See The Wonders Of Nature, Art And Culture In Sonoran Desert Region
Tohono Chul is a place to embrace the authentic beauty of the Sonoran Desert year-round. This unique place provides an ideal crossroads of nature, art, and culture.
Tohono Chul is one of Tucson’s little secrests. It offers 49 acres of Sonoran desert in which one can experience nature at your fingertips.
Travel + Leisure Magazine named it “One of the Worlds Ten Best Botanical Gardens”.
See Nature Close Up
Take your time moving along the winding paths. Various art exhibits enhance the Sonoran desert setting. Well marked trails meander throughout Tohono Chul Park.
They provide an opportunity to see the contrasts of the desert and its beautiful plant life.
The park has an extensive array of plant live, flowers and cacti found in the great Sonoran Desert.
Stop at one of the relaxation spots on the grounds to reflect on what you see and will see along the way.
Deeper Dive
What once were homes are now the facilities that house the museum shops – La Galeria and La Fuente. The last building, a hacienda style home, is used for the La Entrada Greenhouse and Garden shop.
To learn more about this unique place plan ahead for one of the lectures or guided tours. Tohono Chul also hosts workshops, concerts, and special events year-round.
A secret within the secret is the Garden Bistro. It is a quiet setting in which one can take part in fresh Southwestern flavors.
Each building located in the Tohono Chul Park has a history all its own. The homes were built during the period from 1937 through the mid 1960’s and reflects the southwest style of the period.
Tohono Chul is a private non-profit 501C3 organization. Its mission is to enrich lives by connecting them with the nature, art, and culture in the Sonoran Desert.
In 2014, Tohono Chul became an official Monarch Way Station. As such, the plant life and shelter necessary to sustain monarch butterflies is provided as they migrate through North America.
Conclusion
Thank you for visiting www.premiertucsonhomes.com! It’s one of the top real estate websites in Tucson. Our clients tell us that.
Our website provides information on communities and neighborhoods in the greater Tucson area. Want more? Give us a call – 520-940-4541. We are ready to answer your questions and help you get the information you are looking for.
We are a top Realtor team in Tucson, AZ since 2002. Take a minutes to read our profiles and client testimonials. Maybe we are the Tucson Realtors you have been looking for.
We look forward to making your home buying or selling experience enjoyable YOU!
Sign UP to receive daily HOME TRACKER UPDATES - OR - Our Monthly NEWSLETTER. And get regular updates on the Real Estate Market and events in Tucson, AZ.
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The Gaslight Music Hall is Oro Valley’s home for fun!
The Gaslight Music Hall is a fun eclectic music venue. You will find a variety of music genera including dance parties.
This venue showcases lots of Tucson’s incredible local musicians.
Situated in beautiful Oro Valley, Arizona an evening at The Gaslight is definitely an event for everyone.
Audiences enjoy concerts, musical revues, family entertainment, and all-you-can-eat free popcorn. The warm and inviting environment get you up close and personal with each musical act.
The venue has different shows every week. Seating is comfortable and the staff makes you feel very welcomed.
Great Fun And Good Food Too
Groove to your favorite tunes and dining on pizza, sandwiches, and salads are good
A wide array of delightful food selections are available and can be ordered right at your table. And don’t forget the milk shakes and malts, hand-dipped ice cream or sundae.
Directions And Reservations
The Gaslight Music Hall is located in the Walgreen Shopping Center at
Go North on Oracle Road, turn left on Rancho Vistoso Blvd. Turn Right into the Walgreens Shopping Center. MAP
Now let the fun begin.
Conclusion
Thank you for visiting www.premiertucsonhomes.com! It’s one of the top real estate websites in Tucson. Our clients tell us that.
Our website provides information on communities and neighborhoods in the greater Tucson area. Want more? Give us a call – 520-940-4541. We are ready to answer your questions and help you get the information you are looking for.
We are a top Realtor team in Tucson, AZ since 2002. Take a minutes to read our profiles and client testimonials. Maybe we are the Tucson Realtors you have been looking for.
