Head to Northwest Albuquerque this weekend and create fun holiday memories with friends and family. There’s something for everyone, with just the right amount of excitement and enjoyment to kick off Christmas. Happy Holidays from our family to yours!
1.Annual Holiday Home Decorating Contest
Check out the entries in this year’s Holiday Home Decorating contest in Ventana Ranch and Ventana Ranch West. A map showing participating homes has been pulled due to recent vandalism in the area but it’s still fun to drive around to see the lights. While there, be sure to check out the decorations at the home of Dave Plourde, a.k.a. Mr. Christmas. The Neighborhood Journal will also be sharing photos of some of the top entries later this week.
2. Visit with Santa before he’s gone
Knock out any last-minute shopping and pay a special visit to see Santa. Photos with Santa are available daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve at Cottonwood Mall. Reservations should be made here. Fifteen-minute time slots with photo packages range from $39.99-$49.99.
Address: 1000 Coors Blvd. Bypass NW
3. Polar Express
Flix Brewhouse is showing Christmas classic “The Polar Express” on Saturday at 10 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Tickets can be purchased online.
4. 12th Annual Lights & Luminarias Bike Tour
Luminarias are a tradition that dates back to the 19th century. Albuquerque is known for its Christmas luminarias that illuminate walkways, windows and rooftops. Join this special tour of the city’s lights, presented by Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals, Inc. Round trip tour is 5-7 miles with three departing times on Dec. 24. Tickets are $40 each and include a pre-secured, decorated route, lighted bike with helmet rental, keepsake ornament and refreshments following the ride. Must be comfortable riding after dark.
Address: 2113 Charlevoix St. NW
Nothing like some “Nightmare Before Christmas” vibes to round out the holidays. On Dec. 23, TourABQ is hosting its infamous ghost walk starting at 7 p.m. In the words of Andy Williams, “There’ll be scary ghost stories and tales of the glories of Christmases long, long ago.” Tickets are $30 each.
Address: 800 Rio Grande Blvd. NW
This special light tour wraps up the season on Dec. 23. Departing from Hotel Albuquerque in Old Town, this delightful ride showcases the city’s most festive lights. Dress warmly! The tour is 75 minutes long, and tickets range from $18-$28.
Address: 800 Rio Grande Blvd. NW
Citywide Events
7. The Amazing Chase: Holiday Edition
Presented by TourABQ, the fun begins at 6 p.m. Dec. 23. If you haven’t had time to enjoy the city’s holiday sights, here is your chance! Chase requires a car and cellphone that can receive text messages. Collect points for solving clues that create a journey around festive locations in the city. Bring the whole family and compete with other crews. Tickets are $50 per person.
Address:800 Rio Grande Boulevard NW
Christmas Eve is the last show 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
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 as a jolly holiday play that will have the whole family laughing. Tickets are $23 (children 12 and under are $14).
Address: 224 San Pasquale SW
10. 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 for guests. Online ticket reservations are required. Grab someone special and create an unforgettable evening.
Address: 424 Central Ave. SE
