January 11, 2025
Get ready for an unforgettable day of creativity and culture at Sahuarita’s Art on the Lake Festival, returning to the picturesque Sahuarita Lake Park for its third year. This year’s event promises to be bigger and more immersive than ever, transforming the park into a vibrant hub of art, music, and interactive experiences.
Explore a gallery of local artwork for sale, with talented artisans showcasing everything from paintings and sculptures to handcrafted jewelry. Watch in awe as the park comes alive with captivating street painting, live performance art, and new, expanded interactive art activities. One of the highlights this year is the stunning floating art installation on the lake, which has been expanded to feature even more breathtaking and innovative pieces, creating a mesmerizing scene as art meets nature.
The festival also showcases a variety of cultural performances that will transport you through diverse artistic traditions. Feel the energy and excitement as a colorful Chinese lion dance parades through the park, followed by the uplifting rhythms of mariachi music and the vibrant movements of folklórico dancers. These performances add a rich cultural tapestry to the event, making it a truly global celebration of the arts.
As you explore, participate in the community chalk mural competition, where artists of all ages can leave their mark on this dynamic festival. And don't forget to enjoy the lively atmosphere, complete with food trucks offering delicious bites while live music fills the air, creating the perfect backdrop for a day of artistic discovery.
With only 25 exclusive artisan booths set up along the scenic pathways, Sahuarita Art on the Lake Festival offers an intimate connection to the artists and their work. Whether you're discovering a new favorite piece, getting hands-on with art, or simply soaking in the cultural performances, this festival is an experience you won’t want to miss.
By attending, you’ll be supporting local artisans and businesses, fostering a strong sense of community, and contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of Sahuarita. Come for the art, stay for the experience, and leave with memories that will inspire long after the festival ends.
Explore a gallery of local artwork for sale, with talented artisans showcasing everything from paintings and sculptures to handcrafted jewelry. Watch in awe as the park comes alive with captivating street painting, live performance art, and new, expanded interactive art activities. One of the highlights this year is the stunning floating art installation on the lake, which has been expanded to feature even more breathtaking and innovative pieces, creating a mesmerizing scene as art meets nature.
The festival also showcases a variety of cultural performances that will transport you through diverse artistic traditions. Feel the energy and excitement as a colorful Chinese lion dance parades through the park, followed by the uplifting rhythms of mariachi music and the vibrant movements of folklórico dancers. These performances add a rich cultural tapestry to the event, making it a truly global celebration of the arts.
As you explore, participate in the community chalk mural competition, where artists of all ages can leave their mark on this dynamic festival. And don't forget to enjoy the lively atmosphere, complete with food trucks offering delicious bites while live music fills the air, creating the perfect backdrop for a day of artistic discovery.
With only 25 exclusive artisan booths set up along the scenic pathways, Sahuarita Art on the Lake Festival offers an intimate connection to the artists and their work. Whether you're discovering a new favorite piece, getting hands-on with art, or simply soaking in the cultural performances, this festival is an experience you won’t want to miss.
By attending, you’ll be supporting local artisans and businesses, fostering a strong sense of community, and contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of Sahuarita. Come for the art, stay for the experience, and leave with memories that will inspire long after the festival ends.
EVENT TIMES10AM-4PM
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EVENT LOCATIONSahuarita Lake Park
15466 S Rancho Sahuarita Blvd, Sahuarita, AZ 85629 |
ADMISSIONFree Admission
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PARTNERS
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LOCATION
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Sahuarita Lake Park
15466 S Rancho Sahuarita Blvd, Sahuarita, AZ 85629 The Town of Sahuarita is proud to own and operate Sahuarita Lake Park. Open to the public, this unique destination has beautiful scenery, public art, a walking path and fishing (Arizona Game & Fish regularly stocks the lake with several species of fish!). The Lakeside Live Concert Series is one of the fun, free events hosted here.
