The Best of Tucson: 12 Events to Check Out in November 2024

Chelle Peterson
a list of 12 events to check out in tucson in november 2024

Looking for a list of the best events in Tucson in November? You’ve found it! It’s fall, and that means a colorful mix of cultural festivals, mesmerizing music, and outdoor fun.

We’ve got rock concerts, comedy shows, cowboys, spicy sausages, and a turkey fun run, just to name a few. 

Whether you want a weekend of family fun or a special night out, here are 12 things to pencil into your calendar. 

1. Tucson Celtic Festival & Scottish Highland Games

Date and Time: November 1st from 5:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., November 2nd from 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m., and November 3rd from  8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Location: Rillito Raceway Park, 4502 N. 1st Avenue, Tucson, AZ

Cost: $21 – $125 ($18-$125 presale prices)

What’s going on: The festival kicks off Friday night with a Viking concert and a variety of events on Saturday and Sunday, like highland dancers, classic car show, pipers, whiskey tasting, tea tasting, traditional Scottish food, and live performances daily. Children’s tickets include jumping castles and other kids’ activities. 

2. Empire Ranch Cowboy Festival

Date and Time: November 2nd – 3rd 

Location: Located off Scenic Hwy. 83, Empire Ranch Road, Sonoita, AZ

Cost: $20 donation per vehicle requested

What’s going on: The Empire Ranch Foundation’s annual public event celebrates Arizona’s Western history and culture. There’s fun for the whole family, with Western music, history and culture demonstrations, ranch life exhibits, and a 45-minute trail ride.

3. All Souls Procession and Grand Finale

Date and Time: November 1st – 3rd

Location: Gather on Grande Avenue between Speedway and St. Mary’s, Tucson, AZ

Cost: Free

What’s going on: Join in with one of Tucson’s annual traditions. The 35th All Souls Procession and Ceremony. The Southwest’s largest and most inclusive ceremony to honor the dead and celebrate the living. The Procession begins at 6:00 p.m. and features Circo DOMO and the “Restoration of Care” Ceremony, plus art and entertainment from Flam Chen, Odaiko Sonora, Nexus Visions, and Na-il Emmert.

4. Tucson Film Festival

Date and Time: November 7th – 10th

Location: The Screening Room, 127 E Congress St, Tucson, AZ

Cost: $10+

What’s going on: The 20th annual Tucson Film Festival celebrates the intersection of music and film, offering a carefully curated selection of documentaries, features, and shorts. This year’s lineup gives special attention to films with roots in Arizona and the broader Southwest, emphasizing the region’s cultural influence. Along with screenings, attendees can enjoy filmmaker Q&A sessions and panel discussions that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process. The festival serves as a fantastic way to explore Tucson’s vibrant arts scene while supporting local filmmakers and creatives.

5. The Chinese Chorizo Festival

Date and Time: November 1st – 10th

Location: Various shops and restaurants

What’s going on: Starting in early October, this festival continues into November at participating shops and restaurants like Noodies and Ensenada Street Food. Don’t forget the block party at the Tucson Museum of Art on November 10th, and stop by to taste a lost delicacy from the 1880s to1970s that was popular in Tucson’s barrios. 

6. Styx Concert

Date and Time: November 8th at 7:00 p.m.

Location: Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, 260 S Church Ave, Tucson, AZ

Cost: $70+

What’s going on: Legendary rock band Styx, known for classics like “Come Sail Away” and “Mr. Roboto,” returns to Tucson for an electrifying performance. This concert, part of their latest tour, promises to deliver the band’s signature blend of prog-rock and melodic ballads. Hosted at the renowned Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, the evening will feature hits from their vast catalog alongside newer material. With Styx’s high-energy performance style and devoted fan following, it’s a must-see event for classic rock lovers.

7. Sheng Wang Comedy Show

Date and Time: November 8th at 7:30 p.m.

Location: Fox Theater, 17 W Congress St, Tucson, AZ

Cost: $39-$50

What’s going on: Known for his smooth delivery and laid-back observational humor, Sheng Wang takes the stage at the historic Fox Theater for an evening of laughs. Wang’s comedy offers a fresh, relatable perspective on everyday life, blending thoughtful musings with witty punchlines. Following the success of his Netflix special “Sweet and Juicy,” this live show is the perfect chance to experience his unique comedic style in person. Whether you’re a fan of stand-up or just looking for a good laugh, this show promises to be a highlight of the month.

8. Dusk Music Festival

Date and Time: November 9th – 10th

Location: Jacome Plaza, 101 N Stone Avenue, Tucson, AZ

Cost: 75+ for a single-day pass

What’s going on: The 7th DUSK Music Festival is a two-day music, art, and culinary festival featuring 40 artists on three stages for a unique and diverse entertainment experience. With chart-topping headliners and emerging artists pushing boundaries, you’ll enjoy a dynamic blend of genres and styles. 

Groove with the energy-inducing beats of electronic music and the soul-stirring melodies of indie, rock, and hip-hop. Other highlights include an incredible lineup of restaurants, food trucks, and chefs who serve cutting-edge cuisine.

9. Rockin’ 4 Heroes

Date and Time: November 10th from 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Location: James D. Kriegh Park, 23 West Calle Concordia, Oro Valley, AZ

Cost: Free (e-tickets required for entry)

What’s going on: This outdoor public concert pays tribute to first responders, active military, veterans, and Gold Star families. Listen to country music by Tucson-based Mark Miller Band and stay for the jet flyover at 2:00 p.m. and Lexington Lab at 2:30 p.m. The event is held in a beautiful park setting with open seating, and guests are encouraged to bring folding chairs.

10. Direct from Sweden: The Music of Abba

Date and Time: November 16th at 7:30 p.m.

Location: Fox Theater, 17 W Congress St, Tucson, AZ

Cost: $20 – $60

What’s going on: Travel back in time to the golden age of disco with Direct from Sweden: The Music of ABBA. This high-energy tribute show brings the iconic Swedish band’s timeless hits to life with dazzling costumes, engaging performances, and vibrant visuals. Sing along to fan favorites like “Mamma Mia,” “Waterloo,” and “Dancing Queen” as the talented performers recreate the magic of ABBA’s original concerts. Perfect for all ages, this event offers an exciting and nostalgic night that will have the whole audience dancing in their seats.

11. El Tour de Tucson

Date and Time: November 23rd, 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Location: Tucson Convention Center, 260 S Church Ave, Tucson, AZ

Cost: $15+ for the Family Fun Ride, $145+ for individual riders

What’s going on: Now in its 14th year, this race brings together 9,000 cyclists to participate in the renowned and popular event. El Tour 3-Day Expo & Fiesta starts on November 21st, leading up to the race with a beer garden, food booths, and entertainment.

12. Thanksgiving XC Classic Fun Run

Date and Time: November 28th at 7:00 a.m.

Location: Reid Park – 900 S. Randolph Way, Tucson, AZ

Cost: $15 – $35

What’s going on: The Thanksgiving XC Classic – 5K & 1.5 Mile Fun Run and Walk (Tucson’s Original Turkey Trot) is a cross-country course with hay bales on grass, dirt, and a little asphalt. The course starts near Ramada #10 at the southwest corner of Reid Park, at 22nd St and Country Club Rd.  

As the weather cools down, get ready to enjoy all that Tucson has to offer this November. From sports to food and music, there are fun and engaging events for everyone! We host a range of social and learning events at The Post Workspaces to build stronger connections within our local business community —contact us today to learn more and get set up for a tour!