In all, nearly 400 light displays and three-dimensional sculptures, ranging in size from 1-foot to 22-feet, decorate the gardens. This year, the dinosaur light sculpture, an old favorite, is waiting in a new spot where visitors are closer to the colossus than ever before. New displays include a disappearing Cheshire cat, colorful crayons, a snow family and a spectacular fountain sculpture for the Spanish-Moorish Garden.
"River of Lights artists and craftsmen are busy setting up for what has become an New Mexico tradition," said Maryann Torrez, Operations and Events Supervisor. "On many evenings we are offering free park & ride service, so getting here has never been so easy! We'll have bus service leaving from the Zoo every 5 minutes or guests can board the train at Tingley Beach every 20 minutes. The schedule and other details are on our website."
In addition to the "glowrious" lights and sculptures, guests can enjoy hot food and beverages while carolers and local bands sing. The Conservatories will be filled with seasonal flower displays, including hundreds of poinsettias. The model railroad will be chugging along brightly lit tracks Wednesdays through Sundays from 6 - 8:30 p.m. Later in the season, evening holiday diners can even feast with Santa. Guests can also get crafty and help make Holiday Nature Crafts.
As preparations progress, more and more River of Lights sculptures can be seen throughout the Botanic Garden. Daytime guests can check out the science and craftsmanship behind the nighttime magic of the magnificent light displays.
The BioPark is an accessible facility and a division of the Cultural Services Department, City of Albuquerque, Richard J. Berry, Mayor. For more information, visit www.abqbiopark.com or call 311 locally or 505-768-2000 (Relay NM or 711).