Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew.  If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline. Date- Every Monday Time – 7:00am - 9:00am Location – Park at Castle Hot Springs dirt lot near the entry station. Meet with staff at main building at entry....

We will walk a route that navigates habitats not normally visited at Columbus Park along with touching the traditional spots.  This is not an easy ¾ mile walk around Silverbell Lake, but a 1.75-mile trek over some uneven terrain.  There are bathrooms, benches, shade, and water but we will only occasionally be near them.  Meet at the flagpoles...

This holiday, step into the enchanting ‘Glistening Gardens’ at Butterfly Wonderland. This seasonal escape transports guests to the rainforest as they leisurely stroll with family and friends through an amazing illuminated holiday display inside the Conservatory. Lights line the garden paths in this cozy, lush indoor setting. Fluttering butterflies take center stage, surrounded by sparkling...

Help count birds at McDowell Mountain Regional Park or around the Salt and Verde River confluence for the Dec. 16 Salt-Verde Christmas Bird Count!   Would you like to go birding with others and help count birds for citizen science for a day in the Fort McDowell/Fountain Hills area? Then sign up for the Dec. 16 Salt-Verde Christmas...

Come with us as we explore the streamside habitat of New River. This preserve is home to a lush riparian habitat that serves as home for many bird species. This hike is approximately 1 mile in length, with no elevation gain. However, there will likely be stream crossings and uneven terrain. We recommend that you...

Join us for a guided walk through the Cactus Garden where you’ll explore the fascinating natural history of the Sonoran Desert! 

Whether you're a first-time mom or this baby is number five or six, you can find help and support with breastfeeding at our FREE weekly breastfeeding support group. TMC offers outpatient breastfeeding support services, whether you deliver at TMC or not. Spend time with other moms and babies. Learn and share valuable parenting advice. Find...

From fur to feathers, and scales to exoskeletons, this program helps learners with special needs recognize differences and similarities through visual, tactile, olfactory, and auditory experiences. Learn about five animal groups (invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals) and the amazing characteristics that make each group of animals unique. Programs are tailored to fit the needs...

Thyme to see what’s blooming. Feel the soil and test out your green thumb while learning about the benefits of gardening. Plant a seed; you never know what will grow. Activity location: Senior Center Garden

Join Ranger Olivia to learn about some of the festive plants that grow in the Sonoran Desert, and how our critters survive the cold.   Get in the Holiday spirit by learning about plants like Desert Mistletoe, Christmas Cactus, and more in this casual family friendly program. We will also discuss how our animals can survive...

Learn how to use the iPhone Photos App to view and organize your photos. Then use the app to adjust and enhance your photographs to share with the world.

Join a ranger for a hike in the heart of the cactus forest that travels 2 - 4 miles to learn about the wonders of the Sonoran Desert. Water and hiking shoes recommended!

Free with general admission. 10am and 11am tours Discover how plants have adapted to the desert environment with a volunteer docent-led tour. See the Garden’s living collection with plants from around the world and the Sonoran Desert and their fascinating survival strategies in this arid climate. Walk away with a new appreciation for the beauty...

Take a short walk through our Cactus Garden and discover some of the amazing plants and animals; and how they adapt to the harsh Sonoran Desert. Wheelchair accessible Free with Park Fee

Join a ranger for a 15 minute talk at the Coronado National Memorial Visitor Center and learn about a variety of park topics including the Coronado Expedition, wildlife, and more! Ask a ranger at the visitor center desk for the topic of the day. Talks will take place on the patio in front of the...

Enhance your afternoon with quick insights into the geologic story of Grand Canyon at our "Geo Glimpse" ranger program - presented daily at 11 am. Meet in front of Yavapai Geology Museum. Learn how this immense canyon formed and the science behind the landscape. The program is 30 minutes long and is accessible. Grand Canyon is one-mile deep,...

