As the end of the year approaches, there are dozens of fun holiday events in Albuquerque to celebrate. In December, experience everything from dance and music to holiday markets and football. Here's a sampling of what’s happening in Albuquerque in December. For a full list, visit our events calendar.
Winter of Enchantment
Runs through Dec. 28 at Big Jim Farms
Enjoy a festive lineup of workshops and classes that explore New Mexico’s winter traditions along with photos with Santa, winter crafts, Christmas trees and more.
Winter Wonderland
Photo Credit: Facebook
Dec. 5-29 at EXPO New Mexico
Explore this special walk- and drive-through holiday attraction. Enjoy holiday lights, New Mexico culture, live performances and more.
The Nutcracker
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Dec. 7-8 at Popejoy Hall
Kick off your holidays and experience the magic of The Nutcracker, featuring the New Mexico Ballet Company and stars from the New York City Ballet and San Francisco Ballet, plus a live orchestra from the New Mexico Philharmonic.
La Estrella: A Flamenco Story of the Kings’ Quest
Dec. 13-15 at Rodey Theatre
Take part in a family-friendly holiday tradition with this special flamenco performance. Experience the magic of flamenco, Christmas carols, Spanish regional dances and more.
Twinkle Light Parade
Photo Credit: Eric Williams
Dec. 14 in Nob Hill
An annual Albuquerque tradition! Watch floats and twinkle lights illuminate a mile-long stretch of Route 66 in Nob Hill. Shop local for holiday gifts before or after the parade.
Mariachi Christmas
Photo Credit: Facebook
Dec. 15 at Popejoy Hall
Ring in the season with one of New Mexico's favorite holiday traditions. Experience the sights and sounds of Christmas in Mexico with mariachi music and traditional ballet folklórico.
Pueblo Gingerbread House Contest
Dec. 17-Jan. 5 at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
This annual holiday event is a unique way to share and enjoy Pueblo culture with the whole family. Children and adults are invited to enter a gingerbread house inspired by a Pueblo village, house, community church or historic building, with cash prizes awarded in children’s and adult categories. People’s Choice judging is open to visitors from Dec. 17 to Jan. 5, with the winners announced on Jan. 7.
Nutcracker in the Land of Enchantment
Dec. 20-22 at the National Hispanic Cultural Center
An original production from Festival Ballet Albuquerque, this beloved holiday classic is transported to territorial New Mexico in the late 1800s, with added elements of the state’s heritage and traditions.
Isleta New Mexico Bowl
Dec. 28 at University Stadium
Enjoy a college football bowl game right in the heart of Albuquerque.
Holiday Shop and Stroll Events
- Nob Hill Shop and Stroll, Dec. 5 in Nob Hill
- Old Town Holiday Stroll, Dec. 6 in Old Town
- Christmas at the Marketplace, Dec. 7 at Poulin Marketplace
- Winrock Wonderland Holiday Market, Dec. 7 at Winrock Town Center
- Squidly Holiday Market, Dec. 8 at Squidly Designs
- The Groove Holiday Art Market, Dec. 8 at The Groove Artspace
- Holiday Market at the Rail Yards, Dec. 14-15 at the Rail Yards
- Merry Holiday Market, Dec. 14 at El Vado
- Humble Holiday Market, Dec. 21 at Humble Coffee Company – Nob Hill
- Upside Holiday Market, Dec. 21 at Sid Cutter Pilot’s Pavilion at Balloon Fiesta Park
- Merry Mingle and Holiday Jingle Market, Dec. 22 at Canteen Brewhouse
