Featured Events in Prescott in 2025 (July Updated)

Of the many developments in Indian Country over the past fifty years, perhaps none has been more important than the advent of Indian gaming and tribal casinos. But Indian gaming is also one of the most misunderstood aspects of Indian Country. This talk will explore the historical developments that led to Indian gaming, including environmental issues, as well as the legal framework that regulates the industry. It will also look at the topic from the perspective of a Yavapai-Apache individual who has been involved in the industry in various ways. Doors open at 6:30pm. The presentation starts at 7:00pm. *The event is free, but space is limited, and registration is required. For those unable to attend in person, the talk will be live-streamed on our YouTube Channel. Maurice Crandall is an Associate Professor of History at Arizona State University and an enrolled member of the Yavapai-Apache Nation. He previously taught at Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH. Professor Crandall is a multi-award-winning author and public intellectual who has presented his research throughout the United States, as well as in Canada and Europe. His first book, These People Have Always Been a Republic: Indigenous Electorates in the U.S.-Mexico Borderlands, 1598–1912 , was published by the University of North Carolina Press in 2019. His second book, on Yavapai-Apache Scouts, is under contract with W.W. Norton & Company. He received his PhD in History from the University of New Mexico, and is a graduate of Mingus Union High School. Information Source: Natural History Institute | eventbrite

Join acclaimed author Alan Weisman for an insightful presentation on his highly anticipated book Hope Dies Last: Visionary People Across the World, Fighting to Find Us a Future . With a decade of research, Weisman travels the globe, highlighting brave individuals who are defying climate challenges and reshaping our future. From scientists to artists, farmers to activists, these visionary leaders are working tirelessly to combat environmental collapse and create sustainable solutions. This powerful narrative challenges the status quo and inspires hope through action, proving that even in the face of our planet's most pressing crises, humanity’s resolve remains unbroken. Don't miss this thought-provoking event that brings together humanity's best hope for a better tomorrow. Doors open at 6:30pm. The presentation starts at 7:00pm. *The event is free, but space is limited, and registration is required. For those unable to attend in person, the talk will be live-streamed on our YouTube Channel. Alan Weisman has reported from all seven continents and in more than sixty countries. His books include the New York Times bestseller The World Without Us , translated into thirty-four languages and a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award and winner of China’s Wenjin Book Prize; Countdown , winner of the Los Angeles Times Book Prize. His work has appeared in Harper's, The New York Times Magazine, The Atlantic Monthly, The New York Review of Books, Vanity Fair, Orion, Mother Jones, Discover , and Salon , among others, and on NPR. A co-founder of the journalism collective Homelands Productions, he has also been a laureate professor of international journalism at the University of Arizona and for several years taught at Prescott College. He and his wife, sculptor Beckie Kravetz, live in western Massachusetts. Information Source: Natural History Institute | eventbrite

Pete & Woody - The story continues Eric Ramsey - Rita Cantu - Tom & Christa Agostino Saturday, May 3rd, 7pm, $20-$30 CSL Prescott , 3755 Willow Creek Rd, 928-778-1602 Celebrating the music and legacy of Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie on May 3rd, Pete Seeger's Birthday! Join us we celebrate two of the most significant figures in American folk music , Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger on Saturday, May 3rd , Pete Seeger's Birthday. Featuring AZ Blues Hall of Famer, Eric Ramsey, Rita Cantu and Tom and Christa Agostino we will have a full Pete and Woody experence through song, story and maybe a little hootenanny. How can we keep from Singing? AZ Blues Hall of Famer, Eric Ramsey is winner of the 2022 International Blues Challenge , Memphis, TN, three-time champion of the Phoenix Blues Society's Blues Showdown , a finalist at the Telluride Blues Challenge. Rita Cantu is a singer/songwriter who shares her passion for the lands and peoples in song and story; she plays guitar and various traditional folk instruments. Her checkered past includes a career of troubadour and National Park/Forest ranger. CSL Prescott is a warm and welcoming venue, with excellent sound and lights located across from Embry-Riddle on Willow Creek Road. CSL Prescott 3755 Willow Creek Rd, 928-778-1602 "A really nice venue for music with intimate and comfortable seating. I've played there many times." Tom Agostino Information Source: The Folk Sessions | eventbrite

