FEATURE EVENT:
October 9
Best of Arizona 2026 Celebration
Join Green Living magazine as we celebrate the best of Arizona’s sustainability community. The evening brings together the people, businesses, and innovators creating a more sustainable future for Arizona. The festivities include dinner and drinks, local vendors, live entertainment, and an awards ceremony. Tickets start at $100. 5-9 p.m. The Post, 26 N. Macdonald, Mesa.
SOUTHERN ARIZONA
October 1-3
Southwest Skies Astronomy Festival
Green Valley Recreation and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory have partnered to celebrate the awe-inspiring dark skies of Southern Arizona. Science lectures, an art show, community events, star parties, and more will take place at facilities from Green Valley to Amado. Free. https://southwestskies.cfa.harvard.edu/
October 9 – November 13
DIY Desert Garden Design
Learn how to plan and cultivate a beautiful and successful garden in Arizona’s desert environment. This six-part program, taught by Tucson Botanical Gardens docents, offers step-by-step guidance through design consideration, water conservation, and plant selection.
Fridays 9-11:30 a.m. $100 member; $125 nonmember. tucsonbotanical.org
October 20
Cultivating Native Edible Landscapes
This class, part of Watershed Management Group’s Sustainable Desert Living Series, explores what “native edible” means from ecological, regional, and cultural perspectives. Participants will discuss the identifying features, ideal growing conditions, and sustainable harvesting practices of native edible species. Free; a contribution is suggested. 5:30-7 p.m. 1137 N. Dodge Blvd., Tucson. watershedmg.org
October 23
Scarritt Foundation Fur Ball
The Scarritt Foundation helps people and their pets by expanding access to veterinary care, supporting pet owners experiencing homelessness and housing instability, and providing grants to animal welfare organizations. Show your support during this evening of fine food, dancing, and fun. $450 per person. 5 p.m. Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa, 3800 E. Sunrise Drive, Tucson. www.scarrittfoundation.org
CENTRAL ARIZONA
October 6
Story of Cacti
Botanist Dr. Ken Sweat of Arizona State University kicks off the Desert Foothills Land Trust’s Foothills Speaker Series by exploring the form, function, and habitat of the Sonoran Desert’s prickly plants. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of the cacti in their own backyards. Free; registration is required. 6 p.m. Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. dflt.org
October 11
Indigenous Peoples’ Day – Imaging Tomorrow Together
Head to the Heard Museum for a vibrant and family-friendly day of culture, connection, and celebration. This annual event honors Indigenous traditions, creativity, and resilience through engaging activities. Enjoy hoop dancing, musical performances, presentations, and craft activities. Free with museum admission. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix.
October 26
Statewide Sustainability Summit
Join Arizona Forward for this half-day event that explores the opportunities and challenges shaping our future. Leaders in business, government, academia, and the nonprofit section will examine the trends, innovations, and partnerships needed to build a sustainable Arizona. $225 Arizona forward members; $250 nonmembers. Registration is required. SRP Pera Club, 1 E. Continental Drive, Tempe. arizonaforward.org
October 31
Building Healthy Desert Soils
This workshop by the City of Tempe Sustainability and Resilience Division and Watershed Management Group is designed to help community members bring desert soil to life by integrating gray water, stormwater, plant trimmings, and compost. Participants will gain the skills necessary to promote a productive urban landscape. Free. 10 a.m.-noon. Escalante Multi-Generational Center, 2150 E. Orange St., Tempe. tempe.gov
NORTHERN ARIZONA
October 3
2026 Sustainable Building Tour – Curious Spaces, Sustainable Places
Discover how homeowners are bringing sustainability to life during this self-guided home tour. Visit a variety of properties featuring energy-efficient upgrades, passive solar design, rainwater harvesting, native landscaping, solar energy, and other creative approaches. Free. 10 a.m. Pick up a guide at 703 E. Sawmill Road, Flagstaff.
October 4-10
Flagstaff Plein Air Festival
Painters and photographers of all skill levels are encouraged to celebrate the art of the natural environment while capturing the beauty of Northern Arizona. This unique festival includes workshops, discussions, paint-alongs, and a final exhibition and competition. Registration starts at $50. Artist’s Coalition of Flagstaff Gallery, Flagstaff Mall, 4650 US-89, Flagstaff.
October 24
Flagstaff Dark Skies 25th Anniversary Celebration
October 24 marks 25 years to the day since Flagstaff was designated the world’s first International Dark Sky City. Join the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition in commemorating this distinction. Through musical selections and presentations, the Silver Jubilee, which takes place at Northern Arizona University’s Ardrey Auditorium, tells the story of the city’s dark skies journey. Free, but tickets are required.
https://flagstaffdarkskies.org/
October 24
Homestead Garden Helpers
The Grand Canyon Trust welcomes volunteers to its historic 1880s homestead for a half day of gardening in its permaculture-inspired garden. Learn about native plants and how to grow them while constructing trellises for vegetables, watering thirsty fruit trees, and building composting bins. Free; registration is required. 8:30 a.m.-noon. 2601 N. Fort Valley Road, Flagstaff.
