Holiday Nature Crafts at River of Lights
Families can enjoy making nature crafts just in time for Christmas. Supplies are provided.
When: November 28, December 6, and 12, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Education Building at the Botanic Gardens
Cost: Free; no entry fee required.
November 29 – December 16
A Christmas Carol
The Duke City Repertory Theatre presents a Christmas Carol with one actor playing all parts. John Hardy plays over 25 characters in this much loved tale.
When: 8 p.m. Thursdays – Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays
Where: The Filling Station, 1024 4th SW
Cost: $12 – $20, $12 seniors, children ages 5 – 17, $5. Thursday performances $10.
November 30 – December 2
Nutcracker on the Rocks
The Keshet Dance Company’s Nutcracker defies expectations, performs classic rock and roll tunes, uses wheelchairs for ballet to create an exciting performance that has become an Albuquerque classic.
When: November 30 and December 1 at 7:30 p.m.; December 1 and 2 at 2 p.m.; December 2 at 6 p.m.
Where: National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW
Cost: $26 – $34; $2 discount for students and seniors.
November 30 – December 16
A Christmas Carol
A radio station is broadcasting A Christmas Carol live before the audience. The production has the charm of the original story with a modern twist.
When: Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.
Where: Adobe Theater, 9813 4th NW
Cost: $12 – $15
November 30 – December 24
It’s A Wonderful Life
The classic tale of George Bailey comes to the stage of the Little Theatre. Go back to Bedford Falls and celebrate the season of joy.
When: 8 p.m. 11/30, 12/1, 12/7, 12/8, 12/13, 12/14, 12/15, 12/21, 12/22; 2 p.m. 12/2, 12/9, 12/16, 12/23; 1 p.m. 12/24.
Where: Albuquerque Little Theatre, 224 San Pasquale SW
Cost: $10 – $22
November 30 – December 24
Bugg Lights Display: Twelve Nights of Christmas
The walk-through displays feature handcrafted characters. The Bugg Lights have been a local tradition for over 40 years. Refreshments, musical entertainment and Santa in his workshop, along with nightly entertainment, all at Menaul School. On opening night, hear the Bugg Lights Orchestra play seasonal tunes; the inter-generational band is an annual tradition.
When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. opening night; all others from sundown – 9 p.m.; open until 11 p.m. Christmas Eve
Where: Menaul School, 301 Menaul NE
Cost: Free, but donations gladly accepted.
Saturdays and Sundays in December
Madrid Christmas Open House
Santa will be on hand to listen to whispered wishes, along with Mrs. Claus, stage coach rides, music, carolers and a variety of entertainment. There will also be the open galleries and art shows Madrid is famous for.
When: December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16; evenings until 8 p.m.
Where: Village of Madrid
Cost: Free
December 1 – 30
Garden Holidays
Embrace the holiday spirit at the Botanic Garden during the daylight hours through the month of December with holiday themed exhibits, evergreens and seasonal color. Displays/activities include poinsettias combined with other playful flowers in a variety of colors in the Mediterranean Conservatory; an old-fashioned Christmas atmosphere at the Heritage Farm; a miniature holiday scene at the Railroad Garden and a sizzling Southwest-themed display with plenty of chile ristras in the Desert Conservatory. See displays in the Aquarium and Zoo as well.
When: Daily.
Where: Botanic Gardens and Aquarium
Cost: Included with admission.
December 7
Old Town Holiday Stroll
Enjoy live music, dancing, strolling carolers and even a visit from Santa Claus. The luminarias will be glowing and the shops will be overflowing with holiday fare. The color guard will play the national anthem and raise the flag at 5:30 p.m. and the blessing of the tree takes place at 5:55 p.m. The tree will be lit at 6:10 p.m. The Santa parade begins at 6:15 p.m.
When: 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Old Town
Cost: Free
December 7 – 8
Holiday Fair
Find fresh garlands, wreaths and poinsettias made by master gardeners. There will be over 40 crafts booths.
When: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Albuquerque Garden Center, 10120 Lomas NE
Cost: Free.
December 7 – 8
Christmas Joy
The Performers Ballet and Jazz Company performs ballet and jazz dance in this Bravos award winning holiday production. Over 60 dancers will perform to holiday music.
When: 7:30 p.m. December 7 and 8; 2 p.m. December 8
Where: Journal Theatre, National Hispanic Cultural Center
Cost: $22 general admission, $20 seniors and students
KayDee Holiday Arts & Crafts Show and Jewelry Extravaganza
Find gifts made by local artists at this juried show. There will be glass creations, fiber arts, spa products, paintings, clay art, and more.
