Tucson Desert Song Festival
Taking place from January to April this year, the 13th annual Tucson Desert Song Festival offers music lovers and newcomers alike the opportunity to enjoy and deepen their appreciation of classical music and vocal performances in the Tucson area.
The festival also introduces renowned vocalists to the Tucson community. Its goal is to “elevate Tucson to a world-class destination for music lovers,” according to the Tucson Desert Song Festival’s website.
The latest event, featuring violinist Joshua Bell, soprano Larisa Martínez and composer John Corigliano, will take place on April 1 at 5 p.m. in Holsclaw Hall at the University of Arizona School of Music.
More information can be found on the festival’s website or by following its Instagram and Facebook pages.
Renaissance Festival
This festival is “[…] the greatest party since Camelot!” according to the Renaissance Festival website. It takes place on weekends from Feb. 1 to March 30, running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Gold Canyon.
Immerse yourself in a different time period with a variety of arts, crafts, games, rides, food and experiences that transport you to the Renaissance period. Tickets are $35 plus tax for adults, $23 plus tax for children ages 5 to 12 and free for children under 4. Free parking is also available.
For the latest updates and resources, visit the festival’s website or follow the festival on Instagram and Facebook.
Tucson Folk Festival
The Tucson Folk Festival returns this April 4-6, celebrating Folk and Americana music traditions, along with a variety of genres including country, blues, jazz, bluegrass and Celtic. This free, family-friendly event takes place at Jácome Plaza, located at 101 N. Stone Ave. in Downtown Tucson.
“The 40th Annual Tucson Folk Festival is a milestone moment — a chance to celebrate everything this festival has come to represent: community, tradition, originality and the power of live music,” said Tucson Kitchen Musicians Association Board President Matt Rolland.
The festival offers free admission and features a diverse lineup of live performances over two days, made possible by the support of over 250 volunteers.
“I love to describe the Tucson Folk Festival as one big block party to celebrate music with 18,000 of your closest friends,” said TKMA Secretary Jonathan Frahm. “The festival has grown exponentially since its inception 40 years ago, but its core mission remains the same — to enrich our community through showcasing diverse musical traditions and talents.”
For more information and updates before the event, visit the festival’s website.
Bear Down Music Festival
Scheduled for May, the Bear Down Music Festival is a concert for students, by students, held on the UA Mall. The event is the largest student-run festival of the year and will feature a variety of artists, all conveniently located in the center of the UA campus for easy accessibility.
Organized by the Associated Students of the University of Arizona and the Wildcat Events Board, the festival is free with a wristband given out at the event. The wristband provides students with access to various activities on the UA Mall, including photo booths, inflatables, mechanical rides and more.
“Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Bear Down Music Festival this year,” said Marketing Director Anyssa Sanchez.
Final dates for the event will be announced this week. In the meantime, stay up to date with the latest information, including the upcoming release of the festival’s artist lineup, on the Bear Down Music Festival’s Instagram page.
