Whether this is your first Karnea or your twentieth, we are excited to welcome you to the Karnea experience in Phoenix. The JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge is nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, offering a resort-style setting with easy access to premier shopping, dining, and outdoor experiences in North Phoenix. As the fifth-largest city in the United States, Phoenix is known for its year-round sunshine, striking desert landscapes, and vibrant blend of Southwestern culture and modern innovation.
This year, we are pleased to offer our guests a signature experience, Red Rocks & Refined Craft. Guests will begin with a two-hour, guided needlepoint class, creating a desert-inspired design, followed by a full-day excursion to Sedona to experience its iconic red rock landscapes and explore the area’s shops, galleries, and dining.
Red Rocks & Refined Craft
Phoenix is a city defined by its striking desert landscape, vibrant Southwestern culture, and endless sunshine. Set against the backdrop of the Sonoran Desert, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern luxury that creates the perfect setting for exploration and relaxation. Throughout the experience, guests will take in the scenery, history, and culture that make this region one of the most distinctive in the country.
Guests will begin with a private desert-inspired needlepoint experience led by the team at Be Stitched. As needlepoint continues to trend as a relaxing and creative hobby, this guided session offers the perfect opportunity to try it firsthand. Participants will create their own desertscape design while enjoying a laid-back, social atmosphere and learning a new skill.
The experience continues with a private day trip to Sedona, where the landscape shifts to some of Arizona’s most iconic red rock formations. Along the way, guests will visit scenic landmarks and take in breathtaking views, with opportunities to explore Sedona’s shops, galleries, and local dining. From the peaceful beauty of the desert to the charm of Sedona’s vibrant community, this experience offers a memorable blend of creativity, culture, and adventure.
Tour highlights include, but are not limited to:
- Scenic drive through Arizona’s Sonoran Desert with views of changing landscapes
- Visit to Montezuma Castle National Monument featuring ancient cliff dwellings
- Photo stops at Sedona’s iconic red rock formations, including Bell Rock and Airport Mesa
- Visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, one of the area’s most famous landmarks built into the red rocks
- Time to explore Sedona’s shops, art galleries, and local restaurants
- Insightful commentary from a knowledgeable guide on the region’s history, geology, and culture
Karnea Guest Experience
In addition to the Red Rocks & Refined Craft Experience, we are pleased to welcome our registered guest participants to the following offerings:
Wednesday, August 5, 2026
- First Timers Welcome
- Welcome Pool Party
Thursday, August 6, 2026
- Keynote
- Luncheon
- Guest Program Meet and Greet Happy Hour
- Private Needlepoint Class with Be Stitched
Friday, August 7, 2026
- Private Guided Sedona Day Trip Excursion w/ Grab and Go Breakfast
Saturday, August 8, 2026
- Keynote
- Luncheon
- Strengthening Community Activity
- Closing Banquet
Questions?
For questions related to the Red Rocks & Refined Craft itinerary and program, please contact Chelsea Sheridan, director of enterprise marketing and communications, (chelsea.sheridan@delts.org).
For questions related to guest registration, please contact Lesa Purcell, Director of Special Projects (lesa.purcell@delts.org).
Additional Information
First-come, first-served basis. Spaces are limited.