Tucson Happenings 12/9-12/11

FRIDAY 12/9/11
What:Wildcat Spirit Night with Santa Come decked out in your favorite UofA gear for a special night with Santa in his Wildcat Jersey! UofA fanpak giveaways, an appearance from the UofA cheerleaders and great prizes from The A-Store!
When:5:30-8:30pm
Where:Tucson Mall
Cost:FREE

What: History Museum Holiday Extravaganza Book Fair, the museumHoliday Shopping Party, re-enactments, and a children’s corner. Guests will enjoy free admission to the museum, holiday refreshments, special discounts, and complimentary gift wrapping.
When:Friday December 9, 2011, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m and Sunday 1am-12noon too!
Where:Arizona History Museum, 949 E. 2^nd St
Cost:FREE

What:The Nutcracker Extravaganza A unique twist on the traditional Nutracker. Show incorporates all styles of dance, including hip hop! Dancers age 2- adult. For more info. go HERE
When:7pm- Saturday too!
Where:10555 N. La Canada Dr.
Cost:$5~ children under 2 free if they sit on a lap

What:Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair- The usual gigantic revelry of food, artistic wares for sale and entertainment!  400 arts and crafts booths, 35 food vendors, 2 stages and a kids hands-on art pavilion.  For all the info GO HERE
When:10am-6pm- Saturday and Sunday too!
Where:4th avenue btwn University blvd. and 9th street
Cost:FREE admission and entertainment

What:“Christmas in the Big Apple!” It's the winter of 1933 and with the holidays approaching, the natives of “The Big Apple” are getting into the Christmas spirit. Well, not quite all of them. Wealthy socialite Vonda De Cringe has set her sights on a take-over of Pennypacker's Department Store. To realize her nefarious scheme, she plans to disrupt the holiday shopping season by hiring the worst Santa Claus in all of

New York City . If she has her way, this will be the last year “Pennypacker's Means Christmas!” Will Ms. De Cringe be the worm who turns the Big Apple rotten to the core…or will the

holiday spirit triumph? 886-9428

When:3pm, 6:30pm and 8:30pm
Where:Gaslight Theatre 7010 E. Broadway
Cost: $17.95; discounts available

What: Reid Park Zoo Lights Falling snow, hot chocolate, music, Santa and lights galore.......For more information and to purchase tickets on-line go here.
When:It is open to everyone Thursdays-Sundays from December 3-19^th, with special bonus nights Tues., Dec. 20-Thursday. Dec. 23. 6pm-8pm
Where: Reid Park Zoo
Cost: Event admission is $3 for children 2-14; $4 for member adults and $5 for non-member adults.

What:Enchanted Snowfall at La Encantada!  The winter events are starting- Holidays other than Thanksgiving approaching quickly!Guests can keep warm with delicious hot chocolate served by Williams-Sonoma. Yum! I am wild for hot chocolate. Bet it’s good. All kids make sure to get a Pandora balloon with a card to exchange it for a pair antler ears! Then stop at Bebe to pick up sugar cookies and hot tea from Aveda. In addition, United Colors of Benetton will be raffling off 5 prizes per night!
When:6pm and 6:45pm (will continue  Friday and Saturday through December 23, 2001)
Where:La Encantada Shopping Center
Cost:FREE

What:Light Parade at Tanque Verde Swap Meet Luminous light train featuring Santa, reindeer and candy toss. Kids can ride in the parade with a donation of two cans of food for the food bank
When:6-8pm Saturday too!
Where:Tanque Verde Swap Meet 4100 S. Palo Verde Road
Cost:FREE and kids can ride in parade for 2 cans food donation

What: Dance Fusion A vibrant blend of physicality, musicality and passion is demonstrated by innovative and unexpected choreography. The eclectic selections from the program include the fusion of ballet, jazz, break- dancing, modern, hip-hop; Brazilian, folklorico.
When:7:30pm on Saturday too 2pm and 7;3opm
Where:Pima Community College Center for the Arts Proscenium Theatre 2202 W. Anklam Road
Cost:$10 discounts available

What:Polar Express Storytime Wear your pajamas and prepare to cuddle up with some hot chocolate for reading Chris Van Allsburg's "The Polar Express." Also, guests from the Southern Arizona Golden Retriever Rescue Group.
When:7-8pm
Where:Barnes & Noble 5130 E. Broadway
Cost:FREE



