COUNTY News:
Known as the former home of famed scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer—and the place where Oppenheimer fell in love with the sprawling natural landscapes of Northern New Mexico—Los Alamos is the place to be this winter to enjoy the magic of the holiday season, as well as all things science, nature and Oppenheimer.
As visitors flock to Los Alamos to get the true, behind-the-scenes story of The Manhattan Project after watching Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, winter provides an ideal time for an extended stay to get into the holiday spirit.
WinterFest
Holiday events kick off Dec. 1-3 with Los Alamos WinterFest. With the theme “Winter Around the World” – WinterFest captures nostalgic small-town charm of holiday seasons past, along with fun and festive events for the entire family. From the holiday light parade to visits with Santa, performances of Nutcracker on the Hill, holiday movies and arts and crafts fairs, attendees are sure to get in the holiday spirit and get a head start on their holiday shopping.
Pajarito Mountain
In addition to lively events, outdoor adventure opportunities abound in Los Alamos. For skiers, hit the slopes at Pajarito Mountain. Opening Day is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 22. Enjoy lessons, free skiing for kids 12 and under, and New Mexican cuisine from the Pajarito Mountain Café, along with some of the best skiing in the state on Pajarito Mountain’s 300 acres of skiable terrain for every skill level.
County Ice Rink
For more outdoor fun, allocate a few hours to visit The Los Alamos County Ice Rink—the only outdoor, refrigerated, NHL regulation Ice Rink in New Mexico. Whether you’re an ice-skating pro or just a beginner, the rink offers events, special holiday skating experiences, skating lessons and public skating.
Bradbury Science Museum
After a day of winter adventures, be sure to stop by the Bradbury Science Museum, which offers free admission every day. Learn about the history of scientific innovation that shaped the community of Los Alamos, as well as the discoveries that continue to this day through interactive exhibits and activities. Get the real story behind Oppenheimer and The Manhattan Project at the museum or by visiting the Los Alamos History Museum and taking self-guided tours of Bathtub Row, where scientists lived and worked.
In addition to learning about the science and history of the area, the Los Alamos Nature Center is a must-see for all nature and outdoor lovers. Start your outdoor adventure with a visit to the nature center to get a map of the Los Alamos Trail Network, learn about and meet local wildlife, view a show or night sky presentation in the planetarium, and let kids play on the playground.
“Whether you’re starting a new family tradition of traveling for the holidays, or you’re looking for a pre-holiday getaway to discover new experiences, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes, we welcome all to explore the magic of the holidays in Los Alamos,” County Economic Development Administrator Dan Ungerleider said. “Whatever your idea of adventure, you’ll find it all—and more—in Los Alamos, where discoveries are made!”
To plan a visit or explore all there is to see and do in Los Alamos, go to www.visitlosalamos.org.