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GET INVOLVED
GALLERY
FEATURED PERFORMANCES
AND ART EXPERIENCES
LIVE PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
2025 MAINSTAGE PERFORMANCES
10 AM | Compañía de Danza Folklórica Arizona (Mexican Folk Dance)
11 AM | King Doumbya Drumming and Dance (African Drumming and Dance Performance)
12 PM | cVc School of Dance (Bollywood Dance and Sitar Performance)
12:30 PM | Tucson Chinese Cultural Center Lion Dance (Chinese Folk Dance)
12:55 PM | Special Performance by Bo Shimmin (Operatic Vocalist)
1 PM | Siva Maia Polynesian Dancers (Polynesian Dance)
2 PM | Grupo Tradiciones (Latin Music Performance)
3 PM | Halau Hula O Ualanai and Her Menehune Dancers (Hawaiian Dance)
2025 POP-UP PERFORMANCES
11 AM - 2 PM | Vessel Atmospheric Performance (FLORA)
11 AM - 2 PM | Zach the Juggler
11 AM - 3 PM | Cirque Collective Acrobatic Performance
10 AM - 4 PM | Sonoran Sound Source - Community Experience at the Lake Gazebo
11 AM, 1 PM, & 3 PM | Whimsical World Books - Storytelling Sessions in KidsZone
10 AM | Compañía de Danza Folklórica Arizona (Mexican Folk Dance)
11 AM | King Doumbya Drumming and Dance (African Drumming and Dance Performance)
12 PM | cVc School of Dance (Bollywood Dance and Sitar Performance)
12:30 PM | Tucson Chinese Cultural Center Lion Dance (Chinese Folk Dance)
12:55 PM | Special Performance by Bo Shimmin (Operatic Vocalist)
1 PM | Siva Maia Polynesian Dancers (Polynesian Dance)
2 PM | Grupo Tradiciones (Latin Music Performance)
3 PM | Halau Hula O Ualanai and Her Menehune Dancers (Hawaiian Dance)
2025 POP-UP PERFORMANCES
11 AM - 2 PM | Vessel Atmospheric Performance (FLORA)
11 AM - 2 PM | Zach the Juggler
11 AM - 3 PM | Cirque Collective Acrobatic Performance
10 AM - 4 PM | Sonoran Sound Source - Community Experience at the Lake Gazebo
11 AM, 1 PM, & 3 PM | Whimsical World Books - Storytelling Sessions in KidsZone
PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS
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Compañía de Danza Folklórica Arizona
Mexican Folk Dance Performing 10 AM Compañía de Danza Folklórica Arizona is a non-profit dance organization based out of Tucson, Arizona, which was founded in 2013 by Chantal Danay Ralls. What started as a small group of fifteen dancers rapidly evolved into fifty dancers by the end of the first year. Today the company is composed of six different levels (ranging from the age of four years old to college age students) and close to 150 dancers. Though young, CDFA has already had many great opportunities such as touring and performing with Grammy Award winning Mariachi Los Camperos and performing throughout the states of Arizona, California, and New Mexico. |
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King-Doumbya Drumming and Dance
African Drumming and Dance Performance Performing 11 AM Lassina Doumbya was born and raised in Ivory Coast, West Africa. Drumming and the healing power of joy became his life passion. Yarrow King has studied, taught, choreographed and performed throughout the western United States, Cuba, the Caribbean, and Brazil. Together, Yarrow and Lassina formed King-Doumbya Community Drumming and Dance; sharing their passion for the music and dance of Africa and the African Diaspora. |
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cVc School of Dance
Bollywood Dance and Sitar Performance Performing 12 PM The cVc School of Dance offers kids and adults alike the opportunity to learn Bollywood dances. Bollywood Dance mixes various international dance forms with South Asian regional and classical styles. It’s a fun and exciting way to get moving and experience South Asia! It’s a celebration of culture, rhythm, and self-expression. |
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Tucson Chinese Cultural Center Lion Dance
Chinese Folk Dance Performing 12:30 PM The TCCC hosts a non-profit troupe dedicated to preserving and learning the art of the Chinese Lion Dance. They teach kids and adults all aspects of the Lion Dance, from the basics of the dance, to learning routines and playing musical instruments. During the course of the year, members also have the chance to perform the dance! |
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Bo Shimmin
Operatic Vocalist Performing 12:55 PM Residing in Tucson, Bo is celebrated for his expressive vocal range and his captivating interpretations of new music and art song repertoire. With degrees from Arizona State University, the University of Michigan, and DePauw University, Bo has performed internationally, including his Italian recital debut in Florence, and has appeared in operatic roles across the United States. A two-time Fulbright grantee and sought-after voice teacher, he brings a wealth of talent and experience to our creative space. Bo is the January 2025 artist-in-residence at SAACA's CATALYST Creative Collective in the Tucson Mall. |
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Siva Maia Polynesian Dancers
Polynesian Dance Performing 1 PM Siva Maia started dancing, together, in May 2011 as part of the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base Asian Pacific American Heritage Month celebration. We have a diverse group of men, women and children. We’ve had active duty members, retired military, family members, military brats and members in the community. Our dancers come from Hawaii, Samoa, Guam, Philippines, Japan and mainland USA. |
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Grupo Tradiciones
Latin Musical Performance Performing 2 PM In 2010, Grupo Tradiciones, a 7-piece ensemble exploring Latin America's diverse landscapes was born. Beyond a band, they delve into the heart of the diverse cultures of Latin America—from Mexico's north to Argentina's enchanting Patagonia, including instruments like the haunting quena, the vibrant charango, the soul-stirring pan pipes, and the rhythmic bombo legüero. As ambassadors of Latin American musical heritage, they transport audiences to Peru, Mexico, Bolivia, Colombia, to name a few. |
