Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony. You probably already know this, but Santa gets very busy this time of year. But he didn’t want to leave his beloved Tucsonans high and dry for this event, so he called in a favor from some of his friends in high places. And we’ll have Mayor Johathan Rothschild himself at this tree lighting ceremony. The tree will be displayed from Black Friday up until the new year, and the night will feature youth mariachi group performances and ballet folklorico dancers to get you in an extra festive mood. Bring your family, bring your friends and bring your holiday cheer for a night that’s sure to be a tree-t. 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23. Jacome Plaza, 100 N. Stone Ave. Free. Details Here. 

Enchanted Snowfall at La Encantada. Twinkling lights and mugs of hot chocolate are good ways  to get into the Christmas spirit. But things start to get truly magical when we tweak the laws of nature and make it snow in the Sonoran Desert. Every Friday and Saturday evening starting the day after Thanksgiving, it will snow TWICE—at 6 and 6:45 p.m.—at the La Encantada shopping center, and Blanco Tacos + Tequila will provide Mexican hot chocolate to keep your hands and tummies from getting too chilly in the storm. Live music performers will be there to keep your heart warm as well. Every Friday and Saturday at 6 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. from Friday, Nov. 23 through Saturday, Dec. 22. La Encantada Shopping Center, 2905 E. Skyline Drive. Free. Details Here.

Hotel Congress/Maynards Market & Kitchen Gift Card Deal. From Black Friday to Cyber Monday, Hotel Congress and Maynards is offering a deal where if you buy $100 in gift cards, you get a $25 bonus. A great opportunity for you to share of the delights at either downtown hot spot and get a little something for yourself, too! Friday, Nov. 23, to Monday, Nov. 26. 311 E. Congress Street and 400 N. Toole Ave. Details Here.

Black Friday, Beer Friday. Are you a big shopper? Me neither. Instead, go on a Black Friday brew tour with Old Pueblo Brew Tours and try different local beer. The tour will include transportation on their air-conditioned vehicle, stops at three local craft breweries, a flight of four beers at each stop, plus a whole lot of beer facts and trivia. 1 to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23. 2648 E. Drachman St. $75 Details Here.

Free Mead Tasting and Live Music at Arizona Beer House! The event description is pretty much in the event name itself. For the first couple hours, join Arizona Beer House in tasting a complimentary sampling of a variety of meads and then stay for Flatlander Jim, who will be performing afterwards. 6 to 11 p.m. Friday Nov. 23. 150 S. Kolb Road. Details Here.

IMC’s World Famous Rummage Sale. Surely you’ve already heard about this event, considering it’s world famous. But just in case you haven’t: Instrumental Music Center’s annual sale full of weird stuff, cheap stuff, broken stuff, old stuff, new stuff and generally good stuff is an event they promise will be, and we quote, “THE MOST FUN YOU’VE EVER HAD IN YOUR LIFE.” This year’s value menu has all sorts of stuff on it, including violins, flutes and guitars for just $99; ukuleles for as low as $25, tuners for $5 and a drum stick pair for just $1. This Black Friday weekend, support a local business, and have the time of your life doing it. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23, through Sunday, Nov. 25. Instrumental Music Center locations at 7063 E. Speedway and 405 E. Wetmore Road (though the value menu only applies to the Speedway location). Details Here.

Bisbee Home Tour.  Are you ready to be charmed? The Bisbee Woman’s Club invites you to the 36th annual chance to tour some of this sweet little towns’ sweet little (and not-so-little) homes. In addition, be sure not to miss the 17th Annual Art Chairs and More Auction, which features all sorts of unique creations, especially tables, stools and benches. The silent auction is going on all weekend, but a reception and final bidding is from 4 to 5 p.m. on Saturday. If you’re concerned about parking, take the Bisbee Touring Company golf cart shuttle around town for free. (But leave a tip!) 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24. St. Patrick’s Parish Hall, 100 Quality Hill Road. Bisbee. Tickets are $20 for adults, or free for kids under 12. Details Here.

Western Heritage Festival. This town (Tucson) ain’t big enough for the two of us. But at Old Tucson, there’s plenty of room for everyone at this festival where we celebrate Southern Arizona’s roots, with the help of groups like the Arizona Civil War Council and Ha:San Prepatory and Leadership School. Power from the Past will be displaying engines and serving up ice cream, and the Old Pueblo Bluegrass Band & Jazz Trio and Reyno Norteno will be providing live entertainment. Local artists and vendors will have booths where you can get some holiday shopping done while supporting the people who make our state great. The event does feature one prominent out-of-towner, though: Santa Claus himself, soaking up some Arizona sunshine before he gets into his busiest time of year. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23, through Sunday, Nov. 25. Old Tucson, 201 S. Kinney Road. $19.95 GA, $10.95 for kids 4 to 11, with discounts for seniors, military and Pima County residents. Details Here.

