Across Arizona, public educators know how to help their students succeed, but they often think they can’t make meaningful change without permission from the state. Permission Granted, a new tool co-developed by NAU’s Arizona Institute for Education and the Economy, aims to show schools there’s more flexibility than they think—and they can use it to their advantage to adjust bell schedules, launch career-readiness initiatives and more.
The Flagstaff Festival of Science proudly announces its 2026 theme, “Driven by Curiosity,” celebrating the exploration and innovation that propel discovery and shape our world. The 10-day festival will run September 25 – October 4, 2026, bringing together scientists, educators, students, and lifelong learners for engaging programs across Flagstaff and beyond.
The Festival will open on September 25 with the W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation in NAU’s Ardrey Auditorium by technology leader Kirk Dunsavage, whose talk explores the intersection of science, engineering, and the human spirit of exploration.
March 7-28, 2026
Youth Arts Exhibition Opening Reception March 7, 4-8 pm
Youth Talent Showcase CCA Theater March 7, 5-7 pm
This year’s exhibition features a record number of 510 pieces by over 300 regional youth artists!!
Coconino Center for the Arts’ 2026 Youth Arts Exhibition invites local youth artists from Coconino County and the regional community to exhibit their recent artwork at CCA. The exhibition is open to and inclusive of all artwork submissions by youth artists, Pre-K to 12th grade, that reflect the theme From Ordinary to Extraordinary.
Upcoming Classes Writing and Renewal Wednesday, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 1:30 to 3 p.m. Through writing prompts, the group will reflect, renew, share stories, and enhance their creativity. Seasoned and beginning writers alike are welcome! Writing – Learn…
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.
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
Click below for the latest news updates from the:
Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes
Meet concerned, like-minded neighbors who care deeply about creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community for everyone. Learn about the progressive organizations working locally to strengthen Flagstaff, protect civil rights, and promote equity.
You’ll also hear from City Council candidates Patty Hansen and Austin Aslan about their vision, priorities, and commitment to thoughtful, community-centered leadership.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — While summer seems far away, it’s time for families to start checking out potential summer camp programs in Coconino County.
The following is a listing compiled by CCC&Y. Contact individual programs for more information on their 2026 summer camps.
Please check with individual organizations to confirm times, dates, other information. Please visit the links below to see if registration is still available. Registration deadlines may have already passed for some programs.
If your organization would like to be added to this listing, please send an email to frank@coconinokids.org
READ MORE
Get ready to set the stage for an unforgettable summer! Theatrikos Education is thrilled to announce our 2026 Summer Camp season, a vibrant lineup designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and foster lifelong friendships. From the magic of fairytale storytelling and the high energy of Broadway hits to the technical artistry of makeup and puppetry, there is a spotlight waiting for every young performer in Flagstaff. Whether your student is a seasoned regular or stepping onto the stage for the first time, join us for a season of growth, collaboration, and theatrical wonder!
The year is already alive with music at Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra, and this weekend, we bring that energy to a new space in town. Join us Saturday, February 28 at 3:00 PM for our second Max Jerrell Community Concert of the season at Shepherd of the Hills Church (1601 N. San Francisco St.).
FSO musicians and friends perform Dohnányi’s Serenade for Strings and Schumann’s Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, two masterful works of drama and intimacy.
We’re thrilled to announce that Culture Connection AZ is relaunching our beloved Culture Kitchen program — live and in person!
Join us on Sunday, March 22 at 11:00 AM at Shift Kitchen & Bar (107 N. San Francisco St.) for a delicious and hands-on culinary experience.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Effective immediately, Grand Canyon National Park is implementing water conservation measures on the South Rim following a power outage that impacted the SCADA system at the Havasupai Gardens pumphouse. As a result, water is currently unable to be pumped to the South Rim.
All park residents and visitors are required to conserve and reduce water usage wherever possible in homes, hotel rooms and campgrounds.
