Oppenheimer Festival 2024
August 10 - 31
Oppenheimer Festival 2024
August 10 - 31

Sponsored by 

About the Oppenheimer Festival 2024

Welcome to the second annual Oppenheimer Festival! This month-long celebration is dedicated to honoring the legacy of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Manhattan Project. From August 10th to 31st, join us in Los Alamos, where history was made, to explore a captivating blend of films, documentaries, lectures, interactive activities, and historic tours. This festival offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich cultural and scientific heritage that has shaped our world.

Experience the Story Where It All Began

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Los Alamos and the Manhattan Project. Through a diverse range of events, you will gain a deeper understanding of the pivotal moments and key figures that played crucial roles in the development of the atomic bomb.

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Events

Explore film premieres, classic screenings, documentaries, expert lectures, trivia nights, and family-friendly movies. Support local businesses offering special products and experiences related to Oppenheimer and the Manhattan Project. Visit key historical locations, capture your experiences, and learn about the rich legacy of the Manhattan Project.

Track your participation with the Oppenheimer Festival Card to earn points and win prizes.

 

25 points
"The Atomic Rocketeer" with Larry Sheffield

Saturday 10 & Sunday 11

Experience the exclusive premiere of "The Atomic Rocketeer" and meet the award-winning producer Larry Sheffield. Enjoy lunch or dinner with Larry and participate in a Q&A session.
More Info & Tickets
25 points
"The Atomic Rocketeer" with Larry Sheffield

Saturday 10 & Sunday 11

Experience the exclusive premiere of "The Atomic Rocketeer" and meet the award-winning producer Larry Sheffield. Enjoy lunch or dinner with Larry and participate in a Q&A session.
More Info & Tickets
10 points
Classics

Saturdays & Sundays

Enjoy our classic films, including "The Beginning or the End," "Fatman and Little Boy," "Day One,"and "Dr. Strangelove," These movies explore the history and legacy of the Manhattan Project.
More Info & Tickets
10 points
Classics

Saturdays & Sundays

Enjoy our classic films, including "The Beginning or the End," "Fatman and Little Boy," "Day One,"and "Dr. Strangelove," These movies explore the history and legacy of the Manhattan Project.
More Info & Tickets
10 points
Parallel Cinema

Thursdays , Saturdays and Sundays

Discover documentaries, lectures, and trivia sessions on the Manhattan Project. Gain insights from experts, directors, and historians on its impacts, legacy, and various perspectives.
More Info & Tickets
10 points
Parallel Cinema

Thursdays , Saturdays and Sundays

Discover documentaries, lectures, and trivia sessions on the Manhattan Project. Gain insights from experts, directors, and historians on its impacts, legacy, and various perspectives.
More Info & Tickets
Extra Points
Festival Moments

#OppeneheimerFestival

Capture and share your favorite festival experiences on Instagram with #OppenheimerFestival. Earn points by sharing photos and videos, and get featured on our social wall. Engage with the community and showcase your journey through the festival, earning rewards along the way.
10 points
New Reels

Thursday - Sunday

Watch the premiere of "The Atomic Rocketeer" by award-winning producer Larry Sheffield or the multi-award-winning "Oppenheimer" movie by Christopher Nolan, filmed here in Los Alamos.
More Info & Tickets
10 points
New Reels

Thursday - Sunday

Watch the premiere of "The Atomic Rocketeer" by award-winning producer Larry Sheffield or the multi-award-winning "Oppenheimer" movie by Christopher Nolan, filmed here in Los Alamos.
More Info & Tickets
20 points
Historic Adventures

20 points

Walk in the footsteps of Oppenheimer and his team as you explore the places where the atomic bomb was developed. Discover the rich heritage of Los Alamos.
More info
20 points
Historic Adventures

20 points

Walk in the footsteps of Oppenheimer and his team as you explore the places where the atomic bomb was developed. Discover the rich heritage of Los Alamos.
More info
Earn 1 point per $1 spent!
Explore Local Businesses
Connect with Los Alamos' vibrant community. Visit local businesses offering special Oppenheimer-themed products and experiences. Earn points on your Explorer Card and compete for exciting prizes.
More info
Earn 1 point per $1 spent!
Explore Local Businesses
Connect with Los Alamos' vibrant community. Visit local businesses offering special Oppenheimer-themed products and experiences. Earn points on your Explorer Card and compete for exciting prizes.
More info
Special Events
Enjoy live painting sessions and musical performances, adding creative flair to the Oppenheimer Festival. Engage with local artists and musicians for a unique festival experience.

