December is a time for celebration. We have compiled some ideas for the residents and visitors in the Rio Rancho and Albuquerque area. From enjoying magical festive lights to exhilarating fun runs with the family, here are eight great activities for all ages to enjoy this spectacular holiday season.
Note: Please refer to individual event websites for COVID-related updates.
Lights of Enchantment, Nov. – Jan. 2020
This drive thru Christmas light show features more than 350 light displays with over a million points of light. Buy your ticket online and save $20 per car. Get your coupon code from your local participating group or charity and save 40% and up to $5 from every ticket will be donated to your charities or group.
Date: Nov. 2020 – Jan. 2021
Admission: $49.95 per car. Buy online and save.
Location: Sandia Speedway, Albuquerque
Twinkle Light Parade, Dec. 5, 2020
This family-friendly holiday event will roll through Historic Nob Hill on Central Ave. between Washington St. and Girard Blvd., and will feature hundreds of floats, marching bands, cars, bikes and of course, Santa Claus.
Date: Dec. 5, 2020, at 5 p.m.
Admission: Free
Location: Nob Hill, Washington Blvd. west to Girard Blvd. on Central Ave., Albuquerque
Virtual Jingle Bell Run, Dec. 11-13, 2020
The Jingle Bell Run encourages holiday spirit, exercise and charity, raising funds and awareness for the Arthritis Foundation. It will be virtual this year, so run your favorite route or get moving on your treadmill. Takes place Dec. 11-13, 2020. Every runner will receive an exclusive Jingle Bell Run short sleeve t-shirt, unique medal and a sticker for their water bottle or laptop.
Date: Dec. 11-13, 2020
Admission: Varies
Location: Run your favorite route or even on your treadmill
Tertulia Historica Albuquerque: Illuminating New Mexico: A History of Luminarias and Farolitos
Presented by the National Hispanic Cultural Center, via Zoom online, State Historian Rob Martínez examines the fascinating origins of these uniquely New Mexican cultural expressions. Before there was a Christmas tree, mistletoe, eggnog or Santa Claus, there were luminarias and farolitos lighting the dark paths for ancient New Mexicans, commemorating that long ago tradition of High Mass at midnight.
Date: Dec. 19 at 2 p.m.
Admission: Free
Location: Online via Zoom
Green Chile Chicken Cheese Tamales Virtual Culinary Event
Join Native American Chef Louis Ellen Frank, PH.D. and Chef Walter Whitewater for a journey into the rich culinary traditions of tamale making online on Dec. 4. There will be a Q & A at the end of the lesson.
Date: Dec. 4, 2020, 3 p.m.
Admission: $45
Location: Online: https://www.heritageinspirations.com/product/green-chile-chicken-cheese-tamales/
Ceramic Gingerbread House Virtual Event, Nov. 18
Get into the holiday spirit by creating this cute gingerbread house. The ceramic piece includes a battery-operated candle and is the perfect addition to your holiday decor! All materials needed to complete this project are included in the purchase of the ticket. Online instruction will be provided by the event.
Date: Nov. 28, 2020, at 2 p.m.
Cost: $40
Location: Online: https://addmi.com/e/ceramic-gingerbread-house-online-event-MKBVFkunE0DQ9fVdRtG?fbclid=IwAR386SIHkBZlWNvFbJr7sF-iAWg7JNoG93c8n_4WKrfEoAMPOBmYpmmLya8
Snowman Snow Globe Virtual Painting Event, Dec. 9
You will be in the comfort of your own home creating this fabulous painting. Invited family and friends to join you and have some fun painting! All materials needed will be included in your ticket.
Date: Dec. 9, 2020 at 6:30 p.m.
Admission: $35
Location: Online: https://addmi.com/e/snowman-snow-globeonline-paint-party-MLywMcgvnWpD7IVGC5H
Maccabi USA Winter Virtual FunRun in ABQ, Dec. 13
The Maccabi FunRun brings together Jewish communities around the world for a day of sports and fundraising. You can either run a 1k or 5k race while timing yourself. After the race you will want to post your time online using the #MaccabiUSAFunRun2020. Included in the fee is a long sleeve t-shirt and FunRun Medal.
Date: Dec. 13, 2020 at 8:30 a.m.
Admission: $35
Location: Online via Facebook
Have a wonderful holiday season!
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