Happy March!
There are so, so many INCREDIBLE events happening at AZ Boardwalk this month including Mermaid Magic at OdySea Aquarium, Cinematic Treasures at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, and the FREE Butterfly Festival sponsored by The Butterfly Wonderland Foundation! In fact, Butterfly Wonderland has 6 NEW events this month + all their regular favorites! Don’t miss the FREE outdoor movies, courtyard events, and the exciting NEW adventures at UFO Experience too! AZ Boardwalk is the place to be for Spring Break 2024!
 |
Mermaid Magic
March 13 - 18
9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Free with Paid Admission
Get ready to indulge on a mesmerizing journey as Mermaid Magic returns to OdySea Aquarium this Spring Break! The Mermaid Magic event is back with a splash, featuring exclusive appearances by stunning live mermaids. From March 13 to March 18, dive into a whirlpool of excitement, capturing whimsical views of the enchanting sea-dwelling beauties. Get ready for a FIN-tastic time as guests of all ages are invited to join a range of magical opportunities with these captivating sea-maidens.
- Deep Ocean Gallery
Mermaids will gracefully glide alongside sharks, rays, and other marine life in the Deep Ocean exhibit, delighting guests with their effortless swimming and colorful, elegant tails. These enchanting sea sirens will send playful kisses and whimsically interact through the glass with Aquarium visitors each day.
- SeaTREK’s Stingray Bay
Beautiful mermaids will captivate guests by engaging in lively conversations and interactive moments, whether they're submerged in the water or perched elegantly on the ledge at Stingray Bay, creating the perfect opportunity to meet a live mermaid and ask her a question or two!
- Mermaid Magic Cove
On the dry side, a magnificent mermaid will be seated regally on a majestic throne, ready to engage with her adoring fans during special meet-and-greet opportunities. At the "Mermaid Tail" photo station, guests can immerse themselves in the magic too, while standing alongside a radiant mermaid, posing together for a one-of-a-kind professional photo! (Magic Memories’ professional photos are an additional fee.)
Mermaid Magic events are free with paid admission to OdySea Aquarium except for specific Magic Memories photos; tickets are available onsite and online. Visitors will be able to see Mermaids in at least one location at Odysea Aquarium between 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. each day. Don’t miss all the mer-mazing fun from March 13 to 18!
 |
Explore NEW and Exciting Additions to UFO Experience!
March
10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Prepare for an otherworldly adventure as UFO Experience proudly introduces exciting new elements to its renowned UFO exhibit. With a commitment to engaging in immersive exploration, the latest additions promise to captivate audiences of all ages, inviting them to explore the mysteries of the universe.
NEW First-hand UFO and Extraterrestrial Experiences Unveiled:
Listen to NEW compelling first-person auditory accounts in the UFO Experience’s Sightings Gallery! Don a set of headphones and hear from former President Bill Clinton, a chilling 911 call, Congressman Timothy Burchett’s take on Government spending on the search for aliens, and “Glee” actor Chris Colfer tell Jimmy Fallon about his UFO sighting in Santa Monica! Tune-in to these gripping narratives and question the mysteries beyond planet earth.
NEW UFO Vessel Dashboard:
Be the first to “blast-off” on the simulated UFO spaceship dashboard where guests will love to flip the controls, check out the lights, and view some “out of this world” holograms that pop-up to greet visitors on the all-new dashboard experience!
NEW Galactic Viewfinders:
The eyes have it! Peek through a NEW Galactic Viewfinder, similar to the beloved children's toy except on a grander, stand-alone scale showcasing breathtaking photos and fascinating facts about UAP sightings, alien reports, and space travel insights.
NEW Alien Operation Game:
Explore the extraterrestrial anatomy while navigating the alien operating table to delicately extract Martian guts! Hear the eerie sounds that accompany each tug and pull, making the NEW Alien Operation Game laugh-out-loud fun!
 |
Stingray & Shark Feedings
March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
1:00 p.m.
