2026 Electric Light Parade Call for Entries

The City of Las Cruces Parks & Recreation Department is accepting entries for lighted floats to participate in the 2026 Electric Light Parade. This year’s parade theme is “Stars, Stripes and City Lights.”

The parade will begin at 9 p.m. Friday, July 3, 2026, at Apodaca Park, 801 E. Madrid Ave. The parade route will travel south on Solano Drive, east on Hadley Avenue, and end at Maag Softball Complex. Commercial and non-commercial groups, and car and motorcycle clubs are encouraged to participate. Car, vehicle, and motorcycle clubs are limited to 20 vehicles.

There are no entry or participation fees, and some restrictions apply. Trophies will be awarded to first through third place in the commercial and non-commercial categories, and a best overall float trophy. Floats will be judged on originality, depiction of the theme, and effective use of lights. No bicycles, walkers, single ATV’s, UTV’s or single vehicles will be permitted.

Registration begins Monday April 20, 2026. To apply online, visit www.lascruces.gov/parade. Applications are also available in person at the Las Cruces Natatorium, 1501 E. Hadley. The deadline to enter this year’s Electric Light Parade is 5 p.m. June 12, 2026. No exceptions will be allowed. Meetings for participants will be held June 25 and June 26 at the Las Cruces Natatorium,1405 E. Hadley Ave., to outline parade details. Meeting attendance is required for those driving float vehicles and organizers of car or vehicle clubs to participate. For information, contact Community Events at 575/541-2455/TTY 711.