Holiday magic meets mountain summer in the Christmas Capital of New Mexico
Cloudcroft has been officially proclaimed the Christmas Capital of New Mexico by Mayor William Denney, and every July the village celebrates that distinction with a festive summer holiday event like no other. Christmas in July transforms Zenith Park into a holiday wonderland where Summer Santa trades his heavy red suit for summer attire, food trucks line the walkways, and artisan vendors offer unique handcrafted gifts perfect for early holiday shopping. Set at 9,000 feet where summer temperatures stay refreshingly cool, this free, family-friendly festival brings holiday cheer to the Sacramento Mountains all weekend long.
Holiday festivities at Zenith Park
Explore everything that makes Christmas in July a beloved Cloudcroft tradition. Saturday and Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM.
The jolly man himself visits Cloudcroft in his summer best. Bring the kids for photos and holiday cheer under the cool mountain pines.
Local artisans and craft vendors showcase handmade gifts, holiday decorations, jewelry, and mountain-inspired creations perfect for early shopping.
Food trucks and local food vendors serve up delicious eats from BBQ to sweet treats. Enjoy a mountain meal while soaking in the festivities.
Enjoy family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. Browse art vendors, listen to music, and soak in the holiday atmosphere at 9,000 feet.
From Summer Santa to artisan shopping, there is something for everyone at Cloudcroft's Christmas in July celebration.
Capture the magic with a photo alongside Summer Santa in his seasonal attire. A holiday memory made in the cool mountain air.
Browse unique handcrafted gifts from local and regional artisans. Get a head start on holiday shopping with one-of-a-kind treasures.
Escape the summer heat at 9,000 feet where temperatures stay refreshingly cool. Enjoy holiday festivities without the winter chill.
Savor flavors from food trucks and local vendors offering everything from hearty meals to sweet seasonal treats and cold drinks.
The whole family is welcome with activities and entertainment designed to delight visitors of all ages throughout the weekend.
Experience the unique joy of celebrating Christmas in the middle of summer, surrounded by cool pines and mountain sunshine.
Everything you need to know for a wonderful Christmas in July weekend.
Zenith Park is located at 1001 James Canyon Highway in Cloudcroft, NM 88317. From Alamogordo, take US-82 east approximately 16 miles up the mountain.
Bring sunscreen, a light jacket for cooler mountain evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and cash for vendor purchases. Pets on leashes are welcome.
This is a family-friendly, all-ages event with free admission. Kids will love meeting Summer Santa, and there are activities for every age group.
Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12, 2026. Festival hours are 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM both days. Arrive early for the best selection from vendors.
Join us in the Christmas Capital of New Mexico for a weekend of holiday magic, summer fun, great food, and artisan shopping at Zenith Park.