December Activities
As the winter chill settles in, New Mexico Ski Areas are gearing up for a festive December filled with exciting activities for the whole family. From torchlight parades to Christmas Day parties, each ski area promises a unique and magical experience. Let’s explore the December highlights in various towns.
Angel Fire Resort
Opening Day: December 15
The winter season kicks off at Angel Fire Resort on December 15, offering skiers and snowboarders a thrilling start to the holidays.
Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks
December 24, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Gather at the base area around 6 PM to witness a spectacular torchlight parade of skiers followed by a festive fireworks show, a mountain-style Christmas Eve celebration.
Ski with Santa
December 25, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Meet Santa on the slopes of Angel Fire Resort and enjoy a day of holiday skiing with the jolly man in red.
New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks
December 31, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Bid farewell to 2023 and welcome 2024 with a torchlight parade and fireworks at the base of the mountain.
Taos Ski Valley
New Year’s Eve Celebration
December 31
Ring in the New Year in style with a torchlight parade, a firework display, a prime rib buffet, and the 3rd Annual Snow Ball. Skiers with flares will illuminate the mountain at 6:15 pm, followed by a dazzling fireworks show.
Sipapu Ski & Summer Area
Christmas Day Party
December 25, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Celebrate Christmas Day with a festive party featuring a lift ride with Santa, free homemade posole, tortillas, and Christmas cookies.
Pajarito
Opening Day: December 22
Pajarito opens for the season with a day of festivities including beer, live music, and celebratory shenanigans.
Red River Ski & Summer Area
Torchlight Parade & Fireworks
December 23, 7:00 pm
Experience the traditional Torchlight Parade & Fireworks every Saturday during the ski season at The Lift House in Red River.
Ski & Ride with Santa
December 25, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Catch Santa on the slopes, handing out candy canes and posing for photos with skiers and snowboarders.
Torchlight Parade & Fireworks
December 30, 7:00 pm
Enjoy another Torchlight Parade & Fireworks show on the Face at Red River Ski & Summer Area.
Santa Fe
Canyon Road Farolito Walk
December 24
Experience the magical Canyon Road Farolito Walk, a beloved Santa Fe tradition on Christmas Eve, featuring thousands of luminarias lighting up the historic Eastside neighborhoods.
New Year’s Eve on the Plaza
December 31
Join the 8th Annual FREE New Year’s Eve celebration on the Plaza with live entertainment, food trucks, hot cocoa, and the unique raising of a Zia symbol at midnight.
Albuquerque
River of Lights
November – December
Experience the enchanting River of Lights at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, featuring millions of sparkling lights and dazzling displays.
ABQ RIDE’s Annual Luminaria Tour
December 24
Take a magical ride through Old Town and nearby neighborhoods to enjoy the annual Luminaria Tour with ABQ RIDE.
Lights & Luminarias Bike Tour
December 24
Explore the holiday lights of Albuquerque on a unique and intimate bike tour with Routes Bicycle Tours & Rentals.
Ruidoso
Christmas Lights Home Tour
December 3, 2023 – January 14, 2024
Vote for your favorite holiday lights display in Ruidoso through the Discover Ruidoso travel app. Winners will be announced on January 16, 2024.
Turn Back Time – New Year’s Eve
December 31, 2023 – January 1, 2024
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Inn of the Mountain Gods with dinner and tribute performances, including Frank Sinatra and Johnny Cash tributes.
With these exciting events and celebrations, New Mexico is the perfect destination for a festive and memorable December getaway. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, enjoying holiday parties, or exploring the enchanting lights, there’s something for everyone in the Land of Enchantment.