LOCATIONNAU Ardrey AuditoriumEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Exhibit, Middle School, Teenagers

The student chapter of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) at Northern Arizona University is a student club that runs a number of projects including the Formula SAE Student competition and the Baja SAE competition. We have been competing in the Baja competition for a few decades now and competing in the Formula competition since 2024. Students will be showcasing last year's Baja and Formula vehicles before/during the keynote speaker and answering questions to interested attendees. https://www.fsaeonline.com/https://www.bajasae.net/

Sep 25

LOCATIONNAU Ardrey AuditoriumEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Performance, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Vroom, vroom, vroom! An artistic adaptation of the Keynote Address that explores cars and transportation through movement, music, and inventive choreography. Inspired by the ways we travel, dancers transform the stage into a playful landscape of motion, momentum, and connection. Reservations Required.

Sep 25

LOCATIONNAU Ardrey AuditoriumEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Lecture/Presentation, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

In-person and live stream options. Go to the bottom of the description for live stream instructions.

Ticket reservations have closed. Walk-ins are welcome provided that seats are available. 200 seats are available as of 3 PM.

NAU Community Music and Dance Academy will perform a ballet at 6:30 PM, prior to the Keynote Presentation which starts at 7 PM. Reservations are required.
Parking: Free parking is located in the surface lot P13 behind Ardrey Auditorium.
The 2026 W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation: Speed, Science & Human Ingenuity.
Go behind the scenes of Formula 1 with technology leader Kirk Dunsavage as he explores how science, engineering, data, and human curiosity drive innovation. From 220+ mph race cars to the lessons of Route 66, discover how creativity, resilience, and teamwork transform bold ideas into reality.
Dunsavage spent 27 years at Intel Corporation in technical and leadership roles, followed by two years with the Williams Formula 1 Racing Team as Senior Technology Manager and Head of Software Development. He currently serves as Chief Technology Officer at PRC-Saltillo, where he leads efforts to develop technologies that empower individuals with speech and language impairments to communicate and thrive.
Vroom, Vroom, Vroom! The NAU Community Dance Academy will perform a ballet inspired by the keynote address. An artistic adaptation of that explores cars and transportation through movement, music, and inventive choreography. Inspired by the ways we travel, dancers transform the stage into a playful landscape of motion, momentum, and connection.
In case you cannot make it in person, follow the stream link for the Keynote Presentation (ballet is not streamed).

Live Stream Options:
1) From app, click stream and follow buttons to YouTube livestream.
2) From web, paste this address (https://youtube.com/live/tmIjWIqZypQ) in browser or search in YouTube for '2026 flagstaff festival of science Kirk Dunsavage' or go to our YouTube page (https://www.youtube.com/@FlagstaffFestivalofScience)

Sep 25

LOCATIONThe Barry Lutz Telescope at NAUEVENT TYPEOpen House, Teenagers, Adults

Open House Viewing at the 20" Barry Lutz Telescope: Explore the wonders of the night sky at NAU's Campus Observatory.

Sep 25

EVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities

Enjoy the recorded presentations on our YouTube channel during the Festival! Videos will be streamable starting 9/25 at 9 AM.

Bedtime Stories 2026 brings together five engaging books that celebrate curiosity, culture, and nature. In Panda Report by Michael Hale, a girl brings a live panda to school for a class assignment, only to discover that things can go hilariously wrong when she makes a mistake at the end of her report. Cactus Queen by Lori Alexander, tells the inspiring true story of Minerva Hoyt, an artist, activist, and environmentalist whose determination helped protect the Mojave Desert and create beloved Joshua Tree National Park. Celebrate My Hopi Corn, I’ qaaqa’öy tsuyakiwta, by Anita Poleahla, teaches children that Qaa’ö, the dry husked ear of corn represents life, while supporting the revitalization of the Hopi language through meaningful, culturally rooted material. In The Lucky Hat, by Matthew Henry Hall, young Michael Feather loses the hand-stitched hat his grandmother made for him while hiking in the Grand Canyon and as he searches for it, he discovers the beauty of nature, a lifelong friendship, and the love and family that make him truly lucky. In A Search for Safe Passage, by Frances Figart, and read by Rose Houk, the story follows Bear, Deer, Hawk, and other animals as they search for safe ways to cross human highways and find new homes, friends, and mates.

Together, these stories offer children and families a collection of adventures that inspire wonder, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship.

Sep 26

EVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Teenagers

This event has been canceled. High Country Humane is closing its Butler campus before the festival begins and can no longer host the event.

Take a guided walk with High Country Humane! Meet adoptable dogs while learning about canine behavior, enrichment, and the many health benefits of spending time outdoors with our furry friends! This guided hike combines science, nature, and shelter dogs for a fun and educational experience.

Sep 26

LOCATIONMuseum of Northern ArizonaEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Open House, Teenagers

MNA will host an open house with hands-on activities for kids of all ages focused on the festival theme, Driven by Curiosity and our Wagon Road to Mother Road Route 66 Exhibit. Build a popsicle bridge, learn how neon works, design a clay road, and more!

Sep 26

LOCATIONWheeler ParkEVENT TYPEAdults, Early Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Teenagers

Driven by Curiosity comes to life at Science in the Park! Explore more than 50 interactive exhibits for all ages featuring hands-on science activities, solar telescope viewing, aerial demonstrations, cool car photo ops, and much more. Fun for the whole family!

Sep 26

LOCATIONUS Naval ObservatoryEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Event at capacity. Reservations are closed.

Join the staff of the Naval Observatory for a 2 hour guided tour of the Flagstaff Station. Learn the mission of the observatory, our history, our current research, and visit several of our telescopes. Our staff will be there to answer your questions, so come prepared. All visitors must be U. S. citizens, and all adults must have a valid ID. Each person must have their own free ticket. Expect some walking, but assistance will be offered if you need a little help getting around. Cars and bags are subject to search. Photographs are allowed. This is a family friendly event. Early registration through September 9th is highly recommended due to security screening requirements. Registrations between September 10th - 21st will be added to a stand-by list, and will be notified of confirmation on their tour slot selection in the order they are received.

Sep 26

LOCATIONMuseum of Northern ArizonaEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation, Teenagers

This is a humorously themed lecture about the natural and cultural history of coyotes in the Americas, their place in lore and literature, and some of the exciting things that set them apart as nature's "tricksters."

Sep 26

LOCATIONJay Lively Activity CenterEVENT TYPELecture/Presentation, Teenagers, Adults, Elementary, Middle School

Get an up-close look at the Zamboni as rink staff show how this amazing machine transforms the ice between skating sessions.

Sep 26

LOCATIONMuseum of Northern ArizonaEVENT TYPEElementary, Middle School, Workshop - Kids

Kids up to 8th grade are invited to design and build a model car to accomplish a goal: fast, far, or straight - you get to choose, then build, test, and re-design, all while the clock is ticking!

Sep 26

LOCATIONNorthern Arizona Riding Stables at Savi RanchEVENT TYPEAdults, Early Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities, Lecture/Presentation, Middle School, Performance, Teenagers

Did you know that the horse's ancestors were as big as a fox? And that horses were extinct in North America 10,000 years ago? Participants will learn about how horses evolved over time, horse myths; watch a riding demonstration, and meet some horses up close. The event is outdoors, so wear shoes suitable for mud or dirt. Parking: Follow driveway to the arena at the back.

Reservations are NOT required.

Sep 26

LOCATIONMuseum of Northern ArizonaEVENT TYPELecture/Presentation, Teenagers, Adults, Middle School

Biologists and transportation officials are working to reduce collisions between vehicles and wildlife. Find out how research is helping to make northern Arizona roadways safer while maintaining habitat connectivity.

Sep 26

LOCATIONUS Naval ObservatoryEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Event at capacity. Reservations are closed.

Join the staff of the Naval Observatory for a 2 hour guided tour of the Flagstaff Station. Learn the mission of the observatory, our history, our current research, and visit several of our telescopes. Our staff will be there to answer your questions, so come prepared. All visitors must be U. S. citizens, and all adults must have a valid ID. Each person must have their own free ticket. Expect some walking, but assistance will be offered if you need a little help getting around. Cars and bags are subject to search. Photographs are allowed. This is a family friendly event. Early registration through September 9th is highly recommended due to security screening requirements. Registrations between September 10th - 21st will be added to a stand-by list, and will be notified of confirmation on their tour slot selection in the order they are received.

Sep 26

LOCATIONFort Tuthill County Park - Home Ec BuildingEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

A talk on wildlife drinkers and providing drinking water for wildlife in northern Arizona, and a visit to the new wildlife drinker installed at Fort Tuthill park.