We look forward to making your home buying or selling experience enjoyable YOU!
Sign UP to receive daily HOME TRACKER UPDATES - OR - Our Monthly NEWSLETTER. And get regular updates on the Real Estate Market and events in Tucson, AZ.
Questions about the Tucson Real Estate Market or Tucson Homes for Sale? Call Us - 520 940 4541 OR complete the - CONTACT FORM - and we will get right back to you!
Pima Air And Space Museum is a dream come true for aviation enthusiasts. The Pima Air & Space Museum is one of the largest displays of aircraft in one place. And it is right here in Tucson, AZ.
The EAA museum in Oshkosh Wisconsin is the mecca for experimental aircraft and the once a year EAA Fly-In is amazing. But the Pima Air and Space Museum is a stellar attraction.
Pima Air and Space Museum is the largest non-government funded aviation museums in the world.
There are over 300 aircraft and spacecraft to see and many are historically significant and technically advanced craft ever produced.
How Big Is It?
Pima Air and Space Museum sits on 80 acres at 6000 East Valencia Road, Tucson, AZ. A large number of the museum’s aircraft are displayed outside with the remainder located in one of the museum’s display hangars.
This affords visitors to enjoy the museum even on those “warm” days.The grounds are expansive and many visitors elect to take the tour on wheels. The tour vehicles are covered, but open on all sides. Its easy to view the aircraft, but in summer it may be hot.
You can also walk, but in either case be sure to take water with you.
Where To Find The Pima Air and Space Museum
To get to the Pima Air and Space Museum, exit from I 10 at Valencia and go east on Valencia about 2 miles. It will be on the south side of the street.
The Museum is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Last admission at 4:00 p.m. The Museum is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Parking is free.
The Museum is a pet-friendly facility. A walking tour starts at the Wright Flyer at 10:30 and inside Hangar 3 at 11:30.
Are you thinking of buying a home in the greater Tucson area? Finding the right home can be a challenging process. But we can make the process much less stressful for you.
We have been Tucson Realtors since 2002. We know Tucson and the Tucson Real Estate market. As a top Realtor duo, we invest the time to understand your home buying interests and desires. At our first meeting, we will review the current real estate market with you. Show you the market data and then walk you through the Arizona home buying process.
Why? We want you to know what to expect. And what to plan for.
Interested in new construction? We’ll brief you on buying a new construction home. And what’s unique about the process.
For us, you are not another real estate transaction. You are a client and, future friend. We strive to create a relationship that continues long after you move into your home. Review our profiles. Check out our backgrounds, education, and certifications.
We are here to help you “know what you need to know” to buy a home in Tucson, AZ. We provide you information on Tucson events, places to shop and restaurants. Our resources include contractors, electricians, and home services. We will also help you get deals on tile and paint to make the home you buy yours. Our professional service backgrounds mean we put you first!
Thinking about selling a home in the Tucson area?
Selling a home requires more than listing it in the Tucson MLS system. It’s about marketing. Marketing through multiple online channels.
To no one’s surprise, 80% of home buyers start their search on the internet. Homes must be visible on multiple internet channels. The more visible a home is, the faster it will sell.
We use multiple online marketing channels to showcase your home. We will build a stand-alone website built to show your home. Our marketing program targets key cities in the U. S. based on the season. For luxury listings, our drone service provides video of your home and neighborhood. This video along with professional photos helps the online buyer see and feel in your home.
To learn more about how we can help you sell your Tucson home, call us – 520-940-4541 – to arrange a meeting. We will visit your home and prepare a comparative market analysis. Then we will meet with you to review our analysis and our marketing program to “get your home sold!”
Conclusion
Thank you for visiting www.premiertucsonhomes.com! It’s one of the top real estate websites in Tucson. Our clients say that, not us.
Our website provides information on communities and neighborhoods in the greater Tucson area. Want more? Give us a call – 520-940-4541. We are ready to answer your questions and help you get the information you are looking for.
We are a top Realtor duo in Tucson, AZ since 2002. Read our client testimonials. Give us a call. We look forward to making your home buying or selling a home an enjoyable experience for YOU!
