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Things To Do: Fiestas, Grape-Stompin’ & More (September 2024)

Things To Do: Fiestas, Grape-Stompin’ & More (September 2024)

Sep 2, 20244 min read

There’s a heck of a lot of new things to do!

Here are some of this month’s highlights. You can always check out our Events section on the website to see what’s going on any day of the week.

SONORAN RESTAURANT WEEK

Friday, September 6 – Sunday, September 15
Multiple Restaurants/Locations

Now in its sixth year, Sonoran Restaurant Week (SRW) is back on September 6-15, 2024, providing both locals and visitors a unique opportunity to explore and fall in love (again?) with Tucson’s incredible restaurant scene.

What’s new this year:

  • All menus are discounted by 25% (we checked!)
  • new website makes it easier to filter through participating restaurant by cuisine, menu price, and more
  • On each of the 10 nights of SRW, one restaurant hand-picked by Tucson Foodie will be hosting a special private dinner (separate from their SRW menu)

If you’re like us and you intend to create a plan of action for Sonoran Restaurant Week, scheduling out all your breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for the entire 10 days — be sure to add some flexibility — stay tuned as this page is updated daily as new restaurants join and send us their menus.

As you’ll see, restaurants offer prix fixe menus at either a $15, $25, $35, $45, or $55 price point. Some restaurants went above and beyond, creating super special menus for you to enjoy at multiple price points, and others are hosting special dinners.

Learn more.

EAT WELL & AGE GRACEFULLY: DIM SUM AND THEN SOME WITH CHEF BARRY INFUSO

Thursday, September 12
2700 E. Speedway Blvd.
Photo Courtesy of Flying Aprons

Sponsored by AARP, the class is free.

Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or boring while enjoying a variety of foods from different food groups — fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, legumes, dairy products, and healthy fats.

You’ll learn the secrets to creating the perfect dough, the art of folding your potstickers, and how to cook them to achieve that irresistible crispy bottom. Plus, you’ll whip up a tangy dipping sauce that perfectly complements the flavors of your homemade dim sum.

Learn more.

GREAT CRUSH FESTIVAL WITH AZ HOPS & VINES

Saturday, September 14
3450 Arizona 82

“Stomp some grapes! It’s the 13th Annual Great Crush Festival and you don’t want to miss it! Wear a white dress and cut the line! Live music, food, and wine.”

Learn more.

IT’S CHILE OUTSIDE: GREEN CHILE FIESTA

Saturday, September 14
The Meading Room, 3470 AZ-82

“We’re bringing all things green chile to Sonoita wine country! You may have tried our famous spicy green chile wine, Old No. 9, but did you know that the alcohol is made by fermenting real, fresh-roasted Hatch green chiles? So in honor of everyone’s favorite spicy concoction, we’re going all out with live music with Ruta Verbena and Bucky Mills, delicious food truck eats, fresh chiles roasted on-site, local vendors, limited edition locally-made clay cantaritos (first come first serve), and much, much more! We’ll be stocked up on those frozen green chile margaritas.”

Learn more.

BORDERLANDS SUMMER FIESTA

Saturday, September 14
119 E. Toole Ave.

“Tucson, get ready for the ultimate Borderlands Summer Fiesta! 🌞 Join us on September 14th at 6 p.m. as we release our latest brew, Las Hermanas, alongside some of our favorite local breweries like MotoSonora, and special guests from Mexico. We’ve also teamed up with downtown bars, local businesses like Cobra Arcade, and more to bring you a night of great beer, good vibes, and endless fun. Tickets are only $30, and you can grab yours on our website. Let’s raise a glass and celebrate together!”

Learn more.

HOW TO MAKE AUTHENTIC SONORAN HOT DOGS

Wednesday, September 25
5655 E River Rd.
Photo Courtesy of Antsy Nancy

“Arizona’s most popular fusion of Mexican and American food has to be the iconic Sonoran hot dog. This popular street food item can be found at food stands, food trucks, and restaurants in the Valley, and after this class, your own kitchen!”

  • Starter: Tableside Guacamole with Warm Tortilla Chips (hands-on student cooking)
  • Main Dish: Sonoran Hot Dogs with Fresh Pico de Gallo (hands-on student cooking)
  • Side Dish: Skillet Mexican Street Corn (hands-on student cooking)
  • Dessert: Churro Fries & Chocolate Ganache Dipping Sauce (chef demonstration)

Learn more.

OKTOBERFEST CELEBRATION

Thursday, September 26
5049 E. Broadway Blvd.

“Join Community Foundation Campus and the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona for an evening of fun to welcome fall! Get to know our CF Campus nonprofit tenants, community, and staff with games, raffle prizes, and food from Haus of Brats (vegan/vegetarian options provided). Please RSVP via the link to ensure there is enough food and refreshments for all.”

Learn more.

VEGAN NIGHT MARKET

Saturday, September 28
200 S. Sixth Ave.

Experience an evening of vegan indulgence at the Vegan Night Market, presented by Death Free Foodie and Tucson Foodie. From mouth-watering food and sweets to innovative cocktails, music, tattoos, permanent jewelry, and a vegan hat bar you’ll be immersed in a plant-based playground.

