BRYCE – A cave without a ceiling, red rocks standing like men, nature’s most delicate jewel.
Bryce Canyon National Park has been described in many ways, and this year “100 years old” will be added to that list. To celebrate this historic milestone, the park and its partners are inviting the public to enjoy a year of special programs and events, according to a National Park Service news release.
“Bryce Canyon’s centennial year is an opportunity to celebrate not only the rich past but also the present and future of this national park,” Superintendent Jim Ireland said in a news release. “2023 will be a year of celebration, and yet we also want it to be a year of connection between the park and its local communities, affiliated tribes, partners, visitors and staff.”
Utah’s second national park, Bryce Canyon was first protected as a national monument by President Warren G. Harding on June 8, 1923. From visitors numbering in the thousands in 1923 to over 2 million in 2022, the park’s vibrant limestone hoodoos, fragrant ponderosa forests and profoundly dark night skies are now beloved by visitors from all around the globe, the news release said.
Events planned for the centennial year so far include:
- Hoodoo You Love? Social Media Theme: February
- Ruby’s Inn Winter Festival: Feb. 18-20
- Historic Photo Exhibit: April through November at Bryce Lodge
- Utah Prairie Dog Day: May 11
- Centennial Ceremony and Concert featuring The Piano Guys: June 8
- Astronomy Festival: June 14-17
- Bryce Canyon Butterfly Count: July 8
- Geology Festival: July 14-15
- All Employee Reunion: Aug. 24-26
- Plein Air “Paint Out” with Escalante Canyons Art Festival: Sept. 18
- Bryce Canyon Heritage Days Festival: Sept. 28-30
- Annular Eclipse: Oct. 14
- Christmas Bird Count: Dec. 16
All centennial events will be open to the public, though some may require advance registration through the park or a partner organization. Click here for information about centennial events and partnership initiatives.
The park will also be sharing centennial stories all year long on social media, and visitors are invited to share their centennial experiences by using the hashtag #BRYCE100.
Those planning a visit this year are encouraged to plan ahead by visiting the park’s website and to download the free NPS app before arriving.