Binational Cabalgata Memorial Horse Ride from Casas Grandes to Columbus, N.M. occurs each year during Camp Furlong Days at Pancho Villa State Park. Photo by Sylvia Brenner, Heritage Educator, Pancho Villa State Park.

Luna County

New Mexico

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The Great American Duck Race, held on the 4th Thursday through Sunday of August, is four days of hilarious fun. Duck racing, duck dress up contest - "Duck Royalty Pageant," Tournament of Ducks Parade, Green Chili Cook-off, Great American Outhouse Race, vendors, food, balloons, and big name and local entertainment.

With more than 350 days of sunshine each year, Luna County is a treasure chest full of modern military and railroad history, the start of using airplanes by the military, vineyards, International endeavors, RVers, and memories of the "Old West." Additionally, the town of Columbus is marked as the last place in the continental United States to be attacked by a foreign country.

The town of Columbus, dubbed the Cradle of American airpower, was a testing ground for what would become the U.S. Air Force. This was the first place from where the first American military pilots flew their first mission. It was also the site of the raid by Mexican renegade Francisco Pancho Villa. Pancho Villa State Park is home to a fabulous museum about the raid and military power of the time and still has remnants of Camp Furlong. The Columbus Historical Society is home to local history in a 1902 railroad depot, saved by the society 1975. Columbus is three miles from the border town of Palomas, Mexico.

Deming , known for its great water and fast ducks, is a popular winter home for snowbirds from all over the country. With historic beginnings in the railroad industry, there are lots of interesting buildings in the area and a museum of the county's history, so well done, that it draws people from all over the country. The Great American Duck Race is an annual event, unique, fun and a huge draw for tourists.

The REDTT County Tourism Council (CTC) of Luna County meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Meeting location changes from month to month, between Deming and Columbus. For additional information, to become a member and to get involved in tourism in Luna County, contact the REDTT director at redtt@nmsu.edu or call (505) 646-8009.

Learn more about Luna County, places to visit and things to do, by clicking on some of the following links:

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