to and from Anahata, the heart chakra. And Buddhist malas and Catholic rosaries traditionally have 108 beads). Release any negative 2018 energy that's still lingering, shift your perspective, find your inner drive and give yourself the opportunity to realize you're stronger than you think. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 1. Barefoot Studio, 7352 N. Oracle Road. Free, but space is limited, so call the studio at 797-2881 or sign up online at wellnessliving.com to reserve a spot.

The New Year's Day HAIR of the DOG Run/Walk. Okay, maybe you're not the type of person who gets up early to go biking on the first day of the new year, or the type of person who gets up early to go running on the first day of the new year. But maybe you'd consider a run/walk if it didn't start until 11? And if its rewards were more lasting than food—like a finisher's glass and some collectible poster art? This event features an 8K run along the Pantano or a one-mile loop around Udall Park, the latter which you can do with or without your best canine friend. Both courses are for runners and walkers of all abilities, and benefit the Humane Society of Southern Arizona. The post-race party features music by Shrimp Chaperone, a Dragoon beer garden (you can get either a free beer or a free non-alcoholic beverage from Whole Foods), treats from Le Buzz Caffe, an event expo and prizes. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 1. Morris K. Udall Park, 7200 E. Tanque Verde Road. $30 to $40. Details here.

Marana Eggnog Jog. Maybe you're not the kind of person who gets up early on New Year's Day to go on a bike ride, but you are the kind of person who gets up early on New Year's Day to go running. Hey, whatever floats your boat. This run features a 10K, a 5K and a fun run that make for a perfect way to kick off that New Year's resolution to start getting fit, to spend more time outside or to participate in more community events. And it's not as bad as it might sound: There'll be free raffle prizes, lots of fun activities and eggnog waiting for you at the finish line. (And hey, you can always go right back to bed after the race is over). 7 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 1. Continental Reserve Park, 8568 N. Continental Reserve Loop. Preregistration is $20 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and under. Details here.

Send Us Your Photos:

If you go to any of the events listed above, snap a quick pic and message it to us for a chance to be featured on our social media sites! Find us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @tucsonweekly.

Events compiled by Tirion Morris, Emily Dieckman, B.S. Eliot and Jeff Gardner.

New Year's Eve is supposed to be an evening of fun and festivities, but becomes dangerous when people get behind the wheel after drinking. The number of accidents due to drunk driving as well as DUI arrests skyrockets on Dec. 31 each year.

The Southern Arizona DUI Task Force is teaming up with Lyft this New Year's Eve to keep Tucson drivers and passengers safe.

"This holiday season, we are proud to work with the Southern Arizona DUI Task Force to remind passengers to plan ahead for a reliable and affordable ride option with Lyft," said Drena Kusari, Lyft Southwest region General Manager.

Through Jan. 2 Lyft is committing $20,000 as part of its Ride Smart campaign.

New users can get $5 off four rides with the code PIMASAFE and continuing users can get 10 percent off two rides with the code PIMASAFE18.

So, if you are heading out to celebrate tonight make sure to arrange a safe ride home and leave your keys out of reach. 

Animal Month at the Madaras Gallery. Maybe you know Diana Madaras for her landscape paintings, her still life works or her pieces depicting some of Tucson's loveliest buildings. This month at her gallery, some of her animal paintings, artwork and gifts will be on display. Desert wildlife like birds and bobcats, yes—but also cows, dogs, horses, elephants and more. Stop in to pick up a gift for a January birthday, and maybe even treat yourself or someone else to a Madaras original—perhaps 2019 is the year you finally become an art collector. Event runs through January. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Madaras Gallery, 3035 N. Swan Road. Details here.

Leslie Yerman: Photography on Display. Leslie Yerman's sepia-toned photographs of subjects like snowstorms, rocks, clouds and tire tracks have a way of making you take pause. She's a big believer in that old photographer's mantra: there is often beauty in the ordinary or the inane. She likes to capture those little pockets of the world where nature creates an oasis of peace and healing in the middle of a hectic environment, and she's particularly drawn to trees and sky. Show on display at the Joel D. Valdez Main Library, 101 N. Stone Ave., through the end of the year. Library hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Closes at 5 p.m. on New Year's Eve. Free. Details here.

