JUNETEENTH DESERT BOTANICAL
TUESDAY, JUNE 9, 2026
7–10 p.m. | Garden wide
Celebrate culture, history and community in a space filled with learning, laughter and legacy.
BUILDING RESILIENCE THROUGH COMMUNITY AND JOY TRAIL
Embark on an interactive journey through the Garden by collecting stamps at designated stations. Complete your passport to receive a special gift designed by Kelvonnah Stidhum of Fly Girl Prints at Ottosen Entry Garden. Available while supplies last.
AMPHITHEATER
Book Giveaway
Stop by the Friends of the Library station to receive a free book. This station is perfect for all ages and interests.
SUNSET PLAZA
Food Demo
7:30, 8:30, 9:15 p.m.
Experience live food demos with Rodney Smith from Grow Space that highlight plant-based foods, nutrition, culture and community wellness.
Food & Refreshments
Refuel with delicious bites and cool treats from:
• Coney Shack & Grill – Burgers, Comfort Food
• Hot Sauce and Pepper – Vegan Soul Food
• Big Mamma’s Events – Desserts
VIRGINIA G. PIPER CHARITABLE TRUST DESERT TERRACE GARDEN
Clairelle Natural Fragrances Scent
Trail Experience
Enjoy the first stop in a sensory trail, anchored in the cultural lineage of Juneteenth. Explore how African-heritage fragrances exemplify joy. Start a Botanical Resilience Satchel using these fragrances and foraged botanicals.
Continue to the Sybil B. Harrington Cactus and Succulent Galleries to finish this experience.
Available while supplies last.
SYBIL B. HARRINGTON CACTUS AND SUCCULENT GALLERIES
Clairelle Natural Fragrances Scent Trail Experience
Continue this sensory trail, anchored in the cultural lineage of Juneteenth. Explore two more stations exploring how African-heritage fragrances exemplify resilience and community. Create a Botanical Resilience Satchel using these fragrances and foraged botanicals.
Available while supplies last.
MARLEY LEARNING LAB
Scent Making Blend Bar with Clairelle Natural Fragrances
Create your own plant-based fragrance blends using botanicals with African origins in this relaxing, sensory experience. $15
Available while supplies last.
BOPPART COURTYARD
Entertainment DJ Pootiecat
Storytelling
8–8:30 p.m.
Enjoy a special presentation by Nia Watkins, from Arizona, But Make it Black, about the local historical figures and landmarks that exemplify resilience, joy and community.
DORRANCE HALL
Community Corner
Explore a vibrant indoor community fair featuring local non-profits leading activities and sharing resources and Black-owned businesses offering unique products and handmade goods:
• Atabey Outdoors
• Farm to Power
• Lights Camera Discover
• NCNW Metropolitan Sun of AZ
• TigerMountain Foundation
• Ascending Thoughts Counseling
• Alla Herbs
• Clairelle Natural Fragrances
• Fly Girls Prints
• Intricate Ink Studio
• Sugar Star Sweet Treats
OTTOSEN GALLERY
Nature-Inspired Art
Unleash your creativity with nature-inspired art and learn about the resilience of the Sonoran Desert through:
• Leaf Rubbing
• Pitch Paint
Available while supplies last.
Tree of Life
Learn about the benefits of mesquite to humans and the wider ecosystem. Try mesquite flour and learn about its health benefits.