Hosting out-of-town guests? Here are several places to take them in NE Albuquerque Christmas weekend

Albuquerque events are kicked up a notch for the holiday weekend. From ghost tours, performing art, shopping, and fine dining, here are several events to enjoy with friends and family this holiday weekend. Happy Holidays from our family to yours! 

1.Dragon’s Crystal Cave Indoor Holiday Carnival Winter Wonderland Extravaganza

Dec. 24 will be the last day of this magical event. Running 4-8 p.m. daily through Christmas Eve, this event can only be described as city fair meets Santa’s workshop. Think thrills, games, Santa Claus and lots of holiday food. Children 8 and under are free. Tickets range from $10-$18 for children and adults. 

Address: 4600 Bogan Ave. NE 

2. Raise a toast at Gruet Winery

Known for its sparkling and still wines, Gruet’s offers a well-appointed tasting room to unwind and relax. Sample one of the award-winning vines as you savor the festive holiday spirit. Gruet is distributed nationally in 48 states and produces 100,000 cases of sparkling wine annually. Grab a bottle for Christmas Day. 

Address: 8400 Pan American Freeway NE

3. Snowflakes Crafts for Kids 

Friday, Dec. 23, Juan Tabo Library is hosting a special event for the kids! Ideal for ages 6 and up, materials are supplied to make various shaped snowflake decorations. Registration is required for the event that runs 3:30-4:30 p.m. 

Address: 3407 Juan Tabo NE 

4. Outpost Ice Arena

Outpost public skating times are available Dec. 23-24. Bundle up and enjoy this fun holiday activity with friends and family. Tickets are $1 for 5 and under, $10 for 6 and older and are good for two hours. Skate rentals are available for $3. 

Address: 9530 Tramway Blvd. NE

5. Give a pet a home this Christmas

The Animal Welfare Department Eastside Shelter is hosting Santa Claus from 10:30 to 3 p.m. Friday. Free photos with Santa with your child and/or pet will be available, and Santa will also be handing out treats and comfort gifts to the shelter’s homeless pets. While there, meet with a counselor to see if you can find your perfect pet match; adoption fees will be waived, and each adoption includes a spay or neuter, microchip, required vaccinations and one free initial pet visit. Dogs also come with one free dog training class.

Adress: 8920 Lomas NE

6. Shades of Gray

This black-and-white photographic art show will be drawing to a close on Dec. 27. This free event is available 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, and is located at the Expo NM Fine Arts Building. 

Location: Copper and San Pedro NE

Citywide Events

7. The Santaland Diaries 

Christmas Eve is the last day for this inspiring tale. Presented by Cardboard Playhouse Company, Santaland Diaries follows a hopeful actor thrown into the only employment available during the holidays — retail. This story is a behind-the-scenes look at hope beneath chaos. Tickets are $18 each, located at the Box Performance Space and Improv Theatre.

Address: 100 Gold Ave. SW, Suite 112B

8. A Christmas Story

Playing at Albuquerque Little Theater at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 23 and 1 p.m. Dec. 24, this classic Christmas story is re-enacted. The jolly holiday play will have the whole family laughing. Tickets are $23 (children 12 and under are $14). 

Address: 224 San Pasquale SW

9. Christmas Eve Dinner at The Artichoke Cafe

Specially prepared and festively appointed, The Artichoke Cafe is hosting a very special Christmas Eve dinner. Dinner includes paired wine and cocktail options, and a surprise take-home gift. Online ticket reservations are required. 

Address: 424 Central Ave. SE