Pagosa Springs is known as a year-round playground for those seeking a combination of relaxation and memory-making adventures.
As the rugged San Juan Mountains get blanketed in white and the temperatures steadily drop, summer sports are replaced by winter sports that lure both locals and visitors to a winter wonderland.
Whether taking advantage of downhill ski runs and cross-country trails, bundling up for dog sledding or a sleigh ride, snowshoeing in the backcountry, ice fishing, skating, sledding or taking a plunge in a mineral-rich hot spring, Pagosa is a destination for fun.
After a day of enjoying local nature and shopping, there is one fun Pagosa Springs’ activity that can also potentially replenish the pocketbook. A cherished pastime, it brings locals, families, and tourists together.
This, of course, is bingo.
More than just a game of chance or a catchy children’s song, since its introduction to America in the 1920’s, bingo has brought generations and cultures together. Originally called “beano” in the United States, “bingo” has been hosted by the Pagosa Springs Catholic Community for more than eight years.
An affordable night out, the cost to play is $8 for a bingo packet, $4 for progressive sheets and $2 for early-bird sheets. Families are encouraged to play, although you must be 18 to purchase bingo sheets and receive winnings.
The next bingo night is Sunday, Dec. 1. On Dec. 15 there will also be a special Christmas giveaway featuring a variety of amazing home goods. Players that night will receive a free ticket upon entry and winners will be randomly selected throughout the night.
But there is more. If no one wins the progressive pot on Dec. 1, the final pot valued at $2,500 must go on Dec. 15.
During the winter months, bingo is held the first and third Sundays of the month at Pope John Paul II Catholic Church at 353 S. Pagosa Blvd. The doors open at 5 p.m. Early-bird games start at 5:45 p.m. followed by regular bingo at 6 p.m. Concessions are available, as no outside food and drink is allowed.
Add the first and third Sunday bingo night to your calendar and then get ready to replace the chill of winter with the warmth of fun and fellowship. With luck you might be one of the winners.