American Indian Month Social. Native Americans were the first Americans, of course, and Arizona is rich with the culture of several tribal nations. This is a perfect chance to learn about 15 tribal nations and 10,000 years’ worth of culture, while also enjoying gorgeous (and authentic!) artwork, crafts and entertainment. Held annually the weekend after Thanksgiving, the social invites everyone to come and learn a little bit more about the rich culture that has shaped the state we live in. Be sure to bring your camera! This year’s featured cultural presentation is by award-winning hoop dancer Cecil Manuel, a Tohono O’odham and Apache. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23, through Sunday, Nov. 25. Sheraton Hotel Ballroom, 5151 E. Grant Road. Free, but a scholarship donation is always appreciated! Details Here.

Bear Down Fridays. This is the final Bear Down Friday of the year, marking the end of the 13th  season of Bear Down Fridays. What are Bear Down Fridays? Well, in part, they’re a giant pep rally with the Pride of Arizona Marching Band, UA Poms, Twirlers and Flags, UA Cheer and (of course) Wilbur and Wilma going down Tyndall Avenue south of University Blvd. But it’s more than that! Restaurants and stores have all sorts of happy hour pricing, discounts, giveaways and activities. ESPN Tucson 1490 AM & 104.9 FM kicks things off at Gentle Bens at 3 p.m., and is joined by 106.3 The Groove at 4 p.m. Both will be doing giveaways and hosting media celebs. This week’s guest speaker is Fred Harvey of track & field and cross country. 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23. Main Gate Square on University Boulevard, between Euclid and Park avenues. Free. And parking is free in the Tyndall Garage after 4 p.m. with a merchant validation. Details Here.

Gratitude Full Moon Luminous Labyrinth. The holidays are the time of year where we’ll all  supposed to feel the most grateful. But it’s also the time of year that can be the most stressful, making it easy to lose sight of what matters most. And you know one great way to re-center yourself? Walking through a labyrinth under the full moon. The Intuitive Shamanic Animists, a branch of Web of Life Animist Church, is hosting this opportunity to set an intention and find renewal—or whatever it is you’re looking for—in the labyrinth. A drumbeat will guide your walk, but feel free to bring your own rattle or drum if you want to make your own rhythm. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23. Rio Vista Natural Resource Park, 3974 N. Tucson Blvd. $5 to $20 donation requested. Details Here.

Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert. Be honest. How high were the chances that you were going to  be staying in and watching Star Wars this weekend anyway? So why not do it in style this time? Luke, Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca and the whole crew are coming all the way from a galaxy far, far away to be projected onto the big screen at the Tucson Symphony Orchestra, while TSO plays John Williams’ iconic, Academy Award-winning score beneath them. Both Rebel Alliance and Empire members are welcome at this bipartisan event, so please try to be civil. And kids under 18 get 50 percent off tickets! 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 25. Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Ave. $15 to $86+. Details Here.

Mamma Mia! Here we go again. Or, if you’ve never seen this hit ABBA musical, here we go for the first time. Mamma Mia tells the story of a young bride named Sophie who decides she wants to have her father, who she’s never known, at her wedding. As it turns out, her mother was pretty… promiscuous around the time she conceived Sophie, so digging through her mother’s diary just narrows down who Sophie’s father is to three men. They all come out just a few days before the wedding, and, well, chaos and hilarity ensues. This production by Arizona Onstage Productions features more than 40 professional actors, singers and dancing queens. 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 24, and Saturday, Dec. 1. 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 25, Saturday, Dec. 1, and Sunday, Dec. 2. Berger Center for the Performing Arts, 1200 W. Speedway. $35 GA, $25 student/teacher/artist/senior/military. Details Here.

Annual Reid Park Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair. Look, you have to get some of your holiday shopping done. But does the thought of going to the mall fill you with the deep existential dread that comes from visiting a place that, like you and me, is slowly but surely dying? Go shopping in the great outdoors! This annual event has been around for more than three decades, and is drawing in more than 140 photographers, painters, potters, jewelers and other artists. Stroll through aisles of fragrant handmade soaps, pick up some handcrafted stuffed toys and puppets for the little ones in your life, pick out something knitted or painted for a loved one and grab a gourmet treat for yourself. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24, and Sunday, Nov. 25. Gene C. Reid Park and 22nd Street and Country Club Road. Parks and Rec suggests parking at the Concert Place entrance for ample free parking. Details Here.