Diversity. The Wilde Meyer Gallery is continuing to kill it this month with another exhibit featuring extremely talented local artists like Cathy Carey, Judy Choate and Chaille Trevor. The theme of this month's show is "diversity," which is just broad enough to encompass some truly virtuosic work across completely different styles. From abstract pastel work by Debora Stewart to Carey's dramatically colorful desert scenes, there's something for everyone at this monthlong exhibit, and plenty of time to make your way over to the gallery to check it all out. Exhibit runs through Jan. 1, and exhibit hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sundays. Wilde Meyer Gallery, 2890 E. Skyline Drive. Details here. 

One Week of Free Classes at Circus Sanctuary. First, let's just take a minute to reflect on how wacky and wonderful of a town Tucson is to have MORE THAN ONE circus school. Now, let's move on to celebrating that the newest one, Circus Sanctuary, has been in business for a whole year now! Their philosophy is to teach students to play like children, train like athletes and perform like artists. And if that's not just a damn good philosophy, we don't know what is. They're celebrating one year with a whole week of free conditioning classes, from Sunday, Dec. 30, through Saturday, Jan. 5. Everything from pole to aerial silks to trapeze to flexibility to beginning contortion will be offered, as well as open studio times and a family circus class. Circus Sanctuary, 3113 E. Columbia St. Free. Check out the Facebook event page for specific class times. Details here.

The Snowman Factory. As of the time this issue is going to print, it does not look like a white Christmas is in the forecast for Tucson this year. But Little Cardboard Rocket is going to help you make it up to your little ones, and teach them a little bit about science to boot! Head on over to make a snow-like substance out of only two ingredients, and then create a snowman with your child. There's also several other activities that everyone can work through at their own pace, a healthy snack and plenty of take-home resources. This is designed for kids ages 3 to 5, but younger scientists are welcome as well! 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 29. Little Cardboard Rocket, LLC, 5630 E. Pima St. $8. Details here.

A Night of Tucson Salvage. If you don't know and love Brian Smith already, where have you been? The award-winning journalist, former alcohol and crystal meth addict, one-time rock 'n' roll front man for bands like the Beat Angels and Gentleman After Dark, and Tucson Salvage columnist is well-loved around these parts. His Tucson Salvage columns and essays have been gathered into a book, and at this event, we're celebrating with all sorts of art! Poet Maggie Golston is doing a reading, Billy Sedlymayr and Kaia Lacy are making music, filmmaker Maggie Smith is showing some of her work and (of course), Brian is doing a reading from his new book. A Q&A and book signing follow. 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 29. Exo Roast Co. 403 N. Sixth Ave. $5 to benefit Youth on Their Own, but no one will be turned away at the door for lack of money. Details here.

Tucson Repertory Orchestra Concert. The Tucson Repertory Orchestra was created to bring skilled musicians together for a chance to play some classical standards. That's exactly what they're doing at this show, and you get to watch! Music director Toru Tagawa will conduct and violinist Michelle Abraham is the performance's featured musician. 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 29. Grace St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 2331 E. Adams St. Admission by donation. Details here.

Tucson Roadrunners vs. Stockton Heat. If we can get through these hockey game without a team literally called "heat" melting the ice, then they're definitely a fun way to spend your Friday or Saturday night. And hey, you have to admit that if the ice melts during the game, it would still make for an interesting time. If you're looking for an especially nerdy experience, go to Star Wars Night on Saturday, where you can meet your favorite characters form the franchise and participate in a costume contest to win some cool prizes. 7:05 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 28, and Saturday, Dec. 29. Tucson Arena, 260 S. Church Ave. $11 to $61+. Details here.

Goal Post Party! Even if you're not a sports person, you might enjoy a free concert by Everclear, lots of fun and games, food and beverages for all ages and a charity village where you can really get in the holiday spirit. It's important to pack as much living as you possibly can into these last few days of the year, and this event full of things to do and see is a perfect opportunity. 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 29. UA Mall. Free. Details here.

Cuban Night at Crooked Tooth. It's getting lively at Crooked Tooth Brewing Co! The funky tropical Cuban trio Acerekó—Enrique Feldman, Doug Davis and Bubba Fass—is performing. Food will be provided by Cuban Twist Cafè, with a special menu of bean and rice bowls, special Cuban sandwiches and more. Plus, there are always plenty of great in-house drinks from Crooked Tooth! 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 29. 228 E. Sixth Street. Details here.

Succulents & Sangria. What a glorious pair of words. If you want to enjoy the look and taste of wonderful vegetation, Green Things has your back. At this event, you'll get step-by-step directions on how to plant your very own succulent bowl. And at the same time, you get to drink sangria. What more is there to say? Noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 30. 3384 E. River Road. $5 plus supplies. 21+ for sangria. Details here.

