Speaker Series
As part of our mission to connect people and nature, DFLT sponsors two Speaker Series — ongoing free lecture programs designed to connect community members with the natural and cultural heritage of their Sonoran Desert home. These lectures provide accessible educational opportunities for everyone to deepen their understanding of this unique desert ecosystem.
The Foothills Speaker Series is a joint initiative of DFLT and the Holland Center.
Click here to see events in the Foothills Speaker Series.
The Sonoran Speaker Series is a joint initiative of DFLT and Valley of the Sun J.
Click here to see events in the Sonoran Speaker Series.
All events are free and open to the public, but due to limited seating, registration is required. To register, click the link with each event.
Foothills Speaker Series
The Foothills Speaker Series is held at the Holland Center, 34250 N 60th St, Bldg B, Scottsdale, AZ 85266.
All programs are held from 6 - 8 pm. While programs are free, donations are appreciated. Due to limited seating, advance registration is required.
October 6, 2026 - The Story of Cactus
Explore how cacti survive some of the harshest conditions on Earth, with Dr. Ken Sweat of Arizona State University.
November 2, 2026 - Arizona's Bats
Discover Arizona's bats! Whether you love or fear them, learn how these misunderstood creatures help our desert ecosystem with Hally Cokenias, co-founder of Arizona Bat Rescue.
December 1, 2026 - Backyard Astronomy
Explore the science of astronomy and how you can get started stargazing at home with Kevin LeGore of Focus Astronomy.
January 5, 2027 - Hummingbirds 101
Hummingbirds are some of the most-loved backyard visitors in Arizona, but there's more to them than most people realize, with Hilary Morejon of the International Hummingbird Society.
April 6, 2027 - Arizona's Water
Learn how the Valley gets its water and what's ahead for Arizona's water future with Heather Macre, Central Arizona Project Board Member.
The Holland Center enriches the Desert Foothills community by celebrating arts and culture, treasuring our desert environment, assisting those in need, and encouraging lifelong learning. The Center provides support, opportunity, and connection for area residents through diverse programs including intriguing classes, fine arts exhibits, community theatre, and more. Through these offerings, the Holland Center aims to foster a vibrant, engaged community in the Desert Foothills area. To learn more visit hollandcenter.org.
Sonoran Speaker Series
The Sonoran Speaker Series is held at Valley of the Sun J, 12701 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85254.
All programs are held from 6 - 8 pm. While programs are free, donations are appreciated. Due to limited seating, advance registration is required.
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October 13, 2026 - Rattlesnakes, Fact and Fiction
Fear of rattlesnakes runs deep, but most of it is built on myth, not fact. Bryan Hughes of Rattlesnake Solutions replaces that fear with understanding, unpacking what these snakes really do for the Sonoran Desert and how we can live alongside them safely
Registration coming soon
November 10, 2026 - Black Bears
Black bears live closer to home than many Arizonans realize. Jeff Meyers of the Arizona Game and Fish Department will share insights into their natural history and how they're adapting alongside people.
Registration coming soon
January 12, 2027 - Starry Desert Nights
Explore the science of astronomy and how you can get started stargazing at home with Kevin LeGore of Focus Astronomy.
Registration coming soon
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February 9, 2027 - Archaeology Myths
Ever wonder how much of what you know about archaeology comes from movies instead of real science? Dr. Matt Peeples of Arizona State University tackles common myths and misunderstandings about archaeology, including a few tied to Arizona itself.
Registration coming soon
March 9, 2027 - Science of Wildfire
Tiffany Davila of the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management takes an inside look at the science behind wildfire management and repsonse.
Registration coming soon
Since 1945, Valley of the Sun J is the place where children are enriched, friendships built, bodies strengthened, minds challenged, and Jewish culture celebrated. The Valley of the Sun J is where all are welcome. Where the community comes together to workout, to play, to grow, to engage. The Valley of the Sun J is where we are All. Together. Better. To learn more visit valleyofthesunj.org.
Thank you to Repurposed Environmental Solutions for sponsoring the Foothills Speaker Series and Sonoran Speaker Series.
