How to Spend the Fourth of July in New Mexico

New Mexico celebrates the Fourth of July with all the traditional fireworks--which are legal to buy there--parties and festivals. Here are some suggestions on how to spend Independence Day in New Mexico.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fireworks

1. Visit Los Lunas, where the community throws a roaring Fourth of July shindig at Daniel Fernandez Park. Food and entertainment are on hand and the day culminates with a fireworks display.

2. Elephant Butte Lake is the scene of a spectacular fireworks show that you can observe from the shore or, even better, from a boat on the lake itself.

3. Tap our native roots and spend July 4th on the Mescalero Apache reservation in Mescalero. You'll observe Apache dances and other rituals while sampling the local food. Call [phone] for information about the event.

4. It is legal for consumers to buy fireworks in New Mexico, so make a fireworks display the highlight of your Fourth of July party (see Resources below).

5. Red River has hosted a gala Fourth of July Parade since 1941. Marchers and participants in floats and cars parade down Main Street while tossing candy and other surprises to the crowd. For information call: [phone]
   

6. Check the local city or town Web site for information on Fourth of July celebrations. There may be a local parade, festival or fireworks display you can attend. Contact the New Mexico Tourism Department's Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Provide glow-in-the dark wands and tubes for children so they can safely join in the fun.
• Observe fireworks safety precautions.