What:12 Days of Christmas~  These wonderful free events are back!  Last year we had such a good time with the musical performances (steel band was our fav) the food is great too!(6 Geese a Laying)Entertainment: Jazz DuoAlmond Macaroon “Goose Eggs”   
When:6-7pm
Where:Loews Ventana Resort Drive in the Cascade Lunge
Cost:FREE (you do not have to be a guest)
SATURDAY 12/10/11
What:Handel’s Messiah  The TSO Chorus’ performance of Handel’s Messiah has become a family tradition in Tucson. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the joy of the awe-inspiring Hallelujah Chorus this holiday season.
When:8pm and Sunday at 2pm too!
Where:Catalina Foothills High School
Cost:FREE

What: 2nd Saturdays Downtown.!  The Tucson Children's Museum has the special $2 admission for everyone from 4-8pm. For more info. go HERE.  There are family-freindly activities-the Parasol Project will have living statues from 6-10pm and at 6:15pm-6:30pm: Frisky Frolic Stilt Dance Party by Tucson Circus Arts
When:4pm-10pm
Where: Downtown
Cost: FREE except entrance to TCM $2

What: The Winterhaven Festival of Lights celebrates the holiday season in Tucson and is visited by hundreds of thousands of people from all over southern Arizona. Moreover, the Festival is one the most important events for the Community Food Bank in Tucson.
When:Walk Thru nights: 10th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 16th, 17th,18th,19th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th.
Drive Thru Nights: 13th, 15th, 20th.  5:30-10pm
Where:Winterhaven neighborhood Ft. Lowell andCountry Club- Prince and Tucson Blvd.
Cost:FREE- please think of donating to the Community Food Bank


What: Santa's Little Outlaws  This action- packed show  is suitable for all ages, though the show contains loud noises and some scary moments which may frighten small children.Down on their luck outlaws, Ringo and Darla, find their Christmas spirit to thwart Bad Bob's bid to get Santa Claus."
When:Every night through January 1, 2012 at 6:oopm 7:00 and 8:00 p.m.
Where:Trail Dust Town 6541 E. Tanque Verde Road
Cost:FREE

What:Entertainment for Kids at Foothills Mall :Balloon Twister
When: Fri, Dec 9 • 5 – 8pm LaurLoons Balloon Artistry: Balloon Art
Where:Foothills Mall
Cost:FREE

What: Pima Air and Space Museum Young Kids Program For children 4-7 years of age and older bring an adult to experience  it. With hands on activities you can build your own experiments that you can take home. Our rocket experts will lead you through the laws of energy and motion and show you how they are used in the flight of rockets, the world around us, and much more.. Go HERE reservations are required.

When: 1pm-2:30pm

Where:6000 E. Valencia Road

Cost:FREE with admission to museum

What:FREE CRAFTS at Teacher Parent Connection New crafts every Saturday! Bring kids of all ages for FREE FUN!
When:9am until 6pm
Where:teacher Parent Connection Speedway just west of Pantano
Cost:FREE

What: Join Rock'n babies upscale resale for our Santa & Holiday Shopping Fair!Get your unique holiday gifts from Scentsy, Thirty One, Elle-Belle's Bows, Bella Blossom's, Usborne Books, Natalie Atkinson Photography, Pampered Chef and more!!!! 10% off all rock'n babies purchases!!!! DOOR PRIZES & SANTA ARRIVES AT 1PM FOR STORY TIMEPLEASE RSVP ON FACEBOOK, CALL 579-2300 OR EMAIL2COOLMOSM@ROCKNBABIESRESALE.com
When:10am-2pm 
Where: 3951 W Ina Rd #123
Cost:FREE


What:Holiday Craft Program My friend took her daughter to the last one and said it is great! Come and make a luminaria with recycled materials. This program is geared for children 5 years old and up. Any children under the age of 5 years must have an adult with them to help them make the craft. Registration for this program is required. Call 594-5275 to sign up for this fun and creative program
When:2pm-3pm
Where:Kirk Bear Canyon LibraryBranch
Cost:FREE

