Information about the Christmas On The Pecos celebration in Carlsbad, NM

Winter in Carlsbad isn't about snow, ice or cold. It's about warmth. The warmth of the holiday season. And families coming together. Carlsbad, New Mexico is alive with the ultimate celebration of the season - Christmas on the Pecos RIver.

This magical vista is created by over 100 homeowners who spend hours decorating with care. Each house is unique. From the Christmas in the Desert Southwest theme at one home to Santa's Play land at another, Carlsbad NM residents show their creativity as much as their community pride. Each year the Holiday Season on the Pecos wraps itself around the riverfront, illuminating backyards, boat docks and islands with millions of lights. The Pecos River Holiday Lights shimmers with color. Wise men and angels glow on sloping lawns. Giant margarita glasses and bright stars reflect on the water.

Everyone in Carlsbad, New Mexico gets involved too, not just homeowners. Carlsbad Navy officers navigate each of the three pontoon boats through this spectacular show of Yuletide River Christmas Lights along the Pecos River Christmas Cruise. Each officer is a volunteer and Chamber of Commerce member who has been specially trained in boating safety and operations.

The first "Christmas on the Pecos River" boat tour took place in 1992, aboard the "Princess," a pontoon boat that seated 10 people. The "Pecos Queen," a 42-foot pontoon boat seating 45 people, was added to the fleet in 1993. The "Bella Sera," a pontoon boat which seats 50 passenger that entered the Christmas on the Pecos fleet in 2006. The "George Washington" old fashioned paddle wheeler (does half trips only on Fridays and Saturdays) carries 40 passengers.

Christmas on the Pecos River is a 50-minute tour that sets sail 12-15 times per night between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. from Thanksgiving night to New Year's Eve. Tours depart from the Pecos River Village, a quaint, turn-of-the-century park that is transformed into a wonderland of sparkling lights and delights. Wander through a gallery full of gifts created by local artists and enjoy holiday refreshments at the Pecos River Village before and after your tour.

Traditionally tours sell out quickly, especially on Thanksgiving Weekend, Fridays and Saturdays in December, and Christmas Day. (Tours are not offered on Christmas Eve.) The event has grown steadily over the years with participation increasing from 7,500 guests in 1994 to 10,500 guests in 1995 and over 16,800 in 2006 and continues to grow each year.

Christmas Holly Tickets are sold in advance and at the ticket office on days of departure. Space is limited and reservations are strongly suggested especially on the weekends and as we get closer to Christmas. Complimentary "lap" tickets are available for children under 3 years of age. Special catering is available for groups. Be sure to wear warm clothing (layers are best). Blankets are provided by Washington Tru Solutions and are available prior to boarding at the docks.

Christmas on the Pecos River has been awarded one of the top 100 "must see" events in North America by the American Bus association 12 years in a row since 1966. For more information on the most spectacular show of Yuletide lights in New Mexico, contact the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce

Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 910 Carlsbad, NM 88220
505-887-6516 800-221-1224 (recorded message)
FAX 505-885-1455