Artists of the Southwest.  Could there ever be too many local artisan fairs during the holidays? No. Because you’re probably going to miss all of them right up until the day before you need to give out presents, and then an army of local sculptors, metallurgists, painters, textile artists and other talented people will be the ones who save you from your own procrastination. And we’ve said this before, but we’ll say it again: Supporting local artists is a cool thing to do! Head over to this fair full of art by regional artists, and enjoy music by Kindred Spirits. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24, and 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 25. Brandi Fenton Memorial Park, Ramada 1, 3482 E. River Road. Details Here.

Carly Quinn Holiday Sale. Even if you don’t know the name Carly Quinn, you’ve probably seen  some of the hand-glazed tilework by this artist or her company around town, and probably thought it was gorgeous. She works with some of the top designers in Southern Arizona to create tiles for commercial and residential installation, covered with everything from geometric designs to scenes from nature to gorgeously depicted addresses. If you’ve always wanted one of her pieces, or always wanted to buy one of her pieces for a loved one, now’s your chance: The first annual holiday sale offers 20 percent off all tiles and murals and 50 percent off first-run gift sets. Happy holidays, indeed! 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24. Carly Quinn Designs, 730 S. Russell Ave. Details Here.

The Tucson Flea Dark Arts Market. The Tucson Flea is always a good, quirky time. But for the holidays, they’re really stepping things up by making this market full of handcrafted or vintage items completely focused on the Dark Arts. Aberrant Ceramics will be selling offbeat mugs and plates, Emily McGowan will have her otherworldly drawings, Kitty Hanson has all sorts of handmade pieces adorned with skulls and Herb Onyx Witchery will have handmade floral/herbal wands and crystals. Plus, vendors with names like Snake and Bone, White Raven Trading Co., Kitchen Mystic Goods and Zombisaur. It’s not something witch you want to miss. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24. Owls Club, 236 S. Scott Ave. Details Here.

Freddy’s Saturday Night Car Show. It’s the last Saturday of the month again, which means the  Freddy’s Car Show is back. There’s trophies for pretty much everything you can imagine, from the best classic car of each decade from the ’40s through the ’90s to the best motorcycle, best 4x4 and people’s choice. There’s also plaques for categories including best Camaro, best Mustang and best Corvette. Of course, the show is right next to Freddy’s, which means you can level up your experience with some good, old-fashioned custard and burgers. 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24. Freddy’s Oro Valley parking lot, 11143 N. Oracle Road, Oro Valley. $10 registration per vehicle. Details Here.

Haunted Hands’ 3rd Annual Jewelry Exhibition. It’s a full moon, a Saturday and the perfect day to pick up some reasonably priced jewelry (most pieces are $20 to $100) from Christina Holland Designs, Heliotrope, Andra King, High and Dry Jewelry Design, Lumenrose Jewelry and Luna + Saya Jewelry. This one-night event (well, technically they’ll be doing it two nights—the next one is Friday, Dec. 21, for the procrastinators among us) is the perfect opportunity to get some Christmas shopping done, or to bring a loved one along and help them do some Christmas shopping for you. The other studios in the Metal Arts Village will be open to the public, Tucson Hop Shop has beer and food trucks and live music will abound at this dog-friendly and kid-friendly event. 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24. Haunted Hands, 3230 N. Dodge. Details Here.

Bottoms Up for Gil the Wonder Pup. Got company in town? In the mood to go out for drinks this weekend? Or just sincerely in the mood to support a good cause? Head to Catalina Brewing Company and raise a glass or two to benefit Gil, a paralyzed dog brought to Tucson for medical help. A percentage of each drink sold, as well as proceeds from a raffle, will help pay for Gil’s therapy and ongoing needs. The raffle includes four tickets to the Nova Home Loans Arizona Bowl, a handmade quilt, gift certificates to local businesses, a custom dog treat basket from Rosie’s Barket and more. The Gypsy Caravan food truck is on deck to keep you fed, so you can keep drinking for Gil. 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24. Catalina Brewing Company, 6918 N. Camino Martin, #120. Free, raffle tickets are $5 or five for $20 at the door. Details Here.

Krull. Take me back to those mid-’80s days when high fantasy movies were all the rage and every televangelist thought you were going to lose your soul by playing a round of Dungeons and Dragons. Sure, there were classics like Conan the Barbarian and Highlander, but there were many-a dud trying to cash in on the trend as well. Enter Krull, a B-movie that isn’t sure if it’s fantasy, sci-fi, or slapstick. What is a “Krull”? Head on down to Casa Video and find out for yourself. 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24. 2905 E. Speedway Blvd. Free. Details Here.

Free Tequila and Tamale Sampling. “Tequila and Tamale” sounds like a fun combo, doesn’t it? El Charro Cafe is celebrating Small Business Weekend with a sampling of their new exclusive Flores Concepts Codigo Tequila Barrel and their seasonal Holiday Tamales. There will be two more tequila and tamale sampling events in December for those who miss this opportunity. Noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 25. 6910 E. Sunrise Drive. Details Here.