Sign UP to receive daily HOME TRACKER UPDATES - OR - Our Monthly NEWSLETTER. And get regular updates on the Real Estate Market and events in Tucson, AZ.
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The Tucson Rodeo Parade In The Spirit Of The Old West
Make Time To See This Annual Tucson AZ In February
Tucson Rodeo Parade
What so special about the Tucson Rodeo Parade? The answer is likely to be “not much” if you are from the east coast, midwest or west coast. But if you are from southern Arizona, its part of the fabric of who you are.
The first Tucson Rodeo and Rodeo Parade took place on February 21, 1925. That’s over 90 years ago. And it is still going strong.
The 1925 parade was small compared to today. But none the less, it was an extraordinary event.
Tucson Rodeo Parade History
Now here is an interesting bit of the history. The parade was lead by Major Nuestatter. Tucson’s veteran Parade Leader. Veteran Parade Leader? Not sure if that job is still open today. But he must have been very good.
Following Major Nuestatter was the 25th Infantry Band from Nogales. Then a platoon of Reserve Officers. After them polo players, cowboys and cowgirls, buggies, wagons, and Indians. Bringing up the rear was the 10th U.S. Cavalry from Ft. Hoachuca.
For the 34,000 people living in Tucson, AZ in 1925 the Tucson Rodeo and Rodeo Parade was not a big event. In fact, many wondered why it was necessary. Why? It was considered pretentious.
Now look back for a moment. In 1925, most of Tucson’s streets were dirt. Stop signs did not exist. Entertainment was from the radio and phonograph. Church socials and musicals were popular activities of the time.
Why was a rodeo or parade necessary? Tucson was surrounded by rodeos every day. Most ranches and private schools had rodeos. But even though many people considered the event a waste of time it was a huge success.
Tucson Rodeo Parade Today
The Tucson Rodeo Parade is a beloved tradition in Tucson, AZ. And remains one of the prominent displays of the Old West. Area schools are closed on Parade Day along with some local businesses.
Over 200 non-motorized floats are in the rodeo parade each year. And over 200,000 fans watch the western-themed floats, buggies, and historic horse-drawn coaches along the parade route.
Rodeo Parade Route
The Parade begins at 9 am. It starts on Ajo Highway 1/2 mile east of Park Ave. Goes east to Park Avenue, then south on Park to Irvington Rd. Proceeds west on Irvington to Sixth Avenue and turns north on Sixth Avenue. Then goes to the North end of the Tucson Rodeo Grounds.
Like Horse Races?
Winter visitors and Tucson residents should take some time to see this annual event. You might even want to spend an afternoon at the Tucson Rodeo. Another bit of Tucson history during the February/March period is at the Rillito Race Park. Quarter horse racing and people watching at its finest. Did you know the photo finish was started at the Rillito Race Park?
And should you find Tucson and the majestic mountains we live in a place you may want to call home, we can help.
Searching for a New Home?
Are you thinking of buying a home in the greater Tucson area? Finding the right home can be a challenging process. But we can make the process much less stressful for you.
With over 15 years of experience in the Tucson real estate market, we know Tucson. As a top Realtor team, we invest the time to understand your home buying interests and desires. At our first meeting, we will review the current real estate market with you. Show you the market data and then walk you through the Arizona home buying process.
Why? We want you to know what to expect. And what to plan for.
Interested in new construction? We’ll brief you on buying a new construction home. And what’s unique about the process.
You Are NOT Just Another Real Estate Transaction
For us, you are not another real estate transaction. You are a client and future friend. We strive to create a relationship that continues long after you move into your home. Review our profiles. Check out our backgrounds, education, and certifications.
We are here to help you “know what you need to know” to buy a home in Tucson, AZ. We provide you information on Tucson events, places to shop and restaurants. Our resources include contractors, electricians, and home services. Our professional service backgrounds mean we put you first!
Conclusion
Thank you for visiting www.premiertucsonhomes.com! It’s one of the top real estate websites in Tucson. Our clients say that, not us.
