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
corner.
This month, we are excited to present a new exhibition, FORM and FACE: Abstract Bodies + Masked Identities, in our Special Exhibit Gallery. Featuring work by Zarco Guerrero, Mike Medow, and Kevin Titzer, this dynamic show runs through May 31. Exploring the intersections of abstraction, the human form, and identity, the exhibition uses sculptural masks, figurative assemblage, and evocative materials to examine how identity is constructed, concealed, and revealed. It’s a truly compelling experience—don’t miss it.
Application Deadline: May 8, 2026
(This Friday)
Notification: May 15, 2026
Program Dates: June 1–25, 2026
Sedona Arts Center invites teens and college-age students (ages 15–22) to apply for Gallery 928, a paid summer art apprenticeship that pairs emerging artists with a master artist to design and create a public mural on the Sedona Arts Center campus.
Up to 12 apprentices will be selected for this immersive program. Each participant receives a $500 stipend and three free college credits through Yavapai College, along with hands-on experience in the full public art process — from concept to completion.
Gallery 928 also helps artists build essential professional skills, including teamwork, leadership, presentation, and résumé development, preparing them for future opportunities in the arts.
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.
FLAGSTAFF — The American Legion Auxiliary and Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will present their annual Cinco de Mayo Dance, featuring music by Ruben Hernandez, on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at the American Legion Mark A. Moore Post 3, 204 W. Birch Ave., Flagstaff.
• Dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. — $12
• Dance from 8 to 11 p.m.
• Tickets are $15 per person / $20 per couple.
By Indivisible Northern Arizona
FLAGSTAFF — (The Boycott) lays the foundation for future economic disruption.
LET’S SHOW OUR COLLECTIVE POWER!
What to do instead? Celebrate collective bargaining.
And if you must shop, SHOP LOCAL!
Event details:
Water Conservation Remains Critical Following New Pipeline Break
Grand Canyon continues to operate under water conservation measures. A new break in the Transcanyon Waterline was identified the evening of April 29 and as of Thursday afternoon, the break has been located along the North Kaibab Trail north of Phantom Ranch near the 4th footbridge. This latest development is a reminder that the system remains fragile and conditions can change quickly.
Form and Face explores abstraction, the human figure, and the layered construction of identity through the visionary work of Zarco Guerrero. Featuring sculptural masks, figurative assemblage, and evocative materials, this Special Exhibition invites viewers into a bold meditation on body, persona, and transformation.
2026 STEM Celebration
Fort Tuthill County Park
The 2026 Annual Community STEM Celebration is an opportunity for all of Flagstaff to engage with the STEM community. 1 p.m. Free.
Cover photo: The final section of new pipeline for the Transcanyon Waterline Project was installed this week just above the River Trail. (NPS Photo)
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
FLAGSTAFF — The Coalition will participate in the 2026 Annual Community STEM Celebration to be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the Fort Tuthill Fairgrounds.
THE EVENT, PRESENTED BY Flagstaff STEM City, IS FREE!!!
The Coalition’s display will feature the return of its stomp air rockets, a water bottle rocket display and plenty of informational handouts on the U.S. space program including the recent successful Artemus II journey around the moon.
This year’s STEM Celebration will include the return of the Lunar Legacy Invitational – bringing even more opportunities for hands-on STEM exploration.
The Lunar Legacy Invitational will welcome robotics teams from across the Southwest to celebrate Flagstaff’s rich history in space exploration. Teams will compete in space-themed challenges, earn awards, and explore exciting STEM exhibits—continuing the legacy of innovation in our community.
FLAGSTAFF — Dora Rodríguez, who nearly perished while fleeing El Salvador and crossing the AZ border in 1980 will give to readings of her memoir, A Daughter of Unforgiving Terrain, . Dora’s survival is credited with helping to spark the Sanctuary Movement. She is a committed humanitarian and an incredibly inspiring speaker.