What: Bookmaking Workshop with Spork Press Have you ever wanted to learn how to make a handbound book? Now is your chance! Drew Burk, bookmaker extraordinaire of Spork Press, will guide you through the process of making a writing journal. You will leave the workshop with your own handbound journal to keep or give as a holiday gift! At the workshop, we will also be celebrating Emily Dickinson’s birthday, so come enjoy a piece of cake and check out a book of her poetry! Open to all ages.
When:2pm-4:30pm
Where:Woods Memorial Library Branch
Cost:FREE

What:Santa Claus at Bookmans is a Jolly ol' Soul with eyes that twinkle, a magic nose and cheeks that glow! St. Nick will be here to listen to your Christmas wishes and take pictures with you! So get your list ready cause hes got his! He knows whose been naughty , he knows whose been nice and he has checked his list twice! This is a free family fun event with a Christmas craft!
When:11am-1pm
Where:Bookmans Speedway
Cost:FREE

What: Spirit of Christmas, a Broadway- style Christmas variety show exudes the joy and hope of the season. The show includes dance and musical numbers and features Christian music recording artist Matt Maher. $1 of each ticket sold benefits Interfaith Community Services.
When:7pm
Where:Centennial Hall 1020 E. University Blvd Tucson
Cost:$28 discounts available

What:Carmel Apples at Bookmans Enjoy a holiday favorite-- caramel apples! Make your own tasty treat by dipping a delicious apple into an array of toppings. It will be a delight for anyone to enjoy
When:11am-1pm
Where:Bookmans ina
Cost:FREE

What:A holiday family party with singing, dancing, fiddling, jokes, trombone, "The Pendalums," food, singalong, riddles, "Mrs. Wright Bakes A Cake," games
When:1pm-2:15
Where:Red Barn Theatre 948 N. Main Ave.
Cost:$5

What:Toy Train Museum Open House. Toy trains of different sizes and shapes will run, whistles blowing and bells ringing, on 16 different tracks. There are also exhibits of old toy trains, railroad memorabilia and a World War II vintage caboose
Where:Gadsden Pacific Toy Train Museum3975 Miller Ave.
When:12:30-4:30
Cost:FREE
 
What:Entertainment for Kids at Foothills Mall  Mr. Hocus: Magician
When: 12 – 3pm Mr. Hocus: Magician
Where:Foothills Mall
Cost:FREE

What:12 Days of Christmas~  These wonderful free events are back!  Last year we had such a good time with the musical performances (steel band was our fav) the food is great too!
7 Swans a Swimming) Entertainment: Strings and Keys Vol-au-vent, Puff pastry with Creamy Chicken Ragout
When:6-7pm
Where:Loews Ventana Resort Drive in the Cascade Lunge
Cost:FREE (you do not have to be a guest)

What:FREE Pictures with Santa! Thanks, DesertDealsDiva
When:9am-12:30- Broadway AND 2pm-6pm Speedway
Where:Sunflower Markets
Cost:FREE

What: The HarpFusion ensemble is made up of student harpists under Dr. Carrol McLaughlin at the University of Arizona. All of the music performed by HarpFusion is written or arranged by a member of the group. HarpFusion is named to represent the unique fusion of styles and cultures represented by its international members and the styles of music played by the ensemble. Registration is required as seating is limited.
When:7-9pm
Where:Sanctuary United Methodist Church 7620 N. Hartman Lane, Suite 146
Cost:FREE

 What:Posada Celebration~A traditional Mexican posada is a holiday party that features delicious food and drink, music, singing, pinatas, and fun for the familiy! Join us to learn what you can do to support Mexican American Studies in TUSD!
When:6pm-8:30pm
Where: Mercado San Agustin  http://mercadosanagustin.com/100 S. Avenida del Convento
Cost:$20- it is a benefit $10 students

What:Para Los Niños Christmas Party and Health Fair The first 5,000 children that attend will receive a brand new toy and the opportunity to meet and take a picture with Santa Claus! The annual family fun-filled event brings holiday cheer, games, live entertainment, giveaways, food and resources to the community to help family’s adopt a healthy lifestyle at the health resource fair. CPLC’s Para Los Niños is free and open to the entire community.
When:10am-2pm
Where:Kino Sports Complex
2500 E. Ajo Way
Cost:FREE

What:KISMET Kids Volunteers will be available to assist children with gift selection, free gift wrapping and interaction with friendly cats and dogs. An adult must be present. Special activities for adults while children shop. Light refreshments. Proceeds benefit Tucson CARES, nonprofit companion animal rescue.
When:1pm-5pm
Where:Kismet Boutique 2627 E. Broadway Blvd.
Cost:FREE

