Each weekend, usually September through June, visitors are welcome to observe and converse with local demonstrators of historical crafts.  Tortilla making, Tohono O'odham basketry, paper flowers and Mexican pottery are among the crafts demonstrated.  Copies of schedules are available at the Visitor Center or mailed upon request.

Please note that occasionally our demonstrators are unable to arrive on the scheduled day.  The demonstration season of September through June may also vary, depending on weather and visitation.  If you are planning to observe a specific artisan, please call on that day to confirm the schedule.
 
 

The celebration of All Soul's Day, or El Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead), as it is sometimes called in the borderlands of southern Arizona and northern Sonora has its roots in the traditions and customs of pre-Hispanic natives, of mission era Jesuit and Franciscan teachings, of Spanish colonists and Mexican settlers.

Here in the Pimeria Alta (Land of the Upper Pimas), as it was known in Father Pfefferkorn's time, people have not forgotten the celebration for los muertos.  Families gather in the cemetery to share a special day with each other and with loved ones who have died.  At Tumacácori it is also a time for remembrance of the faithful dead who once lived and labored here.
 

Historic High Mass

Each fall during "Anza Days" at the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, visitors to Tumacácori are invited to attend a Historic High Mass or Misa Mayor similar to those celebrated in the 17th and 18th centuries.  Performed in traditional costumes, all participants are required to dress in Spanish or Native American attire.  A local priest, a choir and traditional music brings the celebration to life.  Although admission is free, attendance is limited and advance reservations are required.  Reservations can be made by calling (520) 398-2341 or by writing to:
 

During the winter season, Rangers and Docents present programs for the visitors and provide guided tours of the mission church and grounds.  A schedule is posted in the Visitor Center.  Tours for large groups should be arranged in advance.

Tumacácori National Historical Park also has special tours of its two sister missions, Guevavi and Calabazas.  Although part of the Tumacácori National Historical Park, these two mission sites are open to the public by special arrangement only.  Tour schedules can be found on the Tumacacori NHP home page.  Some water will be available in the van, but we encourage you to bring your own.  The tour involves hiking several hundred yards on moderately improved trails with no shade, so wear appropriate clothing and footwear.  There are no facilities available at either site, but we can stop at a county park for a bathroom break.