This page features special events at Great Sand Dunes. For the schedule of regular afternoon and evening programs, please visit our Ranger Programs page.
Photo 1: Roland McCook in Ute regalia, courtesy Roland McCook Photo 2: Ouray and Chipeta in Washington, DC, 1880 (National Archives)
Saturday, July 30
10:00 am, Amphitheater
Ute Cultural Presentation
with Roland McCook
and Morgan Dawn Allen
Great Sand Dunes and the San Luis Valley are an integral part of the traditional Ute homeland. Roland McCook is a member of the Uncompahgre Band of the Ute Tribe, former chair of the Northern Ute Tribe, and a great great grandson of Chipeta, the wife of Chief Ouray.
McCook has served in a variety of capacities for his tribe, Native American Cultural Programs (NACP), the Smithsonian’s Native American Repatriation Review Committee, and History Colorado. He continues to present Ute cultural programs throughout the region, bringing this profound heritage to life. Roland's famous 19th century ancestors Ouray and Chipeta worked fervently to heal conflicts between settlers and the Ute people.
Roland will present Ute culture and history while Morgan Dawn Allen helps children make free beaded bracelets.
The Amphitheater is located one mile north of the visitor center, at the end of CO 150. Please note that Lane 6N from Mosca is closed this summer, so visitors must access the park via US 160 to CO 150.
Milky Way over Dune Ripples
NPS/Patrick Myers
Saturday, August 27th
Annual Astronomy Event
On Saturday, August 27, Great Sand Dunes will host our annual Astronomy Night from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. The park is planning special evening programs and constellation tours to celebrate dark skies.
Saturday, September 17
Hispanic Heritage Cultural Demonstration
Join Great Sand Dunes in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with cultural demonstrations and guest speakers to honor the rich history and culture of the San Luis Valley. Stay tuned for more details.
Photo by Taz Tally
Thursday, September 29 & Friday, September 30
Taz Tally Artist Workshop
Join photographer Taz Tally for a public photo workshop to learn about iphone photography techniques. Space is limited and sign up will be required. Stay tuned for more details and sign up information.
