On Thursday, Dec. 4, the staff of Mesa Verde National Park will host the 2014 Annual Holiday Open House from 4 to 9 p.m. in the Chapin Mesa headquarters area.
Everyone is invited to join the park staff in this holiday celebration featuring luminarias, musical entertainment and refreshments. Ranger-guided tours of Spruce Tree House, the third-largest cliff dwelling in the park, will be presented at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Spruce Tree House is also available for self-guided visits from 4 to 9 p.m. Luminarias will glow along the pathways throughout the headquarters area, a National Historic Landmark District, and along the trail to Spruce Tree House. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight.
The Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum will remain open until 9 p.m. There will be musical entertainment in the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum Auditorium as follows:
5:30 to 6 p.m.: William Yazzie, traditional Native American flute
6:05 to 6:30 p.m.: Olivia Duncan, Vocalist, Fort Lewis College
6:35 to 7 p.m.: Yvonne Bilinski, Storyteller, Fort Lewis College
7:05 to 8 p.m.: Lee Bartley, Pianist, Mancos
8:10 to 8:30 p.m.: William Yazzie, traditional Native American flute
Music will be at Spruce Tree House as follows:
6:30 to 7:30 p.m.: Fort Lewis College, Bala Sinem Choir and Traditional Native American Drum and Chant
Music will also be performed at the Chief Ranger's Office back porch from 7:30 to 8 p.m., with William Yazzie on traditional Native American flute.
The nonprofit Mesa Verde Museum Association Museum bookstore will sale books, posters, puppets, historic photographs and great holiday gifts as well as in-store specials. Bring your gift list along to take advantage of this special occasion. Proceeds benefit Mesa Verde National Park.
Attendance at the Open House is free. Refreshments will be provided by City Market and Aramark at the Spruce Tree Terrace. Chili and hot cocoa will be provided by Aramark, and City Market donates holiday cookies
No park entrance fees will be charged after 4 p.m. on Dec. 4.
For information, contact the park at 970-529-4465.