Who-Bilation. If you have kids and you haven’t checked out Our Play Place, the interactive children’s play space full of climbing structures, slides and playhouses designed to encourage a sense of adventure and creativity, this is the perfect opportunity to do it. Join hands with kids and other parents and sing that old Who song, “Fahoo fores, dahoo dores, welcome Christmas, Christmas Day,” at this event, which will feature plenty of playtime and a special Grinch ornament craft. This season has plenty of opportunities to see Santa, but this might be the only one for your kids to meet the Grinch himself! Come dressed as a Who if you’re any fun at all. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 25. Our Play Place, 3951 W. Costco Drive. $15 for the first child and $12 for siblings. Details Here.

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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 Brianna Lewis, Emily Dieckman, B.S. Eliot and Jeff Gardner.

"Are you a Charles Bukowski fan?" I ask. I’m interviewing American comedy icon and alt-comedy forefather Steven Wright. He’s the image of an oafish, taciturn BoSox fan, uncomfortable in any company but his own. He jokes in a perfectly dispassionate, one-liner sudoku about, for instance, lint or the attitude of a butterfly.

Might Bukowski's noisy rush and tumble, punchy as it is with emotion, be an outlet for Wright’s invisible passion?

"Charles Bukowski!" The floodgates open. "He's one of my top three authors in my life, him and Kurt Vonnegut. I've read all of Bukowski’s books and I've read several of them many times. Every few years, even if I don't read the whole book again, I have to go back and read bits of him. He's unbelievable.”

But Wright’s chill is apparently entirely metabolic.

“Yeah, I come off really mellow, People call me up and they say, 'Oh did I wake you up?' And I say 'No! I just drank coffee and I'm driving a car. I'm wired and I’m driving in the rain!' It doesn't line up,” Wright said. 

Wright found overnight fame when Johnny Carson invited him to the Tonight show in 1984. Wright's comedy was so original, so outside the mainstream at the time, that he made new fans in the U.S. for what had become known, in Europe, as alt comedy, an art that eschewed the traditionally racist and sexist nature of standup and focused on more organic content, adding elements of improv and fringe theater.

“It happened so fast," Wright said. “I was just trying to do the next step. It was like a fairy tale, though. I was 26. I started in the summer I was 23. Three summers later I was on national TV."

Wright’s interest in comedy sprouted when, as a 16-year-old, he discovered George Carlin.

“One of the reasons I wanted to be a comedian was from watching George Carlin, and I learned how to write jokes by listening to Woody Allen albums," Wright said. "Carlin talks about his everyday little things and I talk about everyday little things, too, but I'm talking about the most mundane things in life.”

How has his own comedy evolved over almost four decades?

"I'm more comfortable out there, but it's still very much the same," Wright said. "There's attention and excitement in being in front of the audience. That's why I keep doing it."

Wright performs at the Rialto Theatre at 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 1. Tickets are $27 and $34 via rialtotheatre.com.

Thanksgiving Cross-Country Classic. Maybe you were planning to work out through the month of November and didn’t get around to it, so you want to squeeze in one exercise session before Thanksgiving dinner. Maybe you just love hurdling over hay bales early in the morning. Or maybe you want to get out of helping set up for dinner at your house. Whatever your reason, the Southern Arizona Roadrunner’s annual 5K and 1.5-mile fun run are not to be missed. Overall male and female winners each get a pair of new running shoes, and others might find themselves winning items like pumpkin pies. Breaking the women’s course record (Tara Erdmann’s 17:08.2, set in 2011) wins you $350, and breaking the men’s course record (Craig Curley’s 14:54.1, set in 2009) wins you $450. First race starts at 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 22 (Thanksgiving Day). Reid Park, Ramada 10, at Country Club just north of 22nd St. Race day registration is $30 for the 5K and $20 for the fun run. Details Here.

Scrooge the Musical. What better way to get into the holiday spirit than by watching a classic in musical form. Returning to The Gaslight Theatre stage to kick off the holidays is “Scrooge,” a charming adaptation of Charles Dickens’ 1843 classic, “A Christmas Carol,” complete with ghosts, life lessons and a bit of that indelible Christmas Spirit. While many of the mainstays of the Dickens’ tale remain, the Gaslight cast and crew once again inject their unique brand of slapstick humor and song-and-dance to create a finished product full of laughter, sing-alongs and warm family memories. The play will be showing through Jan. 6.  For tickets call (520) 886-9428. The Gaslight Theatre, 7010 E. Broadway Blvd. Details Here.

