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Talks and Workshops

Nat Talks, made possible with support from presenting sponsor The Downing Family Foundation and media partner KPBS, feature museum staff and outside experts speaking on an array of topics, including the latest in scientific research, history, conservation, and the natural world.

Upcoming Events


Nat Talk: Look What We Found in The Archives

Wednesday, October 23, 2024 7 PM

Hear from The Nat's Director of Research Library & Archives, Ariel Hammond. She will take guests on an exploration of our history through the items in our archives and the stories of the people who made it happen 

Cheers to 150 years! Join us for an evening with The Nat’s very own Director of Research Library & Archives, Ariel (Arie) Hammond. Arie will lead guests on a captivating journey through our institution's rich history, brought to life by the remarkable items housed in our archives. 

During this Nat Talk, we will dig into the fascinating stories behind the artifacts, documents, and photographs that have shaped our last 150 years. You will have the unique opportunity to learn about the dedicated individuals whose contributions have been instrumental in preserving and curating these treasures. 

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a research professional, or simply curious about the inner workings of our Museum, this event promises to offer something for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to explore the hidden gems of our past and uncover the narratives that have defined our journey.  

Be sure to come early to hear from some of our community partners and to have a drink with us!  

Tickets are $15 for non-members and $12 for members.     

RSVP now



Nat Talk: Wild San Diego

Friday, November 22, 2024 7 PM

Ready to get wild? A brand-new film is coming to The Nat, and you can be among the first to see it and hear directly from the filmmakers. Wild San Diego reveals the hidden wonders of the country's most biodiverse urban landscape, where humans and wildlife collide in spectacular fashion.

Despite transforming into a bustling metropolis of 3.3 million residents, San Diego remains the most biodiverse county in the continental United States, home to breathtaking wildlife and landscapes. From the dramatic rituals of grebes and the playful antics of ground squirrels to the thrilling hunts of orcas and the moonlit spawning of grunions, Wild San Diego explores the natural wonders of our beautiful city. This is The Nat’s newest signature film and was produced in partnership with PBS Nature.

After the screening, you’ll get an opportunity to hear directly from filmmakers at Day’s Edge Productions and a nature expert from The Nat in a Q&A panel. Learn how nature documentaries are created, some of the highs and lows of filming wildlife in San Diego, and the role nature films play in local conservation efforts.

Wild San Diego reveals why this isn’t just America’s Finest City—it’s also America’s wildest.

Tickets are $12 for members and $15 for non-members.
RSVP now



Past Talks

To view recorded talks and lectures, visit our YouTube playlist.