Late evening light ignites the varnished hues of high desert sandstone. The deepening shadows make the peckings of ancient rock art more visible. Bouquets of yellow prince's plume flowers burst forth from the crevices between boulders at the bases of cliffs. As the light fades, the first planets pop out of the heavens, then come the stars, two, three, hundreds. A few Yellow-breasted Chats throw out their last evening songs from deep inside of desert olive thickets. The whole time the river glides by, quietly in places, roaring in others, slowly taking away the whole scene grain by grain. Join naturalist David Gilligan and NHI's Jennie Tutone for an extraordinary trip along the San Juan River as it moves through the bent, layered rocks and ribbon-like riparian woods of the Colorado Plateau. While traveling downriver, we will explore the geology, botany, ecology, and human history of the river corridor and adjacent slickrock and desert landscapes. We will bird by morning, interpret geology and vegetation ecology by day, and learn our way across the star-strewn sky at night. We will travel in the spirit of the exploratory naturalists who have gone before us, with qualified river guides, a skilled naturalist, and the camaraderie and collective knowledge of all participants. The river trip is a fully guided experience. You can expect professionally guided river travel, facilitated natural history programming throughout each day, and a casual, relaxed, communal environment in the evenings at camp. All meals are provided by the guide crew, and you can look forward to tasty, delicious food with options throughout the trip. All parts of the program are designed for maximum participation and all ability levels: our goal by day is to travel downriver and practice natural history together, and by evening to tell stories about it. Where: San Juan River – Sand Island to Mexican Hat When : May 27, 2025 through May 31, 2025 Number of Days/Nights : Five days and four nights Transportation: Vans depart 8 am from the Natural History Institute, Prescott; return 8 pm to the Natural History Institute or provide your own transport to the Sand Island Group Campground, located near Bluff, Utah. Group Size: Maximum 22 Age Group: Adults and youth 16+ Cost per Person : $1,100 *Payments by check are encouraged to help us save on fees! To reserve your spot email us at info@naturalhistoryinstitute.org and mail a check to NHI, 126 N. Marina Street, Prescott, AZ, 86301. NHI Nature Guardian and Champion membership discounts do not apply to this trip. Details: Equipment: You provide your own clothing, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and related personal camping equipment. Tents are not provided but are available for rental. We will provide all river gear, including a waterproof gear bag. Click here to view the packing list. Meals and Drinks: The river guides and crew are seasoned river runners with many decades of guiding experience on Western rivers, including the San Juan. They will provide 12 wonderful meals, beginning with dinner on May 27th and ending with lunch on May 31st. The crew will provide potable water and a limited supply of cool drinks, such as sparkling water. There is space in the coolers for participants to bring canned drinks — no bottles, please. Alcoholic beverages are allowed on the trip, and participants are expected to consume those beverages in a prudent manner as we will be days away from medical care. The Boats: We will use three oar rigs for carrying gear and food. Participants have two paddling choices: joining five other participants on a guided paddle raft or limited seating is available on an oar rig. Programming: Our river adventure explores 27 miles of the scenic San Juan, which varies from calm water to fun Class ll rapids. Each day will include structured and unstructured activities focused on natural history. We will offer hikes, both casual and challenging, for you to choose from. We will secure a Navajo Nation permit that will allow us to hike up Chinle Wash. Other possible destinations are the Big Kachina panel near Butler Wash, River House ruin, San Juan Hill at Comb Ridge, Fossil Camp, and more. Emergencies and Communications: Our guides are certified Wilderness First Responders with decades of experience and carry industry-standard satellite communication devices on board for use in emergencies. Transportation: We will provide van transportation to and from the San Juan River. The program will begin the morning of May 27th and end the evening of May 31st, 2025, at the Natural History Institute on Marina Street in Prescott, AZ. Participants are welcome to drive themselves and meet the group at the Sand Island Group Campground in Bluff, UT. *Sample Itinerary: Day 1: May 27th Leave the Natural History Institute in Prescott, AZ Drive to Sand Island Campground near Bluff, UT (6 hour drive) Meet non-van participants and shuttle personal cars to Mexican Hat Dinner provided by guides Days 2-4: May 28th - May 30th Launch from Sand Island Raft the 27 miles to Mexican Hat, camping in a different location each night. Possible scenic destinations include the Big Kachina panel near Butler Wash, River House Ruin, hike up Chinle Wash, view Mule’s Ear Diatreme and the Monument Upwarp, San Juan Hill at Comb Ridge, and Fossil Camp. Class II rapids All meals provided May 31st Leave Camp Arrive at Mexican Hat Goodbyes and leave Mexican Hat Drive to the Natural History Institute in Prescott, AZ (6 hour drive) Breakfast and lunch provided *The itinerary is subject to change due to river conditions and group interests. David Gilligan is a professional naturalist, explorer, professor, and writer. He has led wilderness trips and developed and taught natural history field programs for Prescott College, The Sierra Institute, and Sterling College. He has spent over three thousand days and nights in the field, training hundreds of people in expeditionary backpacking, mountaineering, canoeing, and sea kayaking skills necessary for exploration of wild places. He is the author of numerous books and articles including The Secret Sierra , In the Years of the Mountains , Nature, Culture, Consciousness, and “The High Country of the Mind.” His academic specialties include vegetation ecology, botany, and geology in mountain and desert environments, and nature philosophy. David has lived and worked in Arizona, California, and Northern New England, and traveled to remote mountain environments all over the world. This program is offered in collaboration with Prescott College, a commercial permittee on the San Juan River through the Bureau of Land Management, to provide you with experienced guides and leadership for your time on the river. Cancellation Policy: Participants who cancel more than 30 days before the Program (on or before April 27, 2025) will receive a full refund, minus a 10% administrative fee of the trip cost. For cancellations with less than 30 days left before the 1st day of the Program (after April 27, 2005), no refund will be issued. Any refund under this Agreement will be paid within 14 business days of NHI’s receipt of the refund request. No refund for the Program will be available solely because of dissatisfaction with the presentation or contents of the Program. I understand and agree that no credit or refund for the Program shall be available if I cancel on the arrival day, if I do not show up, or if I leave the Program early for any reason. All notices of cancellation and refund requests shall be made by contacting NHI via email info@naturalhistoryinstitute.org or by submitting notice in person or by mail to: NHI, 126 N. Marina Street, Prescott, AZ, 86301. Information Source: Natural History Institute | eventbrite