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Halau Hula O Ualanai and Her Menehune Dancers
Hawaiian Dance Performing 3 PM Halau Hula O Ualani is a Polynesian Group that has been studying and performing in Tucson since 1993. The group first performed under the direction of Ernie Menehune Eraina Kannette and the Polynesian Review. When Menehune passed, Kumu Ualani formed her own school, still carrying her mentor’s name, The Menehune Dancers. She is now assisted by her daughter Alyce, known as Alaka’i Kanani. This diverse group of hula dancers, both wahine (women) and kane (men), has dedicated their lives to learning hula. Some have been with the group since 1993, others join new every year. |
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VESSEL Atmospheric Performance
Performing 11 AM - 2 PM Experience the captivating artistry FLORA by Vessel a vibrant new performance art commission inspired by the beauty of flowers. Led by visionary Artistic Director Rachel Bowditch, the production features four dazzling costumes and headdresses brought to life in a stunning palette of light yellow, lilac, teal, and crimson. This atmospheric masterpiece invites audiences to immerse themselves in an enchanting world of color, creativity, and nature’s splendor. |
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Zach the Juggler
Performing 11 AM - 2 PM Juggler Zach Shepard will be performing throughout the festival. He keeps his act mobile,moving while performing and interacting with crowds. |
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Cirque Collective
Performing 11 AM - 3 PM The Cirque Collective will be bringing their acclaimed acrobatic performances to this year's Art on the Lake Festival in strolling pop-ups throughout the festival grounds. |
Immersive Art Experiences
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COMMUNITY CHALK ART COMPETITION
Community members are encouraged to create their own chalk art inspired by the day’s festivities! Participants can sign up at the event to create their own signature mural onsite. Chalk and supplies will be provided onsite. Three community winners will be chosen at 3:30 PM in each of the following categories and recognized on social media and receive a $100 gift card.
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SONORAN SOUND SOURCE
Community Music and Sound Experience at the Lake Gazebo from 10 AM - 4 PM Discover the innovative world of sound at the Sonoran Sound Source experience, hosted at the Lake Gazebo. This unique audio installation invites you to explore interactive, modular synthesizers and tactile musical instruments crafted from art. Join a vibrant community jam session led by electronic music visionaries. Perfect for all ages, it’s a hands-on celebration of creativity, music, and innovation like no other! |
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PLEIN AIR PAINTING EXPERIENCE
Live Painters from Santa Rita Art League:
Discover the beauty of the great outdoors through our Plein Air Painting Experience in collaboration with the Santa Rita Art League. This experiential art component invites participants to meet the artists as they capture the stunning landscapes of Southern Arizona, blending creativity and nature in a truly inspiring setting. |
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INTERACTIVE COMMUNITY MURAL PAINTING
Inspired by his recently completed mural in Sahuarita at Wrightson Ridge Park, muralist Jesse Perry presents an interactive "COMMUNITY" experience where festival attendees will have their chance to leave their mark on a mural! |
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YOUTH ARTS EXPERIENCES
The Comicbook Mobile A personalized kids show with a human cartoon character LIVE! Frank Powers teaches the simple shapes hidden in cartooning as well as the sequence of a good panel to panel stories for Comic Books and Comic Strips! Sparkled Wings Face Painting |
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AZPM COMMUNITY LISTENING STATION
Join Arizona Public Media reporters for bilingual listening sessions, in collaboration with the Consulate of Mexico. Enjoy free coffee and pastries while sharing your thoughts on the upcoming presidential inauguration and other important topics that matter to you, your friends, and your family. |
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Whimsical World Books by Sherri Fink and Derek Taylor Kent
Storytelling in the KidsZone at 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM Whimsical World is an empowering brand created by #1 best-selling authors and inspirational speakers, Sheri Fink and Derek Taylor Kent. Whimsical World’s mission is to inspire, delight, and educate children of all ages while planting seeds of self-esteem and high achievement. We aim to make positive change through the power of whimsy and imagination. Our catalog of award-winning, fun-to-read children’s books suit the needs of every child and parent. Themes include anti-bullying, being brave, asking for help, adapting to change, being authentic, and being a true friend. Our books expand children’s imaginations with whimsy and wonder from the depths of the ocean to the heights of the galaxy! |
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FOOD VENDORS
- BlackJack Citrus Infusions - Lemonade
- Eatgypt - Egyptian & Vegetarian Cuisine
- Col. Mustard and Mr. Ice Guy - Chicago style bratwurst and Italian Ice
- Good Eats Catering - American Fare
- Lovin' Spoonfuls Vegan Restaurant - Vegetarian Fusion
- Sweets Cakes & Treats - Baked Goods
- Cafe Santa Rosa Bar and Banquet - Tucson's Best Indian Fry
- Pupuseria Rositas - Salvadorian pupusas