The saguaro celebrates events and faces challenges throughout its life. A biologist explains how it provides shelter and substance for wildlife; when it flowers; its growth patterns; and how it fights for survival against drought, lightning, frost, and other dangers. Wheelchair accessible.     Free with Park Fee

Enjoy a short mid-day hike with Ranger Olivia to see what wildlife we can spot.   Let’s see what sorts of wildlife we can spot. Animals might be out and about during this time, but if not, there is still plenty things to see! We will pass many native plants to the desert along with some...

This 90-minute tour provides a unique opportunity to learn how innovative engineering and optical technology melds with manufacturing techniques to produce the largest and most advanced giant (8.4 meters / 27 ft)  telescope mirrors in the world on the University of Arizona campus. Visitors will see the unparalleled technology and revolutionary processes in making the...

Welcome homeschoolers! We will explore art with Zentangle during this hands-on, adult-guided program. Geared for elementary students and their families.

Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience.  Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals, some of the considerations we must take into consideration when having these reptiles in Arizona, which reptiles are good pets for children or adults, adaptations...

After school activities with a STEAM theme. Experience the possibility for something new; arts and science, math and tech. Just drop-in for a while and see what is in store. Ages 8 to 13.

Discover a deeper connection to the Grand Canyon. Join a ranger to dive into the canyon's diverse ecosystems, rich cultural heritage, or ever-changing landscape. Topics change daily. Come curious, leave inspired! Program may include a short walk to Mather Point or along the Canyon Rim Trail.

Join a ranger for a 20-30 minute stroll through the cactus garden to learn about the Saguaro cactus and other plants of the Sonoran Desert. Accessible program. 

Join a park ranger at the Red Hills Visitor Center for a theater presentation about Saguaro National Park’s unique cultural, historical and natural resources. Presentations vary daily depending on the Ranger hosting, but a few popular ones go over: wildlife in the park, plants in the park (including saguaros), local indigenous culture, park history and even...

LEGOs are fun for the whole family! You’ll build with LEGOs of all sizes. Free coloring sheets, puzzle sheets and bookmarks. LEGO Clubs helps improve math skills, science skills, literary skills, social skills, and problem-solving skills.

Join Liberty Wildlife at the Verde Canyon Railroad Depot and meet their eagle/raptor ambassadors!  

Are you exploding with energy? Find out how to convert potential energy to kinetic energy with our kinetic popsicle stick activity. Labs are designed for school aged children ages 8 and up. Ages 8-10 will need an adult helper to stay in the labs with them. *Program is drop in until full*

Join us at the library to play Minecraft! We will collaborate on building projects and compete in friendly challenges. Space is limited, so registration is recommended.

Climb a half-mile up the Tanque Verde Ridge to enjoy a desert sunset with a ranger guide. Expect rocky terrain and beautiful views. Free with Park Fee

Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland at The Valley’s favorite holiday tradition,  ZooLights! Get in the holiday spirit as millions of twinkling lights transform the Zoo into a dazzling spectacle, guiding you through the illuminated pathways alongside animal habitats and Zoo trails. Don’t miss our brand-new light show, featuring vibrant visuals and mesmerizing music that...

Make the house of your dreams in graham crackers including lights and candies to decorate it for the holidays. We will use graham crackers, royal frosting, LED's, gum drops and other candies for decorations. Everything needed will be provided and it is fun to work together. Registration is Required. If you are bringing a helper...

Most Arizonans are not originally from Arizona, and most come from places that are far greener and milder of climate than our desert. For many of us, it takes a shift of eye and of attitude to appreciate this hot, dry place—but once it gets into one’s soul, there’s nowhere like it. This talk explains...

Join other soon-to-be parents in this one-night class and learn the basics of newborn care. Topics covered include newborn appearance, feeding, bathing, diapering, umbilical cord care, when to call your health care provider and general safety. Class fee is per couple. Location: TMC Marshall Conference Center: Mesquite 5301 E. Grant Road Tucson, Arizona 85712

Greg Peterson, Don Titmus and Janis Norton will co-host this class designed to help explain some of the new terms and concepts that are the foundation of permaculture. What is ‘Permaculture’ and where this idea came from. Why permaculture can make a difference in our daily lives. How permaculture affects not just our outdoor spaces,...

