The long-standing tradition of “Noche de Luminarias” or “Night of Lights” will return to New Mexico State University (NMSU) after the pandemic last year.
This year marks the 36th anniversary of the event. The tradition was started in 1984 by dormitory volunteers who set up luminarias around their buildings.
The Corbett Center Programming Council later joined the dormitories and increased attendance. Since then, the event has grown into one of the largest Luminarias displays in New Mexico.
Las Cruces and the NMSU community will have the opportunity to see over 8,500 Luminarias outdoors on campus on December 5th, from 5pm to 8pm.
NMSU students have their own exclusive viewing time from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.
“While this is a beautiful thing that we all welcome Las Cruces to, the students are still our main audience,” said Dr. Sarah Edwards, director of student and executive participation programs. “We take it very seriously to make sure they feel seen at this community-friendly event. So we hope that everyone will take part in this beautiful celebration. “
Community members can take part in a number of activities that take place outside of the NMSU bookstore, including cookie decorating, a letter to the Santa Claus broadcaster, Christmas music, and more. The organizers are also showing a Christmas film.
To protect the community amid the pandemic, all activities will be outdoors this year. The luminarias also illuminate the horseshoe for those who prefer to drive by or visit the display from a distance.
The event is a campus collaboration between the Student Participation and Leadership Programs Office, NMSU Associate Students, Auxiliary Services, the Dormitory Association, and the NMSU Bookstore.
For more information before the event, click here or contact Edwards at [email protected].
Author: Tatiana Favela – NMSU
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