New Mexico's largest city observes the holiday season with notable style and festivities. Take part in the holiday celebration with coupons, centuries-old traditions and numerous events that offer something for everyone.

• New Mexican Holiday Traditions
• Albuquerque Holiday Activities
• Special Holiday Events

Albuquerque Holiday Activities

The annual Old Town Luminaria Tour on December 24th is not to be missed. 
Watch our special two minute holiday video about Luminarias, "Life of a Brown Paper Bag."

Native American Dancing and Pueblo Feast Days

Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center on weekends and enjoy Native American dancing and art demonstrations, you can also take part in baking bread and making art. The holidays are a wonderful time to visit the neighboring pueblos, many of them hold feast day celebrations in November and December.  View more information and see the schedule here. 

Shopping

Albuquerque has the biggest and best shopping in the entire state with three premier malls and many special shopping areas and specialty stores. Whether you have been to Albuquerque or not, there is something for everyone from traditional Southwestern jewelry and pottery to contemporary designs of paintings, sculpture and more. 

Stroll through two of Albuquerque’s historic neighborhoods and shop in unique local shops on two consecutive days. 

• Deck the Hill in Nob Hill on December 6, 13 and 20, 2018 includes shopping and food specials, family entertainment, and photos with Santa.
• The Old Town Holiday Stroll on Friday, December 7, 2018 features live entertainment, dancers, family activities, Santa Claus and the lighting of the giant Christmas tree at Plaza Don Luis. 
• The Twinkle Light Parade on Saturday, December 1, 2018 kick off your holiday season with 100 twinkling floats, vehicles, schools and animal groups all joining the tradition.

The festive season brings traditional New Mexican culinary specialties to the forefront with tamales, posole, and biscochitos on every table. 

Treat yourself to a special holiday dinner at one of Albuquerque's diverse dining establishments. 

Add a taste of Albuquerque to your holiday season with traditional New Mexican recipes. 

Outdoor Activities

Celebrate winter with a ride on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway or take a day trip from Albuquerque for skiing, snowboarding, winter hiking, and snowshoeing in the surrounding mountains. Keep an eye on the weather conditions at Sandia Peak Ski Area if you're looking for snow sports less than 30 minutes from Albuquerque!