El Tour de Tucson

A highly rated cycling tour, this event offers a number of different activities for cyclists of all ages and abilities. The four tour routes range from 25 to 75 miles. A Fun Ride offers routes with distances of a ¼ mile to 10 miles. The stationary bike ride event allows riders to track minutes instead of miles.

The El Tour season begins in September with a free event along The Loop, a multi-use, car-free urban path. The season also includes a two day El Tour Expo, the indoor El Tour, orientation meetings, and a dedication dinner.

Tucson Festival of Books

This annual event is held at the University of Arizona. It features authors, exhibitors and entertainers for book signings, workshops, presentations and panel discussions. Children’s activities include a storybook character parade, live entertainment, an American Indian pavilion, and a science city.

Many of the activities are held under large tents on the University of Arizona Mall. There is free general admission. Advance tickets are required for popular author panels and special events, which sell out quickly.

Tucson Rodeo & Parade

The parade is the world’s longest non-motorized parade. It takes place on Thursday of Rodeo Week. Fans line the street to see horse-drawn coaches, marching bands, Mexican folk dancers and outfitted riders. Travelers with vacation rentals can enjoy one of the most popular Tucson events.

The Rodeo is one of the top 25 professional rodeos in the United States. Champion cowgirls and cowboys participate in six performances. Events for kids include Justin Junior Rodeo Exhibition and Ram Mutton Bustin’.

Prior to the rodeo, vintage wagons, carriages and buggies are exhibited at the Rodeo Parade Museum each year in January through early April.