Christmas on the Pecos: Holiday Lights Along the River
Each winter, Christmas on the Pecos transforms the Pecos River in Carlsbad into a tradition of light. Homes and yards along the river glow with color, while visitors take it in from boats that drift quietly downstream.
Since 1991, the celebration has grown into one of New Mexico’s most recognizable holiday gatherings, defined by community effort and the river itself. For travelers, it fits naturally into a seasonal visit, combining festive evenings with the chance to explore nearby parks, museums, and desert landscapes.
A Holiday Tradition on the Pecos River
Christmas on the Pecos has been part of Carlsbad’s traditions for more than three decades. Bringing vibrant, illuminated displays of Christmas and holiday scenes to life with neon lights. Boat tours remain the highlight for most visitors, while the Pecos Express offers another way to view the riverfront displays. Seasonal schedules vary by year, so check current information before your visit.
Alongside the river tours, winter evenings in Carlsbad include festive meals, glowing displays, family-friendly events and visits with Santa.
More Ways to Celebrate the Season in Carlsbad
In Carlsbad, different community traditions guide you around town. The tree lighting at Halagueno Arts Park signals the start of the season, with families gathering as the first lights come on. Downtown streets fill during the Electric Light Parade, where decorated floats and vehicles roll past in a brilliant display. To close off the year, fireworks paint the desert sky on New Year’s Eve.
Exploring Beyond the River
Christmas on the Pecos offers one way to experience winter in southeast New Mexico. To extend your visit, explore the vast underground chambers at Carlsbad Caverns National Park or visit native wildlife at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park. For an evening downtown, Carlsbad Museum highlights the region’s history and is easily paired with nearby dining options or a seasonal activity.
As you plan your visit, discover more ways to make the most of the season in Carlsbad—from local holiday traditions along the Pecos River to outdoor adventures throughout the region.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Hidden beneath the rocky slopes and canyons of the Chihuahuan Desert are the incredible Carlsbad Caverns. Formed when sulfuric acid dissolved the surrounding limestone, there are more than 119 known caves of all sizes. Explore the caverns at your own pace or opt for a ranger-guided tour.
Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park
Overlooking the Pecos River Valley, this native wildlife zoo exhibits more than 40 species of animals and hundreds of plants native to the Chihuahuan Desert. Take a relaxing walk along a nature trail past cacti, yuccas, agave, and other native plant life and observe animals such as snakes, lizards, birds, and even bison and elk.
Brantley Lake State Park
Brantley Lake State Park is the southernmost lake in New Mexico and is an oasis of water, wildlife, plant life, gorgeous sunsets, and stunning night skies. Just 20 minutes from the city of Carlsbad, make plans to take advantage of the area’s outstanding boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, hiking, bird watching, and excellent campsites.
Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area
Truly an oasis hidden in the desert, about an hour-and-a-half outside of the city of Carlsbad you’ll find the majestic 150-foot Sitting Bull Falls waterfall. Take one of the trails for a nice hike, run, or bike, and then relax at the recreation area while enjoying the beautiful falls in the background.
Lincoln National Forest
Home to the real-life Smokey Bear, Lincoln National Forest covers more than 1 million acres and stretches from the cacti covered Chihuahuan desert to the subalpine forest of the Guadalupe, Sacramento, Sierra Blanca, Capitan, and Gallinas mountain ranges. Recreation areas offer biking, camping, hiking, horse riding, hunting, picnicking, scenic drives, and winter sports.
