NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Check out community events around New Mexico from December 5 to 11.

Albuquerque

• December 5 Hanging of the Greens – The University of New Mexico welcomes students, families, and alumni to campus at 5:30 p.m. Attendees can enjoy hot chocolate and biscochitos before joining Santa and Mrs. Claus, Lobo Louie and Lucy, and a team of elves for caroling across campus. The group will make its way to University House, where they will present UNM President Garnett Stokes with a holiday wreath. Visitors can take in the glow of luminarias lining sidewalks, courtyards, and historic buildings. Carolers will continue to Hodgin Hall Alumni Center for the President’s Posole Reception, held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The reception is free and open to the community.
• December 5 Old Town Holiday Stroll – Celebrate tradition with family and enjoy some holiday shopping at local businesses. Join the City of Albuquerque for the kick-off of the holiday season and be entertained by local performers. Discover new stores, visit familiar staples, and continue the tradition in the beautifully illuminated heart of Albuquerque. This free event is from 5 to 9 p.m. in the Old Town Plaza.
• December 5 A Winter Evening at Sandia Prep – Join Sandia Preparatory School for a cozy evening filled with festive fun, warm refreshments, and community connections. Enjoy a hot chocolate, listen to performances by student music groups, and shop for unique gifts from community vendors. Capture special moments with loved ones against beautiful seasonal backdrops, including a visit with Santa, Prep’s own Sugar Plum Fairy, and Frozen’s Olaf. Find the perfect read for friends, family, or yourself at the Scholastic Book Fair. This event is open to all families from any school and runs from 4:30 to 7 p.m.
• December 5-6 Holiday Craft & Plant Fair – Get ready to deck the halls (and gardens) at the Albuquerque Garden Center’s annual Holiday Fair. This festive event will be held on December 5 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and December 6 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Browse a wide selection of handcrafted gifts and festive décor from over 35 talented local artisans. Discover the perfect winter plants to bring life to any indoor space. Immerse in the holiday spirit with delicious treats and a joyful atmosphere. This is a free event, perfect for the whole family.
• December 5-7 25/26 ACL Albuquerque Open – Get ready for another exciting American Cornhole League Open, bringing together both Pros and Amateurs in a competitive atmosphere. Players can compete in a variety of tournaments on Friday to kick off the weekend right. At the heart of the action are Doubles on Saturday and “Sunday Singles” for all skill levels. It’s a weekend full of nonstop competition, fun, and excitement. This event is open to the public, so come out and experience it first-hand. Over $25,000 is guaranteed in prizes and cash payouts. Visit iplaycornhole.com for a full schedule of events.
• December 5-28 Winter Wonderland NM – Step into pure holiday magic at Winter Wonderland, back at EXPO NM and bigger than ever. This year, enjoy even more spectacular attractions, live actors, interactive lights, and holiday cheer for the entire family. Each ticket unlocks an unforgettable drive-thru experience plus access to the ever-expanding Walking Tour, now featuring two vibrant sections: Villa Hispana and Indian Village. For the full schedule and tickets, visit winterwonderlandnm.com/events.
• December 5-30 River of Lights – Get into the holiday spirit and enjoy a stroll along the 1-mile path featuring over 700 one-of-a-kind hand-welded light displays, animated and 3D sculptures, and millions of twinkling lights at New Mexico’s largest and most beloved original walk-through holiday light show. This event takes place from 5 to 10 p.m. each day (closed on December 24 and 25) at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, with two low-sensory nights scheduled for December 1 and January 2. Tickets are $21 for general admission and $12 for youth 3-12. A schedule of value nights is available online.
• December 5-31 Sawmill Winter Experience – This holiday season, Sawmill Market transforms into a magical, immersive holiday experience with twinkling lights, enchanting decor, and an atmosphere sure to surprise and delight. This wondrous festival of dining and seasonal refreshments will captivate the senses while a holiday-themed digital installation and mini moments of wonder enchant visitors of all ages. The free experience recurs daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• December 6 Twinkle Light Parade – Get excited for the holiday season with another year of festive lights and community fun. This is a free, family-friendly holiday event that illuminates a mile-long stretch of Route 66 in Nob Hill. Entries in the parade are comprised of local businesses, community and school groups, and a variety of Albuquerque organizations, all dedicated to bringing the community together and shining bright for all to see. Central Ave. will close to traffic starting at 3 p.m., giving shoppers the freedom to get holiday shopping done at a variety of stores or eat at restaurants in Nob Hill. Plan to arrive early, shop, then grab a spot to view the Twinkle Light Parade as it will dazzle thousands of spectators. The parade is from 5:15 to 8:15 p.m.
• December 6 Christmas at the Marketplace – Celebrate the holidays with family and friends at Christmas at Poulin Marketplace. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 8600 Pan American Fwy NE, enjoy a festive day filled with shopping, inspiration, and holiday cheer. Discover the newly expanded Marketplace and Design Center, featuring 20+ local artisans and unique Christmas gifts. Shop stunning décor—ornaments, candles, glassware, tableware, and more. Take photos with Santa, enjoy local eats, and sample hand-blended loose-leaf teas and handmade syrups. This event is free to attend.

