Flagstaff Festival of Science 2023
Science is an integral part of our daily lives, and this year’s Flagstaff Festival of Science, running from Sept. 25 to Oct. 4, invites everyone—children, teens, and adults—to engage with the science around us. With over 100 STEAM-focused events, there’s something for all interests, ranging from bedtime stories and hiking with dogs to learning about public transportation, food growth, and even voting.
Key Highlights:
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Free 10-Day Event
“The entirely free event is dedicated to inspiring and connecting individuals with the wonders of science,” stated Matt Lydy, an instructional laboratory manager at Northern Arizona University (NAU) and a festival board member. -
Theme: Driven By Curiosity
This year honors the Route 66 centennial. The keynote speaker is Kirk Dunsavage, a former senior technology manager for the Atlassian Williams Formula 1 team, who will present “Speed Science and Human Ingenuity” on Sept. 25 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in Ardrey Auditorium. Reservations are required.
Notable Events:
- SAE Showcase: Sept. 25 from 6-6:45 p.m. at Ardrey, featuring NAU’s Formula and Baja racing teams.
- Robotics Workshop: Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Learning Resource Center.
- Storytelling Event: Oct. 1 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Kitt Recital Hall to hear about scientific journeys.
- Monarch Butterfly Tagging: Sept. 27 from 8:30-10 a.m. at Rockin’ River Ranch State Park.
- Night Sky Viewing: Sept. 25-27 from 7:30-10 p.m. at the Barry Lutz Telescope.
The festival bridges the gap between STEAM professionals and the community, fostering connections and making science more accessible. All events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the festival’s website.
NAU Affiliate Events
- Pre-Keynote Ballet (Vroom, Vroom, Vroom!): Sept. 25, 6:30-7 p.m. at Ardrey Auditorium—an artistic interpretation exploring cars through movement.
- NAU Science Art Show: Sept. 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the International Pavilion—featuring a special art exhibit.
- Pilgrimage of Light Art Exhibit: Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Beasley Gallery—showcasing photographs of the cosmos.
- STEM Poster Session: Oct. 2, 1-4 p.m. at Ashurst Auditorium—connecting STEM students and professionals.
- Constellations Creations Workshop: Oct. 3, 12:30-4 p.m. at Beasley Gallery—create your own constellation!
For additional details, you can reach out to Mariana Laas | NAU Communications at (928) 523-5050 or email.
Join us in celebrating science and discovery in Northern Arizona!
