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Desert Oasis Summer at the Garden Kickoff Weekend

DATE: June 5-7
TIME: 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
PRICE: Included with Garden admission or membership


Three nights. Music. Lights. Desert vibes done right. At the Garden we don’t run from summer. We celebrate it. After sunset, enjoy a made-for-summer Desert Oasis Garden After Dark experience as more than 12 light installations take over the trails. This shimmering display creates a playful break from the summer heat with cooling colors and designs inspired by the monsoon season.

New Music to Guide After Dark Experiences

  • Friday: Latin Nights
  • Saturday: Today’s Hits
  • Sunday: Soundless Socials (Quiet Night)

Don’t Miss the Coolest New Spot in the Garden

Cool down in The RAF Exhibit Gallery and discover interactive and colorful light projections and activities in this new indoor experience from 6 a.m – 10 p.m. daily.

Weekend Signature Events:

  • Sonoran Sippin’ | Friday 6-9 p.m., 21+
    Celebrate Fri-YAY at the Garden. Kick start your weekend with a Sip-and-Swing themed Friday night. Tee up for a fun evening of mini golf and sip on a refreshing welcome drink as you navigate three different, 9-hole LED courses with exciting and challenging obstacles. Adult putters, scorecards and golf pencils will be provided. Food will be available for purchase.
  • Dog Days of Summer | Saturday 6-10 a.m.
    Beat the heat from 6-10 a.m. with your four-legged best friend. Early mornings are made for wagging tails and cool trails, and the Garden opens its paths for pups and their people to explore the desert together. Enjoy refreshing hydration stations, shady rest stops and plenty of photo worthy moments.
  • Flashlight Nights | Saturday 7-9:30 p.m.
    Theme: Desert After Dark
    Whether you’re planning a date night or a family adventure, discover the magic of Flashlight Nights. As the sun sets, the desert transforms—revealing new sights, sounds and surprises after dark. Wander the trails with a flashlight in hand, see night time desert blooms and get up close with fascinating desert animals.

Food and Beverage

  • Gertrude’s by Tarbell’s: Savor the night at Gertrude’s for a dining experience for every guest. Try our new menu!
  • Grab a signature lychee martini from Gertrude’s by Tarbell’s with glowing ice cubes.
  • Stop by trailside bar locations from 6-9 p.m. for cocktails, mocktails and other cool drink.
  • Cactus Cantina

Garden Shop

Browse apparel, soaps, artwork from Will Beger and more! It’s the perfect place to find a keepsake that captures the glow and wonder of your visit.

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Become a member and get unlimited access all year!

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