Tropical Waters Observation Pool
Dive into the captivating world of marine life with an educational Aquarist Talk and Live Feeding in the Tropical Waters gallery. Join Sara Donaldson at the Observation Pool as she unveils intriguing insights into venomous round stingrays and introduces guests to Agatha, the horn shark. Enjoy this interactive experience and take home a complimentary horn shark education card. This rare opportunity is FREE WITH ADMISSION.
Bug Talks
March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
3:00 p.m.
Butterfly Conservatory
Educational talks about our unique Spineless Giants—learn more from one of Butterfly Wonderland’s “bug specialists” about some of the largest insects from around the world. Be amazed at tarantulas, mantises, and more! FREE WITH ADMISSON.
Whimsical Wings
March 6, 13, 20, 27
3:00 p.m.
Step into a realm of wonder as Butterfly Wonderland's Education Specialists release exquisite tropical butterflies into the Conservatory. Capture the enchanting moment on camera as these graceful insects take their inaugural flight. Feel free to engage with the specialists, asking any questions that may pique curiosity. This captivating event is included FREE WITH ADMISSION.
Bug Club for Kids
March 10 and 24
11 a.m.
Butterfly Theater
Ignite curiosity in the kiddos with an engaging story time and educational session focused on fascinating insects. Butterfly Wonderland experts and animal curators will lead this captivating experience, where the little ones can learn about these incredible creatures up close. After the story time, get ready to meet LIVE insects, from walking sticks and beetles to giant African millipedes and even more intriguing species! FREE WITH ADMISSION.
NEW! Pollinator Garden Class - How to Build a Spring Butterfly Garden
Taught by Ryan Jerrell
March 13
5:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
In conjunction with Butterfly Wonderland’s Spring Plant Sale (March 15 – 17), guests are invited to a special class presented by Dig It! Co-owner Ryan Jerrell will show attendees how to build a butterfly garden that will attract gorgeous AZ butterflies. This class will help gardeners find out which host and nectar plants butterflies love! After class, get the first pick of the Civano Growers’ pollinator plants, sponsors of the Butterfly Wonderland Plant Sale. Plants range from $14.95—$29.95. The class is $10 for Butterfly Wonderland Members and $20.00 for the public; registration is required at EventBrite.com. For more info, contact (480) 800-3000, ext. 204. Proceeds from the class/sale benefit the Butterfly Wonderland Foundation.
NEW! Butterfly Wonderland Spring Plant Sale
Sponsored by Civano Growers
March 15 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
March 16 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
March 17 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Visit Butterfly Wonderland’s Annual Spring Plant Sale and choose beautiful spring plants to create butterfly, hummingbird, and bee-friendly gardens. Individual plants range from $14.95 – $29.95. “Grab & Go” Plant Kits available at special pricing featuring 1-gallon host and nectar plants plus a “Grab & Go” 4-pack of plants for $55. Butterfly Wonderland Master Gardener Adriane Grimaldi will be on hand to answer gardening and butterfly questions. All proceeds from the Spring Plant Sale support the mission and programs of the Butterfly Wonderland Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to conservation-based education and initiatives.
Butterfly Brushstrokes Painting Class
March 15
6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Bring a bestie or make it a date night and embark on a creative journey at Butterfly Brushstrokes. This expertly guided, delightful painting class promises an inspiring experience as each attendee crafts their very own "butterfly Picasso" masterpiece. All materials are provided in the price, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable session. Limited to 20 people. $30/public; $15/members (covers supplies). Pre-registration required. Visit EventBrite.com to register or call (480) 800-3000, ext. 206
Waking Up with Butterflies
March 16
8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Check-in at 8:15 a.m.
Savor a serene hour capturing the beauty of butterflies, birds, or reptiles through the camera lens. Join Butterfly Wonderland for an exclusive opportunity as Director of Animal Care & Entomologist Derek Kellogg stands ready to address inquiries about butterflies, plants, and the captivating rainforest ecosystem while participants capture compelling images of one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful and delicate creatures! Ages 18 & up; $29.95/public (includes admission). FREE for members. Registration required. Call (480) 800-3000, ext. 206. Tripods are allowed.
