Dillinger Days 2023: Historic two-day event returns to Hotel Congress


January 4, 2023
By Matt Sterner

The #1 event for Public Enemy No. 1

Gather up the gang and all of your closest cool cats because one of Tucson’s most wanted events is taking over the historic hotel downtown. Hotel Congress is hosting the annual Dillinger Days event from Saturday, January 14 – Sunday, January 15.

Dillinger Days at Hotel Congress (Photo courtesy of Hotel Congress)
Dillinger Days at Hotel Congress (Photo courtesy of Hotel Congress)
The spectacle honors the capture of America’s most notorious outlaw by the Tucson Police and Fire Departments. Each year, Hotel Congress steps back in time with vintage cars, live music, 1930s entertainment, local vendors, reenactments of Dillinger’s capture, and more.

What’s happenin’ on Saturday, January 14

Keep in mind that there are two days of events. First up, the Dillinger Speakeasy is from 7 – 10 p.m. on Saturday, January 14. Tickets are $15 per person and the evening will feature live entertainment from Kings of Pleasure, Desert Melodies, and the Johnny Hotshot Gun Show. Plus, whiskey specials, premium cigars, and a best-dressed contest will be going down as well.

So, break out your favorite 1930s digs and purchase your tickets ahead of time at dice.fm. A portion of proceeds benefits the Greater Tucson Fire Foundation to assist with unmet needs in the fire service community in the areas of advanced training, technology, survivor’s help, education campaigns, firefighter health and wellness, and other support services.

And one more thing: If you’d like to dine at the Cup Cafe, the crew highly recommends reserving your table well in advance. Additionally, the Plaza Eats food truck will be open and serving up delicious bites throughout the evening.

What’s happenin’ on Sunday, January 15

On Sunday, January 15 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., the free and family-friendly Dillinger Days kicks off.

“Experience the re-enactment of John Dillinger’s downfall at the hands of Tucson law enforcement, famously known for succeeding with Dillinger’s arrest when the FBI couldn’t,” Hotel Congress shared about the event. “Mobs of history buffs, fans of the 1930s, and pop culture enthusiasts crowd the historic Hotel Congress annually to pay homage to the man that famously earned the title Public Enemy No. 1 and his nationally-renowned apprehension.”

Tickets are free but you can still purchase admission (for free) so that you’re reminded to show up on Sunday. There’s going to be a reenactment at the hotel, a vintage car show, live music, walking tours, and plenty of other fun.

Hotel Congress is located at 311 E. Congress St. For more information and to keep up with the latest, follow Hotel Congress on Facebook.

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