Tour Spruce Tree House by the light of luminarias on December 4/NPS

Music, luminarias, and rich history from an ancient culture will be on display December 4 when the staff at Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado hosts its annual holiday open house.

Visitors to the park can join ranger-guided tours of Spruce Tree House, the third largest cliff dwelling in the park at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. If you visit between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., you can tour the cliff dwelling on your own. Luminarias will glow along the pathways throughout the headquarters area, a National Historic Landmark District, and along the trail to Spruce Tree House. Just be sure to dress warmly and bring a flashlight.

The Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum will remain open until 9 p.m.

Musical entertainment during the evening:

* Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum Auditorium

5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
William Yazzie, traditional Native American flute

6:05 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Olivia Duncan, Vocalist, Fort Lewis College

6:35 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Yvonne Bilinski, Storyteller, Fort Lewis College

7:05 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Lee Bartley, Pianist, Mancos, Colorado

8:10 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
William Yazzie, traditional Native American flute

* Spruce Tree House

6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Fort Lewis College, Bala Sinem Choir Traditional Native American Drum and Chant

Chief Ranger's Office back porch

7:30 to 8:00 p.m.
William Yazzie, traditional Native American flute

The non-profit Mesa Verde Museum Association Museum bookstore will be open highlighting the sale of 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 - Cortez and ARAMARK at the Spruce Tree Terrace. Chili and hot cocoa will be provided by ARAMARK, and City Market '“Cortez donates festive holiday cookies.