Reservation required.

Sep 26

LOCATIONTynkertopia MakerSpaceEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Open House, Teenagers

Step inside Tynkertopia MakerSpace and experience hands-on exploration, creativity, and discovery. This open house is designed for all ages--drop in anytime and stay as long as you like. Throughout the day, you'll find a variety of engaging activities that invite you to tynker, build, experiment, and create using real tools and materials.

Meet our team, explore our MakerSpace, and see how curiosity comes to life through self-directed learning. Whether you're designing, building, coding, or simply exploring, you'll get a firsthand look at how Tynkertopia empowers young people to think with their hands and grow through discovery.

Sep 26

LOCATIONTynkertopiaEVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, Open House

Learn about Tynkertopia, Flagstaff's award-winning STEAM Community Center, that's open to kids, parents, teachers, artists, crafters, inventors, makers, and "tynkerers." Learn how we invite curiosity, inspire wonder, encourage playfulness, and celebrate unique solutions. Learn about our classes, clubs, birthday parties, field trips, drop-in options, and enhanced offerings at our East Flagstaff facility.

Sep 26

LOCATIONBuffalo ParkEVENT TYPEPerformance, Adults

Join Dr. David Koerner and the Dark Sky Quartet for an evening serenade of the rising Harvest Moon, featuring classical music and lunar meditations in the beautiful natural setting of Buffalo Park. Part of the celebration of Flagstaff's 25th anniversary as the first International Dark Sky City. Seating at 5:30, performance at 6:15. After the concert, see the Full Moon through powerful telescopes.

Sep 26

LOCATIONInternational Pavilion at NAUEVENT TYPEAdults, Exhibit, Teenagers

Explore NAU research through a special science art exhibit featuring the work of the Center for Ecosystem Science and Society. Meet our researchers to discuss the science of Arctic landscapes, wildfires, biocrusts, giant trees, the world of soil beneath our feet, and more.

Sep 26

LOCATIONPicture Canyon Natural and Cultural PreserveEVENT TYPEAdults, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Join Open Space for a September Full Moon Walk! We'll hike the Arizona Trail at Picture Canyon, starting from the trailhead at 3920 N El Paso Flagstaff Rd. From there, we'll head north to the tunnel at Route 89 before returning the same way. The hike begins about 30 minutes before moonrise, giving us time to watch the Harvest Moon rise. The total distance is approximately 4 miles on relatively flat terrain. Please wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring a red-light flashlight and hiking poles if you have them, extras will be available.

Reservations required.

Sep 26

LOCATIONThe Barry Lutz Telescope at NAUEVENT TYPEOpen House, Teenagers, Adults

Open House Viewing at the 20" Barry Lutz Telescope: Explore the wonders of the night sky at NAU's Campus Observatory.

Sep 26

EVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities

Enjoy the recorded presentations on our YouTube channel during the Festival! Videos will be streamable starting 9/25 at 9 AM.

Bedtime Stories 2026 brings together five engaging books that celebrate curiosity, culture, and nature. In Panda Report by Michael Hale, a girl brings a live panda to school for a class assignment, only to discover that things can go hilariously wrong when she makes a mistake at the end of her report. Cactus Queen by Lori Alexander, tells the inspiring true story of Minerva Hoyt, an artist, activist, and environmentalist whose determination helped protect the Mojave Desert and create beloved Joshua Tree National Park. Celebrate My Hopi Corn, I’ qaaqa’öy tsuyakiwta, by Anita Poleahla, teaches children that Qaa’ö, the dry husked ear of corn represents life, while supporting the revitalization of the Hopi language through meaningful, culturally rooted material. In The Lucky Hat, by Matthew Henry Hall, young Michael Feather loses the hand-stitched hat his grandmother made for him while hiking in the Grand Canyon and as he searches for it, he discovers the beauty of nature, a lifelong friendship, and the love and family that make him truly lucky. In A Search for Safe Passage, by Frances Figart, and read by Rose Houk, the story follows Bear, Deer, Hawk, and other animals as they search for safe ways to cross human highways and find new homes, friends, and mates.

Together, these stories offer children and families a collection of adventures that inspire wonder, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship.

Sep 27

EVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Join NAU's Apex, Arizona Archaeology Project for a guided tour of a Depression-era logging camp along the Grand Canyon Railway and learn about historical archaeology in Arizona!

Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. The Tour will be outside of Tusayan, Arizona, but we will arrange a meeting place in Flagstaff. Reservations are required.

Email Emily.Dale@nau.edu for a reservation.

Sep 27

Email Registration

LOCATIONRockin' River Ranch State ParkEVENT TYPEAdults, Citizen Science, Elementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Monarch Butterflies are on their fall migration. Mexico or California - Where will they go? Learn to tag a monarch butterfly to find out. Join us and become a Citizen Scientist for a day! Limited to 15 people

Reservations required.

Sep 27

LOCATIONTynkertopia MakerSpaceEVENT TYPEElementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Get ready to explore, discover, and follow your curiosity! In this family-friendly adventure, participants will use GPS-enabled phones to navigate to five hidden geocaches located around Tynkertopia MakerSpace. Starting and ending at TynkerSpace, you'll follow clues, track coordinates, and experience how real-world navigation technology works.

Each stop brings a new discovery. Those who find all five geocaches will earn a prize! This interactive experience blends science, technology, and outdoor exploration into a fun and memorable quest for the whole family.

Reservations required.

Sep 27

LOCATIONMeteor CraterEVENT TYPEOpen House, Teenagers, Adults, Elementary, Middle School

Join us at Meteor Crater for our annual Neighbor Appreciation Day on Saturday, September 27th! As a 'thank you' to our Northern Arizona community, we offer free admission. Explore one of the world's best-preserved meteorite impact sites, take in the breathtaking views, and experience a day filled with adventure, discovery, activities, and fun for all ages.

Make the most of your visit with a Full Rim Tour at 9 AM, where you'll walk the edge of history and learn fascinating facts about the crater's origins and the people who worked at The Crater mining for the iron they thought was still below the surface. Reservations are required for the Full Rim Tour, but not for any other part of the open house.

Families can enjoy hands-on science demos for kids all day, while adults can relax and sip on stellar drinks at our Astro Park bar.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime neighbor, this is the perfect day to experience the wonder of Meteor Crater--right in your backyard!

Sep 27

LOCATIONMeteor CraterEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Rim Tour: All spots have been claimed for the rim tour. Please enjoy the Neighbor Appreciation Day.

Join us at Meteor Crater for our annual Neighbor Appreciation Day on Saturday, September 27th! As a 'thank you' to our Northern Arizona community, we offer free admission. Explore one of the world's best-preserved meteorite impact sites, take in the breathtaking views, and experience a day filled with adventure, discovery, activities, and fun for all ages.

Make the most of your visit with a Full Rim Tour at 9 AM, where you'll walk the edge of history and learn fascinating facts about the crater's origins and the people who worked at The Crater mining for the iron they thought was still below the surface. Reservations are required for the Full Rim Tour, but not for any other part of the open house.

Families can enjoy hands-on science demos for kids all day, while adults can relax and sip on stellar drinks at our Astro Park bar.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime neighbor, this is the perfect day to experience the wonder of Meteor Crater--right in your backyard!

Sep 27

LOCATIONElden PuebloEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Open House, Teenagers

Step back in time, to explore our local people of the past at Elden Pueblo's Open House day, from 10am to 4 pm, with tours at 10 am, noon and 2 pm. Experience archaeology, through artifacts, tools, hunting games and interpretive excavations. Bring water, hat, sunscreen and your sense of adventure.

Sep 27

LOCATIONFlagstaff Downtown Library Community RoomEVENT TYPEElementary, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers, Workshop - All Ages, Workshop - Kids

Students are filled with noticings and wonderings but often get stuck when translating passions into a testable question or engineering design problem. SARSEF will guide students and caregivers through planning an authentic research project where they'll explore their passions to impact their community and showcase their work at a regional science fair.

Reservation required.

Sep 27

LOCATIONUS Naval ObservatoryEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Event at capacity. Reservations are closed.

Join the staff of the Naval Observatory for a 2 hour guided tour of the Flagstaff Station. Learn the mission of the observatory, our history, our current research, and visit several of our telescopes. Our staff will be there to answer your questions, so come prepared. All visitors must be U. S. citizens, and all adults must have a valid ID. Each person must have their own free ticket. Expect some walking, but assistance will be offered if you need a little help getting around. Cars and bags are subject to search. Photographs are allowed. This is a family friendly event. Early registration through September 9th is highly recommended due to security screening requirements. Registrations between September 10th - 21st will be added to a stand-by list, and will be notified of confirmation on their tour slot selection in the order they are received.