Calling all math maniacs! Join us for an exciting math program specially crafted to make math enjoyable for young minds aged 9 to 11. Every Monday we'll explore games, exercises, and real-world applications that make numbers come alive.

A one-night class is for families who are expecting another baby and need a brush up on preparing for childbirth. This class explores extensive coping, breathing and relaxation techniques for labor, including breathing patterns, massage, visualization, labor aids and coaching skills. Price is per couple. Location: TMC Marshall Conference Center: Sagebrush

This holiday, step into the enchanting ‘Glistening Gardens’ at Butterfly Wonderland. This seasonal escape transports guests to the rainforest as they leisurely stroll with family and friends through an amazing illuminated holiday display inside the Conservatory. Lights line the garden paths in this cozy, lush indoor setting. Fluttering butterflies take center stage, surrounded by sparkling...

Hike the treasured landscapes of the Sonoran Desert surrounding the East Valley. Each trip you'll discover iconic cacti, canyons peppering the landscapes, and rugged trails. Trips are local and start out with easy terrain and progress to more difficult hikes later in the season. Transportation and entrance fees included. Come prepared with hiking attire, water,...

We encourage our guests to visit the Children’s Garden every Tuesday and Thursday morning to water the garden, enjoy the flowers, insects, veggies, herbs, and more!

Construct a one-of-a-kind masterpiece in the Art Studio all month using recyclables plus a dash of imagination. Free with Admission

If you’re new to using a computer or want to build more confidence using the Windows 10 operating system, this workshop is for you. You’ll learn how to find your way around Windows 10, manage applications using the task manager, find and manage files and folders, save and delete files, and more.

Join us as we explore the stunning Jewel of the Creek Preserve, learning about our native plants and wildlife. This is a moderate 2-mile hike. The trail is rocky in places on uneven surfaces, with an approximately 100-foot elevation change. We recommend that you wear closed-toed shoes, sun protection, and bring drinking water. Bring binoculars if...

Join us for a guided walk through the Cactus Garden where you’ll explore the fascinating natural history of the Sonoran Desert! 

Join us for our free docent-led tour in the lobby of the Bryant Bannister Tree-Ring Building (1215 E. Lowell St.). Visitors will be introduced to the basic tenets of dendrochronology and have a chance to examine specimens. During your 1.5 hour tour, you will be introduced to the basic tenets of dendrochronology, have a chance to...

Drop-in program for preschoolers building skills for kindergarten! Early literacy, STEM, dramatic play, fine motor skills and more!

Ask a technology question and get help from our tech help expert. Bring your own laptop or mobile device, or use a library laptop. We are not able to type your documents, fix your personal devices besides basic troubleshooting, or provide tax or legal help. This is a weekly, drop-in service and registration is not...

This program will feature different activities such as sensory bins, building blocks, and other learning manipulatives. Time: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Intended for children 0-5. All children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. All library programs are free and open to the public.

Join a ranger for a hike in the heart of the cactus forest that travels 2 - 4 miles to learn about the wonders of the Sonoran Desert. Water and hiking shoes recommended!

Free with general admission. 10am and 11am tours Discover how plants have adapted to the desert environment with a volunteer docent-led tour. See the Garden’s living collection with plants from around the world and the Sonoran Desert and their fascinating survival strategies in this arid climate. Walk away with a new appreciation for the beauty...

Join local origami artist, Charlie Humme, as he teaches us how to make our very own holiday ornaments to celebrate the season! Admission into this program is free with paid Museum admission.

Join a ranger for a 15 minute talk at the Coronado National Memorial Visitor Center and learn about a variety of park topics including the Coronado Expedition, wildlife, and more! Ask a ranger at the visitor center desk for the topic of the day. Talks will take place on the patio in front of the...

Enhance your afternoon with quick insights into the geologic story of Grand Canyon at our "Geo Glimpse" ranger program - presented daily at 11 am. Meet in front of Yavapai Geology Museum. Learn how this immense canyon formed and the science behind the landscape. The program is 30 minutes long and is accessible. Grand Canyon is one-mile deep,...

