Desert Magic Returns to Tohono Chul

Did you know that over 80% of the Sonoran Desert's native plants are edible or medicinal? Returning to Tohono Chul on Saturday, August 29 from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m., the second annual Desert Magic brings together some of Tucson's most decorated chefs and a curated roster of local wellness practitioners. Wander through the gardens, enjoy dishes that celebrate desert ingredients, and experience a variety of healing experiences - all included in your ticket. On the food side, the lineup includes José Contreras of Amelia's Mexican Kitchen, a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist who cooked at the James Beard Foundation this month; Devon Sanner of S + P Creative, founder of the Gastronomic Union of Tucson; Obie Hindman representing the Tucson City of Gastronomy will be cooking with Tucker Hartford from Sol Pueblo Provisions; and Ken Foy, a two-time Tucson Iron Chef winner. They're joined by Pablo Valencia of Scratching the Plate, Gracie Soto of Anita's Street Market, David Marks of Tohono Chul Garden Bistro, David Solorzano of Seaview & Main Mobile Oyster Bar, Christian Padilla of Copper Ash Culinary, and Jackson Dennis from BATA. Each will serve a 3–4 oz plate drawn from ingredients native to the Sonoran Desert — chiltepin, mesquite, prickly pear, native corn, squash, and more. On the wellness side, practitioners offer short experiences at their own stations throughout the garden: acupuncture, sound healing, reflexology, breathwork, herbal cleansing, clairvoyant readings, cacao ceremony, evolutionary astrology, aura photography, and more. Several practitioners work directly with desert plants — one offers a group spiritual bath sprinkled with water infused with the essence of local herbs. Ambient music runs through the evening from Tucson Modern Jazz Quartet, and DJ’s Rosa Dragona and LaDev. All food and wellness experiences are included in the ticket price. A few wellness practitioners will be offering additional 1:1 sessions during the evening for an extra fee. Desert Magic is presented by Tucson Foodie, in conjunction with wellness community SALUS. As Southern Arizona’s premier culinary media and community platform since 2009, Tucson Foodie connects locals with the region's vibrant food scene through award-winning coverage, curated guides, exclusive member experiences, and marquee events. "Food and wellness are deeply connected," said Shane Reiser, owner and publisher of Tucson Foodie. "Desert Magic is a special night that celebrates both in a beautiful and relaxing environment while showcasing some of the best chefs and healers that Tucson has to offer. It’s one of my favorite events that we do!” Attendance is capped to keep the gardens walkable. Tier 2 tickets are available now for $68, with last-call tickets at $75 starting on 8/22. Tickets and the full lineup are at tucsonfoodie.com/desert-magic.

Event Links

Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3799519-0

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