Oro Valley Festival of the Arts: An Annual Christmas Tradition

Courtesy of alans1948 via Flickr

Life is about more than just business, moving from point A to point B, bed to work, then back again. We get things done, complete tasks, and power through. Most of us don’t create. We don’t take time to build anything or say something meaningful. We’re stuck in a neverending race that we couldn’t possibly finish–always moving forward, taking only a few moments to rest before we’re back at it again.

But there are those who live differently. They look around, see the world, and they strive to bring out the joy within it–allowing us to see our everyday environment in a completely different manner.

We should celebrate those who repurpose life, stop, smell the cactus blossoms, and push to capture the beauty in day-to-day living, using whatever tools they have available–the artists. In a way, we need them. They color things, give us something to strive towards, something to admire. Without art and the radical artists who create it, where would we be?

Unfortunately, society doesn’t appreciate artists. They have to find precious moments, neglecting everything else, just to take a step back and create their masterpieces. It’s not easy to paint or craft when you have children to support, a mortgage to pay, and a long list of things to do. There’s no money in it, and very little reward aside from a few head nods and smiles from those who enjoy their work.

Communities have found ways to come together to support them. There are collectives where they can stay, giving them the free time they need to create. There’s galleries where they can sell their crafts. But as a whole, they aren’t valued or paid. That’s why cities hold art fairs. We give them a chance to show off, hawk their treasures and trinkets, and connect with the public.

It’s a valuable experience, and it’s an amazing tradition. It keeps them coming back year after year, and it allows us to dive into other cultures–learn about the people living next door–their food, their music, their paintings, their language–all things that we can honor and appreciate.

The Oro Valley Festival of the Arts was built so the community could meet the creators, artists, and artisans that drive the Tucson-area arts scene.

Come get in the holiday spirit with food vendors serving local dishes–frybread, tacos, and various Mexican street foods–performances by students and Tucsonan musicians, and activities geared for all ages.

Stay for the tree lighting and meet Santa. Have a great meal or simply come walk around, explore the various wares from vendors, get acquainted with area businesses, and maybe try out some games. It’s an exciting time, a chance to get out of the house, and a quintessential piece of what it means to be a part of the Oro Valley community.

The festival lasts for two days, typically December 3-4, and it’s designed to appeal to everyone ages 2-80. It’s known to rival the 4th Avenue Street Fair in size, so expect a crowd, but don’t expect to be sandwiched in. It’s a safe and casual family-friendly environment.