Sep 27

EVENT TYPEAdults, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Tour is full. Please fill out the reservation form if you would like to be added to the waitlist.

Flagstaff has its faults; geologic faults, that is! On this guided geology tour, we will visit several faults exposed around town to observe the rock formations involved, the amount of offset along fault strands, and interpret the age of activity. We will consider how these faults fit into the regional tectonic setting and discuss a few significant historical earthquakes in northern Arizona.

Reservation Required.

Sep 27

LOCATIONRogers Lake Homestead Trail HeadEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Join us for a walk on the newly completed homestead trail at Rogers Lake County Natural Area. We will be discussing the natural and cultural history of the area, along with a look at the site of the original homestead. Come prepared to walk approximately 2 miles in a forested trail. The site has no amenities so bring plenty of water and a snack if you want one.

Reservation required.

Sep 27

LOCATIONUS Naval ObservatoryEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Event at capacity. Reservations are closed.

Join the staff of the Naval Observatory for a 2 hour guided tour of the Flagstaff Station. Learn the mission of the observatory, our history, our current research, and visit several of our telescopes. Our staff will be there to answer your questions, so come prepared. All visitors must be U. S. citizens, and all adults must have a valid ID. Each person must have their own free ticket. Expect some walking, but assistance will be offered if you need a little help getting around. Cars and bags are subject to search. Photographs are allowed. This is a family friendly event. Early registration through September 9th is highly recommended due to security screening requirements. Registrations between September 10th - 21st will be added to a stand-by list, and will be notified of confirmation on their tour slot selection in the order they are received.

Sep 27

LOCATIONBeaver Street TheaterEVENT TYPEAdults, Performance, Teenagers

3 bona fide scientists, 5 (creative) improvisers. You'll learn from the scientists and laugh at how the improvisers interpret their work. A fun way to end your weekend. (Improvisation may include adult themes.)

Sep 27

LOCATIONRiordan Mansion State Historic ParkEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation, Reservation Required, Webinar Option

[9/27 update: unfortunately we are not able to provide a livestream for this event. We will record the event to post on YouTube soon!]

Lecture on the expedition, its origin, and importance, based on my article in the Journal of the Southwest winter 2024 (free download: https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/145/article/961009/pdf)

Reservation required for in-person attendance.

Sep 27

LOCATIONThe Barry Lutz Telescope at NAUEVENT TYPEAdults, Open House, Teenagers

Open House Viewing at the 20" Barry Lutz Telescope: Explore the wonders of the night sky at NAU's Campus Observatory.

Sep 27

EVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities

Enjoy the recorded presentations on our YouTube channel during the Festival! Videos will be streamable starting 9/25 at 9 AM.

Bedtime Stories 2026 brings together five engaging books that celebrate curiosity, culture, and nature. In Panda Report by Michael Hale, a girl brings a live panda to school for a class assignment, only to discover that things can go hilariously wrong when she makes a mistake at the end of her report. Cactus Queen by Lori Alexander, tells the inspiring true story of Minerva Hoyt, an artist, activist, and environmentalist whose determination helped protect the Mojave Desert and create beloved Joshua Tree National Park. Celebrate My Hopi Corn, I’ qaaqa’öy tsuyakiwta, by Anita Poleahla, teaches children that Qaa’ö, the dry husked ear of corn represents life, while supporting the revitalization of the Hopi language through meaningful, culturally rooted material. In The Lucky Hat, by Matthew Henry Hall, young Michael Feather loses the hand-stitched hat his grandmother made for him while hiking in the Grand Canyon and as he searches for it, he discovers the beauty of nature, a lifelong friendship, and the love and family that make him truly lucky. In A Search for Safe Passage, by Frances Figart, and read by Rose Houk, the story follows Bear, Deer, Hawk, and other animals as they search for safe ways to cross human highways and find new homes, friends, and mates.

Together, these stories offer children and families a collection of adventures that inspire wonder, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship.

Sep 28

LOCATIONFlagstaff Downtown Library Community RoomEVENT TYPEEarly Childhood

Come to the Library for special, science and car themed storytimes

Sep 28

LOCATIONCoconino County Elections CenterEVENT TYPEAdults, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Get ready to dive headfirst into the heart of democracy! Imagine stepping into a bustling hub where the gears of civic duty turn, where every ballot matters, and where the integrity of our elections is paramount. That's what awaits you on our exclusive tour of the Coconino County Elections Center!

Reservations required.

Sep 28

LOCATIONLake Mary Water Treatment PlantEVENT TYPEAdults, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Are you curious about how clean water gets to your home? Come learn about processes that bring water to our community.

Reservation required.

Sep 28

LOCATIONUS Naval ObservatoryEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Event at capacity. Reservations are closed.

Join the staff of the Naval Observatory for a 2 hour guided tour of the Flagstaff Station. Learn the mission of the observatory, our history, our current research, and visit several of our telescopes. Our staff will be there to answer your questions, so come prepared. All visitors must be U. S. citizens, and all adults must have a valid ID. Each person must have their own free ticket. Expect some walking, but assistance will be offered if you need a little help getting around. Cars and bags are subject to search. Photographs are allowed. This is a family friendly event. Early registration through September 9th is highly recommended due to security screening requirements. Registrations between September 10th - 21st will be added to a stand-by list, and will be notified of confirmation on their tour slot selection in the order they are received.

Sep 28

LOCATIONUS Naval ObservatoryEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Event at capacity. Reservations are closed.

Join the staff of the Naval Observatory for a 2 hour guided tour of the Flagstaff Station. Learn the mission of the observatory, our history, our current research, and visit several of our telescopes. Our staff will be there to answer your questions, so come prepared. All visitors must be U. S. citizens, and all adults must have a valid ID. Each person must have their own free ticket. Expect some walking, but assistance will be offered if you need a little help getting around. Cars and bags are subject to search. Photographs are allowed. This is a family friendly event. Early registration through September 9th is highly recommended due to security screening requirements. Registrations between September 10th - 21st will be added to a stand-by list, and will be notified of confirmation on their tour slot selection in the order they are received.

Sep 28

LOCATIONThe Literacy CenterEVENT TYPEElementary, Middle School, Teenagers, Workshop - Kids

Reservations are no longer required.

Join The Literacy Center for a fun hands-on activity that combines science and poetry! Participants will plant their own wildflower seed, learn what plants need to grow, and create a short poem about their hopes and dreams. Each participant will take home their planted seed and poem to watch both grow over time.

Sep 28

LOCATIONKachina Wetlands EntranceEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

This event is at capacity. You may register for the wait list.
Update 9/28/26: This event has be cancelled due to the weather
Northern Arizona Audubon Society offers monthly bird walks at Kachina Wetlands through November and will offer them again beginning in April next spring, so perhaps you would like to join one of those. You can find out about these and other bird walks through the NAAS website (http://northernarizonaudubon.org) or by joining the Audubon meetup site, https://www.meetup.com/birding-flagstaff-sedona-and-the-verde-valley/ A Kachina Wetlands walk for October hasn't been scheduled yet but will be added in approximately one week.

Take a stroll through Kachina Wetlands and learn how a formerly dry meadow became an important stopover in northern Arizona for migratory birds. Christina Vojta, wildlife ecologist and Audubon Steward for Kachina Wetlands, will identify birds and talk about their ecology. The two-mile walk will end at dusk with a stunning view of the San Francisco Peaks at sunset. Bring binoculars if you have them; a small pack with water, bug repellent, and a light jacket.

Reservations required.

Sep 28

Waitlist Link

LOCATIONWillow Bend Environmental Education CenterEVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Family Science Activities, Open House, Performance, Workshop - Kids

[9/28 update: the event is still ON, we have a rain plan]

Bats, birds, beetles, bees, butterflies! Meet the big puppets that tell the story of pollination - how animals and insects move pollen between plants so that more plants can grow. There will be a performance from Momentum Aerial Studio puppeteers and a hands-on activity in the Willow Bend Center. Great for younger kids!

Sep 28

LOCATIONHarrington's Tap HouseEVENT TYPELecture/Presentation, Adults

Learn about the geologic story of how North America has evolved and is still very active today leaving us a diverse range of natural wonders to explore highlighting some of the great western parks.