Our website provides information on communities and neighborhoods in the greater Tucson area. Want more? Give us a call – 520-940-4541. We are ready to answer your questions and help you get the information you are looking for.
We are a top Realtor duo in Tucson, AZ since 2002. Read our client testimonials. Give us a call. We look forward to making your home buying or selling a home an enjoyable experience for YOU!
Sign UP to receive daily HOME TRACKER UPDATES - OR - Our Monthly NEWSLETTER. And get regular updates on the Real Estate Market and events in Tucson, AZ.
Questions about the Tucson Real Estate Market or Tucson Homes for Sale? Call Us - 520 940 4541 OR complete the - CONTACT FORM - and we will get right back to you!
Patagonia Lake is the largest lake in the area and covers approximately 250 acres. It is 2 1/2 miles long and part of the Sonoita Creek watershed.
Tucked away in the rolling hills of southeastern Arizona, it is a hidden treasure. Patagonia Lake State Park became a state park in 1975.
Whitetail deer roam the hills and great blue herons walk the shoreline. The park offers lots of amenities. A campground, beach, picnic area with ramadas, tables and grills, a creek trail, boat ramps, and a marina.
The nearby Lakeside Market offers boat rentals and supplies.
Hikers along the creek trail will see see birds galore. Canyon towhee, Inca dove, vermilion flycatcher, black vulture, and several species of hummingbirds.
Fishing and boating is the primary activity on the lake. But there are many other recreational activities to enjoy. Camping, hiking, swimming and picnics are also enjoyed. Fish include Crappie, Bluegill, Bass and Catfish. With Rainbow trout stocked in the winter season.
Patagonia Lake allows water skiing and Jet skiing with restrictions. Also, the East half of the lake is a no wake zone.
How To Get There From Tucson, AZ
Patagonia Lake is South of Tucson and about 20 miles Northeast of Nogales. Take I-19, South (past Tubac) to BUS I-19/Grand Ave. (exit 8) to Highway 82 (Patagonia Hwy E).
Take Highway 82 left (E) to Patagonia Lake Rd. turn left and its about 1.5 miles to the lake. The lake is open through out the year. There are boat ramps for your own boat or you can rent a boat if you choose.
The Patagonia Lake Visitor Center/Entrance Station is open all year. With the exception of Christmas Day.
Hours are from 8:30 am – 5 pm November through March. April through October hours are the same except on Fridays hours are 7 am – 10 pm.
The park has an automatic entrance gate that closes at 10 pm. All camping, day use and annual permits are available. A small lobby is available with various brochures describing surrounding areas and destinations.
Are you thinking of buying a home in the greater Tucson area? Finding the right home can be a challenging process. But we can make the process much less stressful for you.
We have been Tucson Realtors since 2002. We know Tucson and the Tucson Real Estate market. As a top Realtor duo, we invest the time to understand your home buying interests and desires.
At our first meeting, we will review the current real estate market with you. Show you the market data and then walk you through the Arizona home buying process.
Why? We want you to know what to expect. And what to plan for.
Interested in new construction? We’ll brief you on buying a new construction home. And what’s unique about the process.
For us, you are not another real estate transaction. You are a client and, future friend. We strive to create a relationship that continues long after you move into your home. Review our profiles. Check out our backgrounds, education, and certifications.
We are here to help you “know what you need to know” to buy a home in Tucson, AZ. We provide you information on Tucson events, places to shop and restaurants. Our resources include contractors, electricians, and home services. Our professional service backgrounds mean we put you first!
Conclusion
Thank you for visiting www.premiertucsonhomes.com! It’s one of the top real estate websites in Tucson. Our clients say that, not us.
Our website provides information on communities and neighborhoods in the greater Tucson area. Want more? Give us a call – 520-940-4541. We are ready to answer your questions and help you get the information you are looking for.
We are a top Realtor duo in Tucson, AZ since 2002. Read our client testimonials. Give us a call. We look forward to making your home buying or selling a home an enjoyable experience for YOU!