Water conservation measures include:
Winter Weather Update for Residents and Employees
Hello, winter! Yesterday’s winter storm brought 3-4 inches of fresh snow to the South Rim. As of this afternoon,Desert View Drive remains closed due to icy road conditions and is likely to remain closed for the remainder of the day on Feb. 19 due to incoming predicted snowfall. As of this morning, admin travel for Desert View Drive has been lifted—however, roads remain icy and snow-packed. For the latest road status updates, call the park roads line at 928-638-7496.
Two of Minnesota’s finest musicians team up for an intimate and unforgettable evening.
David Huckfelt is a singer/ lyricist /activist and founding frontman of Minneapolis indie-folk cult favorites “The Pines”. With improvisational mastery, Huckfelt’s shows and songs have earned him a devoted following from small-town opera houses & theaters to national festival stages.
The Flagstaff Festival of Science announces a new opportunity to join our passionate team! We strive towards excellence in community engagement, creating opportunities for lifelong learning, all the while celebrating science in Flagstaff.
Check out the position description and apply today!
The Program Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing all programmatic components of the Flagstaff Festival of Science’s annual 10-day science festival and related initiatives.
Key tasks include:
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.
COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Office proudly celebrates the outstanding young scholars who competed in the 2026 Coconino County Spelling Bee, an inspiring showcase of academic excellence, perseverance and the power of learning.
Cheryl Mango-Paget, Coconino County Superintendent of Schools, is thrilled to announce this year’s champions:
• First Place: Erin Ebers, Mount Elden Middle School
• Second Place: Tyla Hoffa, Maine Consolidated Schools
• Third Place: Saneela Mirza, DeMiguel Elementary School
I Heart Pluto Festival
Various Locations
As part of the centennial celebration of Route 66, this year’s event centers around the connection between Pluto and Route 66, as well as the 20th anniversary of Pluto’s reclassification. Various Times.
Dear Museum Friends,
As we move into the new year, I’d like to share why becoming a member of the Museum of Northern Arizona means a deeper connection to the Colorado Plateau you love, as well as belonging to a community of people who share that interest.
Members enjoy all that MNA has to offer with free year-round general admission to the Museum, early access to exhibitions and events, invitations to member-only experiences, and discounts on select programs and in the Museum Gift Shop. Some membership levels also include reciprocal admission to cultural institutions across the U.S. and Canada through the North American Reciprocal Museum (NARM) Association—an especially valuable perk for frequent travelers and museum lovers.
Friday, February 13, 7:30 pm
Over the course of his thirty-year career, Nolan McKelvey has covered nearly every corner of the country and traversed all roads of Americana. From the pavement of alt-country, to the dusty trails of bluegrass, to the gravel roads of classic-country, to the interstate highway of rock-n-roll.
Joining him for this intimate performance is Jesse Valenzuela, founding member of Gin Blossoms. For more than three decades, Jesse has provided the multi-platinum group with hit songs (“Til I Hear It From You,” “Follow You Down,” “Mrs. Rita”), masterful guitar playing and exquisite harmony singing.
The Countdown to Clue Has Begun
In just days, our stage will be filled with colorful suspects, outrageous twists, and one very unfortunate dinner party. Rehearsals have been a whirlwind of impeccable comic timing and bold character work. The energy in the room is infectious, and this cast is delivering performances that are both wildly funny and impressively precise.
COCONINO COUNTY — Registration is open for community partners to table at the “Full STEAM Ahead!” Flagstaff Early Childhood Fair from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026 at W. F. Killip Elementary School.
In celebration of the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s “Week of the Young Child,” https://www.azaeyc.org/connect/woyc/, we invite you to participate in the fair.
Please click here to complete this application to participate as a vendor. Each vendor must provide an interactive activity related to S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math). Vendors set up at 8:30 a.m.
Applications are due by 03/30/26. You may direct any questions to kfarretta@azhs.gov We look forward to your participation in this community event.
Get ready to create and explore with Flagstaff’s premier arts educators at Coconino Center for the Arts!
CCA is thrilled to offer Creative Camps, a way for children ages 5-11 to immerse themselves in the arts, with professional arts educators guiding their experience.