Sep 28

LOCATIONCCC 4th St. Campus - Room B34EVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation, Reservation Required, Webinar Option

In-person and live stream options. Go to the bottom of the description for live stream instructions.

In many ways we live in the world of science fiction: smart phones, autonomous automobiles, people living in the ISS, plans to send humans back to the moon...Once viewed as a quirky paperback for kids, science fiction is helping us find our way in this new world.

Registration requested for in-person attendance.

Live Stream Options:
1) From the app, click the stream and follow buttons to the YouTube livestream.
2) From the web, paste this address (https://youtube.com/live/lbbqAd1Z36s) into the browser or go to our YouTube page (https://www.youtube.com/@FlagstaffFestivalofScience)

Sep 28

LOCATIONAmericana Motor HotelEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Lecture/Presentation, Teenagers

Explore the night sky with cultural astronomer Dr. Danielle Adams, learning the cultural backstories behind some well-known autumn star names and enjoying telescopic views of the Moon and Saturn.

9/28/26 Update - If the sky is cloudy, Danielle will give an indoor tour of Arabian skies in a presentation called The Autumn Stars of Arabia in the Dark Skies of Flagstaff. This inside presentation would go from 7:00 pm to around 7:45 pm at American Motor Hotel.

Sep 28

EVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities

Enjoy the recorded presentations on our YouTube channel during the Festival! Videos will be streamable starting 9/25 at 9 AM.

Bedtime Stories 2026 brings together five engaging books that celebrate curiosity, culture, and nature. In Panda Report by Michael Hale, a girl brings a live panda to school for a class assignment, only to discover that things can go hilariously wrong when she makes a mistake at the end of her report. Cactus Queen by Lori Alexander, tells the inspiring true story of Minerva Hoyt, an artist, activist, and environmentalist whose determination helped protect the Mojave Desert and create beloved Joshua Tree National Park. Celebrate My Hopi Corn, I’ qaaqa’öy tsuyakiwta, by Anita Poleahla, teaches children that Qaa’ö, the dry husked ear of corn represents life, while supporting the revitalization of the Hopi language through meaningful, culturally rooted material. In The Lucky Hat, by Matthew Henry Hall, young Michael Feather loses the hand-stitched hat his grandmother made for him while hiking in the Grand Canyon and as he searches for it, he discovers the beauty of nature, a lifelong friendship, and the love and family that make him truly lucky. In A Search for Safe Passage, by Frances Figart, and read by Rose Houk, the story follows Bear, Deer, Hawk, and other animals as they search for safe ways to cross human highways and find new homes, friends, and mates.

Together, these stories offer children and families a collection of adventures that inspire wonder, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship.

Sep 29

LOCATIONRio de Flag WetlandsEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Come view local wildlife and learn to identify birds with the Arizona Game and Fish Department at Rio de Flag! Enjoy a morning outdoors with wildlife experts who will teach you birding basics. Binoculars and field guides will be provided!

Reservations required.

Sep 29

LOCATIONFlagstaff Downtown Library Community RoomEVENT TYPEEarly Childhood

Come to the Library for special, science and car themed storytimes

Sep 29

LOCATIONCoconino County Elections CenterEVENT TYPEAdults, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Get ready to dive headfirst into the heart of democracy! Imagine stepping into a bustling hub where the gears of civic duty turn, where every ballot matters, and where the integrity of our elections is paramount. That's what awaits you on our exclusive tour of the Coconino County Elections Center!

Reservations required.

Sep 29

LOCATIONFlagstaff Downtown Library Community RoomEVENT TYPEAdults, Guided Tour/Hike, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Learn how to navigate public transportation with Mountain Line and the Flagstaff Library! Join us for a FREE looped ride on the bus to learn about using maps and transfers to travel around the city in an eco-friendly way!

Reservation required. Age 16+ or accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Sep 29

LOCATIONFlagstaff Downtown Library Community RoomEVENT TYPEAdults, Guided Tour/Hike, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Learn how to navigate public transportation with Mountain Line and the Flagstaff Library! Join us for a FREE looped ride on the bus to learn about using maps and transfers to travel around the city in an eco-friendly way!

Reservation required. Age 16+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Sep 29

LOCATIONTynkertopiaEVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Workshop - Kids

Design, build, and launch your own mini catapult in this fast-paced, hands-on workshop! Using simple materials, participants will create a working launcher, then put it to the test by experimenting with distance and accuracy. Through trial and iteration, you'll discover how small design changes affect performance--bringing engineering and physics to life in a fun, active way.

Sep 29

LOCATIONFlagstaff Downtown Library Community RoomEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers, Workshop - All Ages

The Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library will host an all-ages pinewood derby! Adults and children are invited to make a car (set to some parameters and specifications) at home and bring it to the library to compete on gravity-run race tracks.

Registration required.

Sep 29

LOCATIONLowell Observatory Astronomy Discovery CenterEVENT TYPEOpen House, Early Childhood, Teenagers, Adults, Elementary, Middle School

Join us for a special Open House of the Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center! From 4-8pm, enjoy immersive shows in the giant-screen Lowell Universe Theater, soak up stunning views from the rooftop, and explore interactive exhibits for all ages that bring the Universe to life.

Sep 29

LOCATIONLowell Observatory Astronomy Discovery CenterEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation, Teenagers, Webinar Option

In-person and live stream options. Go to the bottom of the description for live stream instructions.

Could Antarctica hold the secret to finding life on Mars?

The McMurdo Dry Valleys are the closest environment Earth has to that of the surface of Mars: brutally cold, searingly dry, and teeming with microscopic life that has no business surviving there. In this talk, discover how scientists are pushing the boundaries of astrobiology, using Antarctica's extremophiles to sharpen the tools we'll one day use to detect life across the cosmos.

(optional bio)
Gavin Moriarty is a second-year PhD student in Astronomy & Planetary Science at Northern Arizona University, and is also pursuing his Science Communications certificate. As an Antarctic researcher, he uses remote sensing techniques to study the McMurdo Dry Valleys and to constrain the environmental characteristics that support life, in hopes of improving techniques for searching for life in the universe. With a B.S. in Astrophysics, he is also passionate about the design and construction of astronomical instrumentation. As a passionate science educator, he began participating in a variety of public outreach and community engagement programs very early in his career, and is an accomplished team member in Lowell's public program.

Live Stream Options:
1) From the app, click the stream and follow buttons to the YouTube livestream.
2) From the web, paste this address (https://youtube.com/live/_bfqvOBXmaI) into the browser or go to our YouTube page (https://www.youtube.com/@FlagstaffFestivalofScience)

Sep 29

LOCATIONLowell Observatory Astronomy Discovery CenterEVENT TYPEElementary, Middle School, Workshop - Kids

Come build a robot out of LEGOs and race it with the CocoNuts! This activity is suitable for kids (and kids at heart) ages 8 and up and their parents! Please plan to arrive at the start of the event - it takes about 1 hour to build a robot and 30 minutes to race. GO TEAMS!

Sep 29

LOCATIONLowell Observatory Astronomy Discovery CenterEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation, Middle School, Teenagers, Webinar Option

In-person and live stream options. Go to the bottom of the description for live stream instructions.

Come hear our local Martian, Ryan Anderson, share the latest science updates from the Mars rovers.

Live Stream Options:
1) From the app, click the stream and follow buttons to the YouTube livestream.
2) From the web, paste this address (https://youtube.com/live/_bfqvOBXmaI) into the browser or go to our YouTube page (https://www.youtube.com/@FlagstaffFestivalofScience)

Sep 29

LOCATIONLowell Observatory Astronomy Discovery CenterEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation, Middle School, Teenagers, Webinar Option

In-person and live stream options. Go to the bottom of the description for live stream instructions.

Join cultural astronomer and Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition executive director Dr. Danielle Adams to learn why it’s so important to protect our view of the Milky Way. Connecting rich astronomical traditions of the past with Flagstaff’s 25-year legacy as the world’s first International Dark Sky City, Danielle will explore the cultural import of the Milky Way, which Arabs long ago called “the Mother Road”.

Live Stream Options:
1) From the app, click the stream and follow buttons to the YouTube livestream.
2) From the web, paste this address (https://youtube.com/live/_bfqvOBXmaI) into the browser or go to our YouTube page (https://www.youtube.com/@FlagstaffFestivalofScience)

Sep 29

EVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities

Enjoy the recorded presentations on our YouTube channel during the Festival! Videos will be streamable starting 9/25 at 9 AM.