Sign UP to receive daily HOME TRACKER UPDATES - OR - Our Monthly NEWSLETTER. And get regular updates on the Real Estate Market and events in Tucson, AZ.
Questions about the Tucson Real Estate Market or Tucson Homes for Sale? Call Us - 520 940 4541 OR complete the - CONTACT FORM - and we will get right back to you!
Mission San Jose Lets You See The History Of The Old West
See The Tumacacori National Historic Park South Of Tucson AZ
Mission San Jose History
Mission San Jose de Tumacacori was founded by Father Esuebio Kino in 1691. It is the first missions in what was to become Southern Arizona.
San Jose Mission pre-dates the larger and more grand San Xavier Mission de Bac near Tucson. Father Kino founded the San Xavier Mission one year later.
Spanish missions expanded the economic structure of Spain. Built near existing Indian communities, they became a central gathering point. Priests worked to convert the Indians to the Catholic religion.
Once converted, the natives would make contributions to the church. Their contributions were revenue for the Spanish throne.
Spanish Mission System
The Spanish mission system had two types of facilities. Large missions built in populated areas where Priests served the church.
Smaller facilities were called “visitas”. And built in less populated areas. No one lived in them. Priests would regularly travel from the “cabecera missions” to the “visitas”. They would work with the locals and hold services.
Unfortunately, the Spanish colonization had a devastating effect on the native peoples. With the priests and soldiers came diseases. Measles and small pox killed almost 60 percent of the native population.
Indian Raids
Apache Indians shortened the longevity of many missions in southern Arizona. In 1848, Apache raids along with the harsh winter drove people away. The San Jose Mission was abandon.
Without military protection, the Pima and Papago Indians fled the area. Priests from the San Xavier Mission stopped visiting. It was 7 years before they returned.
As the last Indians fled, religious items were moved to the San Xavier Mission. Many of these religious objects are still there.
Tumacacori National Historic Park
Mission San Jose is located in the Tumacacori National Historic Park. The park is about 45 miles south of Tucson, AZ at exit 29 on Highway I-19. It is about 10 miles north of the Mexican border.
The Tumacacori National Historic Park has three Spanish mission sites. Calabasas, Guevavi, and Tumacacori. National park status protects the ruins and remaining artifacts.
Tumacacori NHP area is one of the oldest outposts of European civilization in America.
Conclusion
Mission San José church is a popular tourist destination. The mission church building remains in a state of “arrested ruin”. The goal is to preserve the original structure rather than restore it.
If your are looking for a great day trip, visiting Mission San Jose is perfect. You may also want to take in Tubac. Located along I-19 just south of Green Valley. Tubac dates back to 1752. It housed the original Spanish colonial garrison in Arizona. Today, it is known for its numerous art and craft stores and unique restaurants.
And if you think Tucson AZ might just be the place for your future home, we can help. We are a Top Realtor team in Tucson. We will work with you to find your “perfect” home in Tucson.
Sign UP to receive daily HOME TRACKER UPDATES - OR - Our Monthly NEWSLETTER. And get regular updates on the Real Estate Market and events in Tucson, AZ.
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Kitt Peak National Observatory(KPNO) is part of the National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO).
Kitt Peak supports the most diverse collection of astronomical observatories on Earth. The focus is on Nighttime optical and infrared astronomy and daytime study of the Sun.
The National Observatory was founded in 1958. It operates three major nighttime telescopes. Kitt Peak also hosts the facilities of consortia. Consortia operates 22 optical telescopes and two radio telescopes.
This observatory is located on the top of a mountain 6,875 feet above sea level. What does that mean to you —- It is cold up there! When they tell you it will be cold, believe them! Dress warm.
The facilities and instructors help the public gain hands-on experience with the latest astronomy has to offer.
Also, it is worth noting that the use of cell phones is prohibited on the Mountain. The cell phone signals interfere with the operation of some of the Radio Telescopes. Additionally, be advised that there are no services at Kitt Peak.