Get More Out of the Festival

Maximize your festival experience, whether you’re a local or a visitor. Participate in a range of activities, visit local businesses, and explore historic sites to fully immerse yourself in the legacy of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Manhattan Project.

 

Oppenheimer Festival Explorer Card

The free Oppenheimer Festival Explorer Card, designed for locals and visitors, allows you to track your participation in festival events and activities, earn points, and compete for top prizes. This card will be sent to all households in Los Alamos and White Rock through our monthly distribution with The Los Alamos Daily Post Newspaper. Additionally, the festival explorer card will be available at the visitor center, participating businesses, and SALA.

  • How to Play
  • Points System Breakdown
  • Prizes and Rewards
  • F.A.Q
  • How to Submit Your Pass

How to Play with the Festival Explorer Card

  1. Pick Up Your Card:

    • Get your Festival Explorer Card at the Visitor Centers in Los Alamos or White Rock, at the SALA Los Alamos Event Center, or through the Los Alamos Daily Post newspaper delivery.

  2. Attend Events & Activities:

    • Participate in various festival events, activities, tours, and visit local businesses to earn points.

  3. Get Stamped:

    • Have your card stamped at each event or activity to track your participation and points.

  4. Earn Points:

    • Collect points for attending events, making purchases at participating businesses, and sharing festival moments on social media.

  5. Track Your Progress:

    • Keep an eye on your points and aim for higher reward tiers. Extra points can be earned through the Festival Moments social media campaign.

  6. Redeem for Prizes:

    • Bring your completed card to the SALA Los Alamos Event Center to redeem your points for exciting prizes.

Join the fun, explore Los Alamos, and win great rewards!

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  • New Reels: Watch "Oppenheimer" and "The Atomic Rocketeer" - 10 points each
  • Classic Films: Historic films - 10 points each
  • Parallel Cinema: Documentaries and Lectures - 10 points each
  • PJs and Movies: Family-friendly movies - 5 points each
  • Atomic Trivia & Hirstoric Trivia:
    Trivia Winners: 1st - 50 points, 2nd - 40 points, 3rd - 30 points, 4th - 20 points, 5th - 10 points

Historic Tours

  • Each tour - 20 points

Local Business Engagement

  • 1 point per $1 spent at participating businesses

     

Festival Moments:

Share photos on Instagram with #OppenheimerFestival

  • Top Influencers & Creators: 1st - 50 points, 2nd - 40 points, 3rd - 30 points
  • Most Active Creators: 1st - 50 points, 2nd - 40 points, 3rd - 30 points
  • Top Reacted Post: 1st - 50 points, 2nd - 40 points, 3rd - 30 points
  •  

 

Rewards

Redeem your points for exciting prizes:

100 Points: Stickers, Candy, Festival Buttons, Bracelets

150 Points: Oppenheimer Movie Poster, Medium Popcorn

200 Points: Oppenheimer Festival Reusable Cup, 3 Movie Passes (includes popcorn and soda)

250 Points: Oppenheimer Festival T-Shirt, 6 Movie Passes (includes popcorn and soda)

Over 300 Points:

  • 1st Place: VIP Annual Membership for two, Prizes from businesses
  • 2nd Place: Individual Annual Membership, Prizes from businesses
  • 3rd Place: Individual Annual Membership, Prizes from businesses

1. How do I get my Oppenheimer Festival Explorer Card?

  • The Explorer Card is distributed for free through the monthly calendar program in Los Alamos and White Rock. You can also pick one up at participating businesses and event venues.

2. How do I track my points?

  • Use your Explorer Card to collect stamps or stickers at each event and location you visit. Record the points you earn for each activity on your card.

3. Can I earn points by supporting local businesses?

  • Yes, you earn 1 point for every $1 spent at participating local businesses. Be sure to ask for your points when you make a purchase.

4. What types of events and activities can I attend to earn points?

  • You can earn points by attending film screenings, documentaries, lectures, panels, interactive activities, historic tours, and more.

5. How do I know how many points I've accumulated?

  • Keep track of your points on your Explorer Card as you attend events and make purchases. You can also ask at the Information Desk for a points update.

Submission Process:

  1. Complete Your Card: Make sure your Explorer Card has all the stamps or stickers for the events, activities, and purchases you’ve made.
  2. Fill in Your Information: Ensure your name, contact information, and total points are clearly written on the card.
  3. Drop-Off Locations: Submit your completed Explorer Card at designated drop-off points located at key festival venues, such as the SALA Los Alamos Event Center Information Desk.
  4. Submission Deadline: The deadline for card submission will be announced in advance. Make sure to turn in your card before the deadline to be eligible for prizes.