Bedtime Stories 2026 brings together five engaging books that celebrate curiosity, culture, and nature. In Panda Report by Michael Hale, a girl brings a live panda to school for a class assignment, only to discover that things can go hilariously wrong when she makes a mistake at the end of her report. Cactus Queen by Lori Alexander, tells the inspiring true story of Minerva Hoyt, an artist, activist, and environmentalist whose determination helped protect the Mojave Desert and create beloved Joshua Tree National Park. Celebrate My Hopi Corn, I’ qaaqa’öy tsuyakiwta, by Anita Poleahla, teaches children that Qaa’ö, the dry husked ear of corn represents life, while supporting the revitalization of the Hopi language through meaningful, culturally rooted material. In The Lucky Hat, by Matthew Henry Hall, young Michael Feather loses the hand-stitched hat his grandmother made for him while hiking in the Grand Canyon and as he searches for it, he discovers the beauty of nature, a lifelong friendship, and the love and family that make him truly lucky. In A Search for Safe Passage, by Frances Figart, and read by Rose Houk, the story follows Bear, Deer, Hawk, and other animals as they search for safe ways to cross human highways and find new homes, friends, and mates.

Together, these stories offer children and families a collection of adventures that inspire wonder, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship.

Sep 30

LOCATIONBeasley GalleryEVENT TYPETeenagers, Adults, Exhibit

Pilgrimage of Light
Sept 10-Nov 6

Pilgrimage of Light is an exhibition of work by Texas-based artist and Grand Canyon Artist-in-Residence alum Mark Chen. His photographs unite the cosmos and the Earth, aligning starlight with ancient landscapes to reveal the experience of deep time through projected celestial imagery. Presented in partnership with the Grand Canyon Artist-in-Residence program

Beasley Hours
Wed / Thurs 10am-4pm or by appointment
Beasley Location
Located in the Performing & Fine Arts Building
2nd Floor, Room 216 (elevator access is available from Lot P)
contact: tai.lipan@nau.edu

Sep 30

LOCATIONFlagstaff Downtown Library Community RoomEVENT TYPEEarly Childhood

Come to the Library for special, science and car themed storytimes

Sep 30

LOCATIONNACET Accelerator Building - Conference RoomEVENT TYPEPanel Discussion, Teenagers, Adults

AI isn't coming to Flagstaff; it's already here, growing food, driving business, teaching kids, and reshaping jobs. Join four local innovators for a lively, audience-driven panel as they pull back the curtain on what's happening in our community, answer your questions, and look to the future.

Sep 30

EVENT TYPEAdults, Guided Tour/Hike, Reservation Required, Teenagers

[9/30 update: this event is full, we will notify the waiting list of any cancellations]

Explore Downtown's unique geology with geologist Daniel Foley. Learn about architectural styles, discuss changing preferences for certain rock types, and discover exciting historic events etched in stone. Meeting location provided upon reservation.

Reservation Required.

Sep 30

LOCATIONTynkertopia MakerSpaceEVENT TYPEMiddle School, Teenagers, Workshop - All Ages

Jump into the world of robotics in this fast-paced, hands-on workshop! Participants will experiment with VEX robots, learning how to control movement, adjust design, and navigate challenges. Then it's time to hit the course and race your robot through an obstacle track and see how it performs. Make quick tweaks, try again, and improve your results as you go.

It's a fun, high-energy introduction to robotics that blends problem-solving, creativity, and a little friendly competition.

Sep 30

LOCATIONKillip Elementary SchoolEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Teenagers

Explorers of all ages can walk across a giant, gym-sized landscape map of Mars to learn about the Red Planet! Open to the public from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Killip Elementary gym.

Sep 30

LOCATIONBubbling Ponds Fish Hatchery- CornvilleEVENT TYPEAdults, Citizen Science, Elementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Monarch Butterflies are on their Fall Migration! Mexico or California, where will they go? Learn to tag a monarch to find out. Join us in the field and become a Citizen Scientist for a day! Limited to 15 people.

Reservations required.

Sep 30

LOCATIONWhole Hearted Healing CenterEVENT TYPEAdults, Reservation Required, Workshop - All Ages

A massage therapist of 9 years, I'm eager to share my enthusiasm about the human anatomy as well as how Artistic and Scientific my work is as a license massage therapist. I'd love to bring awareness to the importance of caring for one's anatomy though play, artistic expression, and educate on how many modalities there are. I'll be sharing accessable ways people can work with their bodies and see them as the beautiful phenomenon that we are. Interactive Activities pending!

Reservation required.

Sep 30

LOCATIONCoconino Center for the ArtsEVENT TYPEAdults, Reservation Required, Teenagers, Workshop - All Ages

Reservations are required for the classroom portion of the workshop.

This two-part workshop will consist of a beginner’s classroom session followed by a field session. The classroom session will cover the basics of planning, equipment, camera settings, composition, and post-processing for astrophotography, with a focus on capturing images of the Milky Way. After a break, participants will meet at Buffalo Park to practice photographing the night sky.

Schedule:
5:00-6:00pm : Beginner’s class at Coconino Center for the Arts. Bring your camera if you have one (recommended but not required). Maximum 12 participants, reservation required.
7:00-8:30pm: Field session at Buffalo Park. We will meet at the ramada before a short walk to a shooting location. Bring a camera (with manual mode), tripod, red light (red headlamp is recommended), and warm clothing. Open to all experience levels, no reservation required.

Sep 30

LOCATIONMother Road Brewery - PatioEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation

Join Lowell Observatory and Mother Road Brewing Co. for Astronomy on Tap! Listen to fascinating science talks, play trivia to win out-of-this-world prizes, and of course, enjoy Mother Road brews on tap. Come early, Seats fill up fast!
Kristen Bennett will be talking about her involvement with Artemis IV

Sep 30

LOCATIONBuffalo Park RamadaEVENT TYPEAdults, Teenagers, Workshop - All Ages

This event is dependent on the weather. Please check this listing for updates the day of the event.

This two-part workshop will consist of a beginner’s classroom session followed by a field session. The classroom session will cover the basics of planning, equipment, camera settings, composition, and post-processing for astrophotography, with a focus on capturing images of the Milky Way. After a break, participants will meet at Buffalo Park to practice photographing the night sky. See the beginner class for sign-up information.

Schedule:
5:00-6:00pm : Beginner’s class at Coconino Center for the Arts. Bring your camera if you have one (recommended but not required). Maximum 12 participants, reservation required.
7:00-8:30pm: Field session at Buffalo Park. We will meet at the ramada before a short walk to a shooting location. Bring a camera (with manual mode), tripod, red light (red headlamp is recommended), and warm clothing. Open to all experience levels, no reservation required.

Sep 30

LOCATIONBuffalo Park EntranceEVENT TYPEGuided Tour/Hike, Teenagers, Adults, Middle School

Join us for a 1-mile night hike through Buffalo Park! As we walk along a flat, well-maintained dirt trail, we will experiment with our senses, explore the constellations, and discuss the nighttime environment. Please bring water and red lights (no white lights, please!) to help preserve night vision.

Sep 30

EVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities

Enjoy the recorded presentations on our YouTube channel during the Festival! Videos will be streamable starting 9/25 at 9 AM.

Bedtime Stories 2026 brings together five engaging books that celebrate curiosity, culture, and nature. In Panda Report by Michael Hale, a girl brings a live panda to school for a class assignment, only to discover that things can go hilariously wrong when she makes a mistake at the end of her report. Cactus Queen by Lori Alexander, tells the inspiring true story of Minerva Hoyt, an artist, activist, and environmentalist whose determination helped protect the Mojave Desert and create beloved Joshua Tree National Park. Celebrate My Hopi Corn, I’ qaaqa’öy tsuyakiwta, by Anita Poleahla, teaches children that Qaa’ö, the dry husked ear of corn represents life, while supporting the revitalization of the Hopi language through meaningful, culturally rooted material. In The Lucky Hat, by Matthew Henry Hall, young Michael Feather loses the hand-stitched hat his grandmother made for him while hiking in the Grand Canyon and as he searches for it, he discovers the beauty of nature, a lifelong friendship, and the love and family that make him truly lucky. In A Search for Safe Passage, by Frances Figart, and read by Rose Houk, the story follows Bear, Deer, Hawk, and other animals as they search for safe ways to cross human highways and find new homes, friends, and mates.

Together, these stories offer children and families a collection of adventures that inspire wonder, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship.