Cult Classics-My Neighbor Totoro. Need help getting in the familial spirit for the holidays? The Loft will help you out by screening one of the most beloved and acclaimed family movies ever made. Sure, you've seen the plush dolls and heard the references, but if you haven't actually sat down to watch this 1988 film, you're really doing yourself a disservice. Even Roger Ebert called this one of the five best movies ever made for children. 10:00 p.m The Loft Cinema 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. 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 Brianna Lewis, Emily Dieckman, B.S. Eliot and Jeff Gardner.

Friendsgiving. American Eat Co. wants you to join them in celebrating friendship and good food  on Thanksgiving Eve, with their own Thanksgiving event. Beer floats and flavored mimosas are just a couple of the food and drinks specials, while live music, a photo booth and a gratitude wall. 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 21. 1439 S. Fourth Ave. Details Here.

Hellzapoppin FREAK SHOW. Did you think freak shows weren’t a thing  anymore? So did we. But the world’s largest touring rock ’n’ roll circus freak show, thrill show, side show and stunt show extravaganza is coming to town. You might have seen them on America’s Got Talent, the Discovery Channel or NatGeo, or maybe you’ve heard of the Lizard Man from Ripley’s Believe It Or Not—he’s the guy with the split tongue, implanted horns on his head and arms and an entire body tattooed in green scales. You can also see the world’s smallest “midget escape artist,” Nik Sin, and Short E. Dangerously, a “half-man” (he has no legs) who’s also featured in the new Ripley’s Believe It Or Not. You’ll see beds of nails, acrobats, sword swallowing and more. 7 to 11 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 21. The Rock, 136 N. Park Ave. $10 to $12. Details Here.

Tucson Roadrunners vs. Stockton Heat. This week, the Roadrunners face off against the entity of heat itself. (Fun fact: The Stockton Heat’s team name was the result of a team-naming contest when the Adirondack Flames first moved to Stockton, and the other four finalists were Blaze, Fire, Inferno and Scorch.) Unfortunately for the Heat, this is our home turf, and the Roadrunners (and all Tucsonans) are experts at beating the heat. Catch the Wednesday game for Kids Free Night (kids 12 and under free with a paid adult) and the 1-2-3 food promotion night: $1 sodas, $2 hot dogs, $3 beers. Now that’s a hockey game. 7:05 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 21. Tucson Arena, 260 S. Church Ave. $10 to $61+. 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 Brianna Lewis, Emily Dieckman, B.S. Eliot and Jeff Gardner.

Fall Ikebana Floral Festival. It’s hard to find a sweeter way to spend a fall afternoon in Tucson than strolling through Yume Japanese Gardens. And that’s just on a regular day. During this festival, they’ll have dozens of flower arrangements on display in five different styles of Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement), which will have you feeling all harmonious and Zen and lovely. While you’re there, check out their newest museum gallery, with more than 200 Ikebana vases made of bamboo, bronze, lacquer, clay and glass—some more than a century old, and some contemporary. To make sure things stay tranquil, just be sure not to park on East Hampton Place—there’s parking inside the main gate and on East Justin Lane. Tuesday, Nov. 20, through Wednesday, Nov. 28, except for Thanksgiving. Yume Japanese Gardens, 2130 N. Alvernon Way. $15 adults, $5 kids under 15. Details Here.

Holidays Around the World and Throughout Time. Well, is your interest piqued just by the name  of this art exhibit? If not, here’s a little more info: Each holiday season, the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures transforms itself into a Wee Winter Wonderland. This means not only decorating the lobby and galleries, but decorating more than a dozen of the miniature fixtures from the permanent collection. The scenes will be decorated to match the style and era that the miniature is depicting, which means twinkly light-strung cacti in the Southwest miniature, Hanukkah decorations in the Kupjack Georgian Dining Room, bamboo and pine decorations for Japanese New Year (aka Shogatsu) and a very traditional Christmas look in the German dollhouse. Happy teeny-tiny holidays! Tuesday, Nov. 20 through Sunday, Jan. 6. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. Closed Mondays and major holidays. Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, 4455 E. Camp Lowell Drive. $9 GA, $8 senior, $6 students/youth 4 to 17 and free for kids 3 and under. Details Here.

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Tucson Roadrunners vs. Stockton Heat. This week, the Roadrunners face off against the entity of heat itself. (Fun fact: The Stockton Heat’s team name was the result of a team-naming contest when the Adirondack Flames first moved to Stockton, and the other four finalists were Blaze, Fire, Inferno and Scorch.) Unfortunately for the Heat, this is our home turf, and the Roadrunners (and all Tucsonans) are experts at beating the heat. There are two games this week, but if you catch the Wednesday one, you’ll be there for Kids Free Night (kids 12 and under free with a paid adult) and the 1-2-3 food promotion night: $1 sodas, $2 hot dogs, $3 beers. Now that’s a hockey game. 7:05 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 20 and Wednesday, Nov. 21. Tucson Arena, 260 S. Church Ave. $10 to $61+. 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 Brianna Lewis, Emily Dieckman, B.S. Eliot and Jeff Gardner.