Bacon Day at 1912 Brewing. Back by popular demand, 1912 Brewing is combining mead and bacon for one super-special flight. The mead is made by Superstition Meadery and the bacon is by Daniela's Cooking. And as an extra bonus, they will be adding bacon as an extra for micheladas. If you're the kind of person who likes maple syrup on their bacon, the flavors of mead and bacon are close enough...right? 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 30. 2045 N. Forbes Blvd. Details here.


St. Philip's Plaza Classic Market. In the quiet lull between Christmas and New Year's Day, take a morning to enjoy the simple things, such as locally made food and crafts. The St. Philips's farmers market is both a great place to shop and relax, and it's an even better place to eat. This market will include some awesome local bakers, such as the Bakehouse Bread Company and A Simple Cookie. 8 a.m. to noon on Sunday, Dec. 30. 4280 N. Campbell Ave. Details here.

Winter Break STEAM. Maybe your kid doesn't think he or she's interested in STEAM. But maybe he's wondered just a little bit about how electrical circuits light up the house, the Christmas tree and every electrical appliance they need. Or maybe she'd be interested to learn you can manipulate static electricity to make objects move without touching them. (Wingardium leviosa, anyone?) First through fifth graders who have ever wanted to learn a little bit more about how things work will love this activity at the library. 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 27, and Friday, Dec. 28, as well as Wednesday through Friday, Jan. 2-4. Quincie Douglas Library, 1585 E. 36th St. Free. Details here.

Last Fridays at MSA Annex. It's the last Friday of the month. Hell, it's the last Friday of the whole year! How are you going to spend it? One great option is a low-key night of shopping under the stars at some of the merchants' stores in the MSA Annex. This family-friendly event also features live music, food trucks to supplement the usual on-site restaurants and other libations by Westbound Bar. In this few-day lull between Christmas and New Year's Day, a nice stroll with your family and a chance to support local artisans might be just what you need. 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 28. MSA Annex, 267 S. Avenida del Convento. Details here.


The HugTrain Stops in Tucson. Loneliness is bad for your health—some studies are showing it can lead to anxiety, depression, reduced cardiovascular health and weakened immune systems. But you know what's good for your health? Hugs! They're a small, powerful way to let another human know they're not alone. The HugTrain founder, a guy named Arie, has been traveling through Canada in the United States during the holiday season since 2009, giving out free hugs to whoever wants them in an effort to make the world just a little bit better. He'll be around for a few days, with his train arriving at the Tucson Amtrak, 400 E. Toole Ave., at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 27, and leaving at 8:35 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 30. So keep an eye out! Details here.

Tucson Garden Railway Society Holiday Train Display. Wait, you're telling me it's almost the end of the year—almost the end of the holiday season—and you still haven't seen any model train displays? You'd better hurry on over to the VA for this sweet little display, featuring mountains, buildings, picturesque scenes and—of course—a big ol' miniature train. Members of the Garden Railway Society will be around to explain the display and answer questions. It's a great way to give your kids taste of the holidays of yesteryear, or to give yourself a refresher on the holidays of yesteryear. Stop in any time from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 27 and Friday, Dec. 28. Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, 3601 S. Sixth Ave. Free. Details here.

Settle This Thing. Ever had an argument with your partner, or even with a friend, that you needed to bring in a third party to resolve? Ever had to bring in an entire audience full of people to be the third party? Married comedians Tamara Bick & Drew Antzis (they're comedy writers/directors for Funny or Die, Comedy Central, Second City and HBO) are doing just that, and if you like having fun and laughing, you should be in the audience. The couple will be going over everything from sex to parenting to dealing with the in-laws. "Should a man be allowed to fart freely in his own home?" Drew might ask. "Should your partner have to agree to go on a diet with you? Especially if you're cooking the food all the time?" Tamara might counter. It's up to you to settle this thing. 9 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 29. Unscrewed Theater, 4500 E. Speedway. $15 one ticket, $25 for two tickets (couples only). Details here.


Katie Wise & Bhakti Explosion. The band name tells you a lot of what you need to know: Katie Wise & Bhakti Explosion are a music outfit without borders. Fronted by singer/songwriter Katie Wise, this band sidesteps being simple folk musicians with lush, meditative infusions of Hindustani music. It's partially New Age, but Wise keeps the style grounded with positive, conscious lyrics: "Thank you almighty, for every damn thing." Certain to get you whirling in weird, worldly sonic wonder. Catch Katie Wise & Bhakti Explosion at Galactic Center. 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 29. 35 E. Toole Ave. $10-$30. Details here.