New Mexico

• December 5 Bernalillo: Ceramic Luminaria Workshop – In this workshop, participants will create a handmade ceramic luminaria using slab techniques. On day one (December 5), participants will create the luminaria, then add designs by carving on the surface of the clay. Luminarias will be bisque-fired between sessions. On day two (December 12), participants will paint the luminarias using underglaze and glaze. Luminarias will be fired one final time and returned to participants to take home. The workshop is free, and all supplies are furnished. Participants must register to attend and must be at least 10, and those under 17 must bring an adult. Both sessions are from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Bernalillo Community Museum.
• December 5 Taos: Lighting Ledoux – The Harwood Museum of Art and the Ledoux Street neighbors are kicking off the holiday season with the annual winter celebration, Lighting Ledoux. Enjoy bonfires and farolitos, performances along this historic street, free museum admission, holiday art-making, an artist market, and lots of festive cheer. This free, family-friendly event is from 4 to 7 p.m.
• December 6 Santa Fe: Holiday Mercado: Navidad – Celebrate the season Southside-style at this free community event. Shop handmade gifts, art, and local products while supporting Santa Fe’s small businesses, food vendors, and creative entrepreneurs. Enjoy free holiday arts and crafts, photos with Santa, and creative activities for all ages. This event is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• December 6 Farmington: Luminaria Display – Each year, San Juan College thanks the community for their support with a phenomenal display of luminarias on the campus grounds and buildings. A glimmering array of bags will shine from rooftops, along sidewalks, in courtyards, and select campus parking lots throughout the evening. The community can drive through the display. The driving route will open at 6 p.m.
• December 6 Ruidoso Festival of Lights Parade – Ruidoso’s beloved Festival of Lights Parade brings friends and family together for an evening of twinkling lights and togetherness in the winter wonderland of Ruidoso. The Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Toys for Tots and encourages everyone to bring a new, unwrapped toy to the Parade of Lights. During the parade, Toys for Tots will have a float and will be collecting toys for donation. This year’s theme for the parade is Muppets Christmas. The parade is from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Sudderth Drive.
• December 6 Hillsboro: Christmas in the Foothills – This pre-Christmas celebration is held in Hillsboro annually. Much of the festivities happen at the Hillsboro Community Center, where highlights include the famous $49.99 Art Sale, raffles, food, and vendors selling handmade holiday wares. Meanwhile, downtown merchants and restaurants will deck their halls and welcome visitors. Each year, a poster is created by a local artist or artisan, and signed copies are available for sale. This free event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• December 6 Carlsbad: Winter & Wine Festival – Shop local for holiday gifts, food, and entertainment. General admission guests can enjoy sipping, swirling, and shopping. Wine is provided by local New Mexico wineries. Ten tastings are included in the price of the ticket, along with a souvenir glass. No one under the age of 21 will be admitted, and a photo ID is required. This event is from noon to 6 p.m.
• December 6-7 Monticello Holiday Store – All sorts of wonderful handmade holiday gifts are available for two weekends only. Numerous local artisans and farmers offer balsamic vinegar, harissa, essential oils, herbal products, jewelry, bread, jams, jellies, posole, wreaths, ornaments, knitwear, custom knives, sweet treats, ornaments, and many other items. This free event is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days.
• December 6-7 Silver City Holiday Artisan Market – The Silver City Holiday Artisan Market is held annually on the first weekend of December at the Grant County Veterans Memorial Business and Conference Center. This juried show features over 30 local artists and is open to the public at no charge. The event is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• December 6-7 Santa Fe: 2025 Winter Spanish Market – This beloved holiday tradition celebrates the enduring legacy of Spanish Colonial art in New Mexico. Whether discovering it for the first time or returning to a favorite seasonal event, this market offers a warm and festive showcase of traditional arts and culture. Featuring local and regional artists, the market includes handmade works across classic art forms such as tinwork, woodcarving, retablos, straw appliqué, and more—all rooted in centuries-old traditions. Enjoy live music, food, and holiday cheer in a family-friendly setting. This free event is at the Santa Fe Community Convention Center.

Albuquerque Notices

🔶AMAFCA tumbleweed snowman returns to Albuquerque for the holiday season — A friendly face has returned to Albuquerque on Wednesday. The Arroyo Flood Control Authority has set up its iconic tumbleweed snowman this morning along I-40.

