December is almost here, and the holiday season is finally upon us! Although we may not have Jack Frost nipping at our nose here in Albuquerque, there are still tons of chances to deck the halls and get in the holly jolly holiday spirit.
From light festivals to Christmas parades, explore a few of the highlights happening around the area, and plan our you schedule of festivities.
Hanging of the Greens
One of the oldest traditions at the University of New Mexico, the Hanging of the Greens features almost 14,000 luminarias, making it one of the biggest luminaria displays in the area. Although it takes place on campus, the whole community is invited to attend.
Students will carol across campus, singing Christmas classics, as they walk to present the university President with a wreath. Stick around for the reception afterwards, and bring an unwrapped children’s book to donate to the children’s hospital.
Date: November 30th, 5:45PM
Location: UNM Bookstore
Twinkle Light Parade
One of the biggest and best celebrations in Albuquerque, the Twinkle Light Parade brings together hundreds of floats, marching bands, light displays, and holiday themed appearances.
The parade starts just as the sun starts going down, so the twinkling lights of the floats and parade vehicles cast a comforting glow over the city. Come out and celebrate the holiday season with the community, and enjoy this family-friendly event.
Date: December 1st, 5PM-8PM
Location: Historic Nob Hill
Old Town Holiday Stroll
The Old Town Holiday Stroll is a great opportunity to explore the sights and sounds of Old Town while you celebrate the holidays. Not only will there be a tree lighting ceremony, but all of the shops and restaurants in Old Town will be open for business!
Enjoy warm hot chocolate, live musical performances, and all of the holiday sales at Old Town retailers. If you can’t attend the celebration in person, it will be broadcast live on KOB 4!
Date: December 7th, 5pm-9pm
Location: Historic Old Town
The Bugg Lights
A celebration that dates back 48 years, the Bugg Light Festival is a holiday institution. The festival features over 300,000 lights, tons of festive decorations, over 100 Christmas trees, and much more.
Opened nightly from Tuesday to Sunday until December 30th, visitors can enjoy holiday food, drinks, and fun — plus free admissions! If you want to donate to the festival, all proceeds will go towards continuing the tradition and local non-profits.
Date: November 24th-December 30th, 6PM-9PM
Location: Belen Harvey House Museum
Luminaria Tour
The Luminaria Tour is undoubtedly an Albuquerque Christmas tradition, and it’s celebrating its 54th anniversary this year. Bringing together community members on the night of Christmas Eve, the ABQ RIDE takes attendees on a guided tour through the warm luminaria lights in the city.
Although tickets for this year have sold out for the official ride, you can still take your own tour through the lights, from the Convention Center to Old Town. Plus, you can remember to buy your tickets early next year!
Date: December 24th, 5:30PM-7:30PM
Location: Downtown Convention Center
Celebrate the Holidays in Albuquerque
With twinkling lights, Christmas traditions, and festive community events, Albuquerque is full of the holiday spirit. Don’t miss out your chance to be a member of this active community — find your new home in Albuquerque today!
If you have any questions, want more information about events, or would like to schedule a home showing, don’t hesitate to contact the Feil family real estate team!