Saturday-Sunday, June 13-14
Flagstaff Folk Festival
Coconino Center for the Arts
A two-day live music festival featuring 100+ musical acts on 5 stages plus workshops, food court and artisan market. 10 a.m.
As part of Grand Canyon National Park’s Conservation K-9 Pilot Project, wildlife staff are asking employees and residents to report any elk observed within designated wildlife exclusion zones.
The five designated exclusion zones are:
El Tovar Complex
Grand Canyon Visitor Center
Maswik Lodge
Mather Campground Services Area
Grand Canyon School
Can you find the paradine plains cactus in the above photo? Don’t feel bad if not—it’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, but it plays an important role in the Four Corners region’s ecosystem. In the wake of the White Sage Fire, NAU ecologist Clare Aslan is measuring the succulent’s resilience over a three-year period. Her findings could help ecologists and policymakers everywhere understand when to do boots-on-the-ground restoration work and when to let nature recover on its own.
Art Classes and Workshops
at Sedona Arts Center
Discover the Joy of Creating
Sedona Arts Center offers year-round classes and workshops designed to inspire artists of all experience levels. From painting, ceramics, jewelry making, and photography to mixed media and more, our programs are welcoming, hands-on, and taught by working artists in a supportive creative environment.
Whether you’re discovering a new passion or continuing to grow your skills, you’ll find opportunities to explore, create, and connect in the heart of Sedona. New ceramics classes begin in June, alongside a wide variety of upcoming workshops and studio experiences for adults, teens, and families.
Spots still open for Summer Camp weeks! Fun at the Fort is blasting off with fun themes each week, and we have room for new recruits. Find an open week to join the adventures.
As our fiscal year comes to a close, I’m reaching out one final time to ask for your support.
This campaign has always been about more than meeting a number. It’s about ensuring Sedona Arts Center has the stability and operating support needed to continue serving artists, students, and our community in the year ahead.
The summer months are traditionally our most difficult cash-flow period, and every contribution made right now helps us continue programs, plan ahead with confidence, and maintain the creative opportunities that mean so much to so many.
If you’ve been considering making a gift, this is the moment when your support can have an immediate impact.
“Maintaining safe and reliable transportation infrastructure is essential to preserving access to Grand Canyon National Park,” said Superintendent Ed Keable. “This project would replace an aging culvert that has supported rail service to the South Rim for nearly a century, helping ensure the continued operation of the Grand Canyon Railway while reducing the risk of future infrastructure failures.”
Festival season has officially arrived in Flagstaff! There is nothing quite like this time of year, when warm, sunny days are paired with a perfect cool mountain breeze and the refreshing, unmistakable scent of pine trees fills the air. The city is buzzing with energy, and Theatrikos is absolutely thrilled to be part of the celebration.
As you head out to enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere, we invite you to come say hello! Catch up with us, experience a taste of local theatre, and see what we have in store at two fantastic upcoming festivals.
Application Deadline: July 3, 2026
Exhibit Dates: July 31 – October 10, 2026
Location: Tolleson Art Gallery, located inside Tolleson Public Library, Tolleson, AZ
Deadline to Apply: July 3, 2026
The Tolleson Art Gallery invites Arizona artists of all backgrounds and disciplines to submit work exploring the journey of artistic growth, transformation, and self-discovery.
My Evolution celebrates progression — the shift from where you began to where you stand today as an artist. This exhibition highlights personal development, changing perspectives, breakthroughs, experiments, reinventions, and the moments that shaped your creative voice.
Artists are encouraged to submit work that reflects changes in style, technique, identity, purpose, or pivotal moments in their artistic journey. All mediums are welcome, including painting, photography, sculpture, mixed media, digital art, textiles, and more.
Selected exhibiting artists will receive a stipend, with additional compensation available for artists presenting a workshop, artist talk, demonstration, or public engagement program.
June at the Museum of Northern Arizona ushers in the start of an engaging season. Summer is truly special here! Our beautiful setting in the ponderosa pines comes alive with events, visitors, and community energy.
