The Flagstaff Festival of Science celebrates its 36th anniversary as the world’s longest-running, entirely free science festival, transforming Northern Arizona into a dynamic classroom where scientific discovery meets community engagement. This remarkable 10-day celebration showcases the cutting-edge research happening in Flagstaff’s unique scientific community, from astronomical observations at Lowell Observatory to geological studies of the Colorado Plateau. The 2025 theme, “Harvesting Knowledge,” explores the environmental, health, and cultural significance of food through the lens of science, promising an enlightening journey that connects traditional knowledge with modern research.
Flagstaff’s Scientific Community
Flagstaff’s exceptional position as a scientific hub makes this festival particularly compelling. The city hosts world-renowned institutions including Lowell Observatory, Northern Arizona University’s research facilities, and the United States Geological Survey Flagstaff Science Center. Festival events span multiple venues throughout the region, utilizing everything from university lecture halls to outdoor field sites where participants can witness science in action. The diverse programming ensures that visitors encounter everything from hands-on workshops for children to sophisticated presentations addressing current research in climate science, astronomy, and Indigenous knowledge systems.
2025 Keynote Presentation
The festival’s 2025 keynote presentation features Mariah Gladstone, a Piikuni (Blackfeet) and Tsalagi (Cherokee) environmental engineer from Columbia University. Her Friday evening presentation, “Indigenous Food Systems Science,” explores thousands of years of place-based Indigenous scientific knowledge and its relevance to contemporary environmental challenges. This keynote, scheduled for 7:00 PM at Northern Arizona University’s Ardrey Auditorium, sets the tone for festival programming that honors traditional ecological knowledge while highlighting modern scientific advances.
Diverse Programming
Programming diversity defines this festival’s appeal, with events ranging from guided nature walks that explore high-altitude ecosystems to laboratory tours revealing ongoing research projects. Interactive workshops allow participants to conduct experiments, while field trips venture into the Grand Canyon, Sunset Crater National Monument, and other iconic Southwestern landscapes. Evening programs include stargazing sessions that take advantage of Flagstaff’s status as the world’s first International Dark Sky City, offering unparalleled opportunities for astronomical observation and education.
Event Details
Dates: September 19-28, 2025 (10 full days)
Time: Various event times throughout each day
Admission: Completely free for all events
Primary Venues: Northern Arizona University, Lowell Observatory, various community locations
Keynote Location: NAU Ardrey Auditorium
Age Range: Programs designed for all ages, from preschool to adult
Contact Information
Phone: (928) 224-9504
Email: info@scifest.org
Website: scifest.org
Social Media: Follow @flgscifest on social platforms
Festival Director: Elizabeth Vogler
Organizer: Flagstaff Festival of Science nonprofit organization
Special Programming and Technology
Special programming includes “Snook’s Science in the Park” on September 20 in Wheeler Park, where dozens of science organizations set up interactive booths and demonstrations. The festival’s mobile app, available for both iPhone and Android devices, allows participants to customize their experience by filtering events by interest, creating personal schedules, and accessing archived content from previous years. This technological enhancement makes navigating the extensive programming simple and ensures visitors don’t miss events aligned with their interests.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
The festival emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, with events designed for diverse learning styles and abilities. Many presentations offer both in-person and virtual participation options, while Spanish language programming ensures broader community engagement. The festival’s commitment to serving all community members reflects Flagstaff’s diverse population and the universal appeal of scientific discovery.
Registration and Participation
Registration is recommended for popular events and field trips with limited capacity, though many presentations accommodate walk-in attendance. The festival’s reputation draws scientists, educators, and curious individuals from across the region, creating an environment where professional researchers interact casually with community members, fostering connections that extend well beyond the festival’s 10-day duration.