Last Show of the Series! Contests! Surprises! Gifts! A GRAND Music Raffle! Nashville Guitar Ace Mark Stuart at the Elks Crystal Hall, Friday, May 30, 7pm $22-$32 “One of the finest artists we've presented" Tom Agostino,The Folk Sessions Nashville guitar ace Mark Stuart returns to Prescott on Saturday, May 30 for the last show of the Folk Sessions 22 Year Series. Mark has played with country and roots-rock groups like the Long-Gone Daddies and brother-in-law, Steve Earle's Dukes. Artists such as Freddy Fender, Joan Baez, and Steve Forbert have employed him as band leader and guitarist. Come join us as we celebrate 22 Years of the Folk Sessions, where the finest musicians come to play! Elks Crystal Hall, Third Floor. Tickets are $22. Cash Bar. Whether it be Cambridge Folk Festival, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, MTV, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, Stan Rogers Folk Festival, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Kerrville Folk Festival, Merlefest, or countless small festivals and theaters, Stuart's storytelling, guitar playing, vocals, or songs have caught the attention of music lovers. The Folk Sessions may well be one of the most eclectic music companies in America. Broadcast throughout Central & Northern Arizona for over 22 years on the KJAZZ Radio Network and the SoundCloud Streaming Service., The Folk Sessions is embarking on a new session. We are moving from a yearly "series" of shows into a more curated schedule. Our historic series will be replaced by periodic "must see" events with well-established and recognized performers. Presented by the Folk Sessions. Steve Earle, Stacey Earle, Mark Stuart "When I Fall" Information Source: The Folk Sessions | eventbrite

Join us on our annual expedition to Prescott where we’ll explore the highlands, marvel at mother nature and ponder the ponderosa pines on Mingus Mountain. We will be offering a wide variety of fun camp activities based on 3 different age levels, including hiking, fishing, lake swimming (with a slide!), games, campfires and more! This year we will be offering ONE WEEK of camp with more total space for campers! Ages: 8 -14 Date: June 16 - 20 Cost: $595 Transportation fee (optional): We offer transportation from Tucson Village Farm to Camp for $75 each way. We simply charge what the motor coach costs us to rent. We only have space for 50 campers on the bus, so if you are interested in getting a bus ticket, don't delay, they will sell out. *When you are registering please enter the camper's name with the parent/gaurdian information *Refund Policy: Full refund 30 days before camp start date; 50% refund up to 14 days before camp start date; no refunds thereafter. Questions? *Tucson Village Farm camps will follow the University of Arizona, CDC, and State of Arizona COVID Guidelines. Please see the FAQs on our website (tucsonvillagefarm.arizona.edu) for more details, email esparks@cals.arizona.edu , or call (520) 626-5161 Information Source: Tucson Village Farm | eventbrite