Note – Food is limited so you may want to pack a lunch and use the picnic area – if they are open (call to find out). Lastly, the nearest gas station is 16 miles away, so don’t go empty. Fill up and avoid the stress.
Kitt Peak is located 56 miles southwest of Tucson in the Schuk Toak District on the Tohono O’odham Nation. Recently the National Science Foundation as stopped funding for its telescopes at Kitt Peak. This has lead to changes in the role Kitt Peak will play in the future exploration of space.
Thank you for visiting www.premiertucsonhomes.com! It’s one of the top real estate websites in Tucson. Our clients tell us that.
Our website provides information on communities and neighborhoods in the greater Tucson area. Want more? Give us a call – 520-940-4541. We are ready to answer your questions and help you get the information you are looking for.
We are a top Realtor duo in Tucson, AZ since 2002. Read our client testimonials. Give us a call. We look forward to making your home buying or selling experience enjoyable YOU!
Sign UP to receive daily HOME TRACKER UPDATES - OR - Our Monthly NEWSLETTER. And get regular updates on the Real Estate Market and events in Tucson, AZ.
Questions about the Tucson Real Estate Market or Tucson Homes for Sale? Call Us - 520 940 4541 OR complete the - CONTACT FORM - and we will get right back to you!
Desert Muesum Tucson is the place to get a first hand look at wildlife in the Sonoran Desert. Visitors may take one of the many daily tours or just wander around on the paths and trails. There are over 2 miles of paths on the 21 acre museum grounds. You will be out in the sun so plan accordingly and be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Hours of operation are year round from 7:30 AM until 5:00PM for most of the year. Due to later sun rise, winter hours start at 8:30 AM. Prices generally run from $12 for adults and $4 for kids. Check the Desert Museum Website for current prices and announcements.
At the Desert Museum Tucson there are many things to see. A desert zoo, natural history museum and botanical garden are on the grounds and centrally located.
Seeing the desert wildlife in their natural habitat is quite exciting. Expect to see a variety of small desert “things” at the Desert Museum Tucson. Javelina, Wolves, Coyotes, Mountain Lions, Prairie Dogs and Gila Monsters. Oh, Yes – the snakes that are found in the the desert around Tucson.
A 1/2 day or more is needed to take in all of the Desert Museum Tucson is a great day trip and fun for the whole family whether you are living in Tucson or just visiting.
Thank you for visiting www.premiertucsonhomes.com! It’s one of the top real estate websites in Tucson. Our clients tell us that.
Our website provides information on communities and neighborhoods in the greater Tucson area. Want more? Give us a call – 520-940-4541. We are ready to answer your questions and help you get the information you are looking for.
We are a top Realtor duo in Tucson, AZ since 2002. Read our client testimonials. Give us a call. We look forward to making your home buying or selling experience enjoyable YOU!
Sign UP to receive daily HOME TRACKER UPDATES - OR - Our Monthly NEWSLETTER. And get regular updates on the Real Estate Market and events in Tucson, AZ.
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The Day Of The Dead Is One More Reason To Live In Tucson
Dia De Los Muertos Dates Back Centuries
Like the memory of a loved one that never fades the Day Of The Dead has survived for centuries.
It changed and evolved over time, but it never vanished. The Spaniards learned that when they arrived in central Mexico in the 16th century.
In Mexico, loss of life is a transition to a new existence. To help the loved, family members put personal positions of the deceased person in their casket.
Things they will needed in the afterlife. Even a favorite pet might be in the casket to accompany their masters on their long quest.
The Spaniards viewed the ritual started by the Aztecs some 3,000 years before as sacrilegious. They attempted to stop it, but couldn’t.
Not only did it survive, it thrived, moving from southern Mexico and spreading north. It also merged with elements of Christianity. While first celebrated in summer, the date of the celebration moved to Nov. 1 and 2 of each year.
That made the Day of the Dead celebration coincide with All Saints Day and All Souls Day.
How The Day Of the Dead Celebration Began In Tucson
The All Souls Procession in Tucson began in 1990. A local artist, Susan Johnson, was grieving the loss of her father.