Announcement of Winners:

  • Winners will be announced at the festival's closing event and through the festival's official social media channels. Be sure to follow us to see if you’ve won!

Visit Los Alamos

Welcome to Los Alamos, where the story of the Manhattan Project began! Join us for the Oppenheimer Festival and immerse yourself in a rich history while engaging in exciting activities. Whether you’re here for a day or a weekend, we’ve crafted itineraries to help you make the most of your visit. Experience Los Alamos, interact with locals, and participate in festival events using the Oppenheimer Festival Explorer Card.

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  • One Day Visit
  • Two Day Visit
  • Visit Los Alamos

  1. One Day Visit

    Morning:

    • 9:00 AM: Historical Walking Tour (20 points)
    • 10:30 AM: Film Screening: "The Atomic Rocketeer" (10 points)

    Midday:

    • 12:00 PM: Lunch at a Participating Local Business (1 point per $1 spent)

    Afternoon:

    • 1:30 PM: Lecture: "The Science Behind the Bomb" (15 points)
    • 3:00 PM: Visit the Bradbury Science Museum (20 points)

    Evening:

    • 4:30 PM: Film Screening: "Oppenheimer" (10 points)
    • 6:30 PM: Dinner at a Participating Local Business (1 point per $1 spent)
    • 8:00 PM: Trivia Night: Atomic Age Edition (5 points for participation, 10 points per correct answer)

Day 1:

Morning:

  • 9:00 AM: Historical Walking Tour (20 points)
  • 10:30 AM: Film Screening: "The Atomic Rocketeer" (10 points)

Midday:

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at a Participating Local Business (1 point per $1 spent)

Afternoon:

  • 1:30 PM: Lecture: "The Science Behind the Bomb" (15 points)
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Bradbury Science Museum (20 points)

Evening:

  • 4:30 PM: Film Screening: "Oppenheimer" (10 points)
  • 6:30 PM: Dinner at a Participating Local Business (1 point per $1 spent)
  • 8:00 PM: Trivia Night: Atomic Age Edition (5 points for participation, 10 points per correct answer)

Day 2:

Morning:

  • 9:00 AM: Oppenheimer Film Tour (20 points)
  • 10:30 AM: Film Screening: "The Beginning or the End" (8 points)

Midday:

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at a Participating Local Business (1 point per $1 spent)

Afternoon:

  • 1:30 PM: Lecture: "Ethics of Nuclear Research" (15 points)
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Los Alamos History Museum (20 points)

Evening:

  • 4:30 PM: Film Screening: "Fatman and Little Boy" (8 points)
  • 6:30 PM: Dinner at a Participating Local Business (1 point per $1 spent)
  • 8:00 PM: Scavenger Hunt Completion (5-15 points per task)
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Schedule

2024 August

“The Atomic Rocketeer” with Award-Winning Producer Larry Sheffield

10 points

An exclusive red carpet event at the Oppenheimer Festival 2024, featuring the highly anticipated premiere of Larry Sheffield’s latest documentary, “The Atomic Rocketeer.” This unique opportunity allows attendees to meet the award-winning producer and gain insights into his work.

Presented by 

Premiere Lunch with Larry Sheffield

Saturday 12 pm

Tickets
Red Carpet Dinner & Meet and Greet with Larry Sheffield

Saturday 6pm

Tickets
Premiere Lunch with Larry Sheffield

Sunday 12:00 pm

Tickets

First We Bombed New Mexico” with Producer Lois Lipman and Tina Cordova

Date: August 17, 2024

Time: 5 PM – Red Carpet & Dinner | 6 PM – Screening & Q&A

Join us for a special screening of “First We Bombed New Mexico,” featuring a red carpet event and dinner with producer Lois Lipman and cancer survivor Tina Cordova. The documentary reveals the untold story of the Trinity test and its impact on New Mexico’s communities. Following the 6 PM screening, there will be a Q&A session with the filmmakers.

Secure Your Spot

New Reel 

10 points

Presented by 

Become the Sponsor of New Reels

Experience the latest cinematic masterpieces at the Oppenheimer Festival! Watch the premiere of “The Atomic Rocketeer” by award-winning producer Larry Sheffield, the multi-award-winning “Oppenheimer” by Christopher Nolan, and the powerful documentary “First We Bombed New Mexico” featuring producer Lois Lipman and Tina Cordova. Join us in Los Alamos for an unforgettable celebration of film and history.

