TUBAC, A.Z. — October 1, 2025 — On October 23, 1775, Captain Juan Bautista de Anza led more than 200 settlers from Tubac Presidio on a nearly 1,000-mile, five-month journey that shaped Arizona, California and the Western United States.

 

Two and a half centuries later, Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and Museum invites the public to commemorate this historic expedition with three days of events from Thursday, October 23 through Saturday, October 25, 2025. Admission to the park will be free.

 

Highlights include:

• October 23: Opening blessing ceremony at St. Ann’s Church, coordinated by The Anza Society.

• October 23 & 25: Historic reenactment rides by the Anza Trail Color Guard.

• October 24: Evening event for Presidio members.

• October 25: Cultural festival with music, demonstrations, games, food trucks and more.

 

“250 years later, this commemoration is an opportunity to honor the diverse cultures and histories that continue to thrive along the Anza Trail,” said Kendyll Collins, Director of the Tubac Presidio. “We’re proud to partner with Arizona State Parks and Trails to remove the financial barrier of visitation and welcome everyone to discover the Southwest’s rich history.”

 

After visiting the park, visitors can enjoy Tubac’s eclectic art galleries, boutique shops and restaurants, making the town an ideal destination for a full day’s outing. For more information, park itinerary and links to partner programs and events happening along the trail, visit tubacpresidio.org/anza250

 

For all media inquiries, contact Kendyll Collins at (520) 398-2252 or director@tubacpresidio.org

 

About the Friends of the Tubac Presidio The Friends of the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and Museum, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2013, partners with Arizona State Parks and Trails to preserve and share the history of the Tubac Presidio and the diverse cultures of southern Arizona. The 11 acre park features exhibits spanning 2,000 years of history, an art gallery and three historic structures on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

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