🔶Bernalillo Co. purchases 84-unit affordable housing complex on 4th St. — Bernalillo County announced the purchase of an 84-unit affordable housing complex on Wednesday. “Poblana Place Apartments” is located at 2818 Fourth St. NW.

🔶Albuquerque providing free curbside green waste collection — The City of Albuquerque’s Solid Waste Management Department is offering free curbside green waste collection through Friday, December 12.

🔶Disney’s Descendants: The Musical at Cardboard Playhouse Theatre — The Cardboard Playhouse Theatre in Albuquerque is getting ready to bring a popular Disney Channel Original Movie to life. This month, they will be putting on a production of Disney’s Descendants: The Musical.

🔶Albuquerque City Council approves more money to replace dying turf at city parks — Albuquerque City Council has approved more money to replace dying turf at city parks. The resolution sets aside $2 million in emergency funding to restore the turf.

🔶APD: Auto theft down 42% compared to last year — Car theft is taking a nosedive in Albuquerque. The Albuquerque Police Department said they’re seeing fewer cases, with the city potentially falling off a notorious top ten list.

🔶City of Albuquerque to host last in-person ‘Toys for Tots’ sign-up on Dec. 6 — Time is running out to register for the Toys for Tots program. Organizers say the sign-up period is coming to a close, with the final in-person session slated for Saturday, Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

🔶Keller Vs. White: Albuquerque Mayoral Runoff — Albuquerque’s mayoral runoff election is officially one week away, and early voting is December 1st through December 6th. In one of their final appearances before Election Day, Chris and Gabby host incumbent Mayor Tim Keller and former Bernalillo County Sheriff Darren White.

🔶List: Holiday light displays in Albuquerque for 2025 — It’s time for the holidays. If you’re looking for a way to celebrate, maybe start with one of Duke City’s light displays. From luminarias to Christmas trees, there are a variety of ways to partake in the festivities.

🔶City of Albuquerque to host winter break activities for families — With December underway, the City of Albuquerque Department of Youth & Family Services plans to host multiple activities for kids and families during the winter break.

New Mexico Notices

🔶New Mexico Tech holding annual pet day for students — With finals around the corner, many students are feeling the pressure, but a unique program is giving students something to look forward to at New Mexico Tech. Tech’s pet day is put on by the student government and the Mental Health Committee to help students de-stress before finals.

🔶‘A little bit bigger, brighter’: New Mexico astronomy expert shares supermoon insight — If the moon looks a bit bigger, it’s not your imagination. The last supermoon of the year is making its appearance on Thursday evening.

🔶NMDGF finds above historic average amount of brown trout in some rivers — Biologists from the state’s department of game and fish found that brown trout are above historic averages in Cimarron and Red River. Last fall, biologists conducted a trout population survey.

🔶State continues push to train New Mexicans in high-paying jobs — New Mexico’s Jobs Training Incentive Program is looking to train more than 50 New Mexicans in high-paying jobs. Seven companies from across New Mexico will participate in the upcoming sessions.

🔶New Mexico’s role in understanding dinosaur extinction timeline — The extinction of the dinosaurs may be ancient history, but that history continues to be rewritten, thanks in part to a professor at New Mexico State University. As Chad Brummett discovered for New Mexico Frontiers, our state could play a crucial role in better understanding the timeline that led to the disappearance of giants.

🔶Torrance County offering new way for residents to receive emergency notifications — Torrance County is offering a new way for residents to stay up to date with what’s happening. The county said it is using TextMyGov, which will allow residents to receive text messages for general, emergency, fire, and weather alerts.

🔶Celestial events New Mexico residents can look out for in 2026 — As 2025 comes to a close, you may be looking ahead to the new year. And if you’re into stargazing or anything celestial, there’s a myriad of dates to mark on your 2026 calendar as full moons, meteor showers, and more are expected to take to the New Mexico skies.

🔶Animal shelter in Taos reopens after summer closure — One of northern New Mexico’s few animal shelters is back in business months after shutting down because of financial and safety problems. Director of Stray Hearts Animal Shelter, Kristen Van Norman, said that reopening has been a long road since the middle of the year.

🔶U.S. Department of Justice sues New Mexico Secretary of State over disclosure of voter lists — The United States Department of Justice is suing New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver over state voter registration lists. The lawsuit claims that the USDOJ is allowed to receive the records at its request. They said that the DOJ was looking into whether New Mexico was in compliance with federal law. The lawsuit said that states are required to provide the list with voters’ names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, or partial Social Security numbers every two years. The lawsuit states that Toulouse Oliver refused to turn over those records.

🔶Nearly 13% of New Mexicans could lose access to SNAP following new work requirements — The USDA has begun implementing new food stamp work requirements across all 50 states, putting tens of thousands of New Mexicans at risk of losing their SNAP benefits, but the state of New Mexico says, there are ways to avoid losing those benefits.