Visit Alamosa will launch the third annual, month-long “We Love Our National Park Celebration” to honor the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in Colorado.
The celebration will take place throughout April and coincide with National Park Week, which runs from April 22-30.
As part of the “We Love Our National Park” campaign, various restaurants, shops, and attractions will offer Great Sand Dunes themed specials and displays to show their love for the national park unit.
The park will also be hosting events and programs throughout April to align with the campaign.
The month-long celebration will kick off with a block party on San Juan Avenue in Alamosa on Friday, April 7, featuring a variety of activities and entertainment for all ages.
Multiple Adams State University musical ensembles will perform, and Park Superintendent Andrea Compton will be joined by city and county officials for opening remarks.
Great Sand Dunes park rangers and partner organizations will have information tables throughout the evening, and a local band, the Celtic (K)nots, will perform.
Performers from the Salida Circus will also be entertaining throughout the evening along Main Street and San Juan Avenue.
A free ranger presentation will also be offered at the local San Luis Valley Museum.
Throughout the month starting on April 7, free ranger programs or activity tables will be offered at the park visitor center on most weekends.
Daily programs or activity tables at the park visitor center are planned during National Park Week, April 22-30.
To kick off National Park Week, entrance fees will be waived on Saturday, April 22, and the park will host a Locals Night Under the Stars event at the park’s outdoor amphitheater from 8-10:30pm.
This event will feature guest speaker, Michael Rymer from the International Dark Sky Association, followed by ranger-guided stargazing and telescope viewing and learning about the impacts of light pollution.
For a full schedule of events during the month of April and more information on visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, including camping, hiking, Medano Creek conditions, Medano Pass Primitive Road conditions, visitor center hours, and other park news, visit www.nps.gov/grsa.
With various events and activities planned throughout the month, visitors to the national park are likely to extend their stays and seek out nearby accommodations, including private campgrounds.
Increased tourism to the area can also benefit local businesses and restaurants, which may see an uptick in customers as a result of the celebration. Private campgrounds nearby may also have the opportunity to offer their own Great Sand Dunes themed specials and displays to attract visitors.
Planning a trip to Alamosa for the We Love Our National Park celebration? Don’t forget to check out the guided hikes, educational programs, wildlife watching, and photography workshops. It’s going to be so much fun!
Did you catch the scoop on the We Love Our National Park bash in Alamosa? Get psyched for hikes, photo workshops, discounts, and tasty treats at Great Sand Dunes National Park!