A "mini-mecca"

Architectural tradition: San
Xavier del Bac Mission is over
200 years old.

The Wall Street Journal has called Tucson a “mini-mecca” for the arts, and for good reason. It is one of only 14 U.S. cities to have professional opera, symphony orchestra, ballet, and theater companies. A rich cultural heritage combined with a spirit of innovation contributes to a diverse offering of music and arts.

Spanish, Mexican, Native American, cowboy, and the inspiring desert beauty are just some of the influences on local and regional painting and sculpture. The over 200-year-old San Xavier del Bac Mission (known as the White Dove of the Desert) is a striking example of the area’s architectural traditions.

Tucson's historic Fox Theatre at
night. (Photo by William Lesch)

The Tucson region’s many museums are dedicated to a wide variety of interests including contemporary art, state history, children’s exhibits, and botany. Perhaps the most famous museum is actually a living zoo – the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum which features over 200 animal species native to the surrounding Sonoran Desert.

From rowdy rodeos to artsy street fairs, special events abound in the Tucson region. Many reflect Old West traditions, while others celebrate the food, dance, and craftwork of the rich ethnic and cultural tapestry of the region. Nightclubs and cafés for every taste round out the arts, culture and entertainment possibilities. Many national theater companies and concert tours, promoted by organizations like UApresents and Broadway in Tucson make stops in Tucson.

The Tucson Pima Arts Council works to make art and culture a vital part of Southern Arizona. They provide support to artists and communities through grants, public art programming, advocacy, and promotion.

Visit tucson.showup.com for a comprehensive list of arts and cultural events in Southern Arizona.