We’re approaching the end of summer quickly, but that doesn’t mean all the fun has to end!
From concerts and live theater to foodie events and the iconic gem and mineral show—there are tons of fun things to do this August 2023.
Here are our picks for the best 12 things to do in Tucson this month.
1. Brews & Bites
Date and Time: Saturday, August 5 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Location: The Highlands at Dove Mountain, 4949 W Heritage Club Blvd
Cost: $50.00
What’s going on: Tucson Foodie, Tucson Original Restaurants, and some of Tucson’s favorite local breweries all come together for this unique event inspired by the city’s vibrant craft beer scene. Enjoy live music while trying small plate and beer pairings.
2. Laser Taylor Swift
Date and Time: Saturday, August 5 from 7:00 p.m.
Location: Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium, 1601 East University Boulevard
Cost: $18.95
What’s going on: You might not be able to score tickets to her concert, but here’s another fun way to experience her music! Come out to explore the science exhibits while there are special music and lighting effects during the event. Then, enjoy Taylor Swift’s biggest hits brought to life in a dazzling laser light show!
3. Summer Selena Party
Date and Time: Saturday, August 5 from 7:00 p.m.
Location: Hotel Congress Plaza, 311 E Congress Street
Cost: $17.51
What’s going on: Come on out and enjoy a fun evening of Tejano music with Bidi Bidi Banda, an all-star Selena tribute band from Austin.
4. Southeast Arizona Birding Festival
Date and Time: August 9-13
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Tucson, 445 S Alvernon Way
Cost: $30.00 non-refundable registration fee plus additional fees for activities.
What’s going on: Whether you’re an avid birder already or just want to learn something new with your family, the Southeast Arizona Birding Festival is the place to be. There are a variety of events to explore including kid-friendly sessions, presentations, nature expo, workshops, and more.
5. Chicago
Date and Time: August 15 at 7:00 p.m.
Location: The Linda Rondstadt Music Hall, 260 S Church Avenue
Cost: Tickets start at $49.00
What’s going on: Legendary rock band Chicago is back in Tucson this August. They’ve been hailed as one of the most important bands in rock and roll and will be playing both their classic songs and new music from their 38th studio album, Born for this Moment (2022).
6. Running of the Breeze in the Trees 5K Run/Walk
Date and Time: Saturday, August 19; bib pick-up starts at 6:15 a.m.
Location: The Green Valley Pecan Company, 1625 E Sahuarita Road
Cost: $40.00
What’s going on: This race route travels along a scenic course through the pecan orchards, which is a unique opportunity to run or walk under the trees. There are awards for the top three finishers in age divisions.
7. Celebration of All Things S-cuk Son/Tucson
Date and Time: Saturday, August 19 from 6:15-9:30 p.m.
Location: Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum, 196 N. Court Avenue
Cost: Free
What’s going on: Celebrate 247 years of this amazing city at the Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum. It’s a free event, so bring out your family and enjoy the day!
8. Catch Me if You Can
Date and Time: August 25-September 20
Location: AET Proscenium Reserved Tables, 5870 East Broadway Boulevard
Cost: Tickets start at $35.00
What’s going on: This live theater adaption of the hit Spielberg film follows the story of globetrotting con artist, Frank Abagnale Jr. With a soulful Motown and Sinatra score, this performance is the perfect night out with friends or a loved one.
9. Live! Summer Concert Series
Date and Time: Friday and Saturday nights until August 26; gates open at 5:30 p.m.
Location: Old Tucson, 201 Kinney Road
Cost: Tickets start at $34.00
What’s going on: See nationally touring tribute bands perform music from your favorite artists. August’s lineup includes White Winged Dove, Nashville Gold, and the Festival Band.
10. Salsa, Tequila, and Taco Challenge
Date and Time: Saturday, August 26 from 5:00-8:30 p.m.
Location: Hilton El Conquistador, 10000 N Oracle Road.
Cost: $80.00
What’s going on: Join more than 700 attendees to vote for the best salsa, tequila, and tacos from the region. You’ll explore innovative options like tequila-infused popsicles or kimchi salsas. It’s one of the top foodie events of the summer!
11. Greatest Showman Movie Musical Sing Along
Date and Time: Saturday, August 26 from 7:00-10:00 p.m.
Location: Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 West Congress Street
Cost: $12.50
What’s going on: There’s no way to watch “The Greatest Showman” without singing the songs long after watching the movie. This sing-along screening of the musical will feature song lyrics on the screen so you can sing along to all your favorites while enjoying the film on the big screen.
12. Tucson Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Fall Shows
Date and Time: August 31-September 3
Location: Various locations
Cost: Free entrance
What’s going on: See everything from rare diamonds to meteorites to boxes of petrified wood at this iconic Tucson event. You can simply look at and wander around one of the many exhibitions or purchase something memorable for years to come.
What are you adding to your calendar this month? We hope you have fun exploring the city and checking out these fun things to do in Tucson in August 2023.
We also regularly host fun events for our community at The Post—contact us today to learn more and get set up with a tour!