When to Go

While the desert above may alternately bake or freeze, the caverns remain in the mid-50s. If you're coming to see the Brazilian free-tailed bat, arrive between spring and mid-fall.

Festival and Events

Star Parties. Coinciding with the new or first-quarter moon of every other month, star parties are held outside Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park about six times a year. A laser tour and powerful telescope bring the heavens closer. Call for dates. 1504 Miehls Dr. N, Carlsbad, New Mexico, 88220. 575/887–5516; www.livingdesertnm.org.

Native American Heritage Days. On the second weekend of May the state park hosts a celebration of Native American history, including vendors, guest speakers, and children's events. 1504 Miehls Dr., Carlsbad, New Mexico, 88220. 575/887–5516; www.emnrd.state.nm.us.

Dawn of the Bats. The third Saturday in July each year, early risers gather at the cave's entrance to watch tens of thousands of bats return home from their nocturnal search for food. Nature walks and other special ranger programs are offered as well during this free event. 727 Carlsbad Cavern Hwy., Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico, 88220-5354. 575/785–2232; www.nps.gov/cave.

Christmas on the Pecos. Magical Christmas displays decorate Carlsbad homes along a 3-mile stretch of the Pecos River in a fairyland of seasonal delight. Boat tours ($20 adults Friday and Saturday; $15 adults Sunday–Thursday) run from the day after Thanksgiving through New Year's Eve except Christmas Eve, beginning at 5:30. Vessels depart from the Pecos River Village Conference Center. Purchase tickets there, at the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce (302 S. Canal St.), or online. Pecos River Village Conference Center, 711 Muscatel Ave., Carlsbad, New Mexico, 88220. 575/628–0952; www.christmasonthepecos.com.