Rising prominently on the skyline, Thumb Butte has long sparked curiosity and wonder, but how much do we truly understand about this striking volcanic formation? Join retired professor and geologist Beth Boyd for a fascinating look at Thumb Butte, one of Prescott’s most iconic natural landmarks. In this engaging presentation, Dr. Boyd explores what we know—and don’t know—about the geology and mysteries of this striking outcrop. She’ll review key theories, challenge common assumptions, and reveal the most likely explanation based on current evidence. Don't miss this chance to deepen your appreciation for Prescott’s diverse landscape and to hear the story the rocks have been waiting to tell. Where: The Federal 101 W. Goodwin Street 2nd Floor (above the Post Office) Prescott, Arizona 86305 The elevator is located on the first floor and is accessible for all guests. When: Doors open at 6:30pm. The presentation starts at 7:00pm. *The event is free, but space is limited, and registration is required. For those unable to attend in person, the talk will be live-streamed on our YouTube Channel. Beth Nichols Boyd is a retired professor and department chair at Yavapai College in Prescott, Arizona. She started teaching there when the world was young, leading more than 600 field trips over her lengthy career to most of the geologic wonders of the Southwest, eventually specializing in sharing her knowledge of the geology of the Prescott area with her many students. She holds a B.A. in geology and chemistry from Oberlin College, an M.S. in geoscience from the University of Arizona, and a doctorate in science education from Capella University. Her new book, Exploring Prescott’s Unique Geology , reflects decades of fieldwork and a deep passion for sharing the story of the local landscape. Beth has also taught internationally in New Zealand and Canada, further broadening her geologic perspective, but Prescott has always been home. Information Source: Natural History Institute | eventbrite

Prescott's greatest rock musicians and singers join together as one amazing all star "dream team" band to pay tribute to those legendary rock stars who left us way too early. Each "player" has been perfectly chosen for his or her part. Sir Harrison is Jimi Hendrix. Jackson Rauch is John Lennon. Elvin Killerbee is Stevie Ray Vaughan. Rene Sanger is Janis Joplin. Adam Haar is Duane Allman. Ed Warner is Jim Morrison. Sky "Daddy" Conwell is Freddie Mercury. Ed Warner is Ronnie Van Zant. Colin Fraher is Kurt Cobain. Gary Vanslyke is Berry Oakley. Jim Blair is John Bonham. Having all of these local Prescott legends - paying honor to all of these global legends - together on the same stage at the same time - playing classic rock's most well known and well loved hits ... is sure to be ... HEAVENLY! One night only. Information Source: LUNDON CROW | eventbrite

Testimonials from Past Family Camp Events "This was such a fantastic and unexpected experience for our family, and exactly what we needed to get out of the daily grind and Phoenix heat. The staff was fantastic and made the camp experience extra fun. I'm super jealous that my kids get to go back by themselves this summer." ~Broberg Family (Spring Break 2022) "I never attended summer camp as a child but always envisioned what it would be like. I was blessed to finally attend with my wife and daughter and the memories and experience exceeded my expectations. From the bunkhouse and cafeteria type meal setting to the camp style activities and adventures it was truly one of the greatest activities I have done with my family. We hope to return in 2022!" ~Schaan Family (Labor Day Weekend 2021) “It was the best weekend ever! Nothing like kids in nature, fun activities, great food, and family bonding. The staff is unbelievable and so engaging. There are activities for everyone. Tie-dying, archery, zip lining, camp fires, canoeing, and geocaching is just to name a few. My daughter who is 6.5 years old is already asking to go back. I cannot recommend CampWay enough. Amazing!” ~ Beth Gold (Easter Weekend 2022) Great family bonding experience! My son and daughter (9 & 11) loved the rope courses and camp fire sing alongs. They both can't wait to come back. I've never seen them laugh so much in a single experience." ~ Shannon Roddewig (Labor Day Weekend 2022) CampWay’s Signature Family Camps Are Coming to Prescott Pines This Summer! Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure! Prescott Pines Camp has undergone a jaw-dropping transformation —and trust us, Family Camp has NEVER looked this good! Think cozy cabins, top-notch amenities, and endless outdoor fun , all wrapped up in the breathtaking beauty of the pines. Whether you’re craving adventure, relaxation, or quality time with loved ones, this is the family getaway you’ve been waiting for! What makes Family Camp an incredible family experience? No itinerary or planning is needed Your family shows up and our team will take care of the details. From activities, to lodging & delicious meals. An all-inclusive experience An all-inclusive experience Family Camp is filled with camp-like activities, family-style meals, comfortable private cabins, and mandatory fun! Fun for all ages We provide age-appropriate programming that engages and challenges participants. No dull days here! Make Family Camp your own Plan to do activities alongside other families, or individually with your own family. Rotate through activities throughout the whole weekend. Evening Activities, The Fun Never Stops! Complete your days at camp with our selection of fun evening programs! Whether it's a Campfire, fun group games, or movie nights! Activities include: Outdoor Cooking Zip Line Climbing Wall Axe Throwing Archery Geocaching Tie Dye Crafts Hiking Self-Guided Activities Swimming Pool Basketball Volleyball Tetherball Gagball Pickleball Silent Disco Campfires Camp Songs Game Room Gymnasium Home to the indoor climbing wall , basketball , pickleball , and a variety of other indoor activities. This 10,000-square-foot gym offers plenty of space for recreation, fitness, and group events. Dining Lodge A welcoming space for meals and gatherings, the Dining Lodge serves as the heart of camp dining. With plenty of seating and a warm, rustic atmosphere, it’s a great place to enjoy freshly prepared meals, connect with others, and relax between activities. Cabin Interiors Each cabin is outfitted with bunk beds and comfortable mattresses , providing a simple and cozy place to rest. Guests should bring their own bedding or a sleeping bag for a good night’s sleep. Cabin Kitchen While all meals are provided , each cabin includes a fridge, microwave, and stove for any snacks or goodies you’d like to bring. It’s a convenient space to store drinks, reheat leftovers, or prepare a quick bite between meals. Swimming Pool The pool offers a refreshing spot to cool off, with depths ranging from 2 feet to 6 feet to accommodate all swimmers. Whether you're wading in the shallow end or diving into deeper waters, it's a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Game Room A fun and casual space to unwind and enjoy some friendly competition. The game room features table tennis, mini basketball, foosball, and air hockey , making it a great spot to hang out and challenge friends to a game. Cabin Interior Lounge Each cabin is designed for comfort with bunk beds and comfortable mattresses —just bring your own bedding. Some of the dorm-style cabins include large communal kitchens and lounges , providing additional space to gather and relax. While all meals are provided , these shared kitchens offer a convenient spot for snacks and drinks. Information Source: CampWay | eventbrite