Truck Stop Women. It's Keep On Truckin' month at The Loft, and what better way to treat yourself then by seeing a movie about a badass mother-daughter duo? Better yet, it's only $3! The Loft Cinema is premiering this 1974 film on Monday night at 8:00 p.m. This action packed film will pull you in many directions, from a brothel to having to fight the mob, you're bound to be surprised. 3233 E. Speedway Blvd. Details Here.


Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity. Calling all science lovers, this is the event for you. Take a look into modern science and learn all about black holes. The UA Flandrau Science Center is showing The Other Side of Infinity a film narrated by Liam Neeson. 1601 E University Blvd. 4 p.m. Free. Details Here.


Pet Photos with Santa. Get into the Christmas spirit and take Holiday pictures with your precious best friend. Pets are family too and we must make sure they know! What's the best part about it? No crying babies! Domestic animals only and please make sure to clean up after your pet! Every Monday 5:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m. until Dec. 17 at the Tucson Mall. 4500 N Oracle Rd.  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 Brianna Lewis, Emily Dieckman, B.S. Eliot and Jeff Gardner.

Many believe the historic hotel was established in 1919, but with more research on the history, it was found that the building had a soft opening in Nov. 1918. On Sunday, Nov. 18 Hotel Congress will celebrate 100 years of business with the Copper Jubilee.

The Copper Jubilee will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. at Hotel Congress. There will be free birthday cake with 100 candles, historic hotel tours, poetry readings by UA Poetry Center contest winners, historic lectures, painting of the Hotel Congress on the Tap Room patio, food and drink specials from the era, live music all day and a huge surprise at dusk!

Bring items that represent Hotel Congress and downtown Tucson to help fill a 100-year time capsule. The reason for the year-long celebration is to showcase Hotel Congress’ strongly rooted heritage, give thanks to those who have left footprints and set their eyes on the future as they strive to go beyond and continue to be a true travel destination.

The celebrations will continue through Dec. 2019 with events toasting the hotel’s dedication to serving the Tucson community and world travelers for the past century. There will be a variety of new and new versions of events, art exhibits, lecture series, historical and modern additions to the hotel and much more!

10 Historical Facts about Hotel Congress:

1. In 1934 Hotel Congress caught on fire and John Dillinger was captured and tried in Tucson.
2. In the 1940s, because of the fire, Hotel Congress went from 80 to 40 rooms.
3. In 1959 Tiger (Thomas Ziegler) began working in the Tap Room and still works there today.
4. In 1985 Richard and Shana Oseran purchased Hotel Congress and Club Congress, a center for Tucson nightlife opened its doors.
5. In 1989 Muralist Larry Boyce painted the lobby.
6. In 1990 the Cup Café, an eatery that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner opened.
7. In 2000 an event space called the Copper Hall opened.
8. In 2010 the 1930’s cooler was replaced with air conditioning.
9. In 2011 Local Muralist Joe Pagac painted the private guest patio into an urban oasis.
10. In 2013 the Tap Room was renamed “Tiger’s Tap Room” in honor of his 80th birthday.

Does a day of games, prizes, face painting, crafts, inflatables, tennis, disc golf and class demonstrations sound like fun for you and your family?

On Saturday, Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Cigna and Tucson Parks and Recreation presents the 13th annual Family Festival in the Park. The event is free and Reid Park Zoo will have $1 admission. Attendees are also invited to bring non-perishable food donations to support the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona.

The event will take place at Reid Park and the Edith Ball Adaptive Recreation Center will host free swimming with an inflatable obstacle course.

Volunteers from Friends of the Reid Park Rose Garden will be giving tours of the garden during the event. There will be entertainment throughout the day and a variety of foods for purchase from local vendors.

Find more information here.

Sixth Annual Firestone Walker Showcase. The Firestone Walker Brewing Co. is doing a complete tap takeover at the Tap and Bottle Downtown in the brewer’s sixth annual showcase. The “Parabola” or the “Scubula” are just a couple of the several tap options Firestone Walker is bringing to the table. 5 to 9 p.m., Friday, Nov. 16. 403 N. Sixth Ave. Details Here.
Ceviche Festival. In the mood for delicious ceviche? The Villa Peru Restaurant will be serving their range of classic ceviche dishes during their bi-annual Ceviche Festival this weekend. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 16, and Saturday, Nov. 17. The event is free to get in, and each of the ceviche dishes are individually priced. 1745 E. River Road. Details Here.