When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: 6510 Americas Parkway NE, at Hilton Garden Inn
Cost: Free.
December 8
South Valley Acequia of Lights
The annual event takes place in a historic neighborhood of the south valley. See the acequia lit with lights, meet neighbors, enjoy nature while you walk the path; enjoy music and refreshments. Parking available in church lot. Call (505) 842-5140 or 550-5604 for information.
When: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Where: Atrisco Acequia between Holy Family Church and Valle Vista Elementary
Cost: Free; take a toy or canned food item.
December 8
Regalos Holiday Shopping at La Tiendita
Find unique gifts at the shop and purchase arts and crafts from more than 30 local vendors. There will be local choir groups entertaining shoppers.
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: National Hispanic Cultural center
Cost: Free
December 8 – 24
Ballet Repertory Theater Nutcracker Ballet
The Ballet Repertory Theatre brings the classic tale of toy soldiers, dancing snowflakes the nutcracker and little Clara to life. The Ballet Repertory Theatre has performed the Nutcracker since 1996. Additional ticket charges for the Christmas Eve performance includes attendance to a Nutcracker Tea following the performance. Meet your favorite Nutcracker characters and taste treats from the Land of Sweets.
When: December 8 – 24, 7 p.m. on 12/8, 12/15, 12/22; 2 p.m. on 12/9, 12/16, 12/22, 12/23; 1 p.m. on 12/24
Where: KiMo Theater, 423 Central NW
Cost: $7 – $27.
December 9
Danu: Christmas in Ireland
Danu brings an Irish Christmas to the stage. Enjoy the flutes, bodhran and accordian in classic Irish holiday tunes.
When: 3 p.m.
Where: Popejoy Hall
Cost: $20 – $34
December 9
Medieval and Renaissance Christmas Music
Musica Antigua performs medieval and renaissance Christmas music on classical instruments.
When: 4:30 p.m.
Where: Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1701 Arroyo Chamiso, Santa Fe
Cost: $16 adults, $13 seniors (65+), $9 FT students.
December 11
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
The Moscow Ballet has toured across America for 19 years. See the company of 40 Vaganova-trained dancers this holiday season as they perform the classic holiday dance for one show only. This is an all ages event.
When: December 11 at 7:30 p.m.; doors open 6 p.m.
Where: Kiva Auditorium, 401 2nd Street NW
Cost: $35 – $80
December 14 – 16
New Mexico Gay Men’s Chorus Holiday Concert: Lights in the Night
The chorus will sing international holiday music and traditional tunes. Bring a new and unwrapped toy to the concert for an underprivileged child.
When: 7:30 p.m. December 14 and 15; 3 p.m. December 16
Where: Greer Garson Theater in Santa Fe 12/14; Hiland Theater 12/15 and 16
Cost: $20, $15 students, seniors and military, $10 children. Tickets online or at the door.
December 14 – 16
The Farolitos of Christmas
The play by local author Rudolfo Anaya features the popular farolitos of the season and a Christmas story of a young girl who understands the meaning of the season.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday
Where: National Hispanic Cultural center
Cost: $12 – $22
December 15
Winterfest
Enjoy a parade filled with holiday lights and special floats. After the parade, tour the luminarias. A holiday lighting ceremony at city hall at 5 p.m. Refreshments, arts and crafts and pictures with Santa at city hall from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. There will be a train for kids to ride on, holiday music and movies.
When: Parade starts at 5:15 p.m.; luminaria tours 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.; doors open at 4 p.m.
Where: The parade begins west of the Santa Ana Star Center and travels around Civic Center Plaza; luminarias at Civic Center, Rio Rancho
Cost: Free
December 15 – 16
Winter Indian Art Market
Buy holiday gifts made in New Mexico, directly from the artists themselves. Celebrate the rich culture of the Pueblo peoples, right here in New Mexico.
When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW
Cost: Part of regular admission, $6 adults or $4 NM residents w/ID, $5.50 seniors 62+, $3 children 5 – 17.
December 16
Polyphony: Voices of New Mexico Perform Winter: An Evocation
Carols and seasonal music from around the world will be featured at this winter concert. Hear seasonal songs with this vocal ensemble.
When: 3 p.m.
Where: Los Placitas Presbyterian Church, Placitas
Cost: $20
December 10 – 23
Supper with Santa at River of Lights
Children enjoy watching the fish, sharks and other seas creatures while dining at the Shark Reef Cafe. These special holiday buffets provide families with a place to eat dinner before enjoying the River of Lights. Plus, kids get to meet and talk with Santa. Reservations recommended for parties of six or more; call 848-7182.