I invite you to kick off the summer at MNA’s Party on the Plateau fundraiser on Saturday, June 6. Reserve your tickets now. The accompanying online silent auction is open to all, featuring unique items and experiences to explore.
The Beautification, Arts & Sciences Program is seeking a collaborative and detail-oriented professional to manage public art collections, beautification assets, and community-focused public art projects throughout the City. This position oversees project development and maintenance, coordinates with internal and external partners, conducts community outreach, and supports program initiatives through project management, reporting, and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate will have strong organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills, along with experience managing projects of varying scope and complexity.
Application Deadline: June 21, 2026, 10 pm (Arizona Time)
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park is welcoming a new, four-legged member to the park’s wildlife management team. “Blue,” a trained Conservation K-9, will work alongside park wildlife staff to help reduce human-wildlife conflicts in busy areas on the South Rim.
The Conservation K-9 Pilot Project, now in its first year of a 3-year pilot, uses dogs to encourage animals who are habituated to humans, such as Grand Canyon’s elk and bighorn sheep, to avoid developed areas where interactions with visitors can be unsafe to both visitors and wildlife.
FLAGSTAFF — Join the Arizona Commission on the Arts and Creative Flagstaff on Tuesday June 11, 2026 from 4-6pm for an interactive session about Creative Aging, an exciting national movement to advance understanding of the vital relationship between creative expression and healthy aging.
Creative engagement through the arts is fundamental to the human experience and deeply linked to enhanced health and well-being. Older adults who engage in the arts experience better overall health, enjoy a higher quality of life, and are more active in their communities. Together we will dive into the why and how of providing high quality creative programming for adults across the aging spectrum
We’re excited to share that the Flagstaff Festival of Science has launched a newly redesigned website! Visit us at www.scifest.org to explore the new look and updated features.
The new site was created to make it easier for our community to stay connected with Festival events, programs, and opportunities throughout the year. With improved navigation, a more modern design, and easier access to information, visitors can quickly find upcoming events, learn about our programs, and discover ways to get involved.
“Our goal was to create a website that reflects the energy, accessibility, and community spirit of the Festival,” said Gina Byars, Program Manager for the Festival. “We encourage community members to explore the site and learn more about all of our programs and events. We’re excited to offer an improved experience that helps people connect with activities and opportunities year-round.”
COCONINO COUNTY — Time is running short for families to start checking out potential summer camp programs in Coconino County and Northern Arizona.
The following is a listing compiled by CCC&Y. Contact individual programs for more information on their 2026 summer camps.
A new club housed at NAU’s Institute for Human Development provides stimulating activities for local residents with memory loss, a respite for caregivers, a living laboratory for NAU students and faculty and a space where volunteers can make a difference through art and music. Read the story and watch the video to learn how you can be part of it.
The drinks are pouring, the tension is mounting, and our mid-run audiences have proven what we knew all along: Life Sucks. is an absolute triumph. From the moment the first argument flies, viewers are transported into a brilliant, hilarious exploration of love and longing that is as heartfelt as it is chaotic. With just two weeks remaining, now is the time to experience the magic everyone is talking about.
A planned water outage is scheduled in the inner canyon from June 4–11 to support critical Transcanyon Waterline infrastructure work. Crews will tie in a new section of piping along the River Trail and complete additional work at the Havasupai Gardens pumphouse.
The outage will impact potable water service at Phantom Ranch, the Phantom Ranch Delta Restroom, Bright Angel Campground, Boat Beach, Cottonwood Campgrou`nd, Manzanita Rest Area, and Manzanita Day Use Area. Havasupai Gardens, as well as the 3-Mile and 1.5-Mile resthouses, will continue to have water available during this period.
Click below for the latest news updates from the:
Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — As the Summer vacation season rapidly approaches, it may be a good time to take a deep breath, take care of yourself and find some ways to ease the stress for your children.
To help, Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth wants to remind everyone that we have a variety of free webinar training programs on our website.
