The Holiday Edit • 2026
Albuquerque, All Aglow
Paper lanterns lining adobe walls. A parade that sparkles down Route 66. Local markets with gifts you won’t find everywhere else. Here’s your invitation to get out and enjoy the holidays in Albuquerque.
Company coming? Coat on. Let’s show them Albuquerque.
Photography by Gene Della MaggioraMake a Little Holiday Plan
November 22, December 6 and December 20, 2026
Corrales Holiday Growers’ Markets
11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Corrales Growers’ Market
Bring a basket and a little holiday appetite. Browse locally grown food and seasonal finds from the village’s growers and producers.
- Holiday Markets
November 27, 2026
Family Friday at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Check the event listing for hours and admission.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Albuquerque
Bring the family for a holiday outing with seasonal activities, delicious treats, and a photo with Santa.
- Santa & Family
November 28, 2026
Corrales Christmas Tree Lighting
7–9:30 p.m.
Corrales Village Complex
Gather in the village for a bright beginning to the holiday season. Bundle up and enjoy a little community Christmas spirit.
- Lights & Luminarias
- Santa & Family
November 28, 2026–January 3, 2027
River of Lights
5–10 p.m.; last timed entry at 8 p.m.
Closed December 24, 25, 31 and January 1.
ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. SW
Bundle up for a garden walk filled with glowing sculptures and holiday sparkle.
Santa photo opportunities are advertised for the special Opening Night celebration; check the organizer for details.
- Lights & Luminarias
- Santa & Family
November 28, 2026
Small Business Saturday in Corrales
10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Participating Corrales businesses
Take the scenic shopping route. Browse village shops, discover local gifts, and make a day of supporting small businesses.
- Holiday Markets
December 4, 2026
Old Town Holiday Stroll
5–9 p.m.
Tree lighting at 6 p.m.
Historic Old Town
Browse local shops, catch live performances, and gather for the tree lighting in Albuquerque’s historic heart.
Free admission.
- Lights & Luminarias
- Santa & Family
December 4, 2026–December 6, 2026
Winter Craft Show at the Old Church
10 a.m.–4 p.m. daily
Old San Ysidro Church, Corrales
A historic church, talented makers, and gifts worth discovering. Shop the juried Winter Craft Show while supporting preservation of the Old Church.
- Holiday Markets
December 5, 2026
Corrales Starlight Parade & St. Nick’s Nite
Parade begins at 5:30 p.m.
Corrales Road; festivities afterward at the Jones Center
Find a spot along Corrales Road for a sparkling village parade, then continue the celebration with music and treats at St. Nick’s Nite.
- Lights & Luminarias
- Santa & Family
December 5, 6 and 19, 2026
Los Ranchos Holiday Art Markets
10 a.m.–2 p.m.
6718 Rio Grande Blvd. NW, Los Ranchos
Skip the ordinary. Meet local artists and find handmade jewelry, pottery, textiles, and gifts with a little New Mexico personality.
- Holiday Markets
December 5, 2026
Noche de Luces
5–8 p.m.
Casa San Ysidro, 973 Old Church Road, Corrales
Experience Casa San Ysidro after dark, glowing with farolitos and holiday lights. Enjoy traditional music, craft activities, and a distinctly New Mexican evening.
Free admission.
- Lights & Luminarias
- Santa & Family
Photography by Gene Della MaggioraA Christmas Eve Glow
Old Town and the nearby Country Club and Huning Castle neighborhoods are part of Albuquerque’s beloved luminaria tradition. Dress warmly, respect residents’ homes, and check current access and tour information before heading out.
Explore the Luminaria TraditionBring Home a Little Holiday
Biscochitos for the neighbors. Tamales for the table. A few delicious ways to make the season feel like New Mexico.
Celina’s Biscochitos
A little cinnamon, a little anise, and plenty to share. Pick up traditional or specialty biscochitos for holiday gifts, gatherings, or your own cookie plate.
Find your holiday cookiesfor Celina’s Biscochitos (opens in a new tab)Golden Crown Panaderia
Bring something delicious to the gathering: biscochitos or New Mexico green chile bread from this neighborhood bakery.
Explore the bakeryfor Golden Crown Panaderia (opens in a new tab)El Modelo
Make room for tamales. Bring home handmade tamales from this longtime Albuquerque favorite for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in.
Explore the menu & orderingfor El Modelo (opens in a new tab)
Check directly with each business for seasonal hours, availability, and advance ordering.
Plans can change. Check with the organizer for current hours, tickets, and weather updates.