Leslie the Butterfly Fairy
March 16
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Meet Leslie, the enchanting Butterfly Fairy hailing from the Flutter Forest. Visit Butterfly Wonderland for a whimsical opportunity to capture wonderful photos with Leslie as she flutters about from late morning to early afternoon! Included FREE with admission.
Buzz About Bees
March 17
1 p.m.
Get ready for an un-BEE-lievable experience! Join local beekeeper and AZ Backyard Beekeepers founder, Cricket Aldridge, as she unveils the secrets of bees, hive maintenance, and more. Meet Cricket at the newly enhanced Honey Bee exhibit in the Conservatory and engage in an insightful Q&A session after her presentation. Don't miss the chance to purchase local honey from the Butterfly Treasures Gift Shop. This enlightening event is included FREE WITH ADMISSION.
NEW! FREE Butterfly Festival – in the Arizona Boardwalk Courtyard
March 17
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Spring into the excitement at Butterfly Wonderland's inaugural Butterfly Festival! Don’t miss this lively, FREE celebration of butterflies filled with hands-on activities and educational experiences in the AZ Boardwalk courtyard! Explore a myriad of happenings tailored for all ages including children’s crafts, live butterfly releases, face painting, and games
Visitors are encouraged to dress up as a favorite butterfly and participate in the event’s first-ever Costume Contest taking place on the center stage! Judges will decide the best of the best with winners taking home exciting prizes such as Butterfly Wonderland Annual Passes, tickets, and butterfly-themed treasures!
Beyond butterflies, the ASU Insect Lab will be on-hand to show visitors an assortment of insect species from across the globe! Guests will also have the unique opportunity to see butterflies up-close under microscopes, shop for variety of pollinator plants to enhance a home garden or simply contribute to the creation of a public garden by planting a seed at the Pollinator Seed booth.
Of course, the festival will be chock-full of Instagram-worthy moments including the opportunity to pose alongside Leslie the Butterfly Fairy! Hosted by the Butterfly Wonderland Foundation, this festival pays homage to the elegance of butterflies and their indispensable role in the ecosystem. Best of all, it's a free and delightful experience for individuals of all ages!
NEW! "I'm A Butterfly That’s Why!," Book Signing Event with Author and Butterfly Fairy, Leslie Campa
March 23
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Join Butterfly Wonderland for a fairy-tastic adventure to celebrate the release of "I'm A Butterfly That’s Why!," written by Butterfly Wonderland’s very own Butterfly Fairy, Leslie Campa! Leslie, an acclaimed children’s book author known for her captivating storytelling, has graced the pages of Influential People Magazine and was voted Best Author by Phoenix Magazine. Don't miss this magical event where guests can meet Leslie, pose with her as the Butterfly Fairy, pick up a copy of her latest book, and have it autographed by this talented, local author!
The Magic of Music and Butterflies featuring Jonathan Levingston
March 24
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Embark on a serene stroll through the mesmerizing Butterfly Conservatory as vibrant tropical butterflies flutter about to the soothing sounds of classical violin by musician Jonathan Levingston. Enjoy the harmonious fusion of nature and music in this unforgettable experience. This magical encounter is included FREE WITH ADMISSION.
Yoga in the Rainforest
March 26
5:15 - 6:15 p.m.; check in 5:00 p.m.
Yoga is back! Practice yoga in the peaceful and magical surroundings of the Butterfly Conservatory featuring thousands of beautiful fluttering butterflies. This hour-long class will guide guests through a series of yoga poses that help build strength and gain flexibility. Ages 18 & up; $30/person. Pre-registration required; visit EventBrite.com to register or call (480) 800-3000, ext. 206.
NEW! Flight of the Future
BW Conservation Speaker Series
Danielle Carlock
Bringing the Sonoran Desert to the Spaces Where We Live, Work and Play
March 28
Doors open at 5:45 p.m. The event starts at 6 p.m.
Butterfly Wonderland is excited to bring passionate people doing exciting work in conservation to share their insights and projects with the community. Each event in the series includes admission to the featured speakers' lectures and Q&A sessions.
