Get ready for a big weekend in Tucson! The annual Tucson Rodeo is in full swing, offering cowboy grit and fun for the kids. Plus, we have art celebrations, laser shows, and a chance to learn about music with the symphony. Here are the top picks for your family this Saturday and Sunday, February 28th and March 1st, 2026.
See our top picks
Open House
Tucson (general location mentioned)
A free drop-in event Saturday afternoon to tour and ask questions.
Laser Grateful Dead
Tucson (general location mentioned)
A visually stimulating indoor laser show Saturday evening.
Just For Kids with the Brass Quintet: Monster in the Music Hall
Tucson Symphony Center
A dedicated Saturday morning concert experience for toddlers through elementary ages.
· February 28
5: Experience the classic Tucson Rodeo with broncs, bulls, dust, and pure cowboy grit. This is a long-running tradition that families flock to every year.This is the main weekend event for the massive annual rodeo, so it's a must-see if you want the quintessential Tucson experience.
: Celebrate rodeo season with art and music! The schedule includes performances by Mariachi Herradura and Ballet Folklorico Tapatio.This celebration ties into the rodeo atmosphere while focusing on local arts and performances throughout the day.
FREE : Mazy the monster wants to be a star of the TSO! Kids will join Mazy in a fun performance to learn about music, friendship, and courage.It's a dedicated, high-quality musical performance specifically designed for toddlers through elementary ages.
: Spend the day celebrating creativity with live art demonstrations from local artists. There will also be hands-on painting activities available for visitors.A full day event at a great local garden spot focused entirely on participatory art creation.
BIG DILL BASH POP UP PARTY : Local businesses are teaming up for this ultimate party featuring family fun. It sounds like a great way to spend the afternoon.The name implies fun, interactive activities, and it's happening Saturday afternoon during prime family time.
· March 1
4: Check out the largest toy show in the West! They feature over 500 tables packed with toys ranging from vintage classics to modern collectibles.A great Sunday outing for families with budding collectors; kids under 10 get in free.
: This is the final day to catch Ballet Tucson's performance of Desert Voices at the Temple of Music and Art.It's the last chance this weekend to see this local ballet company's performance.
: Visit the museum block for this artisan market on Sunday—the final day of the run. It’s a great chance to browse local crafts.The final day of this market offers a lovely Sunday morning/afternoon stroll through downtown.
PJL & TTC WOMEN & CHILDREN'S HAMANTASH BAKE! : Women and children age 4 and up are invited to bake Hamantash pastries. There will also be a fun photo booth and costumes are encouraged!A hands-on Sunday baking activity specifically geared toward kids ages 4 and up.
Also On· anytime this weekend
3FREE : This is the first ever PlayDaze event, designed as a casual, drop-in morning experience at the Soccer Center—no weekly commitment needed.It's a free, casual drop-in event specifically welcoming 'little one(s)' on Saturday morning.
FREE : Swing by this open house event to meet the providers, tour the location, and ask any questions you might have. It’s free to stop by!A free, daytime event on Saturday—always a winner for parents looking for casual weekend plans.
: Enjoy nature-themed stories, songs, puppets, and sensory activities geared toward younger children. This happens at the beautiful Botanical Gardens.It's a perfect structured activity for preschoolers on Saturday morning, though admission to the gardens is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Tucson this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 28-Mar 1) you can take the little ones to the free Open House on Saturday afternoon, or attend the free PlayDaze event Saturday morning at the Tucson Soccer Center. Admission to Garden Story Time is free with paid entry to the Botanical Gardens.
Is the Tucson Rodeo running this weekend?
Yes! The Tucson Rodeo 2026 is running all weekend, concluding on Sunday, March 1st. Tickets start at $20 for kids over two.
What can we do Sunday, March 1st?
Sunday is your last chance for the Tucson Rodeo, the Spring Tucson Toy Show (great for kids 10 and under who are free), the Spring Artisans Market, and the Hamantash Bake for kids 4+.
