Swing by the Los Alamos Nature Center on Saturday, August 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Bear Fest! Hosted by the Pajarito Environmental Education Center (PEEC) and the Land of Enchantment Wildlife Foundation (LEWF), and proudly sponsored by N3B Los Alamos and Century Bank, this annual celebration brings together hands-on learning, family-friendly activities and wildlife experts from across New Mexico.

Need more? Read more: 45-plus Southwest summer staycation packages and deals

Hands-on activities and educational booths for families

This entertaining and educational festival features interactive crafts, a scavenger hunt and booths staffed by local, regional and statewide organizations. Visitors will learn valuable tips on safely coexisting with black bears and other wildlife in Northern New Mexico.

Enjoy local food and learn about black bears in New Mexico

Savor treats from the Manko: Native American Fusion food truck while exploring the festival. Admission is free, and the event wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of sponsors N3B Los Alamos and Century Bank. Please note that the nature center parking lot will be closed during the festival; visitors are encouraged to park across the street at the United Church or walk/bike to the event.

Special planetarium showing: River of Bears

Additional Bear Fest activities include the Bear Dinner on Friday, August 22, 6–8:30 p.m., co-hosted by PEEC and LEWF. Enjoy a buffet-style dinner inspired by a black bear’s diet, hear from local wildlife expert Dr. Kathleen Ramsay, and sip herbal teas or beverages from the cash bar. Tickets are $30 for PEEC members and $35 for non-members.

On Saturday, August 23, at 2 p.m., catch River of Bears in the planetarium, featuring over a hundred brown bears at the McNeil River State Game Sanctuary, free as part of Bear Fest!

For more information and updates, visit peecnature.org/events and stay connected on social media.