Tucson is a city in Arizona that is popular for its ethereal landscape. The place is enveloped by the Sonoran Desert with amazing cacti, featuring the giant saguaro that serves as a trademark of the American Southwest. But the beautiful scenery is not all that Tucson can offer, because the city also has a rich background when it comes to art and literature.

In fact, Tucson has multiple events that honor both the wonder of literature and art. Some of these activities are celebrated annually while others are conducted weekly or depending on the organizers. These programs will surely make you get to know more about the city — its roots, history, and tradition. Without further ado, listed below are the best events in Tucson that honor both literature and art that you should know.

Tucson Festival of Books 2021

This annual city book fest has gone through quite a struggle last year after the pandemic broke out. However, they are now back on track and is going virtual! Tucson Festival of Books 2021 will be celebrated on Saturday, March 6 and Sunday, March 7, 2021. The event will be completely held online with live sessions of remarkable authors from different genres and promising exhibitors, such as Readersmagnet. It will also showcase some of your favorite sponsor venues, like the Arizona Daily Star stage, which will make you feel that you are in Arizona even if you are in the comforts of your home enjoying the Tucson Festival of Books.

Tucson Memoir and Meaning Writers Group

It is a recurring activity that is being done every week that aims to harness the skills of writers who are into memoir-writing. The event is conducted via Zoom since social gathering is still prohibited these days. Tucson Memoir and Meaning Writers Group introduce a brief instructional opening, significant pointers on the fundamentals of memoir-writing, and other particular parts of the genre. There will also be short readings and constructive criticisms. You can really learn and grow into a better writer after this activity.

Tucson Youth Poetry Slam

Are you a fan of slam poetry? Then, Tucson Youth Poetry Slam is the ideal event for you! It is regularly conducted on the third Sunday of each month at exactly 7 PM. But, a poetry slam workshop precedes the event by 2 hours. Additionally, the organization accepts freewill donations. This activity is a spoken-word poetry contest that is being judged by the viewers. They don’t discriminate against newbies; in fact, they welcome them with a wide stage and a loud cheer. However, the competition only allows you to perform your original work regardless of the language or style that you’ve used.

Arizona State Museum’s Path of Life: American Indians of the Southwest

Does your heart ever skip a beat when you visit museums and see wonderful exhibits and learn more about history? You should try participating in the Arizona State Museum’s Paths of Life: American Indians of the Southwest. It is an ongoing activity that starts at 10 AM and ends at 5 PM. Although there is a $5 admission fee for every adult that wants to visit while students and teens under 17 years old can be admitted for free. Since we are still battling the pandemic, following the social distancing and health protocols is a must.

Art Walk Sundays

This is a free event that happens on Sundays from 1 PM to 4 PM. Art Walk Sundays invite you to a weekly wine and cheese gathering at Madaras Gallery. The place is located at 3035 N Swan Rd, Tucson. Diana Madaras will participate in the event if her schedule allows her to. Moreover, the gallery was recognized as “Best in Tucson” 6 years ago. If you want to get to know more about this activity, you can check out their site for more events.