White Sands to Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with 1st Armored Division Rock Band Performance at Full Moon Night Event.

Date:
June 18, 2026
Contact: White Sands National Park Interpretation Division

ALAMOGORDO, N.M. - White Sands National Park will host its first Full Moon Night event of the year on Monday June 29, 2026, at 8 p.m. in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

In partnership with Western National Parks, White Sands is pleased to welcome back the 1st Armored Division Rock Band at the park's amphitheater for a special performance at the park's June Full Moon Night event. The 1AD Rock Band is a musical performance group of ten soldiers whose mission is to promote the United States Army and build stronger relationships with surrounding communities through music.

As part of the 250th commemoration, this family-friendly event encourages visitors to celebrate, contemplate and connect with the ideals of independence by celebrating White Sands National Park's decades long partnership with the U.S. Armed Forces, its members, and their families.

The program is free, but park entrance fees will apply. The park expects many attendees for this Full Moon Night event so please plan accordingly:

• Parking lot opens at 6 p.m. Event parking is limited and will fill up quickly. Additional overflow parking will be available within a walkable distance along the Dunes Drive loop.
• Accessible parking will be available, but space is limited.
• The amphitheater is an outdoor venue with a compact sand surface in most areas. There will be a wheelchair and stroller accessible walkway near the stage. The venue may not be fully accessible for those with mobile limitations.
• Seating is not provided at the amphitheater. Attendees may set up on the surrounding dunes and bring camp chairs, blankets, and coolers with food and drinks.
• Please help keep White Sands beautiful by packing out all your trash.
• Visit the park website or NPS App for directions to the event location, additional accessibility information, and additional safety messaging.

Celebrating Our Nation's 250th Anniversary The National Park Service is playing a leading role in the celebration and commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American independence. These efforts support Executive Order 14189 -Celebrating America's 250th Birthday, which calls for "a grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026."

Throughout the country, national parks will host hundreds of 250th anniversary programs, events, and exhibits, including many sites with direct connections to the formation of the country.