What:Christmas Promise If your family is looking for a Christmas program to attend this holiday season, this is one we are sure you will enjoy! We invite you and your friends to experience this spectacular musical! It will feature an electric light parade and 100% chance of snow. This musical is free of charge, so come early for a good seat! See you there!
When:4pm AND Sat 4pm and 7pm AND Sun. 4pm and 6pm
Where:Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene 500 W. Calle Concordia
Cost:FREE

What:Swedish tradition, LUCIA  The Tucson Girls' Chorus, under the direction of Marcela Molina, will perform and join the VASA Youths in the old Swedish celebration of light returning to earth after the longest night of the year.
When:1pm
Where:Sanctuary of Christ Church United Methodist, 655 N. Craycroft Rd.
Cost:FREE

What:Great Bean Tasting~ FREE sampling of native bean creations by Tucson's finest chefs.
When:11am
Where:Native Seeds/SEARCH 3061 N Campbell Ave.
Cost:free



What:Southwest Nutcracker-Live musical featuring the Tucson Symphony Orchestra and guest dancers formerly with Joffrey Ballet. SEE clips  HERE This original, full length classical ballet translates the traditional Nutcracker to Tucson in the 1880's complete with the battle of the coyotes and the US Cavalry. Travel with young Maria (Clara) and the Nutcracker General over the glistening, falling snow of Mt. Lemmon to a Desert Dream of Chili Peppers, Mama Pinata and the waltzing Desert Poppies. The live musical accompaniment, lovely costumes and breathtaking, professionally designed sets; along with the giant growing Christmas Tree,
When:2PM AND 7PM  AND 2pm Sunday too!
Where:Tucson Music Hall 260 S Church
Cost:$23-$38 and discounts
 SUNDAY 12/11/11
What:12 Days of Christmas~  These wonderful free events are back!  Last year we had such a good time with the musical performances (steel band was our fav) the food is great too! (8 Maids a Milking)Entertainment: Tucson Girls Chorus California Cheddar, Arizona Honey
When:6-7pm
Where:Loews Ventana Resort Drive in the Cascade Lunge
Cost:FREE (you do not have to be a guest)

What:Fiesta de Gaudalupe at the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun.Mariachi, Folklorico, Yaqui deer dancing, posadas procession and piñatas every hour! There is usually Indian fry bread and burritos for sale too!A great day to stroll through the legendary gallery and see a current exhibit.
Where:DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun 6300 N. Swan Road
When:10am-4pm
Cost:FREE

What:THE TORTOISE AND THE HARE. This new musical take on the classic tale features original musical numbers by Michael Martinez and choreography by Kristi Loera, putting audiences track-side of a momentous fairy-tale sporting event with some old and new lessons to learn along the way. Get ready to cheer on your favorite competitor and don’t forget to stretch!
When:1pm
Where:All Together Theatre at Live Theatre Workshop 5317 E. Speedway
Cost:$5-$8 discounts are available

What:Toy Train Museum Open House. Toy trains of different sizes and shapes will run, whistles blowing and bells ringing, on 16 different tracks. There are also exhibits of old toy trains, railroad memorabilia and a World War II vintage caboose
Where:Gadsden Pacific Toy Train Museum3975 Miller Ave.
When:12:30-4:30
Cost:FREE
 
What:Bethlehem Marketplace The children of St. Philip's con colorful costumes to recreate a marketplace in Jesus' time. There will be activities and snacks.
When:10am-11am
Where:St. Philip's In The Hills Episcopal Church 4440 N. Campbell Ave.
Cost:FREE

What:International Craft Sale Zambian Childrens Fund and Guamap's International Fine Arts and Crafts Sale featuring arts and crafts from Ghana to Guatemala, Mexico to Zambia. Local Tucson Artists and countries around the world. Art, baskets, jewelry, and weavings!
When:10am-3pm
Where:Rincon Congregational Church 122 N. Craycroft Road
Cost:FREE

What:FREE Pictures with Santa! Thanks, DesertDealsDiva!
When:9am-12:30- 1st Ave AND 2pm-6pm Speedway
Where:Sunflower Markets
Cost:FREE