With the weather warming up, everyone is gearing up to enjoy more outdoor festivities, social gatherings, and glorious sunshine before the dry, blistering heat sets in Tucson.
From events like Mother’s Day to Cinco De Mayo coming up, there are bound to be endless event invitations piling up in your inbox and cluttering your social media feeds. Luckily, we’ve done the work for you and curated top-tier, entertaining events you must try this month.
So, look no further—here are 13 fun things to do in Tucson this May 2024.
1. 1st Saturday ArtWalk
Date and Time: May 4th to May 25th, 2024, 4-9 pm
Location: The Steinfeld Warehouse, 101 West 6th Street
Cost: Free
What’s going on: 1st Saturday ArtWalk, a juried—or competitive—exhibition, centers its theme on stillness for this season’s last hurrah. This exhibition explores the different manifestations of stillness through various art mediums. While you explore and ponder the concept behind each piece, you can sip and nibble on complimentary snacks and allow ambient jazz music to be your mellow companion.
2. 8th Annual Baja Beer Festival
Date and Time: May 4th, 2024, 12-4:40 pm
Location: Armory Park, 222 S. 5th Avenue
Cost: $15 for designated drivers, $55 for general admission 1 pm entry, $75 for VIP 12 pm entry
What’s going on: No, your eyes are not tricking you—Tucson’s annual Baja beer festival was rescheduled from April 6th to May 4th. So, of course, we had to update you! This festival features Arizona’s top breweries; think Mexican craft beer, beers honoring the Scottish tradition, and more. For an additional cost, you can grab delicious snacks created by some seriously skilled chefs to accompany your drink. Bring your friends, and be prepared to fill your cup—both literally and figuratively.
3. Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet
Date and Time: May 12, 2024
Location: 8600 E Rockcliff Rd
Cost: $60 per person
What’s going on: If you want to treat your mom, or yourself if you’re a mother, to a relaxing yet elegant food fiesta, this is the way to go. This brunch is located at the luxurious Canyon Ranch can be the perfect kick-off to a day full of facials or simply sipping on complimentary cocktails and enjoying the gorgeous view.
Choose from a Lox bar, mezze platters, premium seafood, main courses, and either a Bloody Mary or Mimosa for your complimentary cocktail. And yes, there are lots of vegan and gluten-free options available.
4. Chris Isaak Performance
Date and Time: May 10, 2024, 7:30 pm
Location: Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W Congress Street
Cost: $23 – $166.75
What’s going on: Rolling Stone dubbed this California native “rockabilly’s greatest modern ambassador” for his reverb style and traditional, revivalist approach to music. Most famously known for his song “Wicked Game”, Chris Isaak is set to take the stage this month at Fox Tucson Theatre.
5. Salavat Fidai: The Pencil is Mightier
Date and Time: February 15 – May 15, 2024, 9 am to 4 pm
Location: The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures,
Cost: $8 for youth, $12 for seniors and students, and $14 for adults
What’s going on: As far as whimsical art exhibits go, this one might take the cake. Featuring talented microsculptor Salavat Fidai, this exhibition showcases mini sculptures carved on to the tips of sharpened pencils. You’ll be astounded by the level of detail visible in these carveouts, from wildlife to everyday items. As Fidai himself put it, “My art is a challenge to myself and my capabilities, exploring the limits of human physical capabilities. Can I achieve precision in the depiction, convey its grace, and strive for perfection?”
6. Barrio Viejo Walking Tour
Date and Time: May 11, 2024, from 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.
Location: Presidio San Agustin del Tucson Museum, 196 N. Court Ave.
Cost: $20 for Museum members, $30 for non-members (for an additional $10 you can join Mauro Trejo, the tour guide, for margaritas and more conversation after the tour).
What’s going on: Explore what used to be the cultural, social, and economic heartbeat of Tucson and is, still to this day, the largest barrio in the country. While these tours are regularly scheduled throughout the year, the barrio is set to undergo major changes with new projects being built so May is the perfect time to go. You’ll learn the rich history behind Barrio Viejo, see rows of Sonoran houses and their architecture up close, and glimpse into the businesses that thrived there.
