First Fridays. photo: David Olsen
There’s more happening in Tucson than one might think and several local organizations are kind enough to mnemonically name their events based on when they take place.
First Thursdays Art Walk at Main Gate Square includes music at Geronimo Plaza, merchant specials, participatory art projects and fine dining. This month’s fun kicks off September 2 at 5 p.m. on University Boulevard from Park to Euclid. Look for deals from Vila Thai, The Auld Dubliner and Gentle Ben’s! Details are at MainGateSquare.com.
First Friday Shorts at The Loft Cinema, 3233 E. Speedway Blvd., is an open forum for aspiring filmmakers hosted by gong-wielding cartoonist Max Cannon. Attend September 3 and you’ll find an unpredictable evening of cinema surprises. Learn more at LoftCinema.com/FirstFridayShorts.
First Fridays presented by Tucson Young Professionals is held at the Tucson Museum of Art, 140 N. Main Ave (pictured above.) It’s a networking opportunity not to be missed. Meet and greet by registering at TYPFirstFridays.com.
First Saturday Art Walks are centered on free gallery receptions in the 6th Avenue and 6th Street district. On a quarterly basis, the Central Tucson Gallery Association hosts expanded art walks with “The Big Picture” scheduled for October 2. See CTGATucson.org for the lowdown.
Second Saturdays Downtown draws large crowds, and for good reason. There are bands, street performances, food and vendors, all swirled together in an authentic outpouring of creativity and jubilation along Congress Street. The Fox Theatre throws open its doors and a stage is set up on Scott Avenue. Each month’s entertainment schedule is at 2ndSaturdaysDowntown.com.
The lush Tucson Botanical Gardens’ Third Thursdays feature half price admission for members and family-friendly entertainment. Jazz crooners Lisa Otey and Diane Van Deurzen appear September 16 during the 5-9 p.m. shindig at 2150 N. Alvernon Way. Stop and smell the flowers; visit TucsonBotanical.org to learn about this urban oasis.
