During the month of December, more than 100 families decorate homes along the Pecos River to great heights to celebrate the holiday season. From Christmas in the Desert Southwest to Santa's Play land, the elaborate decorations enable Carlsbad residents to showcase their creativity and their community pride. And guests are invited to enjoy the show in the best way ever: from the river.
A 40-minute riverboat cruise meanders past these gorgeous displays as families cozy up under blankets and listen to the sounds of kids ooohing and ahhing as the next installment comes into view.
According to the Chamber of Commerce, the First Christmas on the Pecos River boat tour took place in 1992 aboard the Princess, a pontoon boat that seated just 10 people. Today, the Christmas on the Pecos fleet includes the Noelle, the Bella Sera, the Bella Notte and the historic George Washington Paddle Wheeler. Truly a community undertaking, Carlsbad Navy officers navigate these boats along this unusual show of Yuletide spirit and community celebration.
The River Boat tours are approximately 40 minutes long and run between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. from Thanksgiving through New Year's Eve. Tours sell out quickly, especially on holidays, so if you can find your way to Carlsbad, New Mexico this holiday season, book soon.
Adults $17.50 per person Fridays & Saturdays; $12.50 per person Sunday-Thursday. Children (ages 2-12) $12.50 per person Fridays & Saturdays; $7.50 per person Sunday-Thursday. Children under the age of 2 are free if they do not occupy a seat and have obtained a “lap pass.” For tickets and additional info: www.christmasonthepecos.com