Learn more.

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Pilar Andrade

Pilar Andrade

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Tucson Foodie is Tucson's premier food and dining publication, covering the best restaurants, events, and culinary experiences in Southern Arizona.

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José Contreras, chef and owner of @Ameliastucson, is headed to New York City to cook alongside chef Alam Méndez of Washington, D.C.‘s Apapacho Taqueria for a collaborative dinner at the James Beard Foundation’s Platform at Pier 57.

The Aug. 11 dinner will celebrate the culinary traditions of Sonora and Oaxaca through a multi course menu centered on heirloom corn, traditional masa, and coastal flavors. Guests will also enjoy a cocktail reception, Mijenta Tequila pairings, and a Q&A with both chefs. The event begins at 6:30 pm at @Pier57.nyc. Tickets are $210 for dining table seats and $250 for the chef’s counter, and are available now at Jamesbeard.org.

Congratulations to @Chefjosetucson on another incredible milestone!🎉

Read @Jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com

#tucsonaz #tucsonnewsJosé Contreras, chef and owner of @Ameliastucson, is headed to New York City to cook alongside chef Alam Méndez of Washington, D.C.‘s Apapacho Taqueria for a collaborative dinner at the James Beard Foundation’s Platform at Pier 57. The Aug. 11 dinner will celebrate the culinary traditions of Sonora and Oaxaca through a multi course menu centered on heirloom corn, traditional masa, and coastal flavors. Guests will also enjoy a cocktail reception, Mijenta Tequila pairings, and a Q&A with both chefs. The event begins at 6:30 pm at @Pier57.nyc. Tickets are $210 for dining table seats and $250 for the chef’s counter, and are available now at Jamesbeard.org. Congratulations to @Chefjosetucson on another incredible milestone!🎉 Read @Jackie_tran_’s article on Tucsonfoodie.com #tucsonaz #tucsonnewsItalian Week starts today, and we’re sharing this sweet video of @Spaghettioftucson doing what she did best: bringing smiles to everyone around her.

Our hearts are with her family today. We’ll love you and miss you forever, Spaghetti.❤️‍🩹🐶Italian Week starts today, and we’re sharing this sweet video of @Spaghettioftucson doing what she did best: bringing smiles to everyone around her. Our hearts are with her family today. We’ll love you and miss you forever, Spaghetti.❤️‍🩹🐶Italian Week starts today and runs through July 19 as part of 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer!🍝

Support Tucson’s classic and modern Italian restaurants, then upload your receipt at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and the grand prize at the end of August.

🎉 Week 5 Winners
• Libby: $50 North Italia gift card
• Keely: America’s Best Mexican Food Festival tickets
• arts_primacy_2c: 4 Cool Summer Nights passes
• Donita3000: $20 Ghini’s French Caffe gift card
• Nancy & Gabriella: $100 Visa gift cards

Italian Week Deal: @reneestucson is offering buy one, get one 50% off (equal or lesser value) for dine-in or takeout. Just mention you’re a Tucson Foodie fan. Exclusions apply.

🏆 This Week’s Prizes
• $50 @fentonellispizzeria gift card
• $100 Visa gift card
• $75 @carusositalian gift card
• $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe gift card
• $50 @miramontetucson gift card
• $50 @localetucson gift card
• @desertmuseum passes 

More details in bio!Italian Week starts today and runs through July 19 as part of 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer!🍝 Support Tucson’s classic and modern Italian restaurants, then upload your receipt at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and the grand prize at the end of August. 🎉 Week 5 Winners • Libby: $50 North Italia gift card • Keely: America’s Best Mexican Food Festival tickets • arts_primacy_2c: 4 Cool Summer Nights passes • Donita3000: $20 Ghini’s French Caffe gift card • Nancy & Gabriella: $100 Visa gift cards Italian Week Deal: @reneestucson is offering buy one, get one 50% off (equal or lesser value) for dine-in or takeout. Just mention you’re a Tucson Foodie fan. Exclusions apply. 🏆 This Week’s Prizes • $50 @fentonellispizzeria gift card • $100 Visa gift card • $75 @carusositalian gift card • $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe gift card • $50 @miramontetucson gift card • $50 @localetucson gift card • @desertmuseum passes More details in bio!The Mercado District is one of Tucson’s best places to eat, drink, shop, and stroll, all in one stop.🐶❤️

Home to Mercado San Agustín, the MSA Annex, The Monier, and the upcoming Bautista development, there’s always something new to explore. Grab a bite, browse local shops, enjoy the open-air courtyards (they’re dog-friendly!), or hop on the free Sun Link streetcar, which stops right at the Mercado. 

