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WEEKLY UPDATE

Dec. 19, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS

December - January

24 - 4

Chamber Out of Office

Happy Holidays! Your Chamber will be out of office to spend time with family and friends through the holiday season, and we'll see you in 2026!

NEWS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Nature Pop! Exhibit at Reid Park Zoo presents life sized sculptures made of LEGO Bricks

------Add a pop of wonder and a pinch of nostalgia to your spring with Sean Kenney’s Nature Pop! open at Reid Park Zoo from January 30 through May 12, 2026. The exhibition is included in Zoo daytime admission and is free for Zoo members.

------Nature POP! Made with LEGO® bricks showcases 40 brilliantly colored and amazingly created sculptures crafted exclusively with LEGO® pieces – over 800,000 bricks to be exact! As guests wind their way through the Zoo’s scenic pathways they will encounter playful, gravity-defying masterpieces, including a towering 7-ft polar bear mother and her cubs, a prancing fox, a majestic lion standing on alert, and others.

------Art meets science meets engineering in these eye-popping works created by award-winning artist Sean Kenney. The elaborate displays explore natural relationships in nature and are supported by scientific data about the creatures presented. Guests will learn the inspiration behind each sculpture as well as the amount of time and LEGO® pieces each took to create.

------In celebration of Sean Kenney’s Nature POP! Made with LEGO® Bricks, Reid Park Zoo is kicking off the exhibit with a contest challenging builders everywhere for a chance to win a free behind-the-scenes tour at Reid Park Zoo.

------Here’s how to enter:

------Use LEGO® pieces to construct your favorite animal, a scene from Reid Park Zoo, or an animal from your imagination. Need inspiration? Visit Sean Kenney’s Nature POP! at Reid Park Zoo to get your creative juices flowing! Take a photo(s) of your creation, and email the photo to marketing@reidparkzoo.org

------Entries are being accepted in two categories: children’s category (ages 4 to 14) and adult category (age 15+). Entries must include the following information: First and last name of entrant; age of entrant; and title of sculpture. Entries which do not include this information in full will not be considered. Parents or guardians may submit entries on behalf of children, making sure to include the child’s name and age.

------Any additional info you’d like to include on what inspired you to build your creation is a bonus!

------The contest opens on Friday, January 30, 2026 and will close at 5:00 p.m. MST on Monday, March 2, 2026. Submissions will be narrowed down to 10 finalists (5 from each category) with the actual entries displayed and a winner from each category selected by a team of judges on March 14, 2026 during the first of two special Zoo “Builders and Bricks Nights” events.

------The Zoo is hosting two after-hours events in conjunction with the exhibit. During “Builders and Bricks Nights” from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., March 14 and March 21, guests can enjoy evening viewing of the sculptures and participate in hands-on activities, including speed building contests, animal enrichment making and more. Guests will also be able to learn about nature’s builders - animals such as otters, birds and insects – during special presentations by zoo keepers plus get the latest information on the Zoo’s Pathway to Asia, which is under construction and scheduled to open in late 2026.

------Admission to “Bricks and Builders” evenings are the same as daytime admission: $12 for adults ages 15-61, $10 for seniors ages 62 and older, $8.50 for children ages 2-14 and free for children under age 2.

------Visit ReidParkZoo.org for more information on the Nature Pop! exhibit and Reid Park Zoo. Zoo and exhibition hours are 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily.

Share your experience with USMCA

------The Arizona-Mexico Commission is gathering feedback from small and medium sized businesses on how the US Mexico Canada Trade Agreement is affecting operations here in Arizona. Any company can take the survey, but they’re especially hoping to hear from businesses that import or export with Mexico or Canada.

------Southern Arizona is underrepresented in the responses so far, so this is a great chance to make sure our region’s voice is part of the final report. The survey has 16 questions and takes about ten to fifteen minutes to complete. The deadline is December 19.

------If your business works across the border or you know someone who does, please take a moment to share your perspective. You can access the survey here.

MEMBER HAPPENINGS

Vendor slots open for '26 Tucson Bridal Expo

------The Tucson Bridal Expo is returning Feb. 22, 2026, to the Tucson Convention Center.

------Booth reservations are now open for Southern Arizona’s largest bridal expo, which is hosted by Platinum member Tucson Media Partners, publisher of The Arizona Daily Star / Tucson.com.

