Celebrate the Holidays with Special Events, Neon & Classic Route 66 Charm

Tucumcari, NM – November 19, 2019 – Well known as a bright, cultural gem along historic Route 66, Tucumcari is acclaimed for its neon, murals, and museums. This holiday season, it’s also the ideal location for a festive getaway, with events running from late November through Christmas Eve.

“Around the holidays, it’s a perfect time to remember what’s important and spend some special time with those we love,” said Connie Loveland, Executive Director for Tucumcari MainStreet. “That means it’s also a great time to getaway and enjoy a slower pace. We invite you to explore Tucumcari, take a drive down historic Route 66, and enjoy our festive and fun holiday events.”

Kicking off the holiday season in Tucumcari is the Lighting of the Depot & Community Christmas Tree on Saturday, November 30, which sets the scene for upcoming holiday events. For a dose of nostalgia and festive fun for the entire family, there will be Rawhide Carriage Rides on Friday, December 6 from 5–8pm at the Tucumcari Train Depot.

Saturday, December 7 brings an entire day of holiday magic with the 8th Annual Christmas Expo from 10am–8pm at the Convention Center. An exciting and eclectic place to find gifts for every person on your list, visitors can browse jewelry, crafts and arts from local businesses, and kids will delight in afternoon visits from Santa and festive activities. That evening, lighted floats will cruise down Route 66 as part of the Parade of Lights at 6pm.

On Friday, December 20, the sounds of Christmas come to life at the Christmas Cantata at the Center Street United Methodist Church. The free event will feature holiday music and magic, along with a reception to follow. Wrapping up the Very Merry Tucumcari Events on Christmas Eve, First Christian Church will offer a Candlelight Service at 7pm.  

While in town to enjoy holiday events, visitors can eat at award-winning Route 66 diners, stay at Route 66 motels, and explore the town’s museums—the Mesalands Community College Dinosaur Museum, New Mexico Route 66 Museum, Tucumcari Historical Museum, and the Tucumcari Railroad Museum.

“With some of the best Route 66 neon and memorabilia, a visit to Tucumcari in November or early December gives you the chance to take a memorable photo for a one-of-a-kind holiday card,” added Loveland.

For more information on all there is to see and do in Tucumcari or to plan your visit, go to www.visittucumcarinm.com.