Want to take a moment to take care of yourself? Visit our free Mindfulness (for adults) one-hour webinar.
Your child may also benefit from our free Mindfulness for Youth 45-minute webinar
You can also support your child with our free Bullying and Cyberbullying one-hour webinar.
Sedona Arts Center offers year-round classes and workshops designed to inspire artists of all experience levels. From painting, ceramics, jewelry making, and photography to mixed media and more, our programs are welcoming, hands-on, and taught by working artists in a supportive creative environment.
Whether you’re discovering a new passion or continuing to grow your skills, you’ll find opportunities to explore, create, and connect in the heart of Sedona. New ceramics classes begin in June, alongside a wide variety of upcoming workshops and studio experiences for adults, teens, and families.
For the past five years, Arizona has led all states in foreign direct investment, attracting more than $197 billion since 2020. Over the past few weeks, ECoNA has presented to delegations from 10 countries to make the case for bringing their businesses to northern Arizona.
Last month, we joined Northern Arizona University and the City of Flagstaff to meet with the Arizona Investment & Higher Education Exchange Delegation of top executives, business owners, investors, and higher education leaders from Taiwan. The delegation has expressed interest in Flagstaff’s potential for commercial, higher education, and industrial investment.
Also see:
Arizona Daily Sun — Gallery: Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel celebrates 100 years
FLAGSTAFF — In a scene that harkened back to a time when the few local Catholic Churches hosted capacity crowds during multiple Sunday services, Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Chapel enjoyed a resurgence during a Mass held in honor of its 100th anniversary on Saturday, May 16, 2026.
Parishioners and community members could be seen standing on either side of the chapel’s pews, while others crowded in the back of the chapel and even outside structure’s heavy wooden front doors.
It was an appropriate turnout for a place that has so much meaning for the local Hispanic community.
“Since its dedication on December 5, 1926, and the inaugural Mass on December 12, 1926, this sacred site has served as the spiritual and cultural heart of the Southside neighborhoods/Barrios. …” according to a portion of the official proclamation that was read at the event by members of the of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors on May 16.
Also see:
Arizona Daily Sun (Nov. 10, 2025) — CCC beginning planning process for construction on Flagstaff campuses following bond election
FLAGSTAFF — Members of the local community gathered on May 21, 2026 for a Coconino Community College public forum to discussed a proposed new building at the Fourth Street Campus.
This session, led by Dr. Eric Heiser, president and CEO of the college, was designed to introduce the project and gather feedback from community members, students, faculty, and staff.
College officials said the input will help inform the design and ensure the space reflects CCC’s mission, values, and long-term goals.
While the main campus today is located on Lone Tree, the college actually got its start on Fourth Street near the Sunnyside Neighborhood of Flagstaff.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County celebrated the opening of the third annual Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition on Tuesday, May 19 at Elizabeth “Liz” C. Archuleta County Park.
“This year’s exhibition features large-scale sculptures by artists Pamela Ambrosio, Anjola Ayodele, Robert L. Barnum, Nathaniel Trygg Patterson, and Joe Ray,” the city reported in a media release. “Artworks reflect diverse cultural representation and explore themes of nature, history, and inclusivity. Together, they infuse the park with an engaging visual experience that highlights storytelling and community, while inviting the public to experience the park in new ways.”
FLAGSTAFF — From a moving standing-room-only service, to a variety of musical performances, food and inspiring stories, the Northern Arizona community came out in full force for the 100th anniversary of celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel in Flagstaff on Saturday, May 16. The event included:
Saturday, May 23 — It’s time for the master gardener’s annual plant sale and festival at Colton Garden! 10 a.m.
North Rim Reopens for 2026 Season
Grand Canyon National Park officially reopened the North Rim for the 2026 season on May 15. The park extends a heartfelt thank you to Grand Canyon Conservancy, the Arizona Trail Association, and Aramark and for their support and partnership in helping ensure reopening remained on schedule for the 2026 season.