Copper State. We all know Arizona’s 5 Cs, and we all know that if we had to pick just one C to represent our desert state, it would be copper (with climate in a close second, probably, though that’s debatable). After all, in the mid-19th century, a quarter of the state’s population were miners! Even today, Arizona accounts for about 60 percent of copper production in the United States. To celebrate all the color, history and importance of copper, Tohono Chul asked artists to create pieces that reflect all of that, in any medium they choose. See some beautiful art, take a stroll in the gardens and reflect on what a neat state we live in. Reception is 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 16, and exhibit runs through Feb. 6, 2019. Tohono Chul Main Gallery, 7366 Paseo del Norte. $13 adults, $10 military/student/senior, $3 kids 5 to 12 and free for members and kids under 5. Details Here.

Bette Davis Ain’t For Sissies. Here at the Weekly, we love a good one-woman show. This 90-minute performance, written by and starring Jessica Sherr, tells the story of 1930s actress and icon Bette Davis on the night of the 1939 Academy Awards. Davis was nominated for best actress in the film Dark Victory, but the LA Times leaked the names of the winners early (we won’t say who—we don’t want to spoil it in case you didn’t pick up the Times that day). Defiant and disillusioned, Davis straight up just walks out of the Oscars, a moment that is only a part of the story of her battle against Hollywood studios. 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 16, 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 17. Invisible Theatre, 1400 N. First Ave. $35. Details Here.

All Right Now Dance Party with the Rillito River Band. If you haven’t heard the Rillito River Band play yet, where have you been? These long-time Tucsonans cite influences ranging from Cream to the Cure to Van Morrison to James Taylor, and you might hear songs by all of those artists, along with a few originals. If you like three-part harmonies, touching love songs or totally raucous rock ’n’ roll (so, if you’re a human who likes any kind of music), this is a show for you. Get ready to dance, because they’re clearing a space for those of you who will hear this music and not be able to stay off your feet. 7 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 16. Gaslight Music Hall, 13005 N. Oracle Road. $12.50. Details Here.

Danny Lyon: The American Southwest, and Mexico. If you’re a fan of Etherton, you’ve probably  seen some of this renowned photographer’s work. But this exhibit, featuring photos from his Southwestern Portfolio taken between 1967 and 1983 and photos from his international traveling retrospective, will include more than a dozen of his works that have never been seen before. And if that doesn’t excite you enough, then how about the fact that Danny Lyon himself is coming to Tucson for the West Coast debut of his new film Wanderer, the fourth in a series he began back in 1971, and to offer an artist talk for the public with Rebecca Senf, the chief curator of the Center for Creative Photography? Photography exhibit opens with a reception from 7 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 17, at the Etherton Gallery, 135 S. Sixth Ave. Film screening starts at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 16, at the Center for Creative Photography, 1030 N. Olive Road. But try to get there at least half an hour early if you want a seat. Details Here.

Coyote Classics Dog Shows. If you’re a dog person, then what could be more pleasant than spending your weekend watching a dog show? You can watch your favorite breeds compete in categories like their structure, their temperaments and the way they move; you can figure out if showing your own dog is something you might be interested in; and you might even see dog breeds you’ve never seen before. There’s plenty of vendors selling food to fuel you through the day, and it’s Western-themed, so bring your cowboy hat and big ol’ belt buckle if you’d like! Just don’t bring your own dog, OK? Only dogs eligible to be shown are allowed on the grounds. Friday, Nov. 16, through Monday, Nov. 19. Pima County Fairgrounds, 11300 S. Houghton Road. Free. Details Here.

TMA Holiday Artisans Market. OK, you have just over a month left to get your Christmas shopping done, and way less than that if we’re talkin’ Hanukkah. So put on your shoppin’ shoes , roll up your sleeves and head over to TMA. You can support local artists by buying their gorgeous handmade jewelry, artwork, textiles, crafts and other gifts for your loved ones to wear, hang up and use every day. What’s a better gift than the kind that will have the recipient constantly fielding questions like, “where did you GET that?” and “How can I get one of those?”? When you’re done with a full day of thinking about others, you can treat yourself to something nice right at the same market. Plus, there’s family-friendly activities all day! And a vibraphone! 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 16, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, and Sunday, Nov. 18. Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave. Free. Details Here.

Amado Chili Cook-Off/Classic Car & Motorcycle Show. This event is a fundraiser to help replace the Amado Youth Center that was destroyed by flood this fall. You’ll find a car and motorcycle show, food and craft beer from local vendors, musical entertainment and different chili tasting. Sizzle your palette for a cause! 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Satuday, Nov. 17. 3001 I-19 Frontage Road. Details Here.

