Signature Events

Every September

The International Sonoran Desert Alliance hosts students from the Tohono O’odham Nation and the state of Sonora, Mexico for a tri-national gathering in celebration of the shared values and shared ecology of the Sonoran Desert. Youth from neighboring communities come together to play music, march in parade, dance and celebrate relationships that transcend political, cultural and linguistic boundaries.

October-March

There is no better way to experience the creative community of Ajo than to stop by the Artisans Mercado in the Plaza. With artists, makers and creatives from all over the region, you can find everything from handmade javelina pillows to delicious baked goods. Markets are held every Saturday 9am to noon October-March and every 2nd Saturday of the month (9am to noon) April - September. The Artisans Mercado is independently organized by a group of local creatives in collaboration with Art Under the Arches Gallery & Gifts.

Biennial Springs

Each Spring of odd numbered years, Ajo hosts a series of arts activations in the town center. The centerpiece of the weekend is a massive co-creative mural installation called the Ajo Street Art Happening. During this event, local, regional and international muralists adopt a section of previously blighted space to transform with a patchwork of individual and collaborative works. With a performance group in residence, gallery openings and a critical mass of creative energy, Ajo Arts Weekend is a transformative experience you don’t want to miss.

Every October

Have you ever imagined what it would be like to reconnect with friends from high school and basically take over your hometown for a weekend? For a committed cohort of Ajo High School graduates, this dream becomes a reality every October. Graduates descend upon Ajo to revisit their old stomping grounds and celebrate together. Didn’t graduate from Ajo High School? No worries! With a festival, car show, and a blowout dance party, there is plenty to keep everyone entertained.

Christmas Eve

Ajo has the sweetest and most unique small town Christmas celebration around. From the single firework announcing Santa’s arrival in the cupola of the Curley School, to the sleigh ride to the Plaza and the culminating visit to Santa’s workshop, this is truly a Magical Night.

Every April

Ajo musicians--both current and past--reunite in the Plaza to play together and raise money for a good cause. Not only can you catch some excellent music, but you can also raise money for music education at the local school.

Join the fun throughout Ajo, Arizona for an unforgettable weekend of music, delicious food, and community fun. Enjoy live performances, delectable meals, and a lively bonfire jam session under the starry sky. Tickets required for food; come join the celebration!

Organized by representatives from the Tohono O’odham Nation, Mexico and the United States, this biennial symposium offers presentations and dialogue about the dynamics of natural and cultural ecology, environmental challenges, and their relationships to peoples--past and present--living in the Sonoran Desert.

Hosted annually at the Ajo Community Golf Course every February, enjoy a weekend of fun. Book your camping spot early! The Arizona Old Time Fiddlers Association, a non-profit, aims to preserve and promote old-time fiddling, encourage musical talent, and provide entertainment and charitable services to the community.

June - July - August / Curley Auditorium

Escape the Heat Marketplace offers a cool indoor experience at the historic Curley School Auditorium. Shop local handmade goods, savor delicious food, and groove to live music by local musicians. Don't miss out on this summer fun!