Tucson's September Highlights: From Folklore to Flavor—Don’t Miss Out!

September in Tucson is one of my favorite times (because my birthday is the 10th)—just enough breeze in the evening to make you think about pulling out a light sweater (but not really), Hatch chiles roasting in the air, and a full calendar of local events that prove this city knows how to mix culture, comedy, music, and the occasional haunted sanatorium.

This month’s roundup has something for everyone: Broadway drama (Les Mis is coming, y’all!), queer joy onstage, chile festivals, pasta-making, and yes—even ghost hunting. Whether you’re looking to laugh until you snort, sweat for a good cause, or finally learn the difference between green and red pasta dough, I’ve got you covered.

Live Music & Performances

Tiffany Haddish – “Funny & Fearless Tour”
Saturday, September 6, 2025 | 8:00 PM | Desert Diamond Casino, Sahuarita
Get ready for a side-splitting evening with Emmy- and Grammy-winning comedian Tiffany Haddish. Known for her bold humor and magnetic stage presence, this show promises to be one of the most talked-about nights of the year. Doors open at 7:00 PM—grab your tickets early!

Les Misérables (Musical)
September 9–14 | Centennial Hall
Feel the power of this timeless musical—an unforgettable experience of passion, sacrifice, and the pursuit of hope.

Cultural & Community Events

Mexican Independence Day Celebration
September 13 | Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum
Honor our rich heritage with mariachi, folklorico, and the traditional “El Grito.” A beautiful moment to reflect on our city’s layered story.

6th Annual Rainbows, Unicorn Farts, & Fairy Dust
September 6 | Doors at 5 PM, Show at 6 PM | 536 N 4th Ave
This raw, queer comedy benefit sells out every year—and for good reason. Expect seasoned and rising LGBTQ+ comedians, raffles, drinks, pizza, and punchlines that might just make you cry-laugh. This year’s show benefits Tucson Queerstory, and headliner Peter Angelo is bringing his bold, irreverent brilliance to the stage. (and yes, the title is exactly what it sounds like—ridiculous and perfect.)

Festivals & Food Events

Roasted Chile Festival at Heirloom Markets
September 12–14
Taste the season: enjoy Hatch chiles, live music, and artisan vendors as the air fills with the scent of sizzling peppers.

Cooking Class: Craft Tri-Colored Handmade Pasta
Sept 20th | 5:00pm | Button Brewhouse| 6800 N Camino Martin Suite 160, Marana, AZ 85741 |Hosted by Classpop!
There’s fresh pasta… and then there’s you-made-this-from-scratch pasta. Learn to make tri-colored dough using fresh spinach and tomato purée, knead and roll your own sheets, and cut them into classic shapes—all under the guidance of Chef Matthew. It’s hands-on, social, and delicious. Wine and beer available on-site, because obviously.

Outdoor & Nature Activities

Wildlife Ranger Challenge 2025
September 21 | Reid Park Zoo
Support African wildlife rangers in this international fitness challenge. Walk or run 5K, enjoy keeper chats, animal demos, and fun for the whole family—all for a cause.

Spooky Fun

Acadia Ranch Sanatorium Ghost Hunt
September 13 | 8 PM–2 AM | Acadia Ranch, Oracle, AZ
Not your average ghost tour. This overnight paranormal investigation at the famously haunted 1882 tuberculosis sanatorium has been featured on Ghost Adventures and other TV shows. Think doors slamming, eerie laughter, apparitions, and spirits who tuck guests into bed. Only a few brave souls per group for max ghost encounters.

Need help mapping out your month? I’ve got recommendations, real estate insights, and probably a few extra ghost stories if you're heading to Oracle. And as always—if you're thinking about a move, curious about what's happening in the Tucson market, or just want to talk (haunted?) houses and hatch chiles, I'm here for that too.

Here’s to finding your perfect place—together.