Friday, July 3 | Begins at 9 p.m.
Parade Route:
- Begins at Apodaca Park, 801 E. Madrid Ave.
- Travels south on Solano Drive
- East on Hadley Avenue
- Ends at Maag Softball Complex
This year’s theme: “Stars, Stripes and City Lights!”
Want to participate in the 2026 Electric Light Parade?
Commercial and non-commercial groups, as well as car and motorcycle clubs, are invited to join the Electric Light Parade!
Vehicle Limits: Car, vehicle, and motorcycle clubs are limited to 20 vehicles per group.
Fees: There are no entry or participation fees, though some restrictions apply.
Awards: Trophies will be presented for 1st–3rd place in both commercial and non-commercial categories, plus a Best Overall Float award.
Registration
- Opens: Monday, April 20, 2026
- Deadline: Friday, June 12, 2026, at 5 p.m. (No exceptions)
- How to Register:
- Online: Fill out the form below
- In Person:
- Frank O’Brien Papen Center, 304 Bell Ave.
- Parks and Recreation Admin Building, 1501 E Hadley Ave.
Float Guidelines
Important Restrictions: No bicycles, walkers, single ATVs, UTVs, or single vehicles are permitted.
Floats will be judged on:
- Originality
- Depiction of the parade theme
- Effective use of lights
Participant Meetings
Mandatory meetings will be held to review parade details:
- Dates: June 25 and June 26, 2026
- Times: 10 a.m. or 6 p.m. for both dates
- Location: Las Cruces Natatorium, 1405 E. Hadley Ave.
- Who Must Attend: Drivers of float vehicles and organizers of car or vehicle clubs
The deadline for this application has passed.
