DIWALI FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
In collaboration with Arizona Center
October 3, 2025 | 6-9 p.m.
The Herberger Theater Center and the Arizona Center came together to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights from India. Guests experienced cultural performances, live music, dance, and hands‑on activities for all ages. They enjoyed delicious traditional foods, got festive with henna and face painting, and explored the rich traditions of Diwali through interactive craft stations and cultural storytelling. Visitors learned the meaning behind diyas (lamps) and rangoli art, and took part in welcoming the season of renewal and joy.
NOCHE DE OFRENDAS
A Día de los Muertos Celebration
November 7, 2025 | 6-9 p.m.
CALAVERAS CANTANTES Y CALACAS BAILANTES burst to life as a colorful celebration of remembrance and community. Audiences immersed themselves in a dazzling evening of singing skulls, dancing skeletons, music, dance, poetry, art, and pure VIDA—a joyful feast for the senses. The night featured the award‑winning, interdisciplinary sounds of Peter Torsiello, Vincenzo Torsiello, and Liliana de León of FLORYPIEDRA, blending tradition and innovation in a vibrant showcase.
Featured non‑profit: Phoenix Conservatory of Music
SANTA’S COUNTRY JAMBOREE
December 5, 2025 | 6-9 p.m.
The Holiday season was celebrated at First Friday Live: Santa’s Country Jamboree—an upbeat, family‑friendly evening in downtown. Guests enjoyed live country music from the Copa County Band, a sparkling solo skating performance by Nancy Pluta from Party on Ice, holiday shopping with local vendors, and a cheerful visit with Santa. Families gathered for cozy holiday fun with games, crafts, and sweet treats like hot cocoa and cider under twinkling lights. Visitors stopped by the information tables to learn about the upcoming Mariachi Festival in March and the featured non‑profit partner, Treasures 4 Teachers. It was a wonderful night of festive community celebration.
NEON NEW YEAR
January 2, 2026 | 6-9 p.m.
First Friday kicked off 2026 on the Pavilion with a vibrant, family‑friendly 80s‑inspired celebration featuring neon lights and energetic live entertainment. Guests danced to 80s hits from Take Cover!, enjoyed dynamic performances by Tap 24.7, and were dazzled by a skating performance from Nancy Pluta. Attendees browsed and shopped from local vendors and many brought non‑perishable items to support St. Mary’s Food Bank. It was a night to dress up, have fun, and dance our way into the New Year together.
A NIGHT IN JAPAN
February 6, 2026 | 6-9 p.m.
The evening celebrated the art, honor, and spirit of Japanese culture with an unforgettable night where tradition met modern excitement. Guests experienced live taiko drumming by Fushicho Daiko, martial arts demonstrations from the Arizona Japan Karate Association, dance performances by Tucson’s Suzuyuki Kai, and learned about the featured non‑profit, the Japanese Friendship Garden. Attendees enjoyed hands‑on activities including origami and watercolor painting inspired by cherry blossoms. Families came together for an evening of culture, creativity, and community, and many supported St. Mary’s Food Bank by bringing non‑perishable food items.
FIRST FRIDAY FIESTA
March 6, 2026 | 6-9 p.m.
First Friday Fiesta kicked off the 3rd Annual Mariachi & Folklórico Festival with a vibrant evening of live music from De Cajón and Mariachi Nueva Fusion. Guests experienced folklórico dance by Tradiciones Dance Company and Primavera Folklorico, along with local vendors, a food truck, and family‑friendly fun. It was a night full of cultura, música, and comunidad that attendees were thrilled to be part of.
A NIGHT OF JAZZ
April 3, 2026 | 6-9 p.m.
A Night of Jazz brought Young Sounds of Arizona to the outdoor Plaza Stage for the Herberger Theater Center’s First Friday concert series with a dynamic program that showcased both the history and the future of jazz. Audiences enjoyed timeless classics from pioneers like Louis Armstrong, hard‑bop legends such as Art Blakey, and the swinging big‑band sounds of Buddy Rich and Count Basie, along with original works and fresh arrangements by world‑renowned artists. Guests spent the evening under the stars immersed in great music, creativity, and community.
A NIGHT OF SOULFUL EXPRESSION
May 1, 2026 | 6-9 p.m.
A Night of Soulful Expression brought vocalist Lisa THEE’ Oracle Hightower and Friends to the Herberger Theater Center’s final First Friday concert of the season for an evening dedicated to soulful music. The night also featured a special musical showcase by self‑taught chromatic harmonica musician Julian Davis. Guests expressed themselves and connected with the community through art, song, and music.
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