Oct 1

LOCATIONBeasley GalleryEVENT TYPETeenagers, Adults, Exhibit

Pilgrimage of Light
Sept 10-Nov 6

Pilgrimage of Light is an exhibition of work by Texas-based artist and Grand Canyon Artist-in-Residence alum Mark Chen. His photographs unite the cosmos and the Earth, aligning starlight with ancient landscapes to reveal the experience of deep time through projected celestial imagery. Presented in partnership with the Grand Canyon Artist-in-Residence program

Beasley Hours
Wed / Thurs 10am-4pm or by appointment
Beasley Location
Located in the Performing & Fine Arts Building
2nd Floor, Room 216 (elevator access is available from Lot P)
contact: tai.lipan@nau.edu

Oct 1

LOCATIONMarket of DreamsEVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities

Explore, build, and discover through hands-on play! Families will experiment with engaging STEM activities with our mobile exhibits and get a sneak peek at the future Children's Museum of Flagstaff. No experience needed--just bring your curiosity!

Oct 1

LOCATIONMuseum of Northern Arizona - Brady Geology BuildingEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Open House, Teenagers

Get a behind-the-scenes look at MNA's dinosaur and reptile fossils and mineral collection in the Brady Building.

Oct 1

LOCATIONMarket of DreamsEVENT TYPEElementary, Middle School, Teenagers, Workshop - Kids

The presenter can no longer host this event. We apologize for any inconvenience.

A high-impact STEM program blending storytelling with a live magnetic painting demonstration to illustrate solar wind interaction, magnetic field guidance, and particle precipitation. Under an immersive aurora projection, participants physically model plasma movement, then examine why auroras occur on magnetized planets and how the 2024-2026 solar maximum amplifies visibility.

Oct 1

LOCATIONUSGS Flagstaff Science CampusEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation, Teenagers

A strengthening El Niño episode is upon us and climate scientists predict a greater than 90% chance that this episode will rank among the strongest on record. This talk will explore how Equatorial Pacific Ocean temperatures impact weather patterns here in northern Arizona, and particularly how similar El Niño episodes have affected Flagstaff's past winter seasons.

Oct 1

LOCATIONUSGS Flagstaff Science CampusEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation

2026 is a year of anniversaries for Flagstaff. 100 years after the establishment of Route 66, the city of Flagstaff has grown nearly 15 times its original population in 1926. As the first city in the world given the title of "International Dark Sky City" by the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) in 2001, Flagstaff's story of growth and the efforts made to protect its natural dark skies go hand-in-hand.

Oct 1

LOCATIONMarket of DreamsEVENT TYPEAdults, Middle School, Teenagers, Workshop - All Ages

Be a part of a team that figures out the cause of a disease outbreak. A former Coconino County epidemiologist will take you through how an outbreak is investigated. With each piece of new information or data, you will be the "disease detective" who finds the cause. Don't worry, the epidemiologist will help you along the way!

Oct 1

LOCATIONBuffalo ParkEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Teenagers

Celebrate Flagstaff's 25 years as the world's first Int'l Dark Sky City at the Flagstaff Star Party, a magical evening of connecting with the wonders of the night sky. Thursday night features engaging presentations about the sky at 6pm and 6:45. Then enjoy stargazing through powerful telescopes for up-close views of Saturn, star clusters, and distant galaxies. Perfect for curious minds of all ages! Food trucks offered. Oct 1, Oct 2, Oct 3
Starting at 6:00 PM on October 1st - Little Astronomers: Big Discovery
Join Tynkertopia for an evening of hands-on, curiosity-focused activities designed especially for young explorers during the Dark Skies Coalition Star Party as part of the Flagstaff Festival of Science. Children will engage in interactive experiences that introduce the wonders of the night sky, from constellations and moon phases to light and how it affects what we see above us.
Through simple, engaging activities, young participants will tynker, create, and discover while building a deeper appreciation for dark skies and space. It's a fun and meaningful way for children and families to connect science, creativity, and the beauty of the universe, all under the stars.

The Flagstaff Star Party is free to attend, but please grab a ticket so FDSC can plan for each night. (It is not necessary to show your ticket at Buffalo Park.)

Oct 1

LOCATIONKitt Recital HallEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation, Performance, Teenagers

Step into an evening of heartfelt, true stories from NAU faculty and graduate students, crafted in collaboration with the Writing Class Radio podcast. Hear firsthand accounts of adventures in science--the challenges, the breakthroughs, the stumbles, and the unexpected lessons that change people. It's science as you've never heard it before: raw, human, and unforgettable. Think The Moth, but with a Flagstaff Festival of Science twist.
Parking: Free parking is located in the surface lot P13 behind Ardrey Auditorium.

Oct 1

EVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities

Enjoy the recorded presentations on our YouTube channel during the Festival! Videos will be streamable starting 9/25 at 9 AM.

Bedtime Stories 2026 brings together five engaging books that celebrate curiosity, culture, and nature. In Panda Report by Michael Hale, a girl brings a live panda to school for a class assignment, only to discover that things can go hilariously wrong when she makes a mistake at the end of her report. Cactus Queen by Lori Alexander, tells the inspiring true story of Minerva Hoyt, an artist, activist, and environmentalist whose determination helped protect the Mojave Desert and create beloved Joshua Tree National Park. Celebrate My Hopi Corn, I’ qaaqa’öy tsuyakiwta, by Anita Poleahla, teaches children that Qaa’ö, the dry husked ear of corn represents life, while supporting the revitalization of the Hopi language through meaningful, culturally rooted material. In The Lucky Hat, by Matthew Henry Hall, young Michael Feather loses the hand-stitched hat his grandmother made for him while hiking in the Grand Canyon and as he searches for it, he discovers the beauty of nature, a lifelong friendship, and the love and family that make him truly lucky. In A Search for Safe Passage, by Frances Figart, and read by Rose Houk, the story follows Bear, Deer, Hawk, and other animals as they search for safe ways to cross human highways and find new homes, friends, and mates.

Together, these stories offer children and families a collection of adventures that inspire wonder, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship.

Oct 2

LOCATIONNAU Ashurst AuditoriumEVENT TYPEAdults, Networking Event, Teenagers

Open to all STEM students, researchers, and institutions. Bringing together STEM students and STEM professionals to interact, communicate, collaborate and share with the Flagstaff community.

Oct 2

LOCATIONRio de Flag Water Reclamation PlantEVENT TYPEAdults, Guided Tour/Hike, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Tour is Full.

Are you curious about what happens when the water leaves your home? Learn how our city water is cleaned and treated for non potable reuse.

Oct 2

LOCATIONTynkertopia MakerSpaceEVENT TYPEMiddle School, Teenagers, Workshop - All Ages

Jump into the world of robotics in this fast-paced, hands-on workshop! Participants will experiment with VEX robots, learning how to control movement, adjust design, and navigate challenges. Then it's time to hit the course and race your robot through an obstacle track and see how it performs. Make quick tweaks, try again, and improve your results as you go.

It's a fun, high-energy introduction to robotics that blends problem-solving, creativity, and a little friendly competition.

Oct 2

LOCATIONCCC Construction LabEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Workshop is now full.

Discover the ancient art and modern science of earthen construction! Join local experts to explore traditional adobe building techniques, the concept of thermal mass, and regional historic preservation. Gain practical insight into how these time-tested structures work, why they remain effective today, workforce needs in historic preservation and how to make your own bricks!

Reservation required.

Oct 2

LOCATIONBeyond the PinesEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Exhibit, Middle School, Teenagers

STEM City’s Confluence is a community exhibition that brings art and STEM together through original visual works inspired by the science, technology, engineering, and math happening across Flagstaff. The program connects artists with STEM professionals, researchers, students, and industry partners to turn real ideas, discoveries, projects, and innovations into creative works that help people experience STEM in a new way.

The public is invited to experience the completed artwork during Flagstaff’s First Friday ArtWalk on Friday, October 2, 2026. The exhibition begins at 5:00 p.m. at Beyond the Pines at 606 N Beaver St, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.

Visitors can explore the artwork, learn about the STEM work that inspired each piece, and see how art and science can come together to tell the stories of our community in unexpected and engaging ways. The evening offers an accessible way to discover the STEM happening all around us.

Each piece in the exhibition is created through collaboration, giving artists the opportunity to interpret scientific and technical concepts through their own creative lens while giving STEM professionals a new way to share their work with the community. The result is an exhibition that highlights both the creativity behind STEM and the curiosity, imagination, and problem-solving that connect art and science.

Confluence also celebrates Flagstaff’s legacy as the world’s first International STEM City and the many people and organizations contributing to innovation throughout the region. Student and professional artists, STEM students, scientists, researchers, businesses, and industry professionals are all part of the program, with Indigenous collaboration especially encouraged.

