Good morning, Tucson.

Winterhaven's 76th annual Festival of Lights opens December 13 on Christmas Avenue for visitors to enjoy vibrant holiday displays and community traditions.

Neighbors use energy-saving LED lights (75% less energy use) to help lower their electric bills while supporting the season's food bank drive.

Old Pueblo Community Services CEO Tom Litwicki explained how the Housing First model helps vulnerable residents by offering safe housing and supportive care in Tucson today.

The interview highlighted community benefits and practical insights on addressing housing challenges.

A car fire on West Grant Road forced bystanders to rescue pets trapped in a burning vehicle, and a veterinary technician performed CPR on one dog (it started breathing after Tucson Fire Department’s Engine 4 A crew used a PetAlert mask).

Grant Krueger’s new Block A Sports Bar & Grill will open in early 2026 at 345 E.

Congress St. The 9,000 sqft venue will feature a redesigned kitchen, LED screens, and advanced audiovisual technology to serve Tucson’s UA-inspired sports crowd.

Tucson lights up this December with holiday events, from Old Tucson's western charm to the Botanical Gardens' million-lit display and festive ZooLights offerings, plus art exhibits + concerts.

These events run through Dec. 30 with options starting as low as $8 or free admission.

Sailors from the new USS Arizona submarine visited U of A on Veterans Day to tour the battleship memorial and other tributes honoring the last Navy ship to bear the name.

The visit reinforced local ties to military history and heritage.

The 31st Annual Tucson Downtown Parade of Lights will take place soon along downtown streets with festive floats, music, and community participation.

Organizers say the event celebrates holiday traditions and offers a family-friendly experience for Tucson residents.

Felipe Garcia, a University of Arizona junior from Tucson, was nominated by Governor Katie Hobbs to serve as the student representative on the Arizona Board of Regents and began his apprenticeship on July 1; he aims to bridge student governments with user-friendly updates (like social media reels).

Arizona health officials said they will keep recommending vaccines for newborns - noting that stopping routine immunizations could put infants at risk.

The policy remains in place despite a new CDC panel recommendation.

Mica Mountain Thunderbolts repeated as Class 4A state champions & beat top-ranked Arcadia 42-17 in Tempe on Friday, Dec.

5, handing the Titans their first loss of the season.

Visa issues have delayed the Tucson Baseball Team’s season at Kino Stadium, leading to 21 missed home games and lost business for local vendors.

Pima County officials (including the Stadium District Director) are working to reassign gig workers while the team plans to resume play soon.

SME Arizona Conference 2025

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa — Registration required — Explore the latest in mining, metallurgy, and geology at this professional conference.

Tucson Speed Dating for Singles Aged 40 to 50

7-9 p.m. — Aloft Tucson University — Entry fee required — Meet potential matches and explore the possibility of love at this engaging speed dating event.

Wednesday Team Trivia Night

7-9 p.m. — Pueblo Vida Brewing Company — Free entry — Test your knowledge and compete for gift card prizes in a fun downtown setting.

Blue Dream Trio featuring Chelsee Hicks

10:30 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. — The Century Room — $10-$15 + Dice fees — Enjoy a late-night jazz session with Chelsee Hicks and holiday classics.

Tucson's Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4-9 p.m. — Sky Bar Tucson — $15 online ticket — Explore Tucson's nightlife with a fun pub crawl featuring games and prizes.

Rich Hinman vs Adam Levy: An Afternoon of Guitar

4:30-6 p.m. — The Century Room — $20-$30 + DICE fees — Experience the soulful interplay of guitar heavyweights Rich Hinman and Adam Levy in a jazz-infused instrumental performance.

Tucson Speed Dating Event for Singles Ages 35-45

7-9 p.m. — Aloft Tucson University — Cost varies — Meet up to 12 potential matches and discover your next success story in love.

Candlelight: Christmas Special

6:30-8:30 p.m. — La Rosa — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical evening of festive music under the glow of candlelight featuring 'The Nutcracker' and other holiday classics.

The Nutcracker Returns

7-9 p.m. — Flowing Wells High School Auditorium — General Admission tickets available — Experience a modern twist on the classic Nutcracker with new adventures and holiday traditions.

Late Night with Sounds by Posi

10 PM - 2 AM — Hotel Congress — Free entry — Dance the night away at the Plaza with DJ Posi's evolving beats.