Christmas Lights in Albuquerque 2024-2025

Can you think of a better holiday pastime than indulging in flickering light displays? Albuquerque area is bursting with the festive spirit when the season rolls around. Just grab your family or friends and drive around the city to enjoy the best Christmas lights.

Twinkle Light Parade (December 14, 2024)

Praised for being the most colorful Christmas celebration in ABQ, Twinkle Light Parade in Nob Hill marks the official kick-off of the season. This free community event takes place on Central Avenue in early December. The parade is twinkling all the way along its mile-long route between Washington St. and Girard Blvd. In 2024, over 4,000 participants are in the parade with 260 vehicles. The magic begins around 5:15 pm, but you should try to come early since the street gets packed with spectators.

River of Lights at ABQ BioPark (November 30–December 30, 2024)

Head to the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden to witness the famous River of Lights, the state's largest walk-through holiday lights show with over 550 light displays. Millions and millions of twinkling bulbs illuminate the paths and alleys from late November through the end of December. Besides Christmas lights, the guests can enjoy loads of seasonal fun, including the rides on Rio Line Train and Polar Bear Express and the visits with Santa.

Albuquerque Area Holiday Lights Tour (December, 2024)

Lastly, why not leave the driving to others? Instead, lean back and observe the brilliance of the city aglow on the Trolley of Lights. See the flickering Old Town Plaza, Lee Acres, Sunset Memorial Park, and other iconic sites. The trolley departs from Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town in mid-to-late December at 6 pm and 8 pm. Besides, the LUX Edition with superstar service departs at 7 pm. For the most exceptional experience, opt for Christmas Eve Luminaria Tour, which is available exclusively on December 24 at 5 pm, 7 pm, and 9 pm.

UNM Hanging of the Greens (December 6, 2024)

UNM's oldest student tradition features a display of 13,000 farolitos, the largest in the area. The event starts at 5:30 pm at the UNM Bookstore, where participants will sing carols across campus. The group will end at University House, where they will give a wreath to the President. A reception at Hodgin Hall will follow. Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped children's book to donate to UNM Children's Hospital by placing it under the Christmas tree at Hodgin Hall.

Winter Wonderland New Mexico (December 1-30, 2024)

This magical drive-thru adventure, a mixture of holiday lights with rich New Mexico culture, is a must-see family event in Albuquerque. Winter Wonderland New Mexico offers a variety of holiday activities and events, such as holiday light displays, light tunnels, large-scale holiday attractions, Santa’s workshop and photo opportunities, live performers where Disney Princesses come to life, and much more.

Winter Wonderland, located at Expo NM, is open on Thursday through Sunday, from 6 pm to 9 pm on Thursday and Sunday, and from 6 pm-10 pm from Friday to Saturday. Please note that the event is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Christmas Day.

Albuquerque Speedway Christmas Lights (unconfirmed in 2024)

On the southwest side of the city, you'll find another mind-blowing Christmas light show—Lights of Enchantment at Sandia Speedway. The drive-thru opens in late November with a special Christmas Tree lighting event. Prepare to behold over 350 merry and bright displays between 5:30 pm and 9:30 pm. Admission is $49.95 per car.