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
June 27
Pride Night
- Meet with local LGBTQ+ organizations and try interactive activities like arts & crafts, trivia and zine making
- Join us for a scavenger hunt with One-to-Ten and get a sticker or flag
- Groove at a Glow Party on Ullman Terrace with DJ CRUMS and LED light performer Addis Thrasher
- Try line dancing in Boppart Courtyard with Phoenix Heatwave
July 11
Cool Desert Nights
- Create giant bubbles, create with mesquite pitch paint and enjoy a variety of hands-on activities
- Cool down indoors and enjoy a performance by Great Arizona Puppet Theater
- Enjoy a cool treat from PWN Squeezed and Ice Cream Pedaler or a beverage at the Cactus Cantina
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
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Meet the animals of the Sonoran Desert and talk to experts from Liberty Wildlife and Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary
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Get up close with the desert’s coolest creepy-crawlies! Join Steve “The BugMan” and his fascinating collection of live insects, spiders and arthropods
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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).
