Check out these all-year-round events:
Guided Birding Walks at Patagonia Lake State Park
Every Friday and Monday
Guided bird walks are back! Join park rangers at the Birding Trail kiosk (next to campsite #12) for a ranger-led hike to learn about the diverse avian wildlife at Patagonia Lake and Sonoita Creek.
The event repeats each Friday and Monday at 9:00 a.m. For more information, please visit https://azstateparks.com/patagonia-lake/events/bird-walk-patagonia
Boat Tours at Patagonia Lake State Park
Every Saturday and Sunday, $7 per adult, $5 per child (13 years and under)
- 9 a.m. Avian Adventure Tour
- 10:15 a.m. Avian Adventure Tour
- 11:30 a.m. Lake Discovery Tour
- Twilight Tour on Saturdays only. Time varies.
Please call the park to make your reservation: 520-287-2791.
Boat rentals are available at the Patagonia Lake Marina.
For more information, please visit https://azstateparks.com/patagonia-lake/on-the-water/boating
Explore Sonoita Creek State Natural Area with a Ranger
Join us for this new program with weekly hikes ranging from moderate to advanced on the Sonoita Creek State Natural Area trails. Meet at the Sonoita Creek parking lot.
Hikes are limited to 15 people. Please call the Visitor Center in advance at 520-287-2791 for information about which hike will be taking place and to sign up.
Adventures at the Presidio
Every Saturday through April 27
$15 per family
Ever wondered where colorful paints came from before the invention of modern paint? This month, you’ll get to find out!
Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/3d75fsp5
Mark your calendars for these upcoming events:
Annual Luminaria Nights in Tubac
Stroll through the beautifully lit streets lined with glowing luminarias, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and admire the iconic 1951 Hudson Hornet adorned with twinkling lights in front of Old Presidio Traders, celebrating their 42nd year in Tubac! Free parking is available, making this the perfect evening for friends and family to experience the magic of the season. Don't miss out on this unforgettable holiday tradition!
2024 City of Nogales Christmas Light Parade "Through The Eyes of Children"
Get ready for a magical evening! The City of Nogales invites everyone to the Nogales Christmas Light Parade on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. This year's theme, "Through the Eyes of Children," promises to fill the streets with wonder, festive lights, and holiday cheer.
Bring your family and friends to enjoy a night of fun and holiday spirit in the heart of Nogales. Don't miss out on this unforgettable holiday tradition!
La Fiesta de Tumacácori
Tumacacori, Arizona
La Fiesta de Tumacácori, held annually during the first full weekend in December, offers a vibrant celebration of the diverse cultures historically and presently connected to the Santa Cruz Valley. This free event features approximately fifty food and craft booths, continuous live entertainment, and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.
For more information, please visit this link.
Holiday Open House Event at the Santa Cruz Chili and Spice Company
Tumacacori, Arizona
Santa Cruz Chili & Spice Company in Tumacacori invites you to their Holiday Open House! Stop by on December 11th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM to enjoy mini margaritas, delicious food, and free tours of the facility.
It’s the perfect time to find unique gifts for friends and family, including cookbooks, sea salts, spicy chocolates, and over 100 different spices and Southwest gourmet food items.
For more information, please visit this link.
2024 Santa's Garden of Lights
391 Avenida Coatimundi, Rio Rico, AZ
Get into the holiday spirit at Santa's Garden of Lights on Friday, December 13, from 5 PM to 8 PM, hosted by the Rio Rico Community Center and the Rio Rico Medical and Fire District!
Bring your family and friends to enjoy the festive atmosphere, beautiful lights, and holiday fun.
Mark your calendars and don’t miss this joyful holiday celebration!
Santa Cruz County Fair & Rodeo Assn. Presents Sonoita Small Town Christmas
Tubac Center of the Arts, Tubac, Arizona
This festive event offers free admission and a day full of holiday cheer for all ages.
Visitors can enjoy thrilling activities such as barrel racing, team roping, and yard games. With over 40 local vendors, food trucks, and unique gifts, it's the perfect chance to shop local and celebrate the season.
For more information, please visit this link.
12th Annual Quick Draw Contest Cowboy Christmas
Tubac Center of the Arts, Tubac, Arizona
This festive event showcases local artists racing against the clock to create stunning works of art in just 90 minutes during the Quick Draw Competition, from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Following this, attendees can enjoy a lively Charity Art Auction from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM, led by auctioneer Gary Corbett.
The evening concludes with Cowboy Cuisine ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
For more information, please visit this link.
Santa Claus Visit at Patagonia Lake State Park
Santa Claus is coming to Patagonia Lake State Park!
Join us on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 1:00 PM for a festive afternoon of holiday fun. Activities include ornament crafting, a cakewalk, exciting boat rides, and a campsite decoration contest!
Don't miss your chance to meet Santa himself and create magical memories with family and friends.
For more details, visit azstateparks.com/patagonia-lake or call (520) 287-6965.
66th Annual Tubac Festival of the Arts
Tubac, Arizona
The Tubac Festival of the Arts is back from February 5-9, 2025! Artists, vendors, and food trucks are invited to apply now to be part of Arizona's longest-running arts festival. Don't miss the opportunity to showcase your work and connect with thousands of art enthusiasts in the beautiful town of Tubac.
For more information, please visit this link.