The luminaria show will go on in Mesa Verde Country! The traditional open house event was cancelled at Mesa Verde National Park because of ongoing concerns about the stability of the rock arch in the Spruce Tree House alcove.
But Mesa Verde Country has just announced that it will host a Luminaria Night celebration at the Anasazi Heritage Center (AHC), located at 27501 CO-184 in Dolores, on Dec. 8 from 5-8 p.m.
Luminaria comes from a Latin word meaning “lights” and is defined as a traditional Mexican Christmas lantern. Thousands of glowing luminarias will line the path to the Escalante Pueblo, one of two 12th-century settlements on the grounds of the museum. The sites were named after Spanish friars who explored the area in 1776 and became the first to record archaeological sites in Colorado. The sites were excavated and stabilized 200 years later.
In addition to the luminarias, the event will feature planet viewing and star gazing with park rangers and volunteers, hot cocoa and cider, and free admission to the AHC exhibits. Entertainment will be provided by David Night Eagle and others.
There is no parking along Highway 184, and parking at the Anasazi Heritage Center is limited to handicap accessibility only. You are encouraged to take advantage of the free shuttles that will run continuously the entire evening from the Colorado Welcome Center (928 E Main, Cortez) to the AHC.
The Luminaria Night at the Anasazi Heritage Center is presented by Mesa Verde Country, the City of Cortez, Empire Electric Association, the Anasazi Heritage Center, Mesa Verde National Park and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
To book a room in the area and check out the other fun activities and attractions, visit www.MesaVerdeCountry.com