Sonoran Harvest: Taste the Desert. What does it mean to taste the desert? In this festival, enjoy food found in the Sonoran Desert, while also being shown how to incorporate it into your everyday life. At the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, have a beer while tasting samples among the saguaros and help determine the Sonoran Harvest Queen or King based on your votes for favorite. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 17. 2021 N. Kinney Road. $45. Details Here.

The UA Chemistry Club Fall Science “Magic” Show. Did you have one of those cool chemistry teachers in high school who did neat tricks with fire that came with an explicit “don’t try this at home, even though you wouldn’t be able to because you don’t have the necessary chemicals” warning? If you did, this is going to make you nostalgic. If you didn’t, now’s your chance to finally live this little slice of the American Dream. The UA Chemistry Club is hosting this free event, full of excitement and education, to remind us that there’s nothing quite so magical as pure, unadulterated science. 11 a.m. to noon. Saturday, Nov. 17. Chemistry Building, Room 111, 1306 E. University Blvd. Free. Details Here.

Charlie Parker’s Yardbird. The Arizona Opera is taking us on a journey through the mind of one of jazz’s greatest legends this week, the man who said beautifully simple, intensely powerful stuff like “don’t play the saxophone. Let it play you.” The show is told through a series of connected scenes following his death, about Parker attempting to compose his final masterpiece while also facing some of the very demons that made him such a master. One hour before each performance, there’s a lecture on the historical and musical context of the show, and after the Sunday show, there’s a talk back with composer Daniel Schynder and librettist Bridgette A. Wimberly. 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 17, and 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 18. Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Ave. $25 to $110. Details Here.

El Tour Fiesta. We’re not going to suggest participating in the actual El Tour race this weekend as a spur-of-the-moment weekend activity. If you’re going to do the tour, you’ve probably known that for a while. If you’re not, you can still decide to head downtown for the after party! Cheer on the finishers, visit the Children’s Museum and nearby art galleries and check out the El Tour Exhibitors. The Michelob Ultra Garden, with food and drink, opens at 11 a.m., and there’s family-friendly entertainment in the downtown area all day until 5 p.m. Registration for the El Tour Fun Ride begins at 7:30 a.m., the first 100-mile finishers are expected around 11 a.m., and the party goes until 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17. Armory Park, 221 S. Sixth Ave. Details Here.

Family Festival in the Park. Tucson Parks and Rec is partnering with Cigna for the 13th annual iteration of this event, full of games, prizes, crafts, face painting, tennis, disc golf and that most coveted of childhood event attractions: inflatables. Admission to the Reid Park Zoo will be just $1, with proceeds benefiting the zoo’s conservation fund, and the Edith Ball Adaptive Recreation Center will host free swimming with an inflatable obstacle course. Plus, you can tour the park’s rose garden, enjoy free entertainment and chow down on food from local vendors. Give back to the community by bringing a canned goods donation for the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17. Reid Park at 22nd and Country Club. Free, but please bring a non-perishable food donation! Details Here.

Hotel Congress Copper Jubilee: A Celebration of 100 Years. This Sunday, Hotel Congress will be celebrating 100 years with a Copper Jubilee. The event will include historic tours, a birthday cake lit with 100 candles, specialty cocktails, a John Dillinger gun show and poetry readings. In celebration, Hotel Congress will also be creating a time capsule to be re-opened in 100 years from now to which you can bring something to be included. 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 18. 311 Congress St. Free. Details Here.

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Events compiled by Brianna Lewis, Emily Dieckman, B.S. Eliot and Jeff Gardner.

Ceviche is not something many desert-dwellers eat very often, but one local restaurant is working to mix that up. Villa Peru Restaurant will be hosting its bi-annual Ceviche Festival this weekend that will be offering 12 different types of traditional Peruvian ceviche dishes!

The various Peruvian ceviche dishes will be made to order, combining the freshest seasonal catch, cured with a leche de tigre citrus-based marinade of lime and ají peppers. Different ceviche dishes will include mahi mahi fish, shrimp, octopus, scallops, black shell clams and mushrooms.

Enjoy live music during night-time hours including a guitarist and harp player, while enjoying tasty seafood dishes.

So how does it work? The festival is free to get in and each of the different ceviche dishes are individually priced. It is definitely worth it to head over to the festival as many of the ceviches are not on the restaurant's regular menu, meaning this weekend is your only chance to taste them!

The festival will be on Friday, Nov. 16 and Saturday, Nov. 17 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Villa Peru Restaurant is located on 1745 E River Road.

Save the date and make a reservation with Villa Peruvian Restaurant by calling (520) 900- 7310 or through the online reservations website.