For more information, please contact coordinator@flagstaffstemcity.com.

Oct 2

STEM City's Confluence

LOCATIONCCC Lone Tree CampusEVENT TYPEFamily Science Activities, Teenagers, Elementary, Middle School

Earn a Jr. Science Badge and prize by completing hands-on activities in open labs! Do chemistry experiments, play STEM games, examine rocks and fossils, and use microscopes to observe insects and find microscopic organisms! Fun for the whole family AND free parking.

Oct 2

LOCATIONBuffalo ParkEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Teenagers

Celebrate Flagstaff's 25 years as the world's first Int'l Dark Sky City at the Flagstaff Star Party, a magical evening of connecting with the wonders of the night sky. Thursday night features engaging presentations about the sky at 6pm and 6:45. Then enjoy stargazing through powerful telescopes for up-close views of Saturn, star clusters, and distant galaxies. Perfect for curious minds of all ages! Food trucks offered. Oct 1, Oct 2, Oct 3

The Flagstaff Star Party is free to attend, but please grab a ticket so FDSC can plan for each night. (It is not necessary to show your ticket at Buffalo Park.)

Oct 2

EVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities

Enjoy the recorded presentations on our YouTube channel during the Festival! Videos will be streamable starting 9/25 at 9 AM.

Bedtime Stories 2026 brings together five engaging books that celebrate curiosity, culture, and nature. In Panda Report by Michael Hale, a girl brings a live panda to school for a class assignment, only to discover that things can go hilariously wrong when she makes a mistake at the end of her report. Cactus Queen by Lori Alexander, tells the inspiring true story of Minerva Hoyt, an artist, activist, and environmentalist whose determination helped protect the Mojave Desert and create beloved Joshua Tree National Park. Celebrate My Hopi Corn, I’ qaaqa’öy tsuyakiwta, by Anita Poleahla, teaches children that Qaa’ö, the dry husked ear of corn represents life, while supporting the revitalization of the Hopi language through meaningful, culturally rooted material. In The Lucky Hat, by Matthew Henry Hall, young Michael Feather loses the hand-stitched hat his grandmother made for him while hiking in the Grand Canyon and as he searches for it, he discovers the beauty of nature, a lifelong friendship, and the love and family that make him truly lucky. In A Search for Safe Passage, by Frances Figart, and read by Rose Houk, the story follows Bear, Deer, Hawk, and other animals as they search for safe ways to cross human highways and find new homes, friends, and mates.

Together, these stories offer children and families a collection of adventures that inspire wonder, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship.

Oct 3

LOCATIONHomolovi State Park Visitor CenterEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Guided tour of the Homolovi II Ancestral Hopi Pueblo Village, National Register of Historic Places in Winslow Arizona. Tour is .4 mile on an accessible paved walkway, followed by a .9 mile hike over rough, uneven, slippery, steep unmaintained earthen trails to ancient petroglyphs. Hike is Moderate/Difficult, quality footwear recommended, walking staff and hat recommended, water/hydration required. Tour starts at Homolovi State Park Visitor Center/Museum at 7:30 am (AZ-MST) October 3, 2026. Transportation is not provided to pueblo location. Transportation must be arranged by guests.

Reservation required. Email homolovi@azstateparks.gov

Oct 3

Email Registration

LOCATIONNational Weather ServiceEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Open House, Teenagers

Visit the NWS Flagstaff and learn the inner workings of weather and how we forecast it here in northern AZ! Visit with our key partners, tour our forecast operations area, and even see a live weather balloon launch!

Oct 3

LOCATIONWillow Bend Environmental Education CenterEVENT TYPEFamily Science Activities, Teenagers, Adults, Elementary, Middle School

Join Willow Bend for a morning of hands-on activities exploring simple ways we can care for our planet every day. Discover how conserving water, reducing food waste, saving energy, and making thoughtful choices can have a big impact on the health of our environment. Through interactive activities, games, and creative projects, participants of all ages will learn practical ways to build a more sustainable future at home and in our community. No RSVP is required, and the event is drop-in format.

Oct 3

LOCATIONWillow Bend Environmental Education CenterEVENT TYPEGuided Tour/Hike, Open House, Teenagers, Adults

Discover how homeowners across Coconino County are bringing sustainability to life! This self-guided driving tour lets you explore homes and properties featuring energy efficiency, passive solar, off-grid power, rainwater harvesting, and home electrification. Properties are spread across the county, so pick your favorite stops to create your own itinerary! Grab a tour guide at Willow Bend on tour day or download it at coconino.az.gov/sustainablebuildingtour.

Oct 3

LOCATIONNAU LRC Building (Building 61) Room 106AEVENT TYPEElementary, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers, Workshop - All Ages

Do you want to shake hands with a robot? Find out at this hands-on NAU Robotics Workshop, where students and faculty showcase all sorts of robots, like exoskeletons, autonomous vehicles, robotic arms, drones, and more! Get up close, ask questions, and interact with real robots. No experience needed, just bring your curiosity!

Registration requested.

Oct 3

LOCATIONTynkertopia MakerSpaceEVENT TYPEAdults, Middle School, Open House, Teenagers

Step inside Tynkertopia MakerSpace and experience hands-on exploration, creativity, and discovery. This open house is designed for all ages--drop in anytime and stay as long as you like. Throughout the day, you'll find a variety of engaging activities that invite you to tynker, build, experiment, and create using real tools and materials.
Meet our team, explore our MakerSpace, and see how curiosity comes to life through self-directed learning. Whether you're designing, building, coding, or simply exploring, you'll get a firsthand look at how Tynkertopia empowers young people to think with their hands and grow through discovery.

Oct 3

LOCATIONPioneer MuseumEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Teenagers

Celebrate science and Arizona's natural heritage during the Pioneer Museum's Flagstaff Festival of Science open house. The International Raptor & Falconry Center will be on site for an informal two-hour meet-and-greet featuring Moira, a Bald Eagle; Druantia, a Turkey Vulture;
and Avalina, a Barn Owl. Visitors can stop by to meet the birds, ask questions and learn how these species connect to Arizona's landscapes, ecosystems and human history. From the Bald Eagle's iconic role in American culture to the Turkey Vulture's essential work as nature's cleanup crew and the Barn Owl's long relationship with farms, barns and open country, this event offers a closer look at the wildlife that has always shared the landscape with people.

Oct 3

LOCATIONPioneer MuseumEVENT TYPEOpen House, Early Childhood, Teenagers, Adults, Elementary, Middle School

See the Arizona Historical Society's Pioneer Museum built in 1908 to be the Coconino County Hospital for the Indigent. Check out the medical technology and explore the grounds.

Oct 3

LOCATIONPioneer MuseumEVENT TYPEWorkshop - Kids, Teenagers, Elementary, Middle School

Join The Literacy Center for a fun hands-on activity that combines science and poetry! Participants will plant their own wildflower seed, learn what plants need to grow, and create a short poem about their hopes and dreams. Each participant will take home their planted seed and poem to watch both grow over time.

Oct 3

LOCATIONFlagstaff Downtown Library Community RoomEVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary

Come to the Library for special, science and car themed storytimes

Oct 3

LOCATIONPioneer MuseumEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Performance, Teenagers

I will talk about AZ's multicultural history of music and dance and how the acoustics of the different land formations influences the sounds, in addition to sounds of birds, insects, and other natural noises. We will give example/demonstrations on fiddle and guitar, invite people to dance when the steps and formations are relevant, and have a slideshow.

Oct 3

LOCATIONPioneer MuseumEVENT TYPELecture/Presentation, Adults

Are you curious about where our water comes from? From the City's earliest days, to our growth through Rte. 66 and more, our city has diversified our water sources to meet the community's needs. Learn more about our water resources through the years.

Oct 3

LOCATIONBeasley GalleryEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Teenagers, Workshop - Kids

Create your own constellation & explore the connections between the night sky and Earth's ancient landscapes in this family-friendly activity inspired by Pilgrimage of Light

Oct 3

LOCATIONNAU North Campus - Building #36 CourtyardEVENT TYPEFamily Science Activities, Teenagers, Adults, Elementary, Middle School

Explore the wonders of science through interactive activities designed to spark imaginations of all ages. From the mysteries of the universe to the marvels of the natural world, dive into topics like astronomy, chemistry, biology, ecology, engineering, physics, anthropology, conservation, environmental humanities, science education, and more!

