Saturdays
Now – Sept. 26 | 7-9:30 p.m.
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, gaze at the stars through telescopes and get up close with fascinating desert animals. Each visit offers something new, with themed activities that change weekly. See the full event program.
summer theme nights
July 18
Sky Stories and Stargazing
- Explore the universe as you step inside the Arizona Science Center’s portable planetarium in Dorrance Hall
- Discover how amazing creatures and ideas from Earth inspired the stories about our stars
- Watch the night sky transform from day to night and discover the wonders of our solar system through telescopes
July 25
Critter Crawl
-
Meet the animals of the Sonoran Desert and talk to experts from Liberty Wildlife and Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary
-
Get up close with the desert’s coolest creepy-crawlies! Join Steve “The BugMan” and his fascinating collection of live insects, spiders and arthropods
-
Stop by Critter Corner to see more desert wildlife. Search for toads and frogs and discover spiders’ snack strategies
Aug. 1
Desert Superheroes
-
Meet the Sonoran Desert’s own superheroes—the Desert Guardians! Discover the incredible plants and animals with amazing survival superpowers that help them thrive in one of the world’s toughest environments
-
Through hands-on activities and fun challenges, uncover the secrets that make these desert defenders true champions of nature
Aug. 8
Infinity Day: Math in Bloom
- Discover the amazing cycles that keep the Sonoran Desert thriving! Explore how plants, animals and people are connected through nature’s endless patterns with hands-on activities, exciting discoveries and superhero-sized adventures for all ages
- Check out stations like Agave: The Circle of Life and People and Plants of the Sonoran Desert Pond: Life in Motion
- Step into a Kaleidoscope & Infinity Mirror Experience, a world of endless reflections and ever-changing patterns
- Learn about conservation in action, animal life cycles and the expanding universe as you create your own model galaxy
Aug. 15
Sunlight to Starlight
- Experience the Sonoran Desert’s amazing day-to-night transformation! As the blazing sun gives way to cool evenings, look up to observe a sky filled with sparkling stars, discover familiar constellations and hear the fascinating stories people have told about them for generations
Aug. 22
Critter Crawl
-
Meet the animals of the Sonoran Desert and talk to experts from Liberty Wildlife and Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary
-
Get up close with the desert’s coolest creepy-crawlies! Join Steve “The BugMan” and his fascinating collection of live insects, spiders and arthropods
-
Stop by Critter Corner to see more desert wildlife. Search for toads and frogs and discover spiders’ snack strategies
more to explore
Cactus Cantina
Ready for a chill escape? Swing by the new Cactus Cantina at the SRP Visitor Center and treat yourself to frozen cocktails, refreshing mocktails or an ice‑cold beer. Our full service bar is open from 5-9:30 p.m. daily. Come grab a drink to sip while you stroll through the Garden. Cheers to cool nights and cooler drinks!
Desert Oasis Garden After Dark
Enjoy a made-for-summer 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.
Sunset Snacks
Beat the desert heat with an ice-cold breezy pop, then gather around for gooey s’mores under the stars. Available for purchase (credit and debit cards only).
Bubble Cart
Grab a bubble wand and create fun bubbles and playful shapes as you explore. Available for purchase (credit and debit card only).
