Albuquerque Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Albuquerque and surrounding areas
The Christmas season in Albuquerque centers on Old Town and the Plaza with warm Holiday lights and festive events that showcase Southwestern traditions and winter cheer. Old Town Holiday Stroll, Winter Wonderland NM, and New Mexico BioPark Society's River of Lights offer family-friendly holiday attractions and seasonal tours near historic San Felipe de Neri Church. Explore local markets, performances, and Santa visits while enjoying neighborhood lights and activities that make Albuquerqueβs winter celebrations uniquely memorable.
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Christmas Shows
7 eventsHoliday classical music series featuring Bach and Vivaldi
Christmas Markets
5 eventsHistoric Old Town illuminated for the holidays.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Canyon Road Farolito Walk
(Santa Fe)
Canyon Road illuminated by thousands of farolitos
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Old Town Holiday Stroll
Historic Old Town illuminated for the holidays.
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Winter Wonderland NM
Drive-thru and walk-thru holiday attraction with charity donations.
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Holiday Tree Lighting on the Plaza
(Santa Fe)
Historic Plaza illuminated with thousands of lights and farolitos
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Santa Fe Pro Musica Holiday Bach Festival
(Santa Fe)
Holiday classical music series featuring Bach and Vivaldi
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New Mexico BioPark Society's River of Lights
Millions of lights and over 800 animated sculptures
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Lights Near Albuquerque
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Albuquerque.
New Mexico BioPark Society's River of Lights
Experience New Mexico's largest holiday light show at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden....
View full details βWinter Wonderland NM
Step into a world of holiday magic at Winter Wonderland NM, New Mexico's...
View full details βHoliday Tree Lighting on the Plaza
Experience the magic of Santa Fe's annual Holiday Tree Lighting on the Plaza....
View full details βOther Christmas Activities Near Albuquerque
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Albuquerque.
Twinkle Light Parade
Get ready for the dazzling Twinkle Light Parade, a beloved free, family-friendly holiday...
View full details βNew Year's Eve on the Santa Fe Plaza
Celebrate New Year's Eve in Santa Fe, NM, with a vibrant, free community...
View full details βLatest News & Updates
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Albuquerque Christmas FAQ
Some of the biggest annual Christmas events in Albuquerque include large-scale light displays and popular holiday markets that draw significant crowds. Keep an eye out for community-wide celebrations and well-established craft fairs.
Albuquerque often blends traditional Southwestern holiday customs with broader Christmas celebrations, featuring unique local crafts and culinary influences. Look for events that highlight New Mexican artistry and flavors.
The North Valley is particularly well-known for its stunning Christmas lights and elaborate neighborhood displays. Many residents throughout Albuquerque also decorate their homes beautifully, creating a festive atmosphere city-wide.
You can find Christmas markets and local makers in various locations, including downtown event spaces, community centers, and sometimes in areas like Old Town. Many artisan markets pop up throughout November and December.
Admiring neighborhood Christmas lights, especially in areas like the North Valley, is a fantastic free activity. Many community events and some holiday markets also offer free admission or low-cost options.
Families with kids often enjoy visiting Christmas light displays, attending markets with Santa meet-and-greets, and looking for kid-friendly shows or movies. Many community events are specifically designed for family entertainment.