Registration for lighted floats opens April 28 for the July 3 parade themed ‘Las Cruces Unidos’

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - The City of Las Cruces Parks and Recreation Department is accepting entries for the 2025 Electric Light Parade, scheduled for Thursday, July 3.

This year’s parade theme is “Las Cruces Unidos.” The parade will begin at 9 p.m. at Apodaca Park, 801 E. Madrid Ave., then travel south on Solano Drive, east on Hadley Avenue, and end at Maag Softball Complex.

Commercial and non-commercial groups, as well as car and motorcycle clubs, are encouraged to participate. Clubs are limited to 20 vehicles. There are no entry or participation fees, although some restrictions apply.

Entry and judging details

Trophies will be awarded for first through third place in both the commercial and non-commercial categories. A best overall float trophy will also be awarded. Floats will be judged on originality, depiction of the theme, and use of lights.

Bicycles, walkers, single ATVs, UTVs and single vehicles will not be permitted.

Registration opens Monday, April 28. Applications are available online at www.lascruces.gov/parade or in person at the Las Cruces Natatorium, 1501 E. Hadley Ave. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 18. Late entries will not be accepted.

Meetings for parade participants will be held June 26 and June 27 at the Las Cruces Natatorium, 1405 E. Hadley Ave. Attendance is required for drivers of floats and organizers of car or motorcycle clubs.

For more information, contact Community Events at 575-541-2714.