Happy New Year! We begin 2026 with two exhibitions designed to spark curiosity and engage the senses.

Starting January 10, we invite you to explore Katsintithu—Katsina Dolls. This newly expanded installation takes a deeper look at the tradition, meaning, and artistry of these uniquely Hopi dolls. The installation of dolls will rotate every six months, drawing from MNA’s extensive collection.

Later in the month, we hope you’ll return for Call of the Colorado Plateau, an immersive exhibition that explores the powerful relationship between nature and the human spirit. Featuring artists and adventurers inspired by the region’s dramatic landscapes, the exhibition goes beyond the visual with multisensory experiences that evoke the feeling of being in the wilds. We’re very proud to present this exhibition as the regional museum of the Colorado Plateau.

I also encourage you to delve deeper into our Wagon Road to Mother Road exhibit with a January 8th curator talk by David Purcell, MNA archaeologist and historian. Known for his expertise, wit, and deep knowledge of Route 66, David offers engaging perspectives you won’t want to miss.

Local residents: We have a special Sunday admission offer just for you through 2026. Please see the notice below.

We look forward to welcoming everyone in the new year.

Mary Kershaw

Executive Director & CEO

Museum of Northern Arizona

The Museum is open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Thursdays to 7 p.m.

Purchase admission tickets online or at the door.

JANUARY 8

Curator Talk: Wagon Road to Mother Road

JANUARY 9

Easton Collection Center Tour

JANUARY 10

Katsintithu—Katsina Dolls exhibition opens

JANUARY 25

Call of the Colorado Plateau exhibition opens

JANUARY 31

Members Preview: Call of the Colorado Plateau exhibition

FEBRUARY 13

Easton Collection Center Tour

See details on all of our coming events.

$10 Sunday Admission for Locals

Northern Arizona neighbors, this one’s for you! Enjoy $10 Sunday admission at the Museum all year long in 2026—a savings of up to $8 per person. Spend your Sunday exploring the art, science, culture, and dinosaurs of the Colorado Plateau. Just mention where you live at the admission desk. Eligible counties: Mohave, Yavapai, Coconino, Navajo, and Apache. Excludes special events and festivals. Make it a Sunday tradition—we can’t wait to welcome you.

MNA Donors: Thank You!

As a private nonprofit, MNA relies on donor support to advance its exhibitions and programs—connecting our community and visitors to the art, science, and cultures of the Colorado Plateau. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped us meet our $50,000 matching challenge at the end of 2025. Thank you! There are many meaningful ways to support MNA’s mission and ensure this work continues into 2026 and beyond. Learn how you can be part of what’s next.

Early Discovery Camp Registration

Taught by knowledgeable and enthusiastic educators, our popular summer camps immerse children in the arts, sciences, cultures, and environment of our region. Museum of Northern Arizona members have the first opportunity to register their kids for the July camps. If you are an MNA member, look for an email in early February providing links to registration. If you’re not a member, signup today. Preview the 2026 camp descriptions at Discovery Camps.

Emerging Artists Residency Opportunity

Emerging artists are welcome to apply for the 2026 Namingha Institute, April 26-May 10, at the Museum. Named for the Namingha family, who believe deeply in giving back to the community by aiding and nurturing young artists, the institute celebrates diverse artistry. Throughout the two-week residency, students will work with master artists and find inspiration from the Colorado Plateau. Boarding and stipend provided. Learn more and apply. Deadline to apply: January 11.

Wagon Road to Mother Road

Open through October 2026

Explore the evolution of U.S. Highway 66, from its alignment with the Beale Wagon Road to its profound impact on northern Arizona. Based on MNA research, the show reveals captivating stories about the wild side of the iconic highway—including tales of drinking and driving, breakdown camps, and car crashes. Gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of Route 66 and American road travel.

Shifting Life Zones

Open through April 30, 2026

Shifting Life Zones invites visitors to explore the transformations unfolding across northern Arizona landscapes. This region, where the concept of life zones originated, is a prime example of how zones are shifting with climate changes. The exhibit unveils the shifting boundaries of plant life as they adapt to a warming world and points to changes here on the Museum’s campus and across the broader region.

Katsintithu—Katsina Dolls

Opens January 10, 2026

Explore the tradition and artistry of Hopi katsina dolls in a new MNA installation. Selected with consultation from Hopi cultural leaders, the dolls on display are from the museum’s extensive collection—rotating in the exhibit every six months. The rotations will examine a variety themes, providing insight into the origin, cultural importance, and artistic heritage of katsina dolls.

Call of the Colorado Plateau

Opens January 25, 2026

Step into a world of vast horizons, rugged canyons, and quiet solitude with Call of the Colorado Plateau. This immersive exhibition invites visitors to explore the profound impact of nature on the human spirit. Artists and adventurers drawn to stunning landscapes figure prominently, yet the show goes beyond the visual with multisensory experiences that capture the essence of being in the wilds.

Lizard and Dragon Fly Bowl

This sculptural clay bowl is by Zuni potter Valanie Kalestewa and measures 2.5 inches in height and 8 inches in diameter. See this piece and more in the Gift Shop at the Museum or shop online at shopmusnaz.org. Proceeds from gift shop purchases support the Native American artists and the Museum.