2026 Camp Season
Recreation Program Catalog
The 2026 Recreation Program Catalog (January – June) is now online! Register for upcoming programs and sessions. There are various classes listed including beginner and intermediate archery clinics, culinary classes, disc golf clinics, and the popular youth summer camp, Fun at the Fort.
It’s the final week of FORE! open play, with tee times wrapping up on February 14th at 5:30 pm. Play your tee time, then keep the date night going with live music from Mama’s Broke at 7:30 pm: a unique folk duo that interweaves age-old musical forms and traditions with original modern compositions.
Check out the exhibition, get a little competitive with FORE! and end the night with live music! Save your spots below.
FLAGSTAFF — Redemption Counseling Center has announced it is providing bilingual counseling services at 3009 N. West St. Flagstaff.
“At RCC, we are committed to making therapeutic help accessible to all,” said Brianna Snow, LAC. “Our team of Spanish speaking therapists are qualified to work with individuals, couples and families, of all ages. We also have a voucher program available at the moment to help ease any financial barriers.”
Saturday, February 7
10th Annual Flagstaff Chocolate Walk
Flagstaff Vistor Center
Join us in Downtown Flagstaff for a delicious afternoon of chocolate, shopping, and community fun! 11 a.m.
We are proud to announce the 2026 National Theatre Live Series at Theatrikos, featuring a powerful lineup of acclaimed productions recorded live from London’s National Theatre and shared with our community here in Flagstaff. These screenings invite audiences to experience extraordinary performances and timeless stories in a setting designed for connection, conversation, and shared discovery.
We have so much going on this month, I am going to jump right in….
First, Vision + Sound: An African American Experience opens TONIGHT, Friday, February 6 at Celebrate Sedona from 4-6PM. Since the weather will be GREAT, we will be outside. The band, Just Common, is performing and artist, Isse Maloi, is demonstrating. As usual, we will have beer, wine and water for sale as well as some light hors d’oeuvres to munch on.
At the Museum of Northern Arizona, we care deeply about creating a meaningful experience for you, our community, and our visitors.
But we need your help. We want to better understand our visitors’ needs and values so we can best serve you. Museums (like ours!) strive to encourage and expand learning while also addressing the challenges facing our society, and we need to hear your thoughts.
To do this, we are participating in a national survey of museum-goers sponsored by the American Alliance of Museums. This survey provides data from our visitors and visitors to museums nationwide, helping us be more effective in the coming months and in the communities we serve.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — As another busy year begins, 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 Youth45-minute webinar or our free Bullying and Cyberbullying one-hour webinar
Our growing library of on-demand webinars are also designed to help you gain the tools you need to learn about trauma-informed care, tips to help strengthen family protective factors, examine the effects of historical trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
United Way of Northern Arizona invites you to celebrate your Love of Community and be part of our special campaign throughout February to strengthen the place we all call home.
February is a month overflowing with love. There’s Valentine’s Day, of course, but it’s also national Love of Reading Month, and on February 17th, you can celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day.
That makes this the perfect time for heart-centered folks to show their love and create lasting local impact by giving to United Way of Northern Arizona. Love of Community is about each of us playing a part in supporting youth, building stronger families, healthier communities, and a more resilient region.
Every dollar donated stays right here in northern Arizona. Whether you’re giving for the first time or renewing your commitment to our community, now is the time to show that United is the Way to make a difference for our friends and neighbors in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties.
Arizona law provides property tax assistance options for eligible widows and widowers, veterans with a disability and individuals with a permanent disability, commonly referred to as individual exemption programs. These exemptions reduce the assessed value of qualifying property, which may include individually owned real estate, mobile homes and, in some cases, personal property. Applications for individual exemptions are accepted Jan. 1 through Mar. 1 each year.
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.
Saturday, January 31
SNOWHAUS: Winter DJ Showcase
Arizona Snowbowl
A full day of high-elevation house music at Arizona Snowbowl featuring Polar Bears, Carrie Keller, Ekonovah, and Rich Dietz! 11 a.m.
