Community Calendar

All are welcome. All are related.

For its size, the Verde Valley contains one of the richest troves of geologic history in all of Arizona (no small feat considering we are the Grand Canyon state)! Precambrian-age rocks preserve evidence of a submarine volcanic system that yielded a world-class mineral deposit, leading to the development of Jerome. These basement rocks were ultimately buried beneath a thick section of sedimentary rocks, including Sedona's world-famous Red Rocks. At a much later time, the House Mountain shield volcano erupted within the Verde Valley near present-day Cornville. This eruption slightly pre-dated the existence of a valley-wide, freshwater lake that preserved some amazing fossils. The finishing touch on this geologic masterpiece includes the carving of beautiful Oak Creek Canyon into the southern margin of the Mogollon Rim. Geologist and author Wayne  Ranney is no stranger to Prescott and the Verde Valley, having served as adjunct professor of geology at Yavapai College for 17 years. In the 1980s he completed a Master's Degree at Northern Arizona University, mapping the House Mountain volcano.  He is a sought-after lecturer on natural history expeditions for Smithsonian Journeys and National Geographic around the globe. Ranney  is also an award-winning author who writes for various magazines including Arizona Highways. He is perhaps best known however for his books, Sedona Through Time, Carving Grand Canyon,  Ancient Landscapes of the Colorado Plateau and Ancient Landscapes of Western North America.  Geology Talks are held in partnership with the Prescott Geology Club and are presented with funding from the Friends of the Prescott Public Library.  

Early Artist Entry NOW OPEN
The Flagstaff Plein Air Festival will take place from October 4–25, 2026, challenging both painters and photographers to capture the beauty of the Northern Arizona region, on location. This multi-day event blends artistic practice with community engagement, environmental awareness, and visual storytelling.

At the culmination of the festival, participants will showcase their work in a professionally juried exhibition. The public is welcome to watch the artists at work throughout the week, participate in a variety of workshops and presentations, and purchase completed artwork at the culminating First Glimpse Reception and Sale. A two-week Festival Exhibition to follow.

Festival Highlights Include
• Paint Alongs — join painters at select locations to watch or try your hand at plein air painting
• Workshops and Presentations — opportunities for photography and painting, registration is open to participants and the public
• Quick Draw Challenge and Auction — open to participants and the public
• Competition Awards and First Glimpse Reception & Sale — open to the public
• Festival Exhibition — a two week exhibition
• In celebration of Flagstaff’s 25th anniversary as the first designated International Dark Sky City, we have partnered with the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition to highlight events and programs that celebrate the darks skies surrounding Flagstaff.

Notable Dates
Early discount registration August 15, 2026
Registration Closes September 15, 2026
Festival Dates October 4-10, 2026
Awards Ceremony,
Reception & Sale October 10, 2026
Festival Exhibition October 11-25, 2026

Ticketed events and workshop registration will remain available until full.

Festival Information: flagstaff-Arts.org

About The Artists’ Coalition of Flagstaff
The Artists’ Coalition of Flagstaff encourages and promotes the artistic growth and professional development of local artists and to create a forum for the arts within the greater Flagstaff community and Northern Arizona through events, exhibits, and educational programs.

Media Contact Mike Frankel Executive Director acfexdir@gmail.com 928.856.2485

The Flagstaff Plein Air Painting and Photography Festival will take place from October 4–18, 2026 With an August 15, early discount entry deadline and a September 15, 2026 final entry deadline, visit: flagstaff-arts.org, or contact: acfexdir@gmail.com for information.

The Flagstaff Plein Air Festival will take place from October 4–18, 2026, challenging both painters and photographers to capture the beauty of the Northern Arizona region, on location. This multi-day event blends artistic practice with community engagement, environmental awareness, and visual storytelling. At the culmination of the festival, participants will showcase their work in a professionally juried exhibition. The public is welcome to watch the artists at work throughout the week, participate in a variety of workshops and presentations, and purchase completed artwork at the culminating First Glimpse Reception and Sale. A two-week Festival Exhibition to follow.

Stop by the NACA Oak Creek Overlook Vista for beautiful & authentic Native American crafts! Our Artisans can also be found at the Grand Canyon Tusayan Museum!

The Overlook Vista is open daily from 8 AM to 4 PM, depending on the weather. Crafts that can be found at our Artisans' tables include jewelry, ornaments, pottery, sculptures and much more! Check out the Oak Creek Overlook Facebook and Yelp pages for more info and up-to-date hours.

If you have questions or would like general information, please contact Pearl Tsosie at (928) 526-2968 ext.135 or email her at ptsosie@nacainc.org

Bird enthusiasts join a naturalist for a guided walk appropriate for beginner and advanced birders. Most year-round birds are found in the riparian area next to Oak Creek or along the field behind the Visitor Center. The Audubon Society has designated Red Rock State Park as part of the Lower Oak Creek Important Birding Area (IBA) because of the many species that live or visit here. Please meet up with the leader on the viewing deck above the visitor center.

An eclectic market featuring a mix of vintage, upcycled, artisan, antiques, previously loved treasures! Grab some lunch too! Located on Rte 66 in historic downtown Flagstaff.

Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience. The program is included with park entrance fees.

At this Flu Shot Clinic hosted by Yavapai County Community Health Services, flu vaccines will be administered on a walk-in basis. Insurance is accepted. Please bring your insurance card.