Flashlight Nights: Summer Edition | Desert Botanical Garden

OPEN DAILY 8 A.M.|7 A.M. FOR MEMBERS WED. & SUN.

AfterDar_Light Logo 2
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.

june theme nights

desert studio

June 13

Life in the Desert

  • Get up close with owls and reptiles of the Sonoran Desert presented by Liberty Wildlife and the Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary
  • Discover tadpoles in the pond while listening to the calls of bullfrogs and toads
  • Learn about water conservation in the desert and how both plants and animals adjust to our climate
Girl Scouts at Looking at a Bug at Desert Botanical Garden

June 20

Dad’s Night Out

  • Dads are free with paid child, use promo code DADS26 at checkout.
  • Sip local craft beers
  • Create a heartfelt card for dad’s and father-figures
  • Enjoy a Garden-wide scavenger hunt, a perfect family friendly competition
Girl Scouts at Looking at a Bug at Desert Botanical Garden

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 DJCrums and LED light performer Addis Thrasher
  • Try line dancing in Boppart Courtyard
Flashlight Tours, Desert Botanical Garden

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 or beverage at the Cactus Cantina

more to explore

Margaritas at Sonoran Sippin

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!

flashlight

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.

Flashlight Tours at Desert Botanical Garden

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).
flashlight

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.
Open earlier, open later: 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Weather Alert: Open earlier, open later: 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
The Garden will close at 3 p.m. Friday, March 20 for Fund the Farm Celebration
Weather Alert : Open earlier, open later: 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.