Atomic Rocketeer

Thursday - Saturday 1pm & 7pm Sunday 2:30 pm

"The Atomic Rocketeers" tells the remarkable story of Wernher von Braun, a young boy who dreamed of space rockets and was later seduced into the Nazi party to develop rocket technology for warfare. Award-winning producer Larry L. Sheffield documents Hitler’s ambitious project to create rocket weapons during WWII, which became the largest endeavor undertaken by the Nazi command. As the United States stormed into Germany, the race was on to capture von Braun and his team for their revolutionary rocket concepts. The New Mexico desert, once again, became the top-secret epicenter of discovery during “Operation Paperclip,” as captured Nazi scientists, including von Braun, became the Atomic Rocketeers.
Tickets
Oppenheimer​

Thursday - Saturday 1:30 pm Sunday 2:30 pm

Award-winning film "Oppenheimer," directed by Christopher Nolan, was filmed on location in Los Alamos. This cinematic masterpiece tells the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the visionary physicist behind the atomic bomb during WWII. The film explores Oppenheimer's character, scientific achievements, and the challenges of the Manhattan Project. Nolan's direction and visuals authentically capture Los Alamos, providing a historically rich backdrop. Don't miss this unique opportunity to watch "Oppenheimer" where history was made and immerse yourself in this gripping tale of scientific innovation and ethical dilemmas.
Tickets
First We Bombed New Mexico

Thursday - Saturday 6:00 pm Sunday 5:30 pm

"First We Bombed New Mexico" uncovers the untold story of the Trinity test, the world’s first nuclear bomb detonation, which occurred in New Mexico just one month before the bombing of Hiroshima. This film delves into the tragic consequences and government betrayal faced by thousands of New Mexicans, primarily Hispanic and Native American, who were exposed to catastrophic levels of radioactive fallout. Highlighting the multigenerational health impacts and the fight for justice led by cancer survivor Tina Cordova, this documentary serves as a powerful witness to a crucial chapter in American history.
Tickets

Classics

8 points

Relive the era of the Manhattan Project through a selection of timeless films. These classics provide a cinematic journey into the historical events, characters, and cultural impact of the atomic age, offering a unique perspective on this pivotal period in history.

Saturdays 6:30 pm and Sundays 3pm

Presented by

 

Day One (1989)

August 10 -11
"Day One" (1989), directed by Joseph Sargent, stars Brian Dennehy as General Leslie Groves and David Strathairn as J. Robert Oppenheimer. This historical drama depicts the intense and secretive efforts of the Manhattan Project during WWII, highlighting the scientific challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by the team in Los Alamos as they race to develop the first atomic bomb.
Tickets

Fatman and Little Boy

August 17 -18
The 1989 film "Fat Man and Little Boy," directed by Roland Joffé, stars Paul Newman, Dwight Schultz, Bonnie Bedelia, and John Cusack. It fictionalizes the Manhattan Project, focusing on the relationship between General Leslie R. Groves (Newman) and J. Robert Oppenheimer (Schultz) as they lead the secret WWII program to develop the first atomic bombs in Los Alamos.
Tickets

Dr. Strangelove (1964)

August 24 -25
Strangelove' remains comic, existential masterpiece. Peter Sellers and Sterling Hayden in 1964 film “Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb.”
Tickets

The Beginning or the End (1947)

August 31
The Beginning or the End is a 1947 American docudrama film about the development of the atomic bomb in World War II, directed by Norman Taurog, starring Brian Donlevy, Robert Walker, and Tom Drake,
Tickets

Parellel Cinema

10 points

Explore a wide range of topics related to the Manhattan Project through documentaries, lectures, and trivia sessions. Gain insights from experts, directors, and historians on the impacts, legacy, and different perspectives of this significant era in history.

Presented by

 

Become the sponsor of Parallel Cinema

The Santa Fe Internment Camp in the Shadow of Los Alamos (1942-1946)

Thursday August 15 6:30 pm
Learn how the former Civilian Conservation Corps Camp was converted to house 4,555 Japanese-American men from 1942 to 1946. These men, denied U.S. citizenship despite decades of work in America, averaged 52 years old. Discover what life was like in the camp, separated from their families but protected by Geneva Convention rules, all in the shadow of World War II's biggest secret.
Tickets

J. Robert Oppenheimer: A Legacy of Big Science at Los Alamos

Thursday August 22 6:30 pm
Although J. Robert Oppenheimer’s directorship of the Lab at Los Alamos ended in 1945, he and his approach to Big Science are thoroughly baked into the Lab’s DNA today. This talk describes how Oppenheimer’s vision and approach to Big Science made the Lab’s wartime mission a success, and how it’s had a lasting impact on Los Alamos, and on the world today.
Tickets

