Party like it's 1934 at Dillinger Days
Tucson event includes a speakeasy and reenactment of the capture of "Public Enemy No.1."
In 1934, John Dillinger — who was considered America’s most notorious outlaw — was captured by members of Tucson law enforcement.
This weekend, history buffs, aficionados of the early 1900s and many others will gather at the Hotel Congress in Tucson to watch the reenactment of story of the criminal known as “Public Enemy No. 1.”
Todd Hanley, general manager of the Hotel Congress, said the two-day Dillinger Days honors the capturing of Dillinger and includes plenty of other activities.
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The event starts with the Dillinger Speakeasy on Friday night. Attendees will spend the evening celebrating the 1930s with whiskey sampling, food, entertainment, a gun show and cigars.
During the Speakeasy, Hotel Congress will unveil Del Bac 1919, a private-label whiskey that commemorates the hotel’s upcoming 100th birthday.
Saturday is devoted to reenactments of Dillinger’s capture, as well as lots of other family-friendly activities, Hanley said.
“The all-day event on Saturday is a fun opportunity to learn about Tucson history,” Hanley said, adding that the reenactments are at 11 a.m., 1:15 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., and that actors from Tucson play the various roles.
“Plus there are many family activities including vintage cars and vendors,” Hanley said.
Saturday’s events also include an exhibit of historical artifacts, walking tours of downtown, arts and crafts, historical lectures and more.
Screenings of the 2009 film “Public Enemies” will also be going on over the weekend. People can see the movie for just a quarter.
Hanley said he expects more than 5,000 people to attend Dillinger Days.
“The mix of people is amazing, ranging from all ages and backgrounds,” he said.
Dillinger Days
When: Jan. 20-21. The Dillinger Speakeasy is 7-10 p.m. Friday and Dillinger Days is 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Screenings of the movie “Public Enemies” will be throughout the weekend; check website for times.
Where: Speakeasy and Dillinger Days are at Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St., Tucson. Movie screenings are at The Screening Room, 127 E. Congress St.
Admission: Speakeasy tickets are $30; age 21 and older only. Admission to Dillinger Days is free, the movie screening is 25 cents.
Details: 520-622-8848, hotelcongress.com/events/january.