As Summer Winds Down…

Dear Friends and Supporters,

While the late-summer sun is still holding strong, the arrival of August brings a familiar and welcome shift in rhythm. Mornings feel just a little quieter, back-to-school routines are returning, and we are looking forward to cooler, crisp days ahead.
Summer has been a vibrant season of discovery here at the museum, filled with community connections, new visitors, and engaging discoveries. As we transition into autumn, we are thrilled to share an inspiring lineup of programs, series, and events for late August and September!

Upcoming August Events

Free Admission Saturdays

• Date & Time: Saturday, August 22nd | 10:00 AM-1:00 PM
• Location: River of Time Museum & Exploration Center
• Admission: Free

Bring the whole family to experience our interactive galleries, immersive desert exhibits, and educational displays. Discover how water, land, and community life intersect in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, and don’t forget to stop by our curated gift shop to find unique local treasures.

Wonder & Exploration Series (4-6 year olds) | Turtle & Tortoise Tales!

• Date & Time: Saturday, August 29th | 10:00-11:00 AM
• Location: River of Time Museum & Exploration Center
• Admission: Free | Register at admin@riveroftime.center

Join us for a fun-filled morning of discovery as we dive into the world of turtles and tortoises! We’ll start with a cozy story time reading of HOP VROOM SKITTER with a special turtle friend, followed by a playful flannel board activity, turtle song, and a visit to the museum. Little ones will create their very own tortoise stick puppet to take home. Register at admin@riveroftime.center. Come ready to hop, vroom, and skitter!

Looking Ahead to September

Donuts with the Director

• Date & Time: Friday, September 4th | 9:00-10:00 AM
• Location: River of Time Museum & Exploration Center
• Admission: Free

Grab a cup of coffee and a warm doughnut for an informal, morning conversation! Join our Executive Director for updates on exciting new initiatives, upcoming exhibits, and behind-the-scenes stories about our collection. It’s a great chance to ask questions and connect directly with our leadership team.

Stories of Water, Land, and Life in the Lower Verde Valley, Speaker Series

• Topic:  Where Does Our Water Come From?
• Speaker: Tom Harrell, Water Resource Analyst, EPCOR USA
• Date & Time: Saturday, September 12th | 10:00-11:00 AM
• Location: River of Time Museum & Exploration Center
• Admission: All Attendees-$10.00  | Register at admin@riveroftime.center

Dive deep into the rich heritage, vibrant ecosystems, and vital natural resources that define our region. This season, the River of Time presents an extraordinary lineup of local experts, historians, and local voices exploring how water and land have shaped the history and future of the lower Verde Valley. From family-friendly watershed adventures to historic mining tales and cultural journeys, there is a story for everyone.

Glow in the Techno Event

• Date & Time: Saturday, September 19th | 7:00-10:00 PM
• Location: River of Time Museum & Exploration Center
• Admission: $50 includes drinks, hors d’oeuvres, dancing, & DJ
• Tickets may be purchased at https://cm.fhchamber.com/events/details/glow-in-the-techno-river-of-time-museum-fundraiser-56079?calendarMonth=2026-09-01 or at the River of Time Museum & Exploration Center

Experience our space in a whole new light! Join us for a high-energy evening featuring light displays, interactive exhibits, and vibrant music. Perfect for families and curious minds alike looking for a memorable, immersive night out before summer officially closes.

Wonder & Exploration Series (4-6 year olds) | Rancher’s Round-Up

• Date & Time: Thursday, September 24th | 10:00-11:00 AM
• Location: River of Time Museum & Exploration Center
• Admission: Free | Register at admin@riveroftime.center

Bring your 4-6 year olds for an hour of Rancher’s Round-Up excitement! We will read a wild west storybook about historic desert ranches, followed by a hands-on supervised craft, and visit through the museum.

Free Admission Saturdays

• Date & Time: Saturday, September 26th | 10:00 AM-4:00 PM
• Location: River of Time Museum & Exploration Center
• Admission: Free

Stay Connected & Get Involved

• Become a Member: Enjoy free admission, special program discounts, and reciprocal benefits.
• Volunteer With Us: Share your passion for regional heritage and exploration by joining our volunteer team.

Ready to book your spot?

Visit our website at www.riveroftime.center/calendar or call us at 480-919-5107 to reserve tickets or learn more about upcoming opportunities.

Thank you for being such a vital part of our community. We can’t wait to welcome you through our doors this season!

Warm regards,

Jane Przeslica
Executive Director
Connecting community, history, and culture