Visitors hiking the upper portion of the North Kaibab Trail between Supai Tunnel and the Trailhead are advised to use increased caution while traveling through areas affected by the Dragon Bravo burn scar. Burned landscapes can increase the risk of flash flooding, debris flows, rock falls, erosion and falling trees, particularly during monsoon storms or periods of heavy rain. In cooperation with the U.S. Geological Survey, the park has expanded flash flood monitoring and emergency preparedness efforts throughout the Bright Angel Creek watershed, including the installation of new stream and precipitation gages and enhanced visitor notification systems. Hikers are encouraged to closely monitor weather conditions and heed all posted warnings.
COCONINO COUNTY — Many Coconino County offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day on May 25.
Coconino County’s Administrative Center, County Manager’s Office, County Attorney’s Office, Coconino County Superior Court and Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) office and clinic will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day.
COCONINO COUNTY — Results for the May 19, 2026 Special Election indicate that a majority of Flagstaff voters chose “Yes” on Question 492, ratifying the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045. This means that the Plan will be in effect in the City of Flagstaff following the official canvass of the election, which is expected to occur at the June 2 Flagstaff City Council meeting.
I want to share a quick story with you.
Last year, we started the Sedona Entrepreneurial Artist Development Program (SEAD). Since then, a total of 34 artists from Sedona, across the state and beyond have learned the business skills necessary to take their art business to the next level. This incredible program has received acclaim from all who’ve participated and it has made a real difference in these artists lives.
This is what your support does.
As we approach the end of our fiscal year, we’re working to ensure that more stories like this are possible in the months ahead.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — We imagine a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community.
The purpose of CCC&Y is bold and your help is needed.
When you become a member of CCC&Y, your financial contribution helps cultivate and strengthen well-informed communities by providing education and resources, bringing stakeholders together, building new systems of communication and more.
Each week, the Coalition produces a weekly newsletter where we share partner news and events in our blog section and links to community resource meetings.
READ MORE
Every year, our Annual Meeting and Community Impact Celebration reminds me of why this work matters.
This year’s breakfast brought together so many of the business and community leaders who make northern Arizona the special place it is. We celebrated the close of a very successful annual campaign and reflected on the difference we can make when we work together.
Outgoing Board Chair Armando Ruiz said it beautifully: “I have been able to witness first-hand the power of partnership and collective impact. I am so proud of the work we are doing with youth.”
Now through spring 2027, visitors walking into Cline Library will step into a slice of mid-century America: A glowing motel “No Vacancy” sign, vintage furniture, a guestbook waiting to be signed, a Polaroid camera to capture the moment. The exhibit “Echoes of the Open Road: 100 Years of Route 66 in Arizona” combines archival materials, student scholarship and community storytelling to trace the history of this iconic roadway—from its rise as a cross-country travel route to its cultural afterlife as a symbol of Americana.
The City of Flagstaff has announced that ballots for the Regional Plan Special Election on May 19 have been counted and the results are in. The majority of voters chose to vote “Yes.” This means that the Regional Plan 2045 will take effect immediately as the City’s General Plan.
Yes on Question 492 received 57% of the votes
No on Question 492 received 43% of of the votes
Turnout for the citywide election was 27%.
Right now, Arizona lawmakers are making critical decisions about the 2027 State Budget — including the future of funding for the Arizona Commission on the Arts.
Sedona Arts Center is joining Arizona Citizens for the Arts in urging supporters across the state to speak up now in support of continued arts funding.
An investment in arts and culture is an investment in education, community health, tourism, local economies, and quality of life throughout Arizona. Arts organizations, teaching artists, students, and communities across the state benefit from this essential support.
We encourage you to take a moment today to contact your legislators and ask them to support at least $2 million in ongoing funding for the Arizona Commission on the Arts in the 2027 budget.
Art Classes and Workshops
at Sedona Arts Center
Discover the Joy of Making
Sedona Arts Center offers year-round classes and workshops designed to inspire artists of all experience levels. From painting, ceramics, jewelry making, and photography to mixed media and more, our programs are welcoming, hands-on, and taught by working artists in a supportive creative environment.
FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors signed a proclamation on May 12, 2026 celebrating 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel in Flagstaff.
“WHEREAS, in May of 1925, the Hispanic families of Flagstaff began raising the first funds for a church of their own, and by September 25, 1925, the work commenced on the foundation—an effort that exhausted the full $500 then available but strengthened the community’s resolve; and …” members of the chapel’s caretakers the Guadalupanas began reading during the opening of the proclamation ceremony.
The county stated in its agenda as the reason for the proclamation:
“Since its dedication on December 5, 1926, and the inaugural Mass on December 12, 1926, this sacred site has served as the spiritual and cultural heart of the Southside neighborhoods/Barrios. …
FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County Treasurer Sarah Benatar had the honor of placing wreaths at Pearl Harbor on Sunday following the National Association of Counties’ (NACo) annual Western Interstate Region (WIR Conference (in Maui County, Hawai’i).
Benatar attended the 40th Anniversary of the USS Missouri’s Cold War Recommissioning where she met with veterans and active military personnel to celebrate their service and achievements. Alongside Jackson County Legislator’s Manuel Abarca IV and Venessa Huskey, she laid wreaths to honor both the USS Missouri and the USS Arizona.
“At the USS Arizona Memorial, I was reminded that service, sacrifice and stewardship are not just ideals, they are responsibilities we carry forward,” Benatar said. “On behalf of Coconino County and my county colleagues through NACo, it was a profound honor to place a wreath in tribute to those who gave everything and to reaffirm our commitment to never forget their legacy.”
View this email in your browser Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition Opens May 19 The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County announce the opening of the third annual Multicultural County Park Sculpture ExhibitionTuesday, May 19. This year’s exhibition features large-scale…
Fun at the Fort Summer Camp
8 Weeks this Summer
Spots are filling quickly! Secure your child’s spot for an unforgettable summer now.
Several weeks still have availability and each week is a different theme.
FLAGSTAFF — Join us in the celebration Mass of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel as we honor one hundred years of faith, devotion, and community. Through scripture, gospel, and uplifting hymns, we celebrate the enduring love for Nuestra Virgen de Guadalupe and the Chapel that has been a safe haven for generations. We remember with gratitude the founding families whose dedication built this Chapel and whose legacy continues to inspire us today. This joyful Mass celebrates a century of shared faith and the blessings that unite our community.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
FLAGSTAFF — Hikers, parents and children enjoyed a beautiful spring day to take in some fresh air in celebration of the annual 2026 Walk for Wellness — Physical & Mental Health held on May 9 at Buffalo Park in Flagstaff.
The 5th annual event was held in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month nationally and in Coconino County.
Organizers said event was designed to make taking care of your physical and mental health a habit, raise awareness, reduce the stigma of mental health and enjoy a walk with family and friends.
Some of the organizations participating in the event include Anderson General Tire, Arizona Dept. of Economic Security — Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP), Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, Girl Scouts, Native Americans for Community Action (NACA), the Narbha Institute, National Fire Prevention Education Team from the U.S. Forest Service, Northern Arizona Healthcare — Office of Philanthropy, Oxford House, Pioneer Title Agency, Terros Health, Tynkertopia and We Care Northern Arizona.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County announce the opening of the third annual Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition Tuesday, May 19, at the Elizabeth “Liz” C. Archuleta County Park in Flagstaff. A reception begins at 10 a.m. and includes a welcome by Vice-Mayor Miranda Sweet and remarks by City and County officials and participating artists. The event is free and open to the public.
This year’s exhibition features large-scale sculptures by artists Pamela Ambrosio, Anjola Ayodele, Robert L. Barnum, Nathaniel Trygg Patterson and Joe Ray. Artworks reflect diverse cultural representation and explore themes of nature, history and inclusivity. Together, they infuse the park with an engaging visual experience that highlights storytelling and community, while inviting the public to experience the park in new ways as they explore its sculpture pathway.