Danielle Carlock is the founder of the Maricopa Native Seed Library and the Maricopa Pollinator Pathway at Maricopa Community College. Carlock will delve into the vital practice of integrating native plants into home gardens and outdoor environments to support wildlife ecosystems. This discussion also touches on the importance of how humans are connected to nature by caring for plants! This Speaker Series is free for Butterfly Wonderland Annual Pass members. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $10 for students (must present valid student ID at the door) Purchase tickets online at www.butterflywonderland.com or at the in-person at the Butterfly Wonderland admission window. For more information, contact (480) 800-3004.
NEW! Butterfly Wonderland Wine & Wings
March 29
5:30 p.m.— 7:30 p.m.
This 21 & over event begins with a goodnight stroll through the Butterfly Conservatory as drowsy butterflies flutter off to sleep in the trees, followed by wine and butterfly-inspired refreshments served in the Café, paired nicely with an exclusive showing of the full-length 45-minute movie, Flight of the Butterflies in the Butterfly Wonderland Theater. Stick around for some Q & A after the educational film. Tickets: $25 per person for the public. Annual Pass Members are FREE. Limited space available. Register at EventBrite.com; call (480) 800-3000, ext. 204 for more info.
 |
NEW! Cinematic Treasures Exhibit
Limited Time
March 1- 31
10:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Hooray for Hollywood! Presenting the exclusive and limited-time exhibit, "Cinematic Treasures," where guests have the extraordinary opportunity walk the red carpet and get immersed in the thrilling world of movie magic, getting up-close to iconic big screen props and cinematic memorabilia that have etched their place in film history. Marvel at the legendary "box of chocolates" from the heartwarming film, Forrest Gump, signed by star Tom Hanks, and stand in awe before the actual shoes worn by actor Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly in the movie classic Back to the Future II – the Nike MAG – and feel the excitement while viewing the famous Mattel Hoverboard that ignited the fan frenzy of the late 1980s.The exhibit is free with admission and perfect for movie aficionados and celebrity buffs alike! For tickets and more information, visit ripleysaz.com
 |
FREE Super Spring Festival
March 9
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Meet your favorite superheroes, fly on a zipline, enjoy bounce houses and slides, face painting, live entertainment, action-packed performances, raffle prizes and giveaways, and local vendors for shopping!
FREE Movies at the Boardwalk
ENCANTO – March 9
5 – 8 p.m.
MOANA – March 16
5 – 8 p.m.
Experience “Movies at the Boardwalk,” a free family event with music, games, and tons of prizes beginning at 5:00 p.m. The movie will begin at dusk. Come early to claim a spot, as space will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. It is recommended to bring folding chairs and/or blankets.
● Character meet & greet and photo opportunity
● Kids craft
● Plinko for prizes
● Giveaway table with prize wheel
FREE Butterfly Festival
March 17
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Presented by Butterfly Wonderland Foundation
Join Butterfly Wonderland at the AZ Boardwalk center courtyard for the inaugural Butterfly Festival, a celebration of butterflies filled with hands-on activities and educational experiences. Enjoy children’s crafts, live butterfly releases, face painting, and games. Enter the first-ever Costume Contest dressed as a favorite butterfly or insect for a chance to win prizes such as Butterfly Wonderland tickets and butterfly themed treasures! Explore butterflies up close under microscopes, shop for pollinator plants, and marvel at specimens from around the globe courtesy of the ASU Insect Lab. Pose with Leslie the Butterfly Fairy, plant a pollinator seed, and learn about the vital role of butterflies in the ecosystem. Hosted by the Butterfly Wonderland Foundation, this free and fun festival is for all ages.
FREE Arts, Crafts, & Gifts Market
March 23 – 24
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Daily
Shop from over 80 talented vendors. Plus, activities for kids include face painting, glitter tattoos, and character appearances.
FREE Great Egg Hunt and Family Fair
March 30
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Don’t miss two Easter Egg Hunts and professional photos with the Easter Bunny! Enjoy interactive stage entertainment, bounce houses, face painting, Easter crafts, coloring contests, music, games, and tons of prizes!