------The event opens at 10:30 a.m. that day, with fashion shows at noon and 2 p.m. Top wedding professionals, from florists and photographers to venues and bridal boutiques, share their services all in one place.

------Already, more than 46 vendors are committed, with several Chamber members among them.

------“We’ll bring the brides,” an invitation said. It is billed as “the must-attend event for brides-to-be.”

------To learn more, visit TucsonBridalExpo.com. Email tucsonbridalexpo@tucson.com.

Fleet Feet has stuffers such as... stockings!

-------Fleet Feet Oro Valley is promoting gifts for under $25, and gifts for under $50, this holiday season.

------Guests at the Oro Valley store, located in the Oracle Crossings development off Oracle north of Ina, can choose among stocking stuffers like ... stockings, hats, fuel for running and walking, gaiters, beanies and much more.

------Fleet Feet is also participating in your Chamber’s holiday ornament giveaway.

------Fleet Feet is located at 7607 N. Oracle, Suite 121, Oro Valley, 85704. The phone is 520-219-2323, the website is here.

Last Chance for Holiday Nights at Tohono Chul

------This is the final weekend for Holiday Nights at Chamber member Tohono Chul Park.

------The spectacle, complete with vendors, music, food, drink and more, is open 6-9 p.m. this Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 19-21.

------Tickets are available at tohonochul.org, or at the door.

------“Stroll glowing pathways, enjoy live performances from Tucson’s favorite musicians, sip hot cocoa or cider, and discover one-of-a-kind gifts from local vendors and our carefully curated Merry Market,” an invitation said. “Kids can craft, play, and meet Santa himself, while adults enjoy tasty bites and drinks from the Garden Bistro.

------Friday night’s performers are Ruta Verbena, a Latin band, and Ben Tully. Saturday’s musicians are Noethenbutjazz and Misael Barraza, a Mexican guitarist. Sunday’s players are Engel Indo and the Tucson All-Star Ensemble, and classical guitarists Diana Schaible and Gabriel Francisco Romo.

------“It’s a celebration woven into the landscape; festive, local, and uniquely Tohono Chul,” it concluded.

Old Tucson's Yuletide runs through Dec. 31

------Chamber member Old Tucson is offering its “Christmas Spectacular” through New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31.

------Guests at “Yuletide at Old Tucson” can enjoy carolers, a ride on a horse-drawn carriage, holiday stunt shows, original musicals, “festive magic, and much more,” an invitation said.

------Reserve tickets online at oldtucson.com.

------Old Tucson Entertainment is located at 201 S. Kinney Road. The phone is 520-883-0100.

Roche, Art State AZ seek submissions

------ Two Chamber members are calling for Arizona artists to submit works for “ReFormed: The Art of Transformation.”

------Diamond member Roche Tissue Diagnostics and Art State Arizona have posted a Dec. 30 deadline for submissions. They are inviting artists “to submit works that celebrate sustainability, renewal, and creative reuse.

------“Centered on transformation, this juried exhibition asks artists to reimagine the possibilities of found, discarded, or repurposed materials,” it continued.

------The show will be presented in the Ventana Gallery at RTD’s Oro Valley campus starting Jan. 14. Artists retain 100% of sales, and cash prizes will be awarded to top submissions.

------To learn more, click here.

Santa riding Model A at Tucson Auto Museum

------ Santa Claus is coming to ... the Tucson Auto Museum this Sunday, Dec. 21, at 11 a.m. sharp, cruising in one of his classic “sleighs” – a 1929 Ford Model A.

------“Get ready for a truly unforgettable holiday experience,” the invitation said.

------From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, families are invited to visit with Santa right inside the museum. Anyone who pays regular admission can meet Santa, take photos, and enjoy the holiday magic surrounded by classic cars, the invite said.

------For an additional $15 per child (under age 15), kids can enjoy the full Santa Experience, which includes a magical ride with Santa in his 1929 Model A, a wrapped gift straight from Santa’s bag, and “a holiday they’ll never forget.”

------To buy tickets, click here.

------The Tucson Auto Museum is located at 4825 N. Sabino Canyon Road. The phone is 520-207-5715, the website tucsonautomuseum.org.