On Thursday April 23 you have two different opportunities to hear Dora read/present:
@ 4 pm in Liberal Arts 120 at NAU
@ 6 pm in the Coconino Center for the Arts, 2300 N Fort Valley Rd
Continued Water Conservation Remains Critical for South Rim Community
As announced in this morning’s news release, the park will begin gradually easing water conservation measures on the South Rim starting Friday, April 17 at 12 p.m., following progress in repairing the South Rim water pipeline and restoring pumping capacity. While this marks an important step forward, the park continues to operate on a constrained, aging, and vulnerable water system. Additional pipeline breaks remain possible, and water use must remain careful and intentional.
Support Youth Arts Education & New Interactive Space Hello, After a recent field trip to Coconino Center for the Arts, students in a high school English class for nonnative speakers reflected that it was the best experience of the school…
What started as a compost project using human stool has turned into an experiment that could open the door for colonizing another planet. Researchers at NAU are simulating the barren soils of Mars and the Moon to turn human waste into resources that will help grow food in space.
Get ready for a hilarious, heartbreaking, and “sort of” Chekhovian experience as Theatrikos presents Life Sucks., opening May 21. Directed by John Forsythe, this bold adaptation of Uncle Vanya tackles life’s biggest questions with modern wit and a healthy dose of fourth-wall-breaking honesty.
We are thrilled to announce an incredible ensemble of local talent bringing this “beautiful mess” to life:
Joel Austin
Andrew Dzeguze
América Fregozo
Leslie S. Jones
Nick Rabe
Vicki Thompson
Audrey Young
Tickets are on sale for the Viola Awards at the Orpheum Theater on April 25, 2026!
This year’s Viola Awards are bringing all the homecoming vibes with our theme:
Homecoming: Look How Far We’ve Come.
Join us for a night of celebration, reflection, and school-spirit–level pride as we honor the individuals and organizations who have helped shape our community and move it forward. Think: a reunion with purpose, a celebration of growth, and a reminder of just how far we’ve come—together.
Saturday, May 9, 7:30 pm
S.E. Willis returns with Roger Smith, Frank Manhardt (Freaky Frank) and Donny Roberts. If you missed his last standing room only show at CCA now is your chance!
This show will be more eclectic, not so Blues focused, with more Americana and even Country elements. We’re having a party 60 years in the making and we’re inviting you to come out and see what a lifetime of experience playing American music can achieve. Let’s have some fun!
GET TICKETS
Members save 10% on tickets!
Save the Date—Town of Tusayan Cinco de Mayo Celebration on May 5
On Tuesday, May 5, the Town of Tusayan will be hosting its annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration from 4:30-9 p.m. at the Squire Resort in Tusayan. Mexican food and music will be featured as well as pinatas for kids, a face painter, balloon artist, a dive-in movie and indoor and outdoor pool, as well as a drone light show.
More information can be found in the attached flyer here.
This Week’s Highlights
Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. “Flag Happs” is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights of the week.
There are moments in the life of an organization when recognition feels larger than the award itself, when it reflects not just a single achievement, but an entire community’s belief in the power of the arts. We are deeply honored to share that Theatrikos Theatre Company has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Governor’s Award, one of Arizona’s highest distinctions for arts and culture organizations.
Presented in partnership with Arizona Citizens for the Arts and the Arizona Commission on the Arts, this award recognizes cultural leadership, sustained community engagement, and a deep alignment with the values that strengthen Arizona’s creative landscape. To be chosen from across the state is both humbling and affirming.
Because of you, we surpassed our goal for Arizona Gives Day.
Together, you helped raise $5,700 for Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra—unlocking the full $5,000 matching gift and bringing the total impact to $10,700.
This result is a reflection of what can happen when a community shows up with collective intention and generosity.
We are deeply grateful for your belief in our work, and we look forward to sharing our Season 76 finale concert with you on April 17.
Dear Museum Friends,
Spring is a time for growth and renewal. I invite you to make a visit to the Museum of Northern Arizona a part of your Spring, as I most certainly will.