Join us as we explore the dimensions of wellness and mental health. Mental Health Conference: Exploring the Dimensions of Wellness July 16 & 17, 2025 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Our mental health is impacted and important in every aspect of life. This conference is for anyone interested in learning about mental health concerns and discovering ways to support those they serve. Breakout sessions will cover the dimensions of wellness. The eight dimensions of wellness include social, emotional, physical, intellectual, financial, environmental, occupational, and spiritual. Who: Educators, counselors, healthcare workers, juvenile probation officers, law enforcement, social workers, caregivers, home health workers, activity directors, assisted living facilities staff--anyone interested in mental health. Join us for two-days of learning, understanding, and making mental health a priority. KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Population Mental Health: Trends, Assets, and Policies for Prevention Dr. Catherine K. Ettman is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Policy and Management at the John Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. She received her PhD in Health Services Research at Brown University and studied Public Policy at Princeton University. Her work explores population mental health, assets that shape mental health, and policies across sectors that can reduce health disparities. This Work Ain't Always Easy: An Overview of the Six Mental Health Conditions that Increase Problematic Behavior Ryan Dowd spent most of his career as Executive Director of the second largest unhoused shelter in Illinois and teaching graduate level social work classes. Now he trains organizations around the world, including McDonald's, NYPD, American Banker's Association and others, on homelessness, mental illness, substance use and trauma. Crisis Care Dr. Margie Balfour is a psychiatrist and leader in crisis care, quality improvement and law enforcement responses to behavioral health emergencies. She is the Chief of Quality & Clinical Innovation, at Connections Health Solutions, and is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Arizona. Good Grief Support: Grief Care Through a Sustainable and Equitable Lens Dr. Joanne Cacciatore is a Professor at ASU and directs the graduate certificate in trauma and bereavement there. She is in the top 2% of scholars of her field in the world, and is an AASWSW Fellow, also winning numerous other volunteer, research, and practice awards. Her best-selling book, Bearing the Unbearable, has been translated into 7 languages. She also served on Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry's Mental Health Advisory Board for the Apple TV series "The Me You Can't See." Showing Up As You: Authenticity as a Tool for Health And Wellness Dr. Dwinita Mosby-Tyler is the Chief Catalyst and Founder of The Equity Project, LLC -- a consulting firm supporting organizations and communities in building diversity, equity and inclusion strategies. She holds a doctorate in the field of Organizational Leadership from the University of Colorado, a Master of Arts degree in Management from Webster University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the University of Alabama. More details on Keynote Speakers and breakout sessions to come. Check back for updates or visit www.healthyyavapai.com . Information Source: Yavapai County Community Health Services | eventbrite