Marfa Lights
The first recorded sighting of the Marfa Lights was in 1883 when a young ranch hand named Robert Reed Ellison saw what he thought was a flickering Indian campfire. Yet long before the first official sighting, Native Americans, trailblazers and settlers had seen the mysterious lights but never found a tangible trace of their existence.
Every sort of explanation has been given for the lights, but to date, there has been no scientific justification. Many scientists from around the world have attempted to solve the mystery, but have been unsuccesful in proving theories that include such ideas as refracted light, mirages and other atmospheric phenomena. From the mundane belief that they are merely car lights heading south on Highway 67 towards Presidio, to the more folkloric interpretation of an Apache chief's wandering spirit on the Chinati Mountains, the lights continue to fascinate and attract large crowds.
The best viewing area for the lights is about 10 miles east of Marfa on U.S Highway 90 to Alpine. It is a well marked turn out on the south side of the road. Viewing occurs after sunset and is affected by the atmosphere and weather. The lights move erratically at the horizon. They vary in number from moment to moment or night to night, usually you can see at least 2-3 at a time. Their color is a matter of interpretation--- most people think they are a standard yellow-white--- but they have been described in other colors. Binoculars are the most effective way of viewing, although recently, the State of Texas has constructed a viewing area/rest stop.
The Marfa Lights Festival
The Marfa Lights Festival is celebrated every Labor Day Weekend around the Historic Presidio County Courthouse. Food and crafts vendors sell their ware while the Marfa community and guests are entertained by live music and dancing.
The Festival is kicked off on Friday night with the Marfa Lights Night Parade. Saturday morning, the more traditional parade begins late morning and travels through town with floats, the Marfa High School Band, fire and police trucks, equestrian entries and more. Each evening a special music event is offered with headliner groups making the end of a Marfa Summer a huge party. For more information, contact the Marfa Chamber of Commerce at 432.729.4942, or visit them on the web, at marfacc.com.