The saguaro celebrates events and faces challenges throughout its life. A biologist explains how it provides shelter and substance for wildlife; when it flowers; its growth patterns; and how it fights for survival against drought, lightning, frost, and other dangers. Wheelchair accessible.     Free with Park Fee

Interact with some of our special animals, which for many people is a once in a lifetime experience.  Guests will get to learn about endangered species, how we contribute to conservation of those animals, some of the considerations we must take into consideration when having these reptiles in Arizona, which reptiles are good pets for children or adults, adaptations...

This 90-minute tour provides a unique opportunity to learn how innovative engineering and optical technology melds with manufacturing techniques to produce the largest and most advanced giant (8.4 meters / 27 ft)  telescope mirrors in the world on the University of Arizona campus. Visitors will see the unparalleled technology and revolutionary processes in making the...

Take advantage of our 45-minute one-on-one help for anyone who needs basic assistance with cell phone, tablet or computer use, downloading e-books, streaming movies, and more. Adults 18+. Appointment required. Call or email to schedule an appointment. (623) 333-2665 EmailLibrary@avondaleaz.gov

Children ages 6-12, use your teamwork skills to build a LEGO model by description only! First come first serve, as seating is limited.

Find out how to create Faux Leather from paper. It can be used for a variety of creative projects, including sewing, ironing, painting, floors, and more. The more it is washed and distressed, the more it will look like leather.

Join Developmental Specialist Rosemarie Strout for a helpful class on understanding your baby’s sleeping needs. Learn about your baby’s sleep patterns, get tips for establishing healthy routines, and find solutions to common sleep challenges. Tuesday, December 17th from 1-2pm.

Join us in the Downtown Library's Community Room for introductory technology classes. On December 17, we will cover cyber security, including:     How to recognize whether a website is secure     How to make passwords strong and memorable     How to recognizing and avoid online scams Computers will be provided for classroom use. Registration required....

Teachin' Tech is a monthly class that teaches you how to use and operate computers, tablets, or other digital devices! Each session will cover a topic such as how to navigate the web, how to sign up for an email, or how to stay safe online. This program is intended for those who are new...

If your math homework gives you a headache, former math teacher Mr. Rogowski can help by showing you how to solve problems and proofs during the library's math lab for teens. Bring your homework, your tests, your notes, everything you need to work on the grade you want. Tom Rogowski is a former high school...

Students of any age (parents please supervise if under 5yrs) come after school to build something out of LEGOs with other kids or teens your age. Free, LEGOs provided (please leave your own LEGOs at home). Follow a design idea or invent your own! You may stay for a bit or the whole time. Ok...

This program will feature different activities such as crafts, games, LEGOs, etc... Intended for children 5-12. All children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. All library programs are free and open to the public.

Discover a deeper connection to the Grand Canyon. Join a ranger to dive into the canyon's diverse ecosystems, rich cultural heritage, or ever-changing landscape. Topics change daily. Come curious, leave inspired! Program may include a short walk to Mather Point or along the Canyon Rim Trail.

Join a ranger for a 20-30 minute stroll through the cactus garden to learn about the Saguaro cactus and other plants of the Sonoran Desert. Accessible program. 

Join a park ranger at the Red Hills Visitor Center for a theater presentation about Saguaro National Park’s unique cultural, historical and natural resources. Presentations vary daily depending on the Ranger hosting, but a few popular ones go over: wildlife in the park, plants in the park (including saguaros), local indigenous culture, park history and even...

Let’s play with LEGO and DUPLO bricks! Every Tuesday we’ll build something with a different theme every time. Don't worry - there's plenty of room to freestyle as well. Show off your creativity and have some fun! There is no registration, however we are limited to up to 50 people in the room at a time.

Join Liberty Wildlife at the Verde Canyon Railroad Depot and meet their eagle/raptor ambassadors!  

Do you love LEGOs? Join us for a random LEGO challenge or bring your own creativity to make your own LEGO creation. LEGOs Provided!