When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Shark Reef Cafe, at the Rio Grande Botanic Gardens, 2601 Central NW
Cost: Prices vary.
December 14
Mariachi Christmas
Swirling dresses, stomping feet and mariachi music combine into one unforgettable show.
When: 8 p.m.
Where: Popejoy Hall
Cost: $20 – $39
December 15
Holiday Concert
The Santa Fe Concert Band will give a free public concert. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m.
When: 4 p.m.
Where: Santa Fe Place Mall, Santa Fe
Cost: Free
December 15 & 22
Medieval and Renaissance Christmas Music
Musica Antigua performs medieval and renaissance Christmas music on classical instruments.
When: 4:30 p.m.
Where: St. Michael’s and All Angels, 601 Montano NW
Cost: $16 adults, $13 seniors (65+), $9 FT students.
December 16
Handel’s Messiah
Hear the New Mexico Symphony Chorus and Orchestra, conducted by Roger Melone, at Popejoy Hall.
When: 3 p.m.
Where: Popejoy Hall
Cost: $15 – $60; $5 student rush tickets available one hour prior to concert.
December 16
Christmas Handbells Concert: Peace & Joy at Christmas
The Enchantment Handbell Ensemble plays holiday classics.
When: 4 p.m.
Where: Keller Hall, UNM Campus
Cost: $10, $5 students
December 17
Holiday Concert
The Santa Fe Concert Band will give a free public concert. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m.
When: 7 p.m.
Where: The Lensic, 211 San Francisco Street, Santa Fe
Cost: Free
December 20
Las Posadas in Corrales
The Corrales Historical Society re-enacts the journey of Mary and Joseph and that special night in Bethlehem. Two local children portray Joespeh and Mary, and choral music tells the tale.
When: 7 p.m.
Where: 966 Old Church Road, Old San Ysidro Church, Corrales
Cost: Free, but bring non-perishable food for a local food bank.
December 22
Medieval and Renaissance Christmas Music
Musica Antigua performs medieval and renaissance Christmas music on classical instruments.
When: 4:30 p.m.
Where: St. Michael’s and All Angels, 601 Montano NW
Cost: $16 adults, $13 seniors (65+), $9 FT students.
December 22
Las Posadas de Barelas
The Barelas neighborhood association re-enacts the journey of Mary and Joseph and that special night in Bethlehem. Join the procession as it goes to the Sacred Heart Church for the Fiesta de Navidad. Bring candles and flashlights and dress warmly.
When: 6 p.m.
Where: Barelas Community Center, 801 Barelas SW
Cost: Free.
December 21 – 23
Nutcracker Ballet in the Land of Enchantment
Performed by the Festival Ballet Albuquerque, accompanied by music of the Figueroa Project. The traditions and heritage of New Mexico are paired with the classical tale of the holidays. Choreographed by Patricia Dickinson Wells. Live music will be played under the direction of Maestro Guillermo Figueroa. Tickets can be purchased at Dance Theatre Southwest (296-9465) or the NHCC (724-4771); call for box office times.
When: 7 p.m. 12/21; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. 12/22 and 12/23
Where: Journal Theatre, National Hispanic Cultural Center
Cost: $12 – $47
December 24
Luminaria Tour
Christmas isn’t the same in Albuquerque without a tour of luminaria displays on Christmas Eve. The city offers bus tours for those who want the comfort of a seat and the warmth of a bus. Those who prefer walking can find out more about where to go and what to expect with my luminaria tour guide.
When: Buses depart at 5:20, 5:45, 6:10, 6:50, 7:15, 7:40; arrive 20 minutes prior.
Where: Tour of Old Town, Country Club areas; board buses at the Convention Center.
Cost: $3 per person; $1.70 for children 10 – 17 and seniors. Free for children under 9.
December 24
Luminarias in Old Town
Christmas isn’t the same in Albuquerque without a tour of luminaria displays on Christmas Eve. Walk around the Old Town plaza and venture into the Country Club neighborhood, with stops for hot chocolate, carolers and holiday cheer along the way.
When: After sundown.
Where: Old Town, Country Club areas.
Cost: Free.
December 26 – 30
Evening Dining at the Shark Reef Cafe
Holiday evening dining continues (without Santa) at the cafe. Enjoy a buffet or off the menu dinner before seeing the River of Lights.
When: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where: Shark Reef Cafe at the Botanic Gardens
Cost: Prices vary.
abqgolocal 