J. Robert Oppenheimer: A Rare View of the Laboratory’s First Director

Thursday August 29 6:30 pm
The story of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s life has been told through books, documentaries, and now a Hollywood blockbuster film. LANL historian Alan B. Carr will tell Oppenheimer’s story by interpreting both common and very rarely seen primary source records: photographs, audio recordings, video recordings, and documents from LANL’s National Security Research Center that have never before been seen by the public.
Tickets

Community in Conflict with Claudia Katayanagi

Every Sat 11:00 am Tickets

Oppenheimer Science, Mission, Legacy & Atomic Trivia

Every Sat 11:30 am Tickets

Japan's Longest Day: The Dramatic Story of the End of WWII with Nancy Bartlit

Every Sat 2pm Tickets

Oppenheimer After Trinity with Larry Sheffield

Every Sat 2:30 pm Tickets

Alamogordo Center of the World Trinity 1945 & Historic Trivia

Every Sat 5 pm Tickets

Barefoot Gen

Every Sun 4pm Tickets

Pjs and Movies

10 points

Enjoy a fun, family-friendly experience every Saturday morning with our PJs and Movies series. Relax in your pajamas and watch animated and family films that are perfect for all ages, making for a delightful start to your weekend.

Presented by

 

Saturdays 9:00 am

Astro Boy

August 10 Tickets

The Iron Giant

August 17 Tickets

Jimmy Neutron Boy Genius

August 24 Tickets

Lego Movie

August 30 Tickets

Historic Adventures

20 points

Discover the rich legacy of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Manhattan Project by stepping into history with Historic Adventures. Each adventure offers a unique perspective, taking you through the very locations where groundbreaking events unfolded. Walk in the footsteps of history and experience the story where it all began.

 

20 points
Oppenheimer Film Tour
Explore the iconic locations featured in films about Oppenheimer and the Manhattan Project. Gain insights into how Los Alamos was portrayed on the big screen and see the real-life sites that inspired these stories.
Download
20 points
Los Alamos History Walking Tours
Delve into the comprehensive history of Los Alamos with guided walking tours led by local historians. These tours provide an in-depth understanding of the town’s transformation during and after the Manhattan Project.
Download
20 points
Manhattan Project National Historical Park Tour

20 points

Explore the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, which preserves the significant locations of the atomic bomb development. Learn about the scientific achievements and the people who made them possible.
Directions
20 points
Visits to the Bradbury Science Museum
Engage with interactive exhibits and displays at the Bradbury Science Museum, showcasing the science and technology behind the Manhattan Project and its ongoing legacy.
Directions
20 points
Pajarito Environmental Education Center
Engage with interactive exhibits and displays at the Bradbury Science Museum, showcasing the science and technology behind the Manhattan Project and its ongoing legacy.
More Information
20 points
Visitors Center
Engage with interactive exhibits and displays at the Bradbury Science Museum, showcasing the science and technology behind the Manhattan Project and its ongoing legacy.
More Information

Festival Shopping & Dining

The Oppenheimer Festival 2024 is not just about films and lectures; it’s also about experiencing the vibrant local community of Los Alamos. Visit local businesses that have created special products and experiences related to Oppenheimer and the Manhattan Project. By visiting these businesses, you can earn points on your Oppenheimer Festival Explorer Card and enjoy unique offerings inspired by this significant historical era.

 

Bathtub Row Brewing Co-op

Boomerang Consignment and Resale and Gaia Gifts

Encanto Bistro

Film Festival

Gadget Museum at the Bradbury Museum

Los Alamos Cooperative Market & Art Tunnel

Beehaus

Muy Salsas

Mesa Top Games & Toys

Ruby K's Bagel Cafe

Samizdat Bookstore and Teahouse

Señor Tortas

Sugar & Cream Cafe

Friction Ridge

Beehaus

Boomerang Consign and Gaia Gifts 

Dinning

Attention Festival Enthusiasts!

Tickets for the Oppenheimer Festival 2024 will be available to the public starting August 1st!

Become a Member Today to enjoy exclusive benefits:

  • Early Access to Tickets: Secure your spot before everyone else.
  • Special Discounts and Offers: Save on tickets and festival merchandise.
  • Support SALA: Help us continue bringing unique events and experiences to Los Alamos.

Join us in celebrating the legacy of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the Manhattan Project. Dive into film premieres, classic screenings, lectures, and tours of iconic sites where history was made.

Don’t miss out! Become a member now and get your early tickets to the Oppenheimer Festival 2024!

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