Our exhibitions and programs focus on expanding knowledge and inspiring creativity focused on the very special part of the world that is the Colorado Plateau. Many of our visitors tell us they come to the museum to learn something new, to be inspired, and to connect to heritage and community. Hearing that from our visitors makes my heart sing, and inspires our staff in their efforts to bring life-enriching experiences to our communities.
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our classes and workshops — from iPhoneography and oil painting to sculpting, stained glass, ceramics, and pottery for teens and beginners — 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.
Pine & Peaks Post | April 9, 2026
Welcome to your go-to source for everything Parks & Recreation!
From exciting events to seasonal programs, we’ll keep you in the loop.
It’s Arizona Gives Day!
DONATE NOW TO SUPPORT
SEDONA ARTS CENTER TODAY
Make your Arizona Gives Day donation now:
👉 www.azgives.org/sedonaartscenter
Or call Sedona Arts Center at 928-282-3809
and we’ll help you set up your contribution.
Tomorrow, April 7, is Arizona Gives Day, a single day when thousands across our state come together to build a better Arizona by supporting the organizations that shape our communities.
Your choice to support Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra is part of that collective effort, an expression of what you believe our community needs and values.
Grand Canyon Water Update – April 2, 2026
The park is currently under Stage 3 water restrictions as crews continue work to restore pumping following a recent break.
Utility staff and contractors completed a key pipeline repair earlier this week. Flushing is expected to resume today (Thursday), with re-pressurization beginning early tomorrow (Friday). If successful, water sampling will follow, with results expected within 24 hours. The current estimate for restoration of service to the South Rim is late Saturday or early Sunday.
been an incredibly busy time at the Arts Center—and we’ve all felt it!
We’ve officially wrapped Vision + Sound 2026, and it was a tremendous success. Through exhibits, performances, and programs across Sedona, Buckeye, Goodyear, Peoria, and Tolleson, we reached approximately 73,000 people.
We concluded Vision + Sound here in Sedona with our Symposium, held in partnership with the ASU Center for the Study of Race + Democracy, titled Facing the Future: The Arts and the Power of Community. This year’s Symposium may have been our best yet. It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of our work and gave us all renewed energy to truly “face the future.” Our keynote speaker, Brett Cook—an extraordinary artist from California—has led impactful residency programs that have transformed communities and touched millions of lives. It was an honor to experience his work and witness his vision firsthand.
When NASA turns to an NAU geologist
Kristen Bennett, NAU’s newest planetary scientist, is one of just 10 scientists selected by NASA to lend her expertise on the first crewed mission to the Moon since the 1970s. When astronauts on the Artemis IV mission land on the Moon and venture out onto its surface, that’s where Bennett and her colleagues come in: “We’ll help them figure out which direction to walk, which rocks to take as samples and how many to take,” she said.
Tickets are now available for MNA’s annual fundraiser and Flagstaff’s premier summer party, the Party on the Plateau! Our 2026 event celebrates the Route 66 Centennial and the Museum’s Wagon Road to Mother Roadexhibition.
I hope you will join us for an evening of fun and celebration, including a happy hour on our patio in the pines, dinner next to the Rio de Flag canyon, and fundraising activities that will support MNA’s mission all year round.
If you can’t make it to the Party but would still like to contribute to MNA’s success, your donation today will support our mission – and our Party on the Plateau fundraising goal! Thank you.
Thank you for your continued engagement in art, science, and culture. At Creative Flagstaff, we keep you informed about what’s coming up — exhibitions, performances, events, and opportunities — but we tend to overlook sharing our recent accomplishments, both public-facing and behind-the-scenes. And, we have a lot to share! We’re launching this quarterly newsletter to help acquaint you with the faces behind our organization, with personal accounts from staff members each newsletter. We hope you enjoy learning more about us, and we invite you to become involved.
