Category: Special Events

October 30th, 2026 | 5:30-9:00 PM

Join us for our Stewards of the Wild Gala. Your support extends far beyond a single evening. Together, we can create a lasting impact for the animals that depend on us.

Join us at the Sanctuary for one of our most popular events! In partnership with Arizona Game & Fish, you’ll experience bats up close, learn about their vital role in our ecosystem, and hear from biologists as they safely study and release them. These incredible (and often misunderstood) flying mammals help control insect pests and disease, making their conservation more important than ever.

April 12th, 2026 | 3:00–5:00 PM

Join us for a unique evening of discovery at the sanctuary! During the hands-on owl pellet dissection, participants will examine owl pellets to uncover the bones and remains of the owl’s prey, gaining a deeper understanding of owl diets and local food webs.

November 8th, 2026 | 3:30-6:30PM

Discover the joy of wildlife photography in this three-hour Beginner Photography Workshop at Southwest Wildlife with photographer, Anna Dufek.

February 14th, 2026 | 4:00–6:00 PM

Looking for a fun outdoor event to surprise your Valentine? Join us for our Hearts & Howls Date Night! Enjoy sparkling cider and a guided tour of the sanctuary, where you’ll see rescued wildlife such as mountain lions, Mexican gray wolves, coatis, foxes, and more.

November 6th, 2026 | 4-7 PM

Join us for a magical evening at the Sanctuary! Sip wine, enjoy light bites, and paint your very own masterpiece inspired by Arizona’s wildlife.

December 13th, 2025 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Celebrate the holidays with SWCC! Guests will create festive enrichment projects to give to the sanctuary animals. Once the projects are complete, watch the animals enjoying their special treats.

Looking for a unique outing for you and your family? On select Saturdays throughout the year, explore Southwest Wildlife at your own pace!

This family-oriented morning open house is geared toward families, though it’s fun for all ages. If you have little ones, this is a great alternative to our standard Walk with Wildlife guided tour.

October 24th, 2026 | 4-6 PM

Enjoy a self-guided tour with trick-or-treating, a scavenger hunt, pumpkin patch, carnival games, and family photo ops. Costumes are encouraged (with closed-toed shoes), and every guest will leave with a bag of treats and goodies!

September 27th 2026| 8-11 AM

Begin your adventure by creating enrichment items that help keep these curious animals happy and healthy. Then, enjoy your breakfast pastries while watching the bears dig into the treats and enrichment you’ve prepared.