Johnson had heard of the Dia de los Muertos or Day of the dead years before. The joy of the celebration inspired her. So she decided to celebrate her fathers life in a similar fashion.
A few close friends and performing artists joined her. They created art from the day of the dead history and their own rituals. What began as a small personal celebration is now a huge gathering of Tucsonans each year.
Tucson holds an ALL SOULS PROCESSION every year on the first weekend of November. Get a flavor of how Tucson celebrates the Day of the Dead in the brief video.
An Ancient Ritual
Day of the Dead history goes back thousands of years. In pre Columbian periods the Day of the Dead, or El Día de los Muertos, was celebrated in Mexico and other Latin countries.
The belief is that the gates of heaven open at midnight on October 31st. With that, the spirits of all deceased children reunite with their families for 24 hours.
On November 2nd, the spirits of the adults come down to enjoy the festivities prepared for them.
Homes in villages and towns have build alters to the departed. Decorations include candles, flowers and lots of food. Water, candy, and toys for deceased children.
For adults spirits, cigarettes and shots of mescal adorn the alter. And small folk art skeletons and sugar skulls are the final touches.
The Day Of The Dead Is Important
In small towns and villages the people may spend one or two months wages on the celebration. Every year. They believe happy spirits will provide protection, good luck and wisdom to families.
On the afternoon of November 2nd, the festivities move to the cemetery. People clean tombs, play cards and listen to music. And of course, reminisce about their departed loved ones.
It’s really a very extraordinary ritual. The Day of the Dead provides the living time to think about their departed family members. Usually, when people hear about the Day of the Dead for the first time they are shocked.
They envision a ghastly, frightening, scary, dreadful or sorrowful. Almost nothing could be more incorrect.
An All Souls Procession is a really beautiful ritual. In Mexico people cheerfully and adoringly recall beloved family members that have passed. One might compare this to visiting a cemetery to place flowers on a family member’s tomb
Specifics of the celebration will vary by region. But one aspect of the Day of the Dead seems common. Building intricate altars to greet and welcome bygone spirits home.
Vigils are held and families frequently go to cemeteries to place flowers and ornaments on the graves of departed relatives.
Celebrations will often feature traditional foods including pan de muerto or “bread of the dead”. Most often the food item will contain a miniature skeleton. Participants will dress in special Day of the Dead costumes.
Mexico celebrates this special day On November 1st and 2nd. Two locations where this ritual is specially impressive: Mixquic, a small town in Mexico City, and in Janitzio, a charming little island in the state of Michoacan.
Conclusion
Tucson, Arizona is a place with strong Mexican history. So, it’s no surprise, the Day of the Dead is celebrated the first weekend in November each year. The celebration is held on the week end close to November 1st and 2nd each year.
Parades, Day of the Dead costumes and other festivities are all part of Tucson’s Day of the Dead history. For more on the Day of the Dead Festivals in Tucson go to All Souls Procession website.
This celebration is becoming popular in the U.S. Reasons for celebrating the Day of the Dead in the U.S. are unknown. Could it be a fascination with its mysticism or an excuse to party?
Thank you for visiting www.premiertucsonhomes.com! It’s one of the top real estate websites in Tucson. Our clients say that, not us.
Our website provides information on communities and neighborhoods in the greater Tucson area. Want more? Give us a call – 520-940-4541. We are ready to answer your questions and help you get the information you are looking for.
We are a top Realtor duo in Tucson, AZ since 2002. Read our client testimonials. Give us a call. We look forward to making your home buying or selling a home an enjoyable experience for YOU!
Sign UP to receive daily HOME TRACKER UPDATES - OR - Our Monthly NEWSLETTER. And get regular updates on the Real Estate Market and events in Tucson, AZ.
Questions about the Tucson Real Estate Market or Tucson Homes for Sale? Call Us - 520 940 4541 OR complete the - CONTACT FORM - and we will get right back to you!
Historic Spanish Mission Just South Of Tucson Arizona
San Xavier Missionis 9 miles south of Tucson in the Santa Cruz Valley. The full name of the mission is San Xavier del bac Mission.
