Winter in New Mexico brings more fun on the snow—it brings tradition, celebration, and a kind of holiday magic you won’t find anywhere else. Across the state, ski areas and nearby mountain towns light up the season with torchlight parades, fireworks, farolitos, and family-friendly festivities that blend alpine adventure with deep-rooted Southwestern charm.
Whether you’re carving turns by day or gathering under glowing lights by night, here’s what’s happening this holiday season across New Mexico ski country.
Angel Fire Resort
Classic Mountain Celebrations
Angel Fire embraces the holidays with festive on-mountain traditions that have become seasonal favorites for families and visitors alike.
- Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks | December 24, 6:00 PM
Watch skiers descend the mountain carrying glowing torches, followed by a fireworks display lighting up the winter sky. - Ski & Snowboard with Santa | December 25
Santa hits the slopes, spreading cheer and smiles throughout the mountain. New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks | December 31, 6:00 PM
Ring in the New Year with another torchlight parade and fireworks celebration.
Red River Ski & Summer Area (& Town of Red River)
Small-Town Charm, Big Holiday Spirit
Red River offers one of the most festive holiday atmospheres in New Mexico, combining weekly traditions with classic mountain-town warmth.
- Weekly Torchlight Parades & Fireworks | Every Saturday Night
A signature Red River experience throughout the season. - Christmas in the Mountains Light Parade & Holiday Market | December 20, 5:30 PM
Main Street fills with lights, local vendors, and holiday cheer—perfect for seasonal shopping and strolling. - Ski & Ride with Santa | December 25, 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Santa hits the slopes at Red River on Christmas morning, skiing and riding with guests, handing out candy canes, and stopping for photos. He’ll also make appearances at the Main Chalet and Youth Center—making it a favorite holiday tradition for families.
Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort
Family-Friendly Holiday Fun
Sipapu’s holiday celebrations focus on community, comfort, and tradition.
- Christmas Eve Party & Santa on the Mountain | December 24, 2:00–4:00 PM
Enjoy complimentary homemade posole, tortillas, cookies, and a visit from Santa at the Riverside Café.
Taos Ski Valley
Alpine Energy Meets Cultural Tradition
Taos Ski Valley pairs dramatic scenery with festive year-end celebrations.
- New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks | December 31
The torchlight parade begins around 6:00 PM at the base of Lift 1, followed by fireworks.
Nearby, the town of Taos and Taos Pueblo often host traditional holiday and cultural events, offering a meaningful way to experience New Mexico’s rich heritage during the season.
Santa Fe & Ski Santa Fe
Farolitos, Art & Timeless Holiday Traditions
Santa Fe’s holiday season glows with history and culture.
- La Luz de las Noches at the Botanical Garden
Nightly holiday light displays paired with music and seasonal cheer. - Farolito & Luminaria Walks
Historic streets shine with softly glowing lights, creating an iconic New Mexico holiday experience.
Winter Days at Ski Santa Fe
Ski Santa Fe offers skiing and snowboarding throughout the holiday season, along with lessons and rentals for all ages and ability levels—making it an easy add-on to a Santa Fe holiday trip for both first-timers and experienced skiers.
Ruidoso & Ski Apache
Mountain Traditions & Holiday Performances
Ruidoso offers a warm, welcoming holiday atmosphere filled with music, tradition, and classic New Mexico charm—making it a perfect complement to a winter getaway in southern New Mexico.
- White Mountain Christmas at the Flying J Ranch | Late November–December 30–31, 2025
A seasonal favorite featuring live performances, storytelling, and festive entertainment on select evenings throughout December in a classic mountain ranch setting. - Holiday Shows & Performances | December 20–21, 2025
Seasonal arts events, including performances of The Nutcracker, bring timeless holiday tradition to Ruidoso. - Christmas Eve Luminarias at Historic Lincoln | December 24, 2025
The historic village of Lincoln glows with traditional luminarias, creating a peaceful and magical Christmas Eve experience rooted in New Mexico tradition. - Winter Days at Ski Apache | December 19–January 4 (weather permitting)
Just outside Ruidoso, Ski Apache offers daily winter operations during the holiday break, providing skiing, snowboarding, and scenic mountain views. As always, conditions and schedules are subject to change, so guests are encouraged to check the resort’s website before heading up the mountain.
Albuquerque
Holiday Week Traditions & New Year Celebrations
Albuquerque shines during the week between Christmas and New Year’s, offering classic New Mexico traditions alongside festive city celebrations—perfect for travelers passing through or extending their holiday getaway.
- River of Lights at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden | Through Late December
One of the state’s most beloved holiday events, River of Lights typically continues through the Christmas holiday week, featuring elaborate light displays, animated sculptures, seasonal music, and warm treats. It’s a favorite evening outing for families and visitors alike. - Christmas Eve Luminarias in Old Town | December 24
On Christmas Eve, Old Town is illuminated with thousands of luminarias, welcoming visitors for quiet walks, reflection, and seasonal beauty—one of Albuquerque’s most iconic holiday traditions. - Sandia Peak Tramway | Christmas Week
A ride on the Sandia Peak Tram offers breathtaking winter views of the Rio Grande Valley and the snow-covered Sandia Mountains. At the top, guests can warm up and enjoy a meal or drink at TEN 3, making the tram ride a memorable holiday-week experience both day and night.
Celebrate the Holidays, Mountain Style
From torchlit slopes and fireworks to farolito-lined streets and cozy mountain gatherings, New Mexico’s ski areas and mountain towns offer a holiday experience that feels both festive and authentic.
Before you go, be sure to check each resort or town’s official website for the most up-to-date event details. Bundle up, gather your favorite people, and celebrate the season where winter traditions shine brightest—on the mountain.
Looking Ahead: More Mountains Opening Soon
Several New Mexico ski areas continue to prepare for the heart of winter. Pajarito Mountain and Sandia Peak Ski Area are both working toward opening and have dedicated update pages on their websites, offering transparent, thoughtful, and guest-focused communication for passholders and visitors alike.
If you’re planning a winter trip, be sure to keep an eye on these updates as conditions evolve—New Mexico’s ski season often builds momentum as winter settles in.
Happy Holidays from Ski New Mexico!