Discover the Magic of White Sands under Moonlight

Enjoy music, programs, and more during a full moon night at the park. NPS Photo

Enjoy the radiance of the dunes beneath a full moon, accompanied by live music, ranger programs, and special guest presenters and artists. Full Moon Nights share the cultural legacy of Southern New Mexico and Northern Mexico, as well as the rich natural resources of White Sands National Park. The park hours will be extended two hours beyond the park's normal closing time on all Full Moon Nights, allowing visitors to enjoy the full moon in the park on their own, even when we are not presenting a scheduled program.

🗓️ 2025 Moonlight Schedule:

• Date / Program Type/Time

  Monday May 12: No program scheduled

  N/A

  Wednesday June 11: 1st Armored Division Rock Band Concert

  8:15 pm

  Thursday July 10: Out Cats Blues Duo Concert

  8:00 pm

  Saturday August 9: No program scheduled

  N/A

  Sunday September 7: Randy Granger Concert

  7:00 pm

  Monday October 6: Fossilized Footprints Presentation by Ranger David Bustos

  6:30 pm

🎟️ Ticket Information:

• Tickets are required for the Moonlight Hike program.

• Purchase tickets through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

• Tour fees apply (charged by Recreation.gov).

• Park entrance fees apply (charged at the park).

🕗 Ticket Availability:

• Tickets become available two months before the tour date at 8:00 am Mountain Time.

• For example, tickets for the March 25 tour will be on sale from 8:00 am MT on January 25.

Cost

In addition to the park entrance fees, a special program fee of $8 per person ages 16 and older and $4 per child ages 15 and younger also apply. Federal passes such as the America the Beautiful Annual, Senior, and Access passes apply only to the entrance fees and do not cover the special program fee. Park entrance fees and camping fees are non-refundable.

Program length

1.5 - 2 hours

⚠️ Important Notes:

• Participant capacity is limited, and tickets sell out quickly.

• No waitlist for sold-out tours.

🔗 For More Information: Plan your visit by visiting the White Sands National Park website: Moonlight Hike Information

Don't miss this chance to witness the ethereal beauty of White Sands National Park under the captivating glow of the moon during your Ruidoso vacation! Secure your tickets early and be part of an unforgettable nocturnal adventure.