But its called the San Xavier Mission. The mission is on the Tohono O’odham Indian Reservation.
The San Xavier Mission is over 300 years old. Built when Southern Arizona was part of New Spain. Father Eusebio Francisco Kino, laid the first foundations of the mission. As a Jesuit Missionary Father Kino had a great influence on the inhabitants in the area.
The current church dates back to late 1783. When Franciscan missionary Fr. Jaun Bautista Velderrain began construction. The Tohono O’odham Indians were the principle labor force of that day.
San Xavier Mission became part of Mexico following Mexican independence in 1821. The mission became part of the United States with the Gadsden Purchase of 1854. There is a museum at the mission that presents the history of San Xavier and many artifacts.
The oldest intact European structure in Arizona, the church’s interior is filled with marvelous original statuary and mural paintings. It is a place where visitors can truly step back in time and enter an authentic 18th Century space.
The church retains its original purpose of ministering to the religious needs of its parishioners. San Xavier Mission exhibits the architecture and rich iconography of colonial Mexico missions. And a noted as an example of mission architecture in the United States.
To this day, the San Xavier Mission stands as a symbol of the southwest desert.
The Architecture
Construction used the available materials of the day. Low-fired clay brick, stone and lime mortar. Masonary vaults support the roof that covers the entire structure. This construction method makes it unique among Spanish Colonial buildings in the U.S.
History tells us little about the people who decorated the interior.
Workshops in Queretero, Mexico created the sculptures. Then carried them by donkey to the Mission. Craftsmen created gessoed clothing once the sculpture was in place.
The Baroque architecture style features playful dramatic elements. Theatrical curtain displays, faux doors, and marbling provide a sense of balance.
The Restoration
An earthquake in 1887 knocked down the mortuary wall and damaged parts of the church. Extensive repairs began in 1905, under Bishop Henry Granjon.
More restoration after 1939 when a lightning strike hit the West Tower lantern.
A group of community leaders formed the Patronanto San Xavier in 1978. Their effort was to promote the conservation of Mission San Xavier.
In 1999, a five-year program began. An international team of conservators took on the tasks. They cleaned and repaired the interior painted and sculptured art of Mission.
The Patronato continues exterior preservation work begun in 1999. A team is removing the earlier coating of cement plaster, repairing the brick beneath. and re-finishing the exterior surface with a traditional lime plaster.
But more work remains to guarantee this landmark for future generations.
East Tower Was Never Completed
Because the builders ran out of money. The church did not get finished. You can even see bits of murals penciled – but never painted – on the interior walls.
Why wasn’t it finished? It depends on the story you happen to hear. The legends are great stories, told and retold.
But there is no documentary evidence for any of them. But here they are:
Someone fell off the tower, and work stopped.
If a building remained unfinished, its owners didn’t have to pay tax on it.
A cyclone blew the dome off the east tower, and it was never replaced.
Visit This Wonderful Structure In Tucson, AZ
Known as the “White Dove of the Desert, the mission is open daily. There is no admission fee. If you are in the Tucson area then a visit to the mission sure is worth your while.
As the oldest intact European structure in Arizona, the church’s interior is filled with marvelous original statuary and mural paintings. It is a place where visitors can truly step back in time and enter an authentic 18th Century space.
An extensive restoration is underway at the San Xavier Mission. But visitors are still able to tour the Mission and take in its stunning architecture. But check the schedule for specific hours and mass schedule – Mass Schedule & Events
And if you are ready for a short “roadie” there is another mission not far from Tucson. The Mission San Jose de Tumacacori.
It was established by Father Kino 1691. Although not as grand as San Xavier Mission, it is the oldest mission site in Arizona. Tumacacori, AZ is about 1 hours south of Tucson on I-19 near Tubac. When you go there, Wisdom’s Cafe is a must stop!
For a more complete list of Tucson attractions – HEAD HERE!
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Tohono Chul is a place to embrace the authentic beauty of the Sonoran Desert year-round. This unique place provides an ideal crossroads of nature, art, and culture.
