Mesa Verde N.P. Luminaria Night

We just learned that Mesa Verde National Park will resume its annual free Open House and Luminaria event on Thursday, December 9, 2021, from 4pm until 9pm.  It will be a special evening with complimentary chili, cookies, hot chocolate, and music at the Far View Terrace.

If you have never experienced this unique and special event, you are in for a treat!  First, you should stop at Far View Terrace for a quick snack while listening to Native American drummers.  Then it’s on to the Mesa Top Loop to observe what appears to be Ancestral Puebloans at their evening meal.  Luminarias line the overlooks as you gaze across the canyons to experience what it must have looked like nearly 1,000 years ago with fires burning in the cliff houses.  It is guaranteed to give you chills to experience such a unique event!

Remember that Far View is located about 15 miles from the entrance to the park along a winding road, so plan your time accordingly.  The Mesa Top Loop is another 5 miles past Far View.  Temperatures are typically very cold along the canyon rims after dark, so dress warmly.  Also, it will help to bring a flashlight or headlamp to guide you along the paths to the overlooks.

You can read more about the event by visiting the park’s website.