Dec 15-21 Festivus!

The flurry of events and activities is lessening a bit as most people begin to focus on family events, travel and last minute shopping. But, there is still plenty to do. Yes, the weather is a little rocky right now but stick around, it'll change.

Here's the premier event of the week-Festivus for the Rest of Us at the Loft. You can take part in all the important events made famous by Frank Costanza. "At the Festivus dinner, you gather your family around and tell them all the ways they have disappointed you over the past year."

If you like Flamenco, don't miss the Mercado San Augustin on Thursday. Adair Landborn and The Peña Flamenca de Tucson will perform a flamenco holiday show on Thursday December 18th at 4pm. I took flamenco lessons from Adair and she is an amazing talent. The performance kicks off the Las Posadas Party at 6pm, an important traditional event, celebrating “Las Posadas” with songs, whistles, candles and a piñata.

The Mercado San Agustín is Tucson’s first public open-air market (part of the Rio Nuevo project) and is located at 100 S. Avenida del Convento (West Congress St., west of I-10). The Holiday Bazaar runs Dec. 12-24 and is open to the public from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Tucson Boys Choir, the Arizona Jazz Academy, various local Salsa and Tejano bands will perform.

Friday 12/19 you can take a night walk at Saguaro-East. There are many interesting things to see at night. The moon will be in the waning Gibbous phase, so should provide some light. You must call to reserve a spot on the walk. 733-5153 for info.

Need something fun to do for a Girls Afternoon Out? How about Holiday Tea at Ventana Canyon? It's a fabulous resort and during the holidays it's beautifully decorated. So enjoy the decadence of a 4 course tea fit for a queen! Ventana not quite your cuppa? Try Chantilly Tea Room for your special afternoon or the Tea Room at Tohono Chul Park. As I've said before, Tohono Chul is one of my favorite places in Tucson and there are lots of activities going on all the time including a Hawk Happening Dec. 17. Check the calendar here.

Looking for an Italian Christmas meal like Mama used to make? Roma Imports is the place. My mouth is watering just reading the menu, pork loin, gnocci, fennel and brussel sprouts. Call early!

And don't forget, Solstice is December 21, the longest day of the year. The sun will be returning.
Here Comes the Sun
Little darling
It's been a long, cold, lonely winter
Little darling
It seems like years since it's been here

Here comes the sun
Here comes the sun,
and I say
It's alright