The Regional Plan Special Election ballot asks voters in the City of Flagstaff to vote on whether to ratify or not ratify the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045.
Your ballot must be received by the Recorder’s Office no later than 7:00 pm on Election Day, Tuesday May 19, 2026. Postmarks do not apply when considering this deadline. There are no polling places on Election Day.
If you haven’t mailed your ballot already, please use one of the drop off locations listed below to ensure it is counted. Click here for additional election information.
May is a perfect time to step into something new.
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our May classes and workshops — from oil painting and jewelry making to iPhone photography — are designed to be welcoming, hands-on, and inspiring.
Whether you’re exploring something new or building on existing skills, you’ll learn from working artists in a supportive environment that values curiosity, craft, and creative joy — all in the heart of Sedona.
Get ready to fall in love and laugh until it hurts! The hilarious musical revue I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change is coming to the Theatrikos stage this July. This crowd-pleasing production takes a deep dive into the modern jungle of dating and relationships, offering a fast-paced look at the trials and tribulations of the human heart. From the nail-biting awkwardness of a first date to the chaotic bliss of marriage and beyond, the show explores universal truths with wit, soul, and a necessary touch of insanity.
FLAGSTAFF — With the crowd moving to the music of Ruben Hernandez and folks dining on an assortment of tacos and enchiladas, the American Legion Auxiliary and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces celebrated their annual Cinco de Mayo Dance on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at the American Legion Mark A. Moore Post 3, 204 W. Birch Ave., Flagstaff.
The Flagstaff Festival of Science calls for presenters to host an event in this year’s Festival!
During “Driven by Curiosity” taking place from September 25 – October 5, 2026, the Festival explores automotive ingenuity, engineering and technology. Your program is welcome to align with the theme, but if not, that is OK too.
What is your area of STEAM expertise? What science topic drives your curiosity? We want to know about it!
T-minus 8 days until the North Rim reopens for the 2026 season! NPS staff from the Planning, Environment, and Projects Division assist with installing barrier fencing on Thursday, May 7, in preparation for reopening.
Dear Museum Friends,
May brings a sense of anticipation at the Museum of Northern Arizona as we prepare for a vibrant summer season of exhibitions, programs, and other opportunities to connect with the Colorado Plateau. Before the busy months ahead, we invite you to enjoy a special start to the season with a colorful new exhibition and a day dedicated to celebrating museums as places of discovery and community.
Artist Hopid Unveiled, opens May 16 in the Courtyard Gallery and highlights the groundbreaking collective formed in 1973 by Hopi artists Michael Kabotie, Delbridge Honanie, Terrance Talaswaima, Neil David Sr., and Milland Lomakema. Drawn from MNA’s fine art collection, including recent acquisitions, the exhibition explores how these artists created bold contemporary visuals rooted in Hopi life, tradition, and storytelling. Presented in three thematic installations, the exhibition offers fresh perspectives on modern identity and cultural continuity.
We also look forward to celebrating International Museum Day on May 16 with free admission and activities for all ages. From hands-on art and science experiences to touch tables, guided tours, and family-friendly exploration throughout the Museum, it’s a chance to experience MNA as a place of creativity, learning, and connection.
I hope you’ll join us at the Museum as we welcome the season ahead.
Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona
Mother’s Day is coming up soon, and it’s a good time to start thinking about ways to celebrate the people who care for us. Give the mom in your life the gift of art.
CCA membership with Arts+ Pass includes free exhibition entry, invitations to exhibition previews, discounted pricing on events, concerts, and workshops, and enrollment in the North American Reciprocal Museum (NARM) Association, offering free admission and exclusive discounts to over 1,300 museums and institutions across North America. This means that, whether the mom in your life is near or far, this gift offers ongoing access to a variety of artistic experiences all year long!
Cesar Duarte
From launching a campus engineering community to advancing cutting-edge exoskeleton research, this first-cohort mechanical engineer has been building impact from day one. His journey blends innovation, leadership and purpose, marking him as an emerging voice in the next wave of engineering talent.