Yours, Julie Comnick
Executive Director, Creative Flagstaff & Coconino Center for the Art
Volunteers are needed for the Northern Arizona Book Festival April 9-12, 2026. Whether you have loved a past event or just want to see the behind-the-scenes choreography, this essential work will connect you to Northern Arizona’s literary community. What does volunteering look like? From moving chairs and helping at check-in, to pointing attendees toward the right room and occasionally solving a “literary emergency,” your availability will be matched with your interests.
The Northern Arizona Book Festival is supported by the City of Flagstaff Bed, Board & Beverage (BBB) tax fund.
This April, spring into service
Ready to put those paid community engagement hours to use? NAU’s Center for Service and Volunteerism is hosting its first Spring Into Service Challenge from April 1-22, bringing fresh volunteer opportunities, fun events and a recognition party with prizes and fun.
CALL TO ARTISTS
The Face of Diversity: The Big Gay Art Show
Exhibit Dates: June 5 – June 28, 2026
Opening Reception: June 5, 2026 | 4:00–6:00 PM
Location: Sedona Arts Center, 15 Art Barn Road, Sedona, AZ
Deadline to Apply: April 17, 2026
Notification: April 24, 2026
A vibrant juried exhibition celebrating creative expression by artists from the rainbow communities and their allies. Open to artists of all backgrounds, levels, and mediums — bringing diverse voice and energy to the visual arts scene.
The Marvelous Wonderettes is not just a show, it is a full experience. From the moment you walk into the Doris Harper-White Playhouse, you are transported to prom night in 1958, surrounded by music, energy, and the unmistakable feeling that something special is happening all around you. Four incredible performers take you on a journey through love, friendship, and growing up, all set to the songs you know and love. You will find yourself laughing, reminiscing, and maybe even singing along before the night is over.
Archaeology Hike
Picture Canyon Natural and Cultural Preserve
In celebration of Arizona Archaeology & Heritage Awareness Month, Flagstaff PROSE and Neil Weintraub will host a guided hike of Picture Canyon Natural & Cultural Preserve and its archaeology! 1:30 p.m. Free.
Grand Canyon National Park will reopen the North Rim for the 2026 summer season beginning at 6 a.m. on May 15, marking an important step in recovery following the Dragon Bravo Fire. Visitors will once again be able to access iconic scenic drives and the North Kaibab Trail will also reopen for foot traffic, though stock use is suspended and trail work will continue throughout the season.
NPS Trail Crew operations on the North Kaibab Trail are scheduled to begin around April 10, with multiple crews working throughout the season to clear rockfall and complete trail rehabilitation projects. Hikers should expect possible delays or temporary closures as this work progresses.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park will welcome visitors back to the North Rim for the 2026 summer season beginning at 6 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026.
All paved roadways within the park will reopen, including Highway 67, Cape Royal, and Point Imperial Roads. These scenic drives provide access to many of the North Rim’s iconic viewpoints, including Point Imperial, Cape Royal, Roosevelt Point, Walhalla Overlook, and Angels Window. Vehicles over 22 feet in total length are not permitted on the Cape Royal and Point Imperial Roads due to tight turns, limited parking, and narrow roadway conditions.
FLAGSTAFF — The Guadalupanas of Our Lady of Guadalupe are seeking advertising sponsors for 100th Anniversary Celebration keepsake “Centennial Magazine” to be produced by the Arizona Daily Sun.
The celebration, to be held beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 16 at the chapel, 224 Kendrick Ave., Flagstaff, supports the preservation of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel.
Friday, March 20
Arvel Bird with Wild World Fiddle
Charly’s Pub & Grill
A unique Celtic Fusion concert featuring Arvel Bird and Wild World Irish Fiddle, blending soaring Native and Scottish-inspired violin with Irish and Latin-rooted fiddle and guitar in a high-energy, rhythm-driven live experience.
7 p.m.
Inner Canyon Update: Week of March 16
This week, an Extreme Heat Warning is in effect through Sunday below 4,000 feet, including Phantom Ranch. Visitors are advised to avoid strenuous hiking during the hottest part of the day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.), and to drink plenty of water and eat regularly.
