Learn
September is full of opportunities to give back, learn something new, and have fun with your family and friends. Whether you’re looking to roll up your sleeves and volunteer or enjoy a community event, there’s something here for you. Mark your calendars, bring your neighbors, and let’s celebrate our community together!
Volunteering
Join local cleanup efforts, help lead hands-on water education activities at the Sedona Water Festival, and connect with others who care about protecting the Verde Valley’s lands and waters.
Picnic in the Park & Creek Cleanup
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon picnic and then help care for our beautiful creek! Indivisible Rimrock is hosting a community picnic, followed by a creek cleanup where volunteers will pick up bottles and cans along the water. Bring a reacher if you have one, and be ready to lend a hand.
When: Sunday, September 14, 2025 at 2:00 pm
Where: Sycamore Park, 4130 E Beaver Vista Rd, Rimrock, AZ 86335
Click here to sign up.
Sedona Water Festival
Celebrate science and water stewardship with local students! Volunteers will help lead hands-on activities for 4th and 5th graders, teaching about the importance of water in our lives. You’ll also help with set up and clean up—and snacks are provided!
Event Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Volunteer Training: Monday, September 22, 2025, 12:00–2:00 pm, Posse Ground Recreation Room, Posse Grounds Park, 525 Posse Ground Rd., Sedona, AZ 86336
Volunteer Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Posse Grounds Park, 525 Posse Ground Rd., Sedona, AZ 86336
Click here to sign up.
Community Events
From a grants presentation and a water safety talk to river celebrations, fundraisers, and family festivals like Verde River Day and the Sedona Water Festival, September is full of opportunities to learn, explore, and celebrate together.
River Friendly Living Grants Info Session
Learn how our River Friendly Living grants can help improve your home or business! This online session will explain how you can apply for funding, plus details on Prescott’s rebate program for city residents. Don’t miss this chance to prepare before the October 31 deadline.
When: Friday, September 12, 2025, from 11:00am to noon
Where: Online
Click here to sign up. The recording should be uploaded shortly after the event.
Keeping Our Drinking Water Safe
Learn from Arizona Department of Environmental Quality experts about local water quality, including family well testing, PFAS updates, and the status of our lakes and streams. This is a great chance to get your questions answered.
When: Saturday, September 13, 2025, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Granite Peak Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 882 Sunset Ave, Prescott, AZ
Click here to sign up.
Save Sullivans & Wild Verde River Social & Fundraiser
Bring your friends and enjoy live music, food trucks, and good company—all while supporting the Upper Verde Wild & Scenic River Coalition. Donations of $50 or more will receive a Mammut backpack.
When: Friday, September 19, 2025, 5:00–8:00 pm
Where: Fairweather Social Club, 224 N Cortez St, Prescott, AZ 86301
Click here to sign up.
Rhino Run 5K Fun Run
Runners are getting ready to lace up their running shoes for the inaugural Rhino Run at Out of Africa! This 5K fun run celebrates International Rhino Day and supports conservation efforts to protect rhinos from poaching, habitat loss, and other threats. The route loops through the park twice, giving runners the chance to pass by wildlife—including Jericho, the beloved southern white rhino.
When: Saturday, September 20, 2025, 7:00 am – 9:00 am
Where: Out of Africa Wildlife Park, 4020 N. Cherry Rd., Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Click here for more information on attending.
Verde River Day
This community tradition draws thousands of visitors to celebrate our connection to the Verde River. Explore exhibits, meet local organizations, and enjoy a day by the water. Admission is free, and the whole family will love it!
When: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 9:00 am–3:00 pm
Where: Dead Horse Ranch State Park, 675 Dead Horse Ranch Rd, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Click here for more information and sponsorship opportunities.
Rockin’ River Ranch Rye IPA Tasting Event
Taste a specialty beer brewed just for Rockin’ River Ranch! Enjoy live music, food, nature walks, raffle prizes, and activities for all ages. Space is limited, so grab your ticket early. Proceeds support Friends of the Verde River and Arizona State Parks.
When: Saturday, September 27, 2025, Noon–4:00 pm
Where: Rockin’ River Ranch State Park, 4513 S Salt Mine Rd, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Click here for more information and to get tickets.
Sedona Water Festival
This exciting event brings science, fun, and learning together for the whole community. Families are invited to explore hands-on activities, enjoy demonstrations, and discover the importance of protecting our water resources. It’s a great day for kids, parents, and friends alike.
When: Tuesday, September 30, 2025, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: 525 Posse Ground Rd., Sedona, AZ 86336
Click here for more information.
We Hope to See You There
September is a time to come together as a community—whether you’re volunteering, learning something new, or simply enjoying music, food, and friendship. We invite you to bring your family, invite your friends, and join in these wonderful events. Your presence makes our community stronger, and every smile and helping hand makes a difference.
