Programs & Events
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
Jack Talk: The Buffalo Soldiers
Saturday, February 14, 2026
2 p.m.
Join us in welcoming back Jack Lasseter, beloved local storyteller, as he shares the epic tales of the Buffalo soldiers out West, Black troopers in the US Army after the Civil War, and their contribution during the Indian Wars.
Butterfield Overland Mail Across Chiricahua Apache Country
Saturday, February 21, 2026
2 p.m.
Join us as we welcome Spur-Award-winning author, Doug Hocking, a US Army veteran raised on the Jicarilla Apache Reservation. Hocking brings to life pivotal moments like the Butterfield Overland Mail and the rising conflict of 1861, when the Southwest was shaped by war, raids, and resilience.
Early Spanish Navigation in the Sea of Cortez
Saturday, February 28, 2026 10 a.m.
Join us as we welcome public historian, Alex La Pierre, for a fascinating presentation that explores the maritime expeditions that charted the Gulf of California, known to the Spanish as the Sea of Cortez.
From Tubac to the San Pedro River Valley: The Legacy of the Munguia Ranch
Saturday, February 28, 2026 2 p.m.
Join us for a film screening and Q&A with Monica Dunbar Smith. The film explores the enduring legacy of mestizo families who shaped the region's ranching heritage along the San Pedro River.
Habitat at Home
Saturday, March 7, 2026
10 a.m.
Kari Hackney, Director of Habitat Stewardship for the Tucson Bird Alliance, joins us to share tips and tricks for designing your own wildlife habitat. Learn more about harvesting rainwater, picking the right nestbox, and native gardening.
Saint Patrick's Battalion and the Mexican-American War
Saturday, March 7, 2026 2 p.m.
Celebrate Saint Patrick's Day with public historian, Alex La Pierre. La Pierre will explore the dramatic story of the Batallon de San Patrico, a group of Irish immigrants who fought alongside Mexico during the US-Mexican War of 1846-1848.
Jack Talk: The Desert in Springtime
Saturday, March 14, 2026
2 p.m.
Join us in welcoming back Jack Lasseter, beloved local storyteller, as he shares stories of springtime in the desert. From flowers to desert animals, you'll leave with a greater appreciation of the natural world.
Sofia Talvik Concert
Friday, March 20, 2026
2 p.m.
Fresh off major festivals and a Top 20 Folk Radio album, Sofia Talvik makes a stop in Tubac for a heartwarming performance. This Swedish folk artist is known for her storytelling and is often compared to giants like Joni Mitchell.
Backyard Techniques to Harvest the Rain
Saturday, March 21, 2026
10 a.m.
Caleb Weaver of Ecotone Biodiversity joins us for an engaging presentation on rainwater harvesting in Southern Arizona.
Blast from the Past: Coronado Cannon Firing
Saturday, April 4, 2026
2 p.m.
Join us for an unforgettable event with internationally renowned archaeologist, Dr. Deni Seymour, and special guests. Highlights include the dramatic firing of a replica 1541 bronze cannon along with an up-close look at the original weapon and its pivotal role in the Coronado Expedition.
Growing in the Desert: The History and Culture of the Tohono O'odham
Saturday, April 11, 2026
10 a.m.
Discover the deep roots of the Sonoran Desert in an engaging program with Jacelle Ramon-Sauberan of the Tohono O'odham Nation, exploring how her people cultivated the land and sustained rich traditions long before modern cities.
(Mother) Road to the Stars: Route 66 and its Space Heritage
Saturday, April 25, 2026
10 a.m.
Lowell Observatory historian, Kevin Schindler's work bridges astronomy, history, and pop culture. You'll discover the Mother Road's surprising space legacy- from asteroid impacts to astronaut training- just in time for Route 66's upcoming centennial.