MERCADO SAN AGUSTÍN:
@agustinkitchen 
@seiskitchen 
@prestacoffee 
@laestrella_tucson 
@dolcepastellocakes 
@zumitosjuicebar 
@santacruzriverfm 

MSA ANNEX:
@decibelcoffeeworks 
@kukai___ 
@bosburger__ 
@hidden_hearth 
@rolliestucson 
@westbound_tapandbottle 

THE MONIER:
@wholeslvcepizza 
@81barbersofficial 

Share your favorite stops with us!
More details on Tucsonfoodie.com 

#tucson #tucsonfoodieThe Mercado District is one of Tucson’s best places to eat, drink, shop, and stroll, all in one stop.🐶❤️ Home to Mercado San Agustín, the MSA Annex, The Monier, and the upcoming Bautista development, there’s always something new to explore. Grab a bite, browse local shops, enjoy the open-air courtyards (they’re dog-friendly!), or hop on the free Sun Link streetcar, which stops right at the Mercado. MERCADO SAN AGUSTÍN: @agustinkitchen @seiskitchen @prestacoffee @laestrella_tucson @dolcepastellocakes @zumitosjuicebar @santacruzriverfm MSA ANNEX: @decibelcoffeeworks @kukai___ @bosburger__ @hidden_hearth @rolliestucson @westbound_tapandbottle THE MONIER: @wholeslvcepizza @81barbersofficial Share your favorite stops with us! More details on Tucsonfoodie.com #tucson #tucsonfoodieTwo days at @Hiltonelcon felt like the ultimate staycation. Between the pools, hot spring and cold plunge, water slide, yoga, live music, complimentary bike rentals, and their nostalgic “Summer Rewind” experience, there was always something to do. We never left the resort. 

The highlight at their on-site restaurant, Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails, was the Pollo Con Rajas - perfectly cooked chicken over a rich creamed poblano, onion, and corn mestizaje. And if you’re at their Sundance Café for breakfast, get the pozole. It’s made from a family recipe that became such a guest favorite it earned a permanent spot on the menu. 

Although El Conquistador licenses the Hilton brand, it’s owned and operated by a local company. The culinary team sources much of its meat and produce from Arizona. 

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just looking for an incredible dinner with Catalina Mountain views, this spot is worth adding to your list. 🌵🌞 

#tucsonaz #tucsonfoodieTwo days at @Hiltonelcon felt like the ultimate staycation. Between the pools, hot spring and cold plunge, water slide, yoga, live music, complimentary bike rentals, and their nostalgic “Summer Rewind” experience, there was always something to do. We never left the resort. The highlight at their on-site restaurant, Epazote Kitchen & Cocktails, was the Pollo Con Rajas - perfectly cooked chicken over a rich creamed poblano, onion, and corn mestizaje. And if you’re at their Sundance Café for breakfast, get the pozole. It’s made from a family recipe that became such a guest favorite it earned a permanent spot on the menu. Although El Conquistador licenses the Hilton brand, it’s owned and operated by a local company. The culinary team sources much of its meat and produce from Arizona. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just looking for an incredible dinner with Catalina Mountain views, this spot is worth adding to your list. 🌵🌞 #tucsonaz #tucsonfoodieHow many receipts have you sent in for NEW-TO-ME week?💛

From July 6 through July 12, upload your receipt from ANY local business at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and earn entries toward the 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer grand prize drawing at the end of August. 🔗 in bio. 

ANY LOCAL SPOT COUNTS. 

WEEK 6 WINNERS
Here are the winners from Happy Hour Week:
* Libby wins a $50 gift card to North Italia
* Keely wins a ticket to America’s Best Mexican Food Festival
* arts_primacy_2c wins a four-pack of passes to Cool Summer Nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
* donita3000 wins a $20 gift card to Ghini’s French Caffe
* Nancy wins a $100 Visa gift card
* Gabriella wins a $100 Visa gift card 

PRIZES
This week’s prize pool includes:
* Salsa, Taco, and Tequila Challenge tickets
* $100 Visa gift card
* @eljefecatcafe pass
* $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe 
* @desertmuseum passes

Presenting sponsor: @visittucson
Presented by: @bbb_so_az • @510southtucson • @azwinecollectiveHow many receipts have you sent in for NEW-TO-ME week?💛 From July 6 through July 12, upload your receipt from ANY local business at summer.tucsonfoodie.com for a chance to win weekly prizes and earn entries toward the 12 Weeks of Foodie Summer grand prize drawing at the end of August. 🔗 in bio. ANY LOCAL SPOT COUNTS. WEEK 6 WINNERS Here are the winners from Happy Hour Week: * Libby wins a $50 gift card to North Italia * Keely wins a ticket to America’s Best Mexican Food Festival * arts_primacy_2c wins a four-pack of passes to Cool Summer Nights at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum * donita3000 wins a $20 gift card to Ghini’s French Caffe * Nancy wins a $100 Visa gift card * Gabriella wins a $100 Visa gift card PRIZES This week’s prize pool includes: * Salsa, Taco, and Tequila Challenge tickets * $100 Visa gift card * @eljefecatcafe pass * $20 @ghinisfrenchcaffe * @desertmuseum passes Presenting sponsor: @visittucson Presented by: @bbb_so_az • @510southtucson • @azwinecollective

Tag us @TUCSONFOODIE in your food adventures!