Want to learn some code? Code Club meets weekly to explore a variety of different computer programming languages and logic while creating simple computer games, apps and websites. Coding experience is not required. Beginners are welcome. Registration is required. *Please note that if your child misses two classes without notifying the instructor, the child will be...

Every week we will create awesome projects using all sorts of different apps. Learn vector graphics, raster graphics, pixel graphics, animation, and how to take your own work to the next level.  It’s time to learn how to unlock your creativity at App Artist. This program is limited to the first 8 participants.

Science Technology Engineering Art Mathematics All children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. All library programs are free and open to the public.

Join us for a game of chess or building with LEGOs.

In LEGO Club you will build your own creations that will stay on display in the library all week. For more information, call 928-532-4070. Ages 5 - 13

​​The Expedition Reef show reveals, in exquisite detail, the breathtaking beauty and biodiversity of coral reefs around the world—and the scientists taking action to restore them. Learn the secrets of the “rainforests of the sea.” Audience: General, all ages Style: Fulldome film followed by live talk about reefs   Planetarium Tickets Adults: $14 Children (ages 3-15): $10...

In this Seed Chat our two visionary dreamers Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson embark on a wintry journey where they explore the enchanting intersection of creativity and gardening. Marvel at their tales of cultivating dreams amidst winter’s call for us to hunker down knowing you can cultivate dreams too. Bill and Greg will illustrate how...

Enjoy a family friendly night hike with Ranger Olivia to see what wildlife we can spot.   We’ll be on the lookout for all kinds of evening-active critters, from skunks to, spiders, snakes, fox, coyote, deer, owls and, of course scorpions (if it is warm enough)! This trail also has a famous crested saguaro, let's see...

We will use the Fiero Code platform and meet weekly: in-person the first Tuesday of the month, and virtually (via Zoom) all other weeks.

Half the park is after dark! Join a ranger in the evening hours as night-prowling creatures begin to emerge. This is a 1-1.5 mile hike, and location varies. Regardless of program location, always meet at the Rincon Mountain Visitor Center.

Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland at The Valley’s favorite holiday tradition,  ZooLights! Get in the holiday spirit as millions of twinkling lights transform the Zoo into a dazzling spectacle, guiding you through the illuminated pathways alongside animal habitats and Zoo trails. Don’t miss our brand-new light show, featuring vibrant visuals and mesmerizing music that...

Thousands of LED lights illuminate the trees and custom-built, oversized structures delight the senses. The light tunnel, dancing cypress trees, traditional punched-tin trees, a brand-new crescent moon, and a dazzling display of luminarias will wow you! Experience a holiday light show unlike any other in southern Arizona! Designed by nationally known public garden landscape architect Tres...

This segment of the Arizona Trails series includes discussion on safety, gear, navigation apps, local trails, heat mitigation strategies, and regional Arizona destinations outside of Phoenix metro.

Calling all mad scientists ages 9-11! Join us as we conduct different experiments, engineering challenges and create art in the unlikeliest of ways every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month!

Learn the nuts and bolts of starting a podcast. In part 3, we take a look at how to publish and distribute your podcast. First come first serve, as seating is limited.

Trip difficulty: Easy; Walking distance: 1.5 miles, Trip Duration: 2.5 hrs, Elevation gain: none, but with chance of slight inclines/declines; Ground condition: groomed gravel trails. Drinking water and restrooms available at park’s entrance. Benches available at periodic intervals around the Wetlands. This popular birding hotspot in urban Tucson offers an easy walk through marshes created...

This holiday, step into the enchanting ‘Glistening Gardens’ at Butterfly Wonderland. This seasonal escape transports guests to the rainforest as they leisurely stroll with family and friends through an amazing illuminated holiday display inside the Conservatory. Lights line the garden paths in this cozy, lush indoor setting. Fluttering butterflies take center stage, surrounded by sparkling...

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...

Construct a one-of-a-kind masterpiece in the Art Studio all month using recyclables plus a dash of imagination. Free with Admission

Monthly Nature Walk with Pat Gulley Walk on wooded trails with a local expert to learn about the Central Highlands ecoregion. These walks are on the unpaved trails on the Highlands Center’s 80-acre campus. These trails are rocky and occasionally have steep and rocky inclines. Make sure to bring water, wear appropriate hiking shoes and...