As of Thursday morning, drinking water is now ON at 1½-Mile and 3-Mile Resthouses along the Bright Angel Trail. Many thanks to the Water Utilities team for their hard work in restoring these critical water sources during extreme conditions. You can find the latest updates on water availability across the rim and inner canyon on the park’s Key Hiking Messages webpage.
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our classes and workshops — from iPhoneography and oil painting to sculpting, stained glass, ceramics, and pottery for teens and beginners — 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.
The year is 3035, and humanity has been given one last chance to start anew on one of Jupiter’s moons. Champions from different disciplines will argue that their area of study is the most indispensable for Europa’s new civilization. You choose who survives. The Great Survival Debate is back at NAU, bringing together knowledge, craft and talent for a night of fun and mischief.
Next weekend, the stage will come alive with imagination, music, and the joyful energy of young performers as Theatrikos Theatre Company’s Education Department presents its newest TheatriKids and Stage Buddies production, Seussical Jr.
This year’s production will be performed at Coconino High School, marking an exciting partnership between Theatrikos and the school. The collaboration provides young performers the opportunity to perform on a larger stage while strengthening the connection between local arts organizations and the educational community.
FLAGSTAFF — Join Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez and members of the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) for a film screening of A Song for Cesar! The film aims to educate generations old and new about civil rights activist Cesar Chavez’s legacy of impactful, peaceful protest.
The inaugural Cesar Chavez Film Screening will be held on Monday, March 16 at 5:30 p.m. at Coconino Center for the Arts.
A Song for Cesar, a documentary film by Abel Sanchez and Andres Alegria, presents a unique view of the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez and the farmworker movement.
100 Years of Interpretation at Grand Canyon National Park On March 6, 1926, the first issue of Grand Canyon Nature Notes was published, marking the beginning of NPS interpretation at Grand Canyon National Park. The bulletin was created by…
Art Classes and Workshops
at Sedona Arts Center …and Online!
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our classes and workshops — from iPhoneography and oil painting to sculpting, stained glass, ceramics, and pottery for teens and beginners — 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.
2026 Ramada Reservations
for the Summer Season
Ramada reservations for the 2026 summer season began on March 2. Ramadas are great for your events like school graduations, birthday parties, and celebrations of life.
Reserve online.
Fabulous Friday & Florals
with Elizabeth St Hillaire
April 14–16, 2026, Tuesday — Thursday
Be inspired by beloved Mexican painter Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderón aka Frida! You do NOT need to know how to draw faces, I will teach you a photographic transfer technique that works like magic in order to start with a good proportional likeness.
FLAGSTAFF — The League of American Bicyclists has honored the efforts of Flagstaff to build better places for people to bike with a Silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) award. The award recognizes Flagstaff for its commitment to creating transportation and recreational resources that benefit residents of all ages and abilities while encouraging a variety of transportation choices.
Thursday-Wednesday, March 5-11
Call of the Colorado Plateau
Museum of Northern Arizona
Explore the profound impact of nature on the human spirit in this multisensory exhibition. 10 am.
New Podcast Episode Highlights North Kaibab Trail Recovery and the Work Ahead
A new podcast episode of the Grand Canyon Hiker Dude Show was released this week featuring Trails Supervisor Adam Gibson, offering an in-depth look at the condition of the North Kaibab Trail following the Dragon Bravo Fire and outlining what recovery efforts may look like through 2026 and beyond.
March is a wonderful time to reconnect with the Colorado Plateau, and I invite you to visit the Museum to experience two of our latest exhibitions.
Call of the Colorado Plateau summons us to slow down and engage all our senses through art, sound, and scent. The exhibit shares the stories of writers, artists, and explorers who have been shaped by this expansive, remarkable landscape and ultimately invites us back outdoors to see the land not as a backdrop, but as a living presence.
