The free program begins at 8 p.m. at the park’s amphitheater and is presented in partnership with Western National Parks. While the concert is free to attend, standard park entrance fees will apply.
Source: White Sands National Park (via Facebook)
Photo: Courtesy National Parks Service
White Sands National Park will host its first Full Moon Night event of 2026 on Monday, June 29, featuring a performance by the Fort Bliss 1st Armored Division Rock Band in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The free program begins at 8 p.m. at the park’s amphitheater and is presented in partnership with Western National Parks. While the concert is free to attend, standard park entrance fees will apply.
According to park officials, the family-friendly event is intended to encourage visitors to celebrate, contemplate and connect with the ideals of independence while recognizing White Sands National Park’s longstanding relationship with the U.S. Armed Forces and military families stationed throughout the Borderland region.
Sgt. Eric Trevino, a trumpeter with the 1st Armored Division Band, delivers a trumpet solo at Camp Cohen Water Park in El Paso, Texas, May 23, 2026. The 1st Armored Division Band’s subsidiary group, the 1AD Rock Band, performs across the El Paso community to support community relations and strengthen connections with residents in and around Fort Bliss. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Kyler Hembree, 1st Armored Division Band)
The 1st Armored Division Rock Band is a 10-member musical ensemble composed of soldiers whose mission is to promote the U.S. Army and strengthen relationships with surrounding communities through music and public engagement.
Full Moon Nights Continue Longstanding Tradition
Full Moon Night events have become one of White Sands National Park’s most popular traditions, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the dunes after sunset beneath the light of a full moon.
In addition to scheduled performances, visitors can enjoy extended park hours, ranger programs and opportunities to explore the unique landscape after dark. Park officials note that Full Moon Nights also highlight the cultural heritage of Southern New Mexico and Northern Mexico, as well as the park’s natural resources.
The June 29 concert is the first scheduled Full Moon Night program of the year. Additional events are planned for September and October, including a concert by Randy Granger on Sept. 26 and a presentation by Ranger David Bustos celebrating National Fossil Day on Oct. 25.
What Visitors Should Know
White Sands expects heavy attendance for the June 29 event and encourages visitors to arrive early. The amphitheater parking area opens two hours before the program begins and is located approximately seven miles beyond the park entrance station.
Seating is not provided. Visitors are encouraged to bring camp chairs, blankets, coolers and other items needed for an evening outdoors.
Pets are permitted if they remain on a leash no longer than six feet and are under control at all times. Accessible parking and seating accommodations will be available near the stage.
Park hours will be extended until 11 p.m. on June 29, allowing visitors additional time to enjoy the dunes beneath the full moon after the concert concludes.
As with all outdoor events, programs may be canceled due to weather or missile range activities. Visitors are encouraged to monitor park announcements and be prepared for changing desert conditions after sunset.
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