Basket-weaver Andrew Harvier showing off some of his traditional baskets. Photo by I. Owsley/NPS

NPS News:

Nine days of special events and guest programming attracted more than 3,000 visitors to Valles Caldera National Preserve for its second annual Fall Fiesta, which occurred Oct. 5-13, 2024.

Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta offered participants a variety of opportunities to enjoy and learn about their park through daily ranger programs, cultural demonstrations, guest speakers, tribal artisans, and extended park hours.

“We are pleased with the momentum this event has gained in its second year,” Superintendent Jorge Silva-Bañuelos said. “Every day of the fiesta was a celebration of human ingenuity and stewardship in this volcanic landscape. We look forward to continuing this tradition year after year.”

The 2024 Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta featured nearly 40 special programs including traditional willow basket weaving tutorials, astrophotography workshops, pottery and flint knapping demonstrations, and guided hikes. Artisans from 16 tribes and pueblos were also onsite throughout the event. Elk and the changing aspen leaves were on full display, while the aurora borealis even made a special appearance on two of the nights.

The 2025 edition of the Valles Caldera Fall Fiesta dates is expected to coincide with the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Visit www.nps.gov/vall.