Hawgfest 2026 returns to Carlsbad, New Mexico, April 23–May 3, delivering 11 days of family-friendly entertainment at the Walter Gerrells Performing Arts Center. Produced by Carlsbad Live, LLC, the festival features dual stages, a daily carnival, cultural celebrations, vendors, and destination-worthy experiences.
-- Hawgfest 2026: One of Southeastern New Mexico’s Largest Events Returns to Carlsbad for an 11-Day Spring Spectacle
Each spring, Carlsbad becomes the epicenter of entertainment in Southeastern New Mexico, and in 2026, that momentum reaches new heights. From April 23 through May 3, Hawgfest 2026 takes over the Walter Gerrells Performing Arts Center and expanded festival grounds, delivering 11 days of music, culture, carnival excitement, and family-friendly entertainment at a scale unmatched in the region.
Produced by Carlsbad Live, LLC, Hawgfest has grown into one of the largest and most anticipated annual events in Southeastern New Mexico, drawing visitors from across New Mexico and The United States for a true destination festival experience.
An 11-Day Festival Experience, Built Big
Hawgfest 2026 delivers nonstop attractions throughout its 11-day run, including:
- Dual music stages with continuous performances and seamless transitions
- Three beer gardens with non-alcoholic options, thoughtfully placed across the grounds
- A large-scale carnival operating all 11 days, offering family fun by day and glowing excitement by night
- Vendors, food trucks, and artisan booths featuring local businesses and regional flavors
- The Inkers Tattoo Expo, showcasing skilled artists and live tattoo sessions
Designed for flow and accessibility, Hawgfest allows guests to move effortlessly between music, rides, food, and culture; creating an immersive festival atmosphere.
Dual-Stage Music That Never Slows Down
Two stages ensure the energy never drops:
- Main Stage — Headline performances and full-scale productions
- Patio Stage — Transitional sets, acoustic performances, and surprise appearances
Main Hawgfest Weekend | April 23–26
A high-energy kickoff featuring country, rock, and crowd-favorite acts.
Hawgfest “Herencia” | April 30–May 2
A three-day Hispanic Heritage celebration spotlighting Tejano, Norteño, regional Mexican music, Latin fusion, and cultural pride; honoring the deep roots and rhythms of the Southwest.
From Motorcycle Roots to a Regional Family Festival
Originally launched with motorcycle rally roots, Hawgfest has evolved into a multi-generational celebration.
“We knew Hawgfest had the potential to grow into something much bigger,” said festival owner Curtis McKinney. “Our goal was to create the ultimate family entertainment festival—one that welcomes everyone, celebrates culture, and showcases why Carlsbad is such a special place to visit.”
Today, Hawgfest proudly welcomes families, visitors, and music fans of all ages.
Carlsbad: A Destination That Complements the Festival
Hawgfest’s success is intertwined with Carlsbad’s identity as a destination city. Home to the world-renowned Carlsbad Caverns National Park, the area attracts visitors from around the globe. Above ground, the Pecos River winds through the city, offering scenic beauty, recreation, and a relaxed Southwest atmosphere that pairs perfectly with the excitement of Hawgfest.
Visitors can enjoy festival nights filled with music and lights, then spend their days exploring caverns, riverwalks, and historic downtown Carlsbad.
Community Partnerships at the Heart of Hawgfest
Hawgfest is proud to work alongside respected community organizations that help make the festival possible and meaningful:
- Lions Club of Carlsbad – A long-standing service organization dedicated to improving the community through volunteerism and outreach. This year, the Lions Club is bringing the Hawgfest Carnival, providing family-friendly rides, games, and entertainment that anchor the festival’s daytime experience.
- United Way of Eddy County – Focused on strengthening the community by supporting education, financial stability, and health initiatives. Hawgfest’s partnership with United Way reflects a shared commitment to creating positive, lasting impact throughout Eddy County.
- New Mexico Special Olympics – An organization devoted to empowering athletes with intellectual disabilities through sports, inclusion, and community engagement. Hawgfest proudly supports Special Olympics New Mexico as part of its mission to foster unity and opportunity for all.
Why Hawgfest 2026 Matters
- One of the largest multi-day events in Southeastern New Mexico
- 11 consecutive days of entertainment and attractions
- Dual stages, daily carnival, cultural celebrations, and vendors
- Family-friendly and destination-driven
- A significant driver of tourism, lodging, and regional visibility
Vendor and sponsor opportunities remain available.
For Sponsor and Vendor inquiries, call 833-721-8266.
Artist announcements, schedules, and ticket details will be released soon on Carlsbad Live's Website.
Brought to you in part by the City of Carlsbad Lodgers Tax.
About the company: About Carlsbad Live, LLC Carlsbad Live, LLC is a New Mexico–based live events and entertainment company dedicated to producing large-scale, community-driven festivals and cultural experiences in Carlsbad and across Southeastern New Mexico. Focused on family-friendly programming, regional tourism, and economic impact, Carlsbad Live, LLC brings together music, culture, and community to create destination events that attract visitors while celebrating local pride. Through strategic partnerships with civic organizations, nonprofits, artists, and sponsors, the company aims to elevate Carlsbad as a premier entertainment and travel destination in the Southwest.
Contact Info:
Name: Curtis McKinney
Email: Send Email
Organization: Carlsbad Live, LLC
Address: 2110 Tower Drive
Phone: 5753026722
Website: http://www.carlsbadlive.com
Release ID: 89182220
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