Nothing says Christmas like white powdery flakes falling from the sky and celebrating the season with the one you love. While we can’t promise the snow, we can ensure you’ll have a fabulous time in New Mexico. If you’re one of the many people who enjoy spending the holidays on the slopes, you’ll love these Christmas events taking place at New Mexico Ski areas this year. From cookie decorating parties, s’mores with Santas, and beautiful light displays, there is sure to be something your entire family can love this holiday season.
Angel Fire Resort
Enjoy multiple days of holiday festivities at Angel Fire Resort During their 2019 Christmas Celebration. From Dec. 21 to Christmas Eve, there are family friendly events you are sure to enjoy.
Dec. 21, try out your sugar cookie decorating skills in the hotel lobby from 4 to 5 p.m. Regardless of your skills, it’s bound to taste as good or better than it looks!
Dec. 22
Meet in the hotel lobby from 4 to 5 p.m. to decorate stockings for the big day. You’ll be able to make your mark and be sure Santa knows exactly who he is delivering goodies for!
Dec. 23, continue your creativity with snowman and reindeer arts and crafts in the hotel lobby. Save them as gifts for Santa or bring them home for a lovely, homemade souvenir.
Dec. 24 is full of fun activities for the entire family. Start early at 9 a.m. to ski with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. When Santa’s done skiing at 2 p.m., you can join him in the lobby to make last-minute Christmas wishes. Head out to the base area at 4 p.m. for a sweet treat of hot cocoa and cookies, then enjoy the torchlight parade and fireworks at 6 p.m. before going to bed and waiting for your Christmas deliveries!
Pajarito Mountain
If you love ugly sweater parties and discounted merch and lift tickets, Pajarito on Ugly Sweater Day is the place to be. Load up friends and family members for the event taking place Dec. 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. You’ll see people with their best worst sweaters on display. The ugliest sweaters will be rewarded with discounts to Pajarito Mountain’s retail shop!
Red River Ski and Summer Area
If you’re looking for a picturesque small town to celebrate Christmas in with your loved ones, look no further than Red River, New Mexico. Between the snow covered mountain and smalltown charm, there is plenty to enjoy. In addition the resort has two family-friendly Christmas events you are sure to enjoy.
The Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade takes place Dec. 24 at 7 p.m. A time honored tradition, skiers take to the mountain, swinging flaming torches while fireworks light the skye behind them. Watch from The Lift House, where you can indulge in creamy hot chocolate, sweet cider, or an adult beverage.
Ski and