7. Billy Idol Concert
Date and Time: May 11, 2024, 8 pm
Location: AVA Amphitheatre, 5655 W. Valencia Rd
Cost: Starting at $74
What’s going on: Rock and roll legend Billy Idol is set to perform at Tucson’s AVA amphitheater. Hear him perform hits like Rebel Yell and Eyes Without a Face, but you may want to hurry—tickets are selling fast, so grab yours before they’re all gone.
8. Cinco de Mayo Weekend at Barrio Gallery
Date and Time: May 4, 2024, starting at 12 pm
Location: Lost Barrio Gallery, 208 S Park Ave
Cost: Free; bring cash, card, or check for purchasing artwork
What’s going on: This Cinco de Mayo, the Lost Bario Gallery is hosting a fun day of live music, nibbles, and great art, featuring local artists. Artwork will be available to purchase. Join in for a leisurely, relaxing time—chat with friends, browse through stunning paintings, and enjoy a drink or two.
9. Tucson Speedway – Cinco De Mayo
Date and Time: May 4, 2024, 6:30 pm
Location: Tucson Speedway, 11955 Harrison Road
Cost: $13 for kids general admission, $16 for seniors and military, $18 for adult general admission, and $50 for family general admission
What’s going on: Here’s a unique idea for this May 5th: watching a race on Tucson’s NASCAR racing track. Sure to be fun for young kids, or even some friends, this racing event features models like Thunder Trucks, Pro Stocks, Hornets, Hobby Stocks, and Mini Stocks.
10. Cinco De Mayo Fiesta
Date and Time: May 4th, 2024, 6:00 pm – late
Location: 61 E Congress St.
Cost: $25.00 for buying in advance; $35.00 at the door, free for kids under 12
What’s going on: If you want to celebrate this Cinco de Mayo with a bang, this event is it! With raved-about Mexican street food (like Fat Boy Sandos), performances from artists like RASTAS and Masigna, live mural painting, DJs, Lucha Libre wrestlers, and a beer garden, this event does not skimp on entertainment. Please note that while this fiesta ends late, it is ages 21+ after 10 pm.
11. Broadway in Tucson: 42nd Street
Date and Time: May 25, 2024, 2 pm and 7 pm
Location: Temple of Music and Art Temple Center of Music and Arts, 330. S Scott Ave
Cost: $15.00
What’s going on: A Broadway classic, 42nd Street is set to take the stage in the largest production to date. For those unfamiliar with this musical, 42nd Street tells the story of Peggy Sawyer, a talented and driven performer who finally gets her big break on Broadway. It’s glitzy, it’s entertaining, and it’s showstopping—a recipe sure to keep you delighted until the end.
12. Broadway in Tucson: Mrs. Doubtfire
Date and Time: Daily starting May 28th (until June 2nd), 2024, 7:30 pm
Location: Centennial Hall, 1020 E University Blvd
Cost: $40.00
What’s going on: Adapted from the hit 1993 movie, Mrs. Doubtfire on Broadway is a change of pace from 42nd Street. Directed by four-time Tony Award winner Jerry Zaks, this Broadway musical tells the story of Mrs. Doubtfire, who is ironically a man disguised as a nanny. Think smart, heartwarming, and hilarious.
13. Epson Tour Casino Del Sol Golf Classic
Date and Time: May 2 – May 4, 2024
Location: Casino de Sol, 5655 W Valencia Rd
Cost: Free to watch
What’s going on: Sewailo Golf Club is hosting the “Road to LPGA” (golf tour) this May. 120 players will compete in a 54-hole stroke play format for a winner’s share of 37,500 (total purse is $250,000).
What are you most excited for this month? Get out there and experience some of the best events Tucson has to offer this May.
We regularly host fun events for our community at The Post—contact us today to learn more and get set up with a tour!