With the holiday season rapidly approaching, it’s time to meet with friends and family and fill your calendar with all of the wonderful events going on in Albuquerque this year. Does the never-ending list of things to do and places to eat seem overwhelming, though? There’s no need to worry.
Buckingham & Vega Law Firm has compiled the 2022 Ultimate Guide to Holiday Fun in Albuquerque. We hope you’ll love these local festivities just as much as we do!
Festive Events for Albuquerque’s Holiday Season
With holiday events taking place from November through December, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. Albuquerque’s rich history of the arts makes our little corner of the Southwest an interesting place to be this time of year.
- Lights of Enchantment 2022. Do you love Christmas lights as much as we do? Then you won’t want to miss Lights of Enchantment 2022, the biggest drive-thru Christmas light display in the state of New Mexico. The display will be open from Nov. 25 – Dec. 31.
- Christmas in New Mexico. An unforgettable dance performance put on by the National Hispanic Cultural Center and the Baila! Baila! Dance Academy, this performance showcases the rich, multi-cultural history of Albuquerque. Performances are on Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Dec. 4 at 2 p.m.
- Christmas Joy. The Magnify Dance Ensemble is putting on its 38th production of Christmas Joy, a program that promises to “awaken your heart to the true Spirit of Christmas” with classical ballet, contemporary dance, and jazz performances. Christmas Joy runs Dec. 10 through Dec. 11. Discounts for seniors, students, and members of the National Hispanic Cultural Center are available.
- Holiday Ho’ike. Tickets for the Dec. 2 Holiday Ho’ike put on by the Ka Lā Kapu Polynesian Dance School are available now. With a mission to celebrate the songs and cultures of Polynesia in the New Mexican desert, this show is sure to be a fun holiday activity for everyone in your family. With 5% of all ticket sales going to the Nature Conservancy of New Mexico, you can enjoy a wonderful performance while also giving back to the community.
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. For holiday cheer in the form of a play, Cardboard Playhouse’s performance of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” is a win for the entire family. You can catch this family-friendly play on stage from Dec. 2 – Dec. 11.
- The Santaland Diaries. Holiday cheer isn’t only for the kids! Cardboard Playhouse’s production of “The Santaland Diaries” is billed as “a holiday play for mature elves only.” Tickets are on sale now for Dec. 16 – Dec. 24.
Fun Local Shops in Albuquerque for Everyone on Your Gift List
In search of stocking stuffers or the one perfect gift for that special someone? Our local Albuquerque merchants are sure to have what you need. We recommend visiting these local businesses and markets for all your holiday shopping needs.
- The ABQ Collective. This community of shops shines a spotlight on small, local businesses. With plenty of retail options and a spot to stop and grab a cup of coffee, the ABQ Collective is sure to be a shopping experience you won’t soon forget.
- Genuine Southwest Art & Gifts. Need a gift that embodies the spirit and the feel of the Southwest? Stop in at Genuine Southwest Art & Gifts for local art, jewelry, and unique gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Not sure what to get your picky aunt? They offer gift cards!
- The Breaking Bad Store ABQ. Have a friend who knows everything about Walter White? Is your mom Jesse Pinkman’s biggest fan? Then The Breaking Bad Store ABQ needs to be the first stop on your holiday shopping trip. Stocked exclusively with merch from the popular AMC show filmed in our very own Albuquerque, finding something for the Breaking Bad fan in your life has never been easier.
- Pueblo Shop & Stroll. Showcasing Native artists and their craft, the Pueblo Shop & Stroll will feature hand-crafted ornaments, art, and jewelry. Warm yourself by a bonfire and take your time strolling through the gorgeous luminaries in the courtyard at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. This can’t-miss shopping event will take place on Friday, Dec. 21 from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Craft & Plant Fair. Another limited-time shopping event, Albuquerque Garden Center’s Craft & Plant Fair will run from Dec. 2 – Dec. 3, from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on both days. With over 40 vendors, food offerings, and unique garden gifts for the green thumb in your life, this is a shopping opportunity you won’t want to miss.
Festive Food for a Jolly Season in Albuquerque
Food unites us perhaps more than anything else. With a rich history of multiple cultures sharing their knowledge of ingredients and cooking methods, Albuquerque is a foodie’s paradise. As you share the holidays and meals with your loved ones this holiday season, we hope you’ll choose to spend your time at some of Albuquerque’s best local restaurants.
- Cocina Azul. Opened in 2010, Cocina Azul has become a local institution. It’s mantra “panza llena, corazón contento” (which translates to “full belly, happy heart”) is exemplified by their fresh, homemade Mexican food and festive atmosphere.
- Sixty-Six Acres. Serving up craft beer, cocktails, and American fare with a local Albuquerque twist, Sixty-Six Acres is the perfect place to rest and enjoy a meal with your friends and family. The restaurant’s spacious patio affords one-of-a-kind views of the Sandia Mountains.
- El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina. Open since 1962, El Pinto Restaurant & Cantina has been voted the Best New Mexican Restaurant in Albuquerque, NM. With the largest tequila bar in the state, covered patios, gorgeous greenery, and the unmistakable sight of dried peppers, we know you’ll love eating here.
- The Grove Café & Market. With a breakfast, brunch, and lunch menu that will make your mouth water, The Grove Cafe & Market offers a full line of wine, mimosas, coffee, tea, and espresso. Many of the ingredients are sourced locally in New Mexico and the Southwest, making this restaurant a clear winner.
- Seared Bistro. A traditional American bistro, Seared Bistro is the perfect place for American-style food with a modern twist. Just off the historic Route 66, this restaurant is conveniently located near downtown Albuquerque. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a good drink and better company.
- Fork & Fig. A modern eatery with a distinct New Mexican flair, Fork & Fig’s menu features mouthwatering delights, including the Umami Burg, Butter Poached Salmon, and Three Rolled Enchiladas. We’re confident you’ll love your visit here.
Buckingham & Vega Law Firm Wishes You the Happiest of Holidays
With so many places to shop, eat, and watch live entertainment, we know that it can be overwhelming to decide what to add to your calendar. We hope that this guide will serve as inspiration for your most festive Albuquerque holiday season yet.
From our families to yours, Buckingham & Vega Law Firm warmly wishes everyone in Albuquerque the happiest of holidays.