Phantom Ranch has reopened following the successful repair of multiple breaks along the Transcanyon Waterline, and water service has now been restored to Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, Boat Beach, and the Delta restrooms. Park water utilities crews completed repairs near Manzanita Rest Area and the mule corral near Phantom Ranch, allowing the system to be repressurized and inner canyon operations to resume.
On the South Rim, water tanks are slowly refilling as the system stabilizes. Grand Canyon National Park remains under Stage 2 water restrictions, and residents are encouraged to continue reducing water use wherever possible to support system recovery. Utilities staff will continue monitoring the waterline and system pressures as operations return to normal.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — Please join CCC&Y for its next Prevention Council Zoom meeting at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 5. Our meetings provide our coalition partners with the opportunity to share the latest news about their projects that support children, youth and their families in Northern Arizona.
The Council meets the first Thursday of the month.
Want to be a guest speaker at our next meeting? Send an email to CCC&Y Executive Director Virginia Watahomigie at coalition coalition@coconinokids.org to be placed on the agenda or to receive a Zoom link to our next meeting.
READ MORE
Story courtesy MosaicNAZ.org
FLAGSTAFF — Anti-ICE protesters braved a chilly and breezy Friday afternoon to take part in a nationwide demonstration in response to a federal immigration crackdown in Minnesota.
Taking positions in front of the Flagstaff City Hall, the majority of protesters waved a variety of anti-ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) signs on Jan. 23, 2026.
The local protest was organized by Indivisible Northern Arizona in response to ICE activity in Minneapolis, Minn., which included the shooting death of immigrant supporter and ICE watcher Renee Nicole Good on Jan. 7, 2026.
“Thank you to everyone who turned out today in solidarity with Minnesota! Our volunteer counted 550 people at the height of the protest,” Indivisible reported on its Facebook webpage.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park is preparing an adaptive approach for the seasonal reopening of the North Rim, evaluating potential impacts from winter weather to park infrastructure after the Dragon Bravo Fire. The park aims to open popular points of interest, including the North Kaibab Trail, on May 15, weather and conditions permitting.
Park officials emphasize that the guiding principle for the upcoming season is: “We will open what we can, where we can, when we can.” This approach prioritizes visitor safety, resource protection, and operational readiness. Park officials are aware of the challenges of local communities, businesses and our visitors in planning for the 2026 season and are committed to providing specific details about the 2026 North Rim season no later than April 1, 2026.
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.
Policy & Program Updates Webinar – You’re Invited!
Monday, January 26 – Learn about AZ Tribal Consultation and Exceptional Student Services.
Monday, February 23 – Hear updates about state and national policies affecting Native American education.
From 10-11am MST. Visit website for information and register for the Zoom event!
New Name: After January, the P&P webinar will be renamed to OIE Connect!
By MosaicNAZ.org
NORTHERN ARIZONA — Anti-ICE organizers have announced a series of protests and actions in response to the shooting death of a Minneapolis, Minn. man on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal law enforcement agencies.
Protests will be held at:
Over the last week, Grand Canyon National Park water utilities crews successfully repaired multiple pipeline failures along the North Kaibab Trail that temporarily disrupted water service in the inner canyon. Two pipeline breaks near Manzanita Rest Area were fully excavated and repaired, followed by successful excavation and repair at the Xanterra mule corral site near Phantom Ranch. With all damaged sections addressed, the Transcanyon Waterline is now being repressurized.
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 we couldn’t do it without the support of our Funding Partners, our Sponsors and our Organization and Group members.
Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth (CCC&Y) is pleased to receive support from both local and state partners. This support ensures the success of activities and increases the capacity of CCC&Y to have the greatest impact on children and youth at the earliest stages possible.
Our Funding Partners include:
The City of Flagstaff
Coconino County
Vitalyst Health Foundation
Our 2025 Sponsors included:
APS
Blue Cross Blue Shield Arizona Health
Richard and Julianne Hartzell
READ MORE
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.
FLAGSTAFF — On Wednesday, January 7th, an American citizen was killed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This killing is part of a broader pattern of unchecked violence, impunity, and abuse carried out by federal immigration enforcement agencies against members of our communities.