The lab is open! Bring your projects, get excited, and make things!

Chat with paleontologists at work in the Museum Demonstration Lab and peek in the windows to view the fossils they are cleaning and conserving from Petrified Forest National Park. Free with Park Fee

Join Reid Park Zoo staff and Tucson Audubon Society staff for a guided bird walk through the zoo. Experience the zoo in a new way as we observe and identify the native birds we see that call the zoo home.  Binoculars and field guides are recommended but not required. The tour may last up to...

Join us for a guided walk through the Cactus Garden where you’ll explore the fascinating natural history of the Sonoran Desert! 

Desert Foothills Land Trust presents a beginner-friendly hike at The Caroline Bartol Preserve at Saguaro Hill (at Desert Foothills Library). This easy one-mile walk introduces hiking basics while exploring native desert flora and fauna. Perfect for newcomers seeking to discover the wonders of our local desert. Meet at the Waterfall Terrace at Desert Foothills Library...

If you are new to the Valley, or have lived here for years, and know little about the Sonoran Desert and its natural inhabitants, then this program is for you! Discover some of the common creatures that might call your yard home and learn about ways we can coexist together.

(ages 2-5 / 90 min / 6-week series) Think like a scientist while engaging in playful exploration. Each day of the program brings new and exciting challenges for growing minds. **Note: Program will be held at the Scottsdale Family Resource Center/Paiute Neighborhood Center, 6535 E Osborn Rd, Bldg 7, Scottsdale, AZ 85251.

Join a ranger for a hike in the heart of the cactus forest that travels 2 - 4 miles to learn about the wonders of the Sonoran Desert. Water and hiking shoes recommended!

Free with general admission. 10am and 11am tours Discover how plants have adapted to the desert environment with a volunteer docent-led tour. See the Garden’s living collection with plants from around the world and the Sonoran Desert and their fascinating survival strategies in this arid climate. Walk away with a new appreciation for the beauty...

Join us to walk around Liberty Wildlife during our public open hours and see us fulfilling our mission! October through April we are open to the public from 10am until 1pm. Our admission is $10 per adult (18+) and $5 per student (under 18). Children 4 and under are free. We will have daily programs...

This program will feature different activities such as sensory bins, building blocks, and other learning manipulatives. Time: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Intended for children 0-5. All children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. All library programs are free and open to the public.

Sign up for a Guided Tour before our flight and eagle show: https://libertywildlife.org/education/private-tour/ Space for 15 people Cost $15 per person paid onsite via cash, check or card

Age at least 2 yrs but less than 5 yrs Join the staff at the Riparian Preserve for a morning of dinosaur discoveries! We will all become tiny little Paleontologists, digging for dinosaurs! We will also read a storybook and make a dino craft.   All activities will take place outdoors, please dress for the...

Join a ranger for a 15 minute talk at the Coronado National Memorial Visitor Center and learn about a variety of park topics including the Coronado Expedition, wildlife, and more! Ask a ranger at the visitor center desk for the topic of the day. Talks will take place on the patio in front of the...

Enhance your afternoon with quick insights into the geologic story of Grand Canyon at our "Geo Glimpse" ranger program - presented daily at 11 am. Meet in front of Yavapai Geology Museum. Learn how this immense canyon formed and the science behind the landscape. The program is 30 minutes long and is accessible. Grand Canyon is one-mile deep,...

Crazy, quirky, or creepy, the facts about cactus are as fascinating as the folklore - and just as far-fetched.  Join a Park Naturalist for a casual stroll and lighthearted look at our spiny desert dwellers  Wheelchair accessible.     Free with Park Fee

Join Ranger Olivia to learn about some of the festive plants that grow in the Sonoran Desert, and how our critters survive the cold.   Get in the Holiday spirit by learning about plants like Desert Mistletoe, Christmas Cactus, and more in this casual family friendly program. We will also discuss how our animals can survive...