2026 Spyglass Festival Explores Secrets, Science, and Espionage

[ALBUQUERQUE, NM] – The Spyglass Festival, a three-day event dedicated to the history and science of intelligence, espionage, and the Cold War, will take place from Thursday, January 15, through Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History in Albuquerque, NM. The event offers an all-access pass to spy games, STEM adventures, secret-agent movie nights, and behind-the-scenes peeks at real historical artifacts.

The festival promises a weekend packed with action, designed to engage visitors of all ages through interactive learning and entertainment, while also opening the story of the Atomic Age to them.

"The enduring human fascination with espionage is undeniable, and the Spyglass Festival taps right into that excitement while showcasing the very real science and history behind it," said Jennifer Hayden, President and CEO. "We are thrilled to offer such a unique, action-packed experience for all ages that bridges thrilling storytelling with important historical context."

Featured Spyglass Festival Events Include:

• Science on Tap (Thursday, Jan 15): A fascinating evening featuring retired CIA Senior Operations Officer David Kitchen, who reveals the hidden history of the Manhattan Project spies and the high-stakes intelligence operations surrounding the development of the atomic bomb.
• Movie Night (Friday, Jan 16, Evening): Enjoy a special screening of the classic Cold War spy thriller, Bridge of Spies, starring Tom Hanks.
• FREE Museum Day (Saturday, Jan 17, All Day): Join us for an all-day free admission event featuring fun, hands-on spy games for everyone in the community.
• Nuclear After Dark (Saturday, Jan 17, Evening): A family-friendly night of espionage featuring spy games, fun photo ops, and delicious food trucks, followed by a screening of the award-winning documentary, Alamogordo, Center of the World, Trinity 1945, by filmmaker Larry Sheffield.
• The Spyglass Festival is made possible through a generous grant from Visit Albuquerque’s Tourism Grant Program.

“This generous grant from Visit Albuquerque is invaluable," commented Jennifer Galloway, Development Director. "It not only helps us sustain our vital educational and preservation programs but also significantly increases cultural tourism, drawing visitors to Albuquerque during the traditionally slower winter months. It's a win-win for education and our local economy."

Ticket Information

About the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History:

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, presents, interprets, and preserves the complex history and science of the atomic age in an objective and thought-provoking manner. The Museum is open 361 days a year from 8 am to 5 pm. Visit nuclearmuseum.org for more information