18th Annual Archaeology Discovery Weekend

La Sierra University's Center for Near Eastern Archaeology throws open its doors for the 18th Annual Archaeology Discovery Weekend, a free two-day celebration of the ancient world in Riverside. The 2026 theme, People & Places of the New Testament World, explores first-century figures, cities, burials and artifacts, with illustrated talks from leading scholars and plenty of displays to explore.

Saturday afternoon centers on presentations and discussion, followed by a special evening reception, which makes it a great pick for teens and grown-ups who love history. Sunday is the day to bring the kids. Alongside more talks, families will find children's activities, artifact displays and hands-on lab activities that let young explorers see how archaeologists actually work.

Refreshments are served inside the center's Bedouin-style tent, adding a fun, immersive touch to the visit. Young history buffs, budding scientists and anyone who has ever dreamed of digging up a lost city will find something to spark their imagination, and your family will head home with plenty to talk about.

Can't make it in person? The lectures are also offered online through Zoom and a livestream, so older kids and students can tune in from home.

📅 Dates & Times

Saturday, November 14, 2026

3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (presentations)

6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (Saturday evening reception)

Sunday, November 15, 2026

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (presentations, kids' activities and displays)

4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (hands-on lab activities)

📍 Venue

Events take place at La Sierra University's Center for Near Eastern Archaeology and the Zapara School of Business; lectures are also available via Zoom and livestream.

La Sierra University

4500 Riverwalk Parkway

Riverside, CA 92505

👨🏻‍👩🏻‍👦🏻‍👦🏻 Age Requirement

All ages are welcome.

Sunday afternoon is the most kid-friendly day, with children's activities and hands-on lab activities. Saturday's lectures are best suited to teens and adults.

🎟️ Tickets/Price

This event is free.

🍔 Food

Refreshments are provided inside the center's Bedouin-style tent.

🚙 Parking

Please check the website for more information.

🌐 Website Link

Archaeology Discovery Weekend at La Sierra University

🧭 Directions

Click on the “Google” map for directions.

📢 Disclaimer

Event listings are believed to be accurate at the time of posting, but details are subject to change without notice. Please confirm all details with the event organizer before attending. FUN WITH KIDS IN LA® is not liable for errors, omissions, or changes to listings in our calendar. Some events have paid us to be on our events calendar, and some events contain an affiliate link.