After a summer of hot, dry weather and smoke-filled skies Mesa Verde National Park plans to celebrate a new season with its annual holiday open house and luminaria event on Dec. 13 from 5 to 9 p.m.
It’s free.
This year’s event will feature refreshments at the Far View Terrace and night sky viewing at the Far View Center balcony, public information officer Cristy Brown said in a news release.
Visitors also may drive the Mesa Top Loop road to view minimally lit Mesa Top Loop sites and select visible cliff dwellings. Pathways and parking areas will be illuminated by farolitos, but flashlights or headlamps are encouraged.
The headquarters area, including the Chapin Mesa Museum and Spruce Tree House, will not be lit this year.
Parking is limited along the Mesa Top Loop road, and visitors are encouraged to limit their stays at one location, so others may enjoy the sights. Park officials request that visitors do not bring tripods because of limited space at the overlooks.
No park entrance fee will be charged after 5 p.m. Dec. 13. The Far View Terrace and Far View Center are 15 miles into the park, and the Mesa Top Loop is 20 miles into the park. All event activities conclude at 9 p.m.
