There’s something special about gathering on a chilly December night to light the Capitol Christmas tree. Happy holidays, New Mexico.
~Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham
On the first of December, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham attended the annual lighting of the State Christmas tree. Guests enjoyed complimentary biscochitos, hot cider and caroling by the Cathedral Basilica Jubilate Deo and Deo Gratias Youth Choruses, along with the Santa Fe Symphony Choral Scholars, Young Voices of the Santa Fe Opera and the National Guard 44th Army Band.
While the Capitol in Santa Fe claimed dibs on the first light up this season, communities in our broader community plan to herald in Christmas with lights of our own.
Christmas trees and luminarias, alike, will delight the eyes and kindle the hearts of friends, family and neighbors this weekend. Here is a list of times and locations for tree lighting ceremonies and luminaria illuminations close to home this weekend:
Friday, December 5
Town of Mesilla
Friday, December 5
“Join us around the plaza for the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on December 5. Experience the magic as the tree is illuminated with sparkling lights, filling the plaza with holiday cheer. Don’t miss this special tradition that brings locals and visitors together to celebrate the start of the holiday season.”
White Sands Missile Range
Friday, December 5
Team WSMR is invited to the Rocket Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. at the Museum Missile Park. The event includes an opening address from a Senior Commander, live singing by the Girl Scouts, and the Lighting of the Rocket!
Get ready for all your favorite holiday activities on Dec 5! Real snow, choo-choo rides, pony rides, canoe rides, a cozy fire pit, and photos with Santa. All activities begin at 6:00 PM at Sunland Park City Hall. | Prepárense para sus actividades favoritas este 5 de diciembre. Nieve de verdad, trenecito, ponis, paseos en canoa, fogatita y fotos con Santa. Todo empieza a las 6:00 PM en City Hall.
Saturday, December 6
Doña Ana Village
Saturday, December 6
Doña Ana Village Historical Committee is partnering with Project Jocelyn to collect toys for disadvantaged children in our community. You can drop off a new, unwrapped toy inside the De La O Visitors Center between 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Saturday evening. Distinguished Young Women of New Mexico will be handing out complimentary baked goods and warm beverages. Jocelyn’s siblings will be giving out free cookies as well.
City of Las Cruces
Saturday, December 6
The City of Las Cruces will host its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony from 6 – 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Plaza de Las Cruces, 100 N. Main St. The event will feature live music, giveaways, refreshments, food trucks, and activities for the whole family. Mayor Eric Enriquez will light the tree at 7 p.m.
Following the ceremony, the Rio Grande Theatre will screen “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” at 8 p.m. Admission is $5 per person, and doors will open after the tree lighting.
Sunday, December 7
NMSU “Noche de Luminarias”
Sunday, December 7
Sunday, December 7 2025 at 5:00 PM MST to 10:00 PM MST
Hosted by Student Involvement and Leadership Programs; Associated Students of NMSU
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