Cities and Towns

Albuquerque
The BioPark’s River of Light is definitely one of the city’s favorite and beloved traditions. Locals and visitors alike stroll the grounds of the Albuquerque BioPark, strolling paths lined with sculptures created from thousands of lights. From trains to leaping critters it's New Mexico's largest walk-through holiday light show. Tickets can be purchased online through the New Mexico BioPark Society, or at the Biopark. Once in the park, children (and their parents) will delight in the scale model railroad at the Botanic Garden that often operates during this season.

For more information Visit the Biological Park's website at to learn more CABQ.gov/biopark Information is also available by calling (505) 764-6280

Aztec
The Fantasy of Lights Holiday Show, in Riverside Park is a fantasy land of animated lighted sculptures featuring holiday scenes, animals, flowers and many other visual delights. It’s open the day after Thanksgiving through New Years Eve. Currently there is no charge, but a $4.00 donation per vehicle would be appreciated and help pay for their community youth programs.

For more information visit AztecFantasyOfLights.com

Carlsbad
Cruise the Pecos River to view over 100 homes bedecked in lights. The Christmas on the Pecos starts Thanksgiving night and runs through New Year’s Eve. NOTE: These homes can only be viewed by boat from the river.

Warning – this is a very popular event, having been voted as a top 100 Event of the Year for several years and 2007 Outstanding Event of the Year by the new Mexico Tourism Association. Buy your tickets early.

For more information and to purchase tickets visit christmasonthepecos.com

Farmington
For one night only, San Juan College is awash in luminarias. Experience the magic on the first Saturday in December as thousands of luminarias glow softly in the night. The best way to know the magic is to walk the luminous paths. There is no cost to enjoy the 50,000 lights.

For more information call the Student Activities office of the college at (505) 566-3403

Madrid
Weekends in December Madrid turns on the lights for the winter holidays. The festivities begin with a Christmas parade and a contest to judge the best lighting display. For more information: Visit the Madrid website VisitMadridNM.com

Mesilla
Celebrate December 24th with luminarias and carols 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Old Mesilla Plaza. Free and open to the public. For more information call 505-524-3262, ext 116.

Santa Fe
Farolitos are placed along walkways through the historic heart of the town. Walking along the illuminated streets by the plaza and nearby neighborhoods is a favorite local and visitor activity. Although the farolitos are only on the Plaza on Christmas eve, visitors can enjoy music and concerts in the Plaza throughout December.

Pueblos

Acoma Pueblo Luminarias On Christmas Eve December 24th, luminarias line the road through the valley leading to the Acoma Pueblo and the Cultural Center. Best viewing is from 6 to 10 PM. There is no cost. The Acoma Pueblo also provides a package of a night’s lodging, a minibus tour, and the opportunity to visit the San Esteban Del Rey Mission. Note: bad weather conditions can cause cancellation The Acoma pueblo also runs guided daytime tours. For several days past Christmas there is the opportunity to see the special holiday dances.

National Monuments and State Parks

Fort Selden Luminaria Tour For one night in December, 1,000 luminarias light the trails and ruins. Hot chocolate, cookies and caroling. Period dress. Free event with paid park admission For more information call (505) 526-8911.