The holidays are getting closer, and there’s plenty to do in northwest Albuquerque this weekend. Check out these fun events to enjoy with family and friends. It’s all about the memories.
- Like a little spooky with your Christmas? The Albucreepy Ghost Walk | Nightmare Before Christmas runs Dec. 15-23 and departs from Hotel Albuquerque beginning at 7 p.m. for $30 per person. The tour lasts 120 minutes, and participating guests must be 21 or older (ID will be asked for). There will be stops at local water holes, but drinks are not included in the pricing. Address: 800 Rio Grande Blvd. NW.
- Magic and Comedy Night will be held at the Tractor Brewing Company- Wells Park. Come enjoy the magic by David Grimm and laughs with comedians Carla Vasquez and Caleb Mulkey. The show runs from 9-11 p.m. Learn more about the venue and plan your evening details. Address: 1800 4th St NW.
- Steve-O: The Bucket List Tour is coming to the Kiva Auditorium at the Albuquerque Convention Center. This self-made stunt devil and comedian has a long history of entertainment from reality TV to hit movies and even an appearance on dancing with the stars. Steve-O brings his love for the extreme to the stage at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16. Tickets can be purchased online and range from $31-$51. Address: 401 Second St. NW.
- Looking to get in some exercise and fresh air this weekend? The Duke City Pedaler Ugly Sweater Ride is happening Dec. 17 with start times at 2 p.m. or 5 p.m. In this case, the uglier the better. Think blinking Christmas lights sewn onto an oversized sweater. This 2.5-hour cruise begins at Hotel Albuquerque in Old Town. In case you’re wondering, the Duke City Pedaler is a 14-passenger party bike that cruises the streets of ABQ, making stops at local pubs, breweries, bars and restaurants. Calories are nothing to fear when you’re peddling with a group! Grab a friend and join the fun. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online. Address: 330 Tijeras Ave. NW.
- Shopping local is important. If you still have gifts on your to-do list … head to the Holiday Market located at Bow and Arrow Brewing Company. This event is runs 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 17. All goods are locally curated by exceptional artists such as Meltdown Studio, Big Head Leather, Uncle Joe Designs, Milford Calamity, Viva La Plant Bus, Hands on Clay Studio, Quwutsun Made, Southwest Statements, 4 Your Plate Only, Eqlectica, and Rowan & Wren Flowers. Address: 608 McKnight Ave. NW.
Bumblebee and Optimus Prime from Transformers will be in Ventana Ranch this weekend. Nate Bywater, who helped organize a fundraiser to help his neighbor Dave Plourde (AKA Mr. Christmas), will have the iconic cars at his house in northwest Albuquerque Friday and Saturday night beginning at 5:30 p.m. Families are welcome to take pictures with the cars, and there will be a donation barrel for non-perishable food items that will go directly to Storehouse New Mexico in front of Bywater’s house. There will also be a sign with a QR code that will let people donate to help Mr. Christmas. Down the street from Bywater’s house, Mr. Christmas will have his breathtaking display (6600 Terra Dolce Ave. NW Albuquerque) turned on for all to enjoy and will showcase some classic cars that are decked out for the holidays.
The Open Space Visitor Center is hosting The Solstice Seed Mandala creation event from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. It is an annual community art-making event to celebrate the start of the winter season. You will create a Mandala using different kinds of grains and seeds. The seeds of the mandala serve to feed birds and the mandala remains in place for about a week. Participants contribute to the design and help to build the Mandala. At 11 a.m., Regina Ress and Scott and Johanna Hongell-Darsee will share stories and songs from around the world while you create the Mandala. The event is free.
Citywide Events
New Mexico Bowl is happening this Saturday, December 17th at 5:30 p.m. The Brigham Young University Cougars will be battling it out against the Southern Methodist University Mustangs, this is a game you won’t want to miss. Ticket prices range from $25-$100 and can be purchased online. Address: University Stadium 1111 University Boulevard Southeas
Luminaria Walk & TAAS Star Party is a magical event for the whole family. Held at the Valle De Oro National Wildlife Refuge this Friday, December 16th from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. This event includes a walk around the visitor center with snacks, hot cocoa, music, and stories. Guests are also invited to look at the stars in the night sky with The Albuquerque Astronomical Society from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Address: 7851 2nd Street Southwest
Nutcracker in the Land of Enchantment choreographed by Patricia Dickinson Wells incorporates the spirit of New Mexico traditions into a well-loved classic. Elements of the state’s culture are intricately incorporated and feature Spanish dancers, fandango dancers, characters portraying southwestern snakes, and sheep. This annual family tradition has been featured in The Wall Street Journal and other national publications. This is the only Nutcracker performance in New Mexico to feature a live orchestra. Showtimes are Friday, December 16th at 7 p.m., Saturday, December 17th at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, December 18th at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $14 – $49. Address: 1701 Fourth Street Southwest