A broad coalition of groups across the country is calling for coordinated Ice Out For Good actions on Friday, January 23rd in solidarity with Minnesota, and to demand accountability, honor the life lost, and make visible the human cost of ICE’s actions.
Click here for a link to details about the event.
FLAGSTAFF — City Hall administrative offices at 211 W. Aspen Ave. will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. City Hall offices will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 20 with regular hours.
Other City of Flagstaff facilities that are closed on Jan. 19 include:
When we listen to youth, powerful things happen.
That’s why one of the core commitments of your United Way of Northern Arizona is bringing our community together around programs and projects that provide local youth with the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
I’m excited to share two items that will make a difference to teens this winter. The first is the grand opening of The Bijou Teen Center in Holbrook, a project for youth by youth that has been several years in the making.
FLAGSTAFF — Creative Flagstaff and ARTx: Art + Ideas Experience are pleased to announce the 2026 ARTx at The Arb commissioned installation, Ephemeral Bloom: Weathered by Time, created by artist Jill Sans in collaboration with botanical consultant and storyteller Kate Watters. The work will be on view throughout the 2026 season at The Arboretum at Flagstaff, opening April 29, 2026 and running through the end of October.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — As we prepare for another wonderful year ahead serving children and youth throughout Northern Arizona, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth would like to recognize a very busy but productive year for the organization.
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GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Effective immediately, the National Park Service (NPS) is issuing a drinking water advisory for all water in the vicinity of Bright Angel Campground and Phantom Ranch of Grand Canyon National Park. This includes the Phantom Ranch Canteen, Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Delta Restroom, and Phantom Boat Beach.
All drinking water in these areas should be treated or boiled. These processes should be applied to water for any consumptive use including drinking, making ice, preparing food, brushing teeth, and washing dishes. All other park drinking water is safe for consumption.
• Next IndivisibleNAZ Community Gathering, Planning meeting to be held Jan. 21, 2026 in Flagstaff
More than 350 local residents and visitors protested on the street in front of the Flagstaff City Hall against recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions on Jan. 10, 2026.
The protest was part of a national day of action against ICE following the shooting death of on Jan. 7 of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, Minn. A number of videos show a confusing scene when protesters blocked ICE vehicles on a city street, not far from the murder George Floyd by police officers. Good was shot when she attempted to drive around other vehicles after an ICE agent walked in front of her vehicle.
More than 1,000 protests were held in Boston, El Paso, Las Angeles, Minneapolis, New York and other cities nationwide. They follow a number of smaller protests earlier this week including one in Flagstaff.
For several years, Theatrikos has welcomed film into our space as part of our artistic offerings. Beginning in 2026, that work deepens into a lasting commitment. Film at Theatrikos places cinema at the heart of our programming, embracing film as a powerful storytelling medium alongside live theatre. Through carefully curated documentaries, independent films, festival partnerships, and community centered screenings, we are expanding how stories are shared and experienced at Theatrikos. This new focus reinforces our mission to connect, inspire, and engage our community through exceptional storytelling, on stage and on screen. Stay tuned as we share more details in the months ahead.
COCONINO COUNTY — Small businesses, community stakeholders and residents affected by the 2025 Dragon Bravo and White Sage fires are invited to take part in a community survey that will help shape long term recovery priorities.
This survey follows nine public listening sessions held across Coconino County in December 2025.
Your experiences matter, and your voice can directly influence how recovery resources are prioritized. Please complete the community survey by Jan. 30, 2026, if any of the following apply to you, your household, your community or your business:
With the latest winter storm bringing much needed moisture to Northern Arizona, you may be wondering, what are some snowplay options in the region?
❄️Check out Flagstaff Snow Park located at Fort Tuthill County Park. Flagstaff Snow Park offers visitors a variety of tubing hills including a kiddie hill and long, fast runs.
📌The 2025-26 Flagstaff Winter Recreation Map will tell you where to go and what winter recreation activities there are throughout Flagstaff.
🌬️Located west of Flagstaff and along the iconic Route 66, the city of Williams Experience Williams offers a multitude of winter recreation activities, including snow tubing at Canyon Coaster Adventure Park.
