April Events at the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort

Although now a world famous city, Las Vegas began in 1855 as a humble adobe fort along a creek. First settled by Mormon pioneers from Utah, the site later became the center of one of the most important ranches in southern Nevada. Now a state park, the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort represents the birthplace of Las Vegas. To learn about Las Vegas’ pioneer heritage, join park rangers for one or all of their Saturday programs.

Old Fort Tours – Take a ranger-guided tour of the Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort. This walk-through covers the timeline of settlement on the site and includes a talk about history, artifacts, and natural resources.
WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. 

Helen J. Stewart Birthday Celebration – The First Lady of Las Vegas will turn 163 years old, and the Fort is throwing her a party. Celebrate the life of one of Las Vegas’ most famous pioneers with tea and birthday cake as the park also marks the grand opening of its new temporary art exhibit: “PAIUTE: A journey through traditional and contemporary art”.
WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. 

Dutch Oven Cooking Demonstration – Experience the pioneer tradition of Dutch oven cooking at the Old Fort. Watch park staff cook up some delectable dishes the old fashioned way and then sample them for yourself.  
WHEN: Saturday, April 15, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 

Soldiers of the Fort: Spring Timeline – Re-enactors will portray a living timeline of soldiers from different historical eras. Observe and learn how the dress and gear of the soldier has evolved over hundreds of years. 
WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

History Talk: The Mormon Settlement of Las Vegas – This ranger-led talk will focus on the attempt by Mormon pioneers to establish the first American settlement in Las Vegas.  Join park staff as they explore the struggles associated with creating this frontier outpost, what life was like at the Old Fort, the reasons why this settlement was ultimately abandoned and the legacy of Las Vegas’ first settlers.
WHEN: Saturday, April 29, 11 a.m.

The Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort State Historic Park is located at 500 E Washington Ave. in Las Vegas. Admission is just $1.00 per person, kids 12 and younger are free. Cash or check only.