Oct 3

LOCATIONPioneer MuseumEVENT TYPELecture/Presentation, Performance, Teenagers, Adults, Elementary, Middle School

This session would weave virtuosic performance with a historical narrative on the instrument's construction, its evolution into the Western lute/guitar, and its role as a "cultural bridge" across centuries.

Oct 3

LOCATIONPioneer MuseumEVENT TYPEAdults, Middle School, Teenagers, Workshop - All Ages

Learn how to propagate your own fruit trees using locally collect seed. We will discuss the pros and cons of ungrafted fruit trees, how to collect, store and grow your seeds. At the end of the workshop you will take home seeds you have prepared for cold treatment.

Oct 3

LOCATIONCCC Kaibab CampusEVENT TYPEWorkshop - Kids, Teenagers, Adults, Elementary, Middle School

Join CCC at our new Kaibab Automotive Campus for a hands-on workshop to create and build your own sail car that harnesses wind energy to propel it forward. Materials are provided for learning how to engineer a sail design to control direction, speed and distance.

Oct 3

LOCATIONPioneer MuseumEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Teenagers, Workshop - Kids

How do scientists know where wolves have been without ever seeing them? Through tracks! Participants will investigate real Mexican gray wolf footprints, learn how biologists use tracking to study wildlife, and create their own wolf track print while exploring the science of animal movement and behavior. All materials provided.

Oct 3

LOCATIONCreative SpiritsEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers, Workshop - All Ages

Join us at the 2026 Flagstaff Festival of Science to paint a star map! All
ages are welcome at Creative Spirits' studio, where we provide all
supplies for this simple and enjoyable project. Visit our studio at your reserved time spot: 3p, 330p, 4p, or 430p. We can work with about 25 people per spot!

Reservation required.

Oct 3

LOCATIONSostaEVENT TYPEAdults, Networking Event

Celebrate, connect, and be inspired at the Women in STEAM event! Open to all, this event brings together professionals, students, and community members to celebrate women making an impact across science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Join us for an engaging afternoon of stories, networking, and connection as we strengthen our STEAM community, empower women at every stage of their journey, and inspire the next generation of STEAM leaders!

Oct 3

LOCATIONUSGS Flagstaff Science CampusEVENT TYPEAdults, Lecture/Presentation, Middle School, Teenagers

How many volcanoes are there that could erupt? How many have erupted recently, or are erupting now? Come hear USGS scientists Greg Vaughan and Morgan Nasholds give an update on the state of Earth's volcanoes and highlight some recent eruptions.

Oct 3

LOCATIONBuffalo ParkEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Teenagers

Celebrate Flagstaff's 25 years as the world's first Int'l Dark Sky City at the Flagstaff Star Party, a magical evening of connecting with the wonders of the night sky. Thursday night features engaging presentations about the sky at 6pm and 6:45. Then enjoy stargazing through powerful telescopes for up-close views of Saturn, star clusters, and distant galaxies. Perfect for curious minds of all ages! Food trucks offered. Oct 1, Oct 2, Oct 3

The Flagstaff Star Party is free to attend, but please grab a ticket so FDSC can plan for each night. (It is not necessary to show your ticket at Buffalo Park.)

Oct 3

EVENT TYPEEarly Childhood, Elementary, Family Science Activities

Enjoy the recorded presentations on our YouTube channel during the Festival! Videos will be streamable starting 9/25 at 9 AM.

Bedtime Stories 2026 brings together five engaging books that celebrate curiosity, culture, and nature. In Panda Report by Michael Hale, a girl brings a live panda to school for a class assignment, only to discover that things can go hilariously wrong when she makes a mistake at the end of her report. Cactus Queen by Lori Alexander, tells the inspiring true story of Minerva Hoyt, an artist, activist, and environmentalist whose determination helped protect the Mojave Desert and create beloved Joshua Tree National Park. Celebrate My Hopi Corn, I’ qaaqa’öy tsuyakiwta, by Anita Poleahla, teaches children that Qaa’ö, the dry husked ear of corn represents life, while supporting the revitalization of the Hopi language through meaningful, culturally rooted material. In The Lucky Hat, by Matthew Henry Hall, young Michael Feather loses the hand-stitched hat his grandmother made for him while hiking in the Grand Canyon and as he searches for it, he discovers the beauty of nature, a lifelong friendship, and the love and family that make him truly lucky. In A Search for Safe Passage, by Frances Figart, and read by Rose Houk, the story follows Bear, Deer, Hawk, and other animals as they search for safe ways to cross human highways and find new homes, friends, and mates.

Together, these stories offer children and families a collection of adventures that inspire wonder, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship.

Oct 4

LOCATIONTynkertopia MakerSpaceEVENT TYPEElementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Get ready to explore, discover, and follow your curiosity! In this family-friendly adventure, participants will use GPS-enabled phones to navigate to five hidden geocaches located around Tynkertopia MakerSpace. Starting and ending at TynkerSpace, you'll follow clues, track coordinates, and experience how real-world navigation technology works.

Each stop brings a new discovery. Those who find all five geocaches will earn a prize! This interactive experience blends science, technology, and outdoor exploration into a fun and memorable quest for the whole family.

Reservation required.

Oct 4

LOCATIONMoon Trail Trailhead off Landfill RoadEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Teenagers

Join the USFS and USGS to learn how Apollo astronauts were driven by curiosity to learn geology, test equipment, and train for their journey to the Moon. Optional, self-guided Moon Walk: 3-mile roundtrip hike to astronaut training site at Cinder Lake Crater Field. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, hat, and snacks. Sorry, no dogs. Meet at Moon Walk Trailhead on Landfill Road 1.5 miles east of Hwy 89.

Oct 4

LOCATIONPioneer MuseumEVENT TYPEAdults, Reservation Required

We are thrilled to host A Journey Through Forest History in partnership with the Flagstaff Festival of Science. This workshop balances historical exploration with practical curriculum training, offering educators a clear model for place-based learning. Led by Susan Olberding, Volunteer FVEF Archivist and Historian, this immersive session at the Pioneer Museum explores Fort Valley's groundbreaking forestry legacy through rare archival photographs, primary source documents, and expert narrative. Learn how to bring this rich history with vetted Project Learning Tree (PLT) activities alongside resources from the University of Arizona's Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research (LTRR) and NAU's Fire Ecology Learning Lab (FELL). Through hands-on inquiry, local relevance, and evidence-based storytelling, participants will leave with ready-to-use strategies for connecting forest science, history, and stewardship across grade levels.

Reservations required.

Oct 4

LOCATIONBuffalo ParkEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Join Flagstaff Open Space for a kid-friendly Tarantula Trek, where we'll explore a portion of the McMillan Mesa Loop Trail from Buffalo Park, and search for tarantulas along the way! Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring hiking poles, but we'll have extras! We'll meet at Buffalo Park by the bison statue, cross the Matt Kelly footbridge onto McMillan Mesa Loop Trail; it is an easy hike, fairly flat. We're doing 2 separate walks, this one at 10am-noon and another noon-2pm. Each walk is limited to 30 people.

Reservation required.

Oct 4

LOCATIONUSGS Flagstaff Science CampusEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Middle School, Open House, Teenagers

Explore interactive displays and activities related to geology, geography, biology, hydrology, planetary science, and mapping!

Oct 4

LOCATIONBuffalo ParkEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Guided Tour/Hike, Middle School, Reservation Required, Teenagers

Join Flagstaff Open Space for a kid-friendly Tarantula Trek, where we'll explore a portion of the McMillan Mesa Loop Trail from Buffalo Park, and search for tarantulas along the way! Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring hiking poles, but we'll have extras! We'll meet at Buffalo Park by the bison statue, cross the Matt Kelly footbridge onto McMillan Mesa Loop Trail; it is an easy hike, fairly flat. We're doing 2 separate walks, one at 10am-noon and this one at noon-2pm. Each walk is limited to 30 people.

Reservation required.

Oct 4

LOCATIONMcAllister RanchEVENT TYPEAdults, Elementary, Family Science Activities, Middle School, Teenagers

Online registration is encouraged, in-person registration will be available.

!!!Pre-celebration Farm Tour & open House starting at 12:30.!!!

Celebrate the joy of harvesting, cooking, and storytelling with crops grown at McAllister Ranch, including by growers in the "Living History" Gardens! As part of Superyard Farms and the Flagstaff Sustainability Office urban agriculture incubator bringing the historic McAllister Ranch back to life, we will harvest heirloom vegetables, cook using the science of traditional ingredients like ash and epazote, and enjoy multicultural music and dance on the new regenerative farm right here on Historic Route 66.

Oct 4