Step into the Old West during Old Lincoln Days, one of southern New Mexico’s most beloved annual traditions. Held in the historic village of Lincoln, this three-day celebration commemorates the legendary events of the Lincoln County War with living history, reenactments, music, lectures, family activities, vendors, and the iconic Last Escape of Billy the Kid Pageant.
Throughout the weekend, Historic Lincoln comes alive with:
Gunfight reenactments
Living history demonstrations
Billy the Kid lectures and presentations
Children’s activities
Local artisans and vendors
Live music and entertainment
Food vendors
Historic site tours
Screenings of Young Guns inside the historic Lincoln County Courthouse
The Wonders on Wheels Mobile Museum
Hands-on exhibits presented by community partners
The newly restored historic Torreón watchtower
As part of the Lincoln Lecture Series, visitors can enjoy presentations from noted historians and authors, including Lori Goodloe, John LeMay, Brandon Dickson, and Johnny Boswell, covering Billy the Kid’s final escape, the Lincoln County War, and the people and places that shaped New Mexico’s frontier history.
The highlight of the weekend is The Last Escape of Billy the Kid, an outdoor folk pageant first performed in 1940 and still presented by local volunteers—many of them descendants of the original cast. The production brings the Lincoln County War to life with horses, live-action scenes, authentic costumes, and Billy the Kid’s famous courthouse escape.
Pageant performances begin at 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with a pre-show concert starting at 7:00 p.m.
Visitors can also explore the museums and historic buildings of Lincoln Historic Site, stroll the preserved 19th-century streets where the Lincoln County War unfolded, and experience one of the most authentic Old West celebrations in the Southwest.
Admission Information
Community events, vendors, music, the parade, and many outdoor activities are free to attend.
Admission to Lincoln Historic Site buildings and special activities is $7 for adults and free for children 16 and younger, New Mexico disabled veterans, New Mexico foster families, Friends of Lincoln members, and MNMF members. Visitors who present a Billy the Kid Pageant ticket at the Visitor Center may purchase Historic Site admission for $5.
Billy the Kid Pageant admission is separate:
Adults: $10
Children (6–12): $6
Children 5 and under: Free
Pageant tickets are available beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the gate (cash recommended) and online.
Whether you’re fascinated by Billy the Kid, passionate about Western history, or simply looking for a memorable summer road trip, Old Lincoln Days offers an unforgettable journey into one of America’s most legendary frontier stories.
Event Websites:
Lincoln Historic Site: https://www.nmhistoricsites.org/lincoln
Old Lincoln Days: https://nmhistoricsites.org/lincoln/old-lincoln-days
Billy the Kid Pageant: https://www.billyslastescape.org/
Pageant Tickets: https://www.ticketsignup.io/TicketEvent/LastEscapeOfBillyTheKid2026