'Annie' opens Saturday running through holiday

------The wait is over – Saguaro City Music Theatre’s production of “Annie” opens Saturday, and runs through Jan. 4 at The Berger Performing Arts Center in Tucson.

------“From the first notes of ‘Tomorrow’ to the final bow, this beloved musical reminds us all that even in the hardest of times, hope shines through,” an invitation said. Guests can go on “a journey filled with laughter, music, and unforgettable memories.”

------Eleven shows are planned through the holidays. To buy tickets, click here.

------Cathalena Burch, who writes about the arts for Chamber Platinum member The Arizona Daily Star / Tucson.com, reports that director Drew Humphrey had intended to cast six “orphans” for the musical, which is based on the comic strip “Little Orphan Annie.”

------He wound up casting 28(!) orphans.

------Choreographer Dena DiGiacinto has loved “Annie” since childhood. Choreographing the performance has been “a dream come true,” she told Burch.

------You can read Cathy’s story, headlined “Theater company pulls out all the stops for ‘Annie’, by clicking here.

------Saguaro City Music Theatre is a member of your Chamber.

El Conquistador invites all to Christmas brunch

------Celebrate Christmas Day at El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort.

------The Oro Valley resort and Chamber Platinum member presents “a lavish buffet,” with appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Thursday, Dec. 25. Reservations are required; call 520-544-1255 to book.

------El Conquistador’s holiday-themed horseback rides conclude this Saturday, Dec. 20, at 2 and 3:15 p.m. Families “can saddle up for a special holiday-themed horseback ride through the stunning Sonoran landscape,” an invitation said.

------Rides can be booked directly at tatteredsaddle.com.

------Visit hiltonelconquistador.com for the full calendar of holiday programming on and dining menus.

Old Tucson 2026 Season Pass Now on Sale

------Old Tucson's 2026 Season Pass is now on sale with exclusive early-bird pricing! Current 2025 Season Pass and Fun Pass holders can renew for just $99* starting December 15th through January 12th and will receive an additional Bring-A-Pardner Free ticket. New Season Pass buyers pay $109* and will get complimentary access to the rest of Yuletide 2025! After January 12th, Season Passes are available for $119*. (*Total prices with taxes and fees: $106.79 renewals through 1/12/26, $117.30 new buyers through 1/12/26, $128.01 regular price after 1/12/26.)

------The 2026 Season Pass unlocks year-round adventure with unlimited admission to Wild West Adventure Park, Nightfall, and Yuletide, one free Rides and Attractions wristband for all Night Market events, a Bring-A-Pardner Free ticket, a 2026 souvenir cup with free refills, a commemorative lanyard, 15% discounts on retail and food & beverage, discounts on carnival games, premium parking, and special offers on Ghost Tours and Hollywood in the Desert Tours.

------Old Tucson's Wild West Adventure Park will be fully open on January 17, 2026 with all rides, shows, attractions, restaurants, retail stores, and games! Experience brand new stunt shows, saloon shows, and musicals all throughout opening weekend. Join the celebration with opening weekend tickets priced at just $25 for adults and children on Saturday 1/17 and Sunday 1/18!

------2026 Season Passes and Opening Weekend tickets are on sale now at www.oldtucson.com. For more information call 520-883-0100.

Santa Claus is coming to town at Tucson Cactus & Koi

------Tucson Cactus and Koi is inviting the community for free pictures with Santa on Saturday, December 20th. Santa has a packed schedule so will only be available from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., but the elves at Tucson Cactus and Koi are helping to make it a Merry Christmas by making everything in the store 20% off all day. Don't miss out on the festive fun!

------Tucson Cactus and Koi is located at 7810 N Oracle Rd. On Saturdays they are open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Their phone is (520)617-4478 and their website is tucsoncactusandkoi.com.

Mexican Arts Market at National Parks Store

------The Holiday Mexican Arts Market is open weekends through Dec. 28 at The National Parks Store in Oro Valley.

------The event features “hundreds of beautiful and unique handcrafted items,” an invitation said. “Browse exquisite Mata Ortiz pottery, playful and whimsical Oaxacan woodcarvings featuring vibrant colors and intricate designs, bold, vibrant Zapotec rugs, and an even wider selection of holiday gifts throughout the store.”

------The National Parks Store is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. It is located at 12880 N. Vistoso Village Drive, in Oro Valley’s Innovation Park. The phone is 520-622-6014, the website wnpa.org.

Nest in the Desert has 'holiday home contest'

------Nest in the Desert’s “holiday home contest” is now live, and entrants have a chance to win gift cards at the Oro Valley home décor store.

------Snap a photo of your holiday decor that includes at least one piece from Nest in the Desert. Post it on Instagram or Facebook and tag Nest in the Desert.

------“That’s it. You’re entered,” owner Robyn Halperin said.

------The prizes are a $200 Nest gift card for first place, $150 for second and $100 for third. There’s no limit on entries. “If you’ve got multiple rooms decorated, post each one,” she said. “More posts = more chances.”

------The contest ends Dec. 24.

------“It’s fun, it’s easy, and honestly, we love seeing how everyone styles their homes this time of year,” Robyn said.

------Nest in the Desert is located at 7954 N. Oracle, in Plaza Escondida at Oracle and Magee. The phone is 520-297-8299, the website nestinthedesert.com.

Sol Dog Lodge is hiring

------Sol Dog Lodge is identifying strong candidates for a key leadership role: Donor Relations and Stewardship Manager.

------This position will guide fundraising efforts, lead a capital campaign for the new low-cost veterinary clinic, grow donor relationships, and support grants, sponsorships, and community partnerships. The Donor Relations & Stewardship Manager also staffs the Business Advisory Committee and provides strategic leadership on development planning. It is an important next step in Sol's organizational growth, and they want to find someone who believes in the mission as much as they do.-

------If you know anyone with solid nonprofit fundraising experience, strong relationship-building skills, and a passion for community impact, please share this opportunity with them. Candidates can apply right on the website. There you will find the job description and other information about the position.

OVHS celebrates the holiday season

------On Saturday, December 13 from 9 a.m. – noon, step into the holiday spirit in the Pusch House Museum at historic Steam Pump Ranch, 10901 North Oracle Road. The Oro Valley Historical Society presents its current exhibit, Holidays are for Everyone, showcasing diverse cultural traditions celebrated in our area during this season. Volunteers will be on hand to provide information and answer questions. Admission is free, and tours are self-guided, with donations gratefully accepted.

------A naturalist will also be leading two leisurely, hour-long tours of the Ranch at 9:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. These walks highlight the area’s plants, wildlife, and geology, while weaving in stories of the Ranch’s history and the people who lived there. The tours conclude at the Heritage Garden, where visitors can view the newly planted winter crops.

ICS seeks help with produce distributions

------Volunteers are needed for 5 free produce giveaways slated for upcoming Saturdays at the Ina Road campus of Chamber member Interfaith Community Services.

------“Looking for a simple, joyful way to make a real difference in our community?,” an invitation said. “We’d love to have you join us for a hands-on volunteer experience that’s perfect for individuals, families, friends, coworkers, and groups of all sizes.”

------ICS is partnering with the Community Food Bank to host the giveaways, helping to bring “fresh, healthy food to neighbors who need it most.”

------Each week, the food bank delivers pallets of produce to six sites across Tucson. “With your help, we can ensure that every last apple, carrot, and pepper gets into the right hands,” the invite said.

------It’s a fun, fast-paced assembly-line style drive-thru, according to Elida “Ellie” Killian, community outreach coordinator for ICS.

------Volunteers help sort, bag, and load fresh fruits and vegetables into cars. “Expect teamwork, good vibes, and a whole lot of community spirit,” Ellie continued. “It’s a small-time commitment with a huge heart impact.”

------Operating hours at the ICS Northwest Food bank are 5:30 to 7:30 a.m. Saturdays on Jan. 10, Feb. 7, April 11 and May 2. To register, click here.

------Interfaith Community Services is located at 2820 West Ina,

Tucson, 85741. The website is icstucson.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

January

Wisdom Wednesday, "Vision Boarding for 2026"

Free for members, $15 for guests, 1-2 PM

Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce

1822 E Innovation Park Dr.

Dive into a world of knowledge and growth at our Wisdom Wednesdays! This Wisdom Wednesday will focus on Vision Boarding for the New Year. Join us to create a vision board filled with the goals that you have for 2026. We'll see you there!

View All Upcoming Events