Top 5 Holiday Events in Albuquerque You Don't Want to Miss
'Tis the season for our southwestern city to transform into a winter wonderland full of fun and festive events. In true Albuquerque form, our holiday events blend the city's unique culture and history to create one-of-a-kind experiences. Whether you are a local or just visiting for the holidays, these top five events will put you in the holiday spirit.
River of Lights at ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden
The River of Lights is one of Albuquerque's most popular holiday traditions and the largest walk-through light display in New Mexico. Held at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, this event features millions – yes, millions - of twinkling lights, incredible hand-welded sculptures, and over 700 fun and festive displays.
While you're taking a stroll through the 1.6-mile path of lights, you can sip hot cocoa, take a ride on a holiday-themed train ride, and take in the magic of the season. This event gets crowded, so if you want to avoid fighting the crowds, weekdays are the best time to visit. Weekends book up quickly, so buying tickets in advance is a good idea.
If you're looking for a free holiday event, this is for you! Bring the whole family out to Nob Hill for a festive parade featuring floats, marching bands, and vehicles decked out in Christmas décor. So, bundle up and grab a spot along Central Ave. in Nob Hill from Washington Blvd. to Girard Blvd to watch this fun community event.
Get some shopping done while getting in the Christmas spirit at the Old Town Holiday Stroll. The family-friendly event starts with lighting a 30-foot sequoia replica tree that will remain lit throughout the holiday season. Local shops will stay open late so you can check off your list with unique gifts and treats you'll only find in Albuquerque.
Entertainment starts at 5 p.m. and includes the ABQ Girl Choir, The Good Apples, and Baila! Baila! and the Mountain View Mennonite Choir, and Mariachis. You can also treat yourself to one of the many restaurants and bars and get free admission to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science.
New Mexico Ballet Company's "The Nutcracker"
It's not the holiday season without the Nutcracker! Head over to the National Hispanic Cultural Center to see Clara meet the Sugar Plum and journey through the Kingdom of Sweets. New Mexico Ballet's stunning production with beautiful costumes, enchanting music, and spectacular choreography will become a new family tradition!
If you're looking for something more uniquely Southwest, you need to check out the Luminaria tour. On Christmas Eve, you can take a bus or drive through neighborhoods lit up by thousands of Luminarias. If you're new to the area, a luminaria is a glowing paper lantern symbolic of hope. The tour will take approximately 45 minutes and is truly breathtaking.
There are plenty of events to attend and memories to be made here in New Mexico that will last a lifetime. No matter how you spend the holidays in Albuquerque, we hope you are safe and happy with those you love the most. Merry Christmas from the NM Home Team!
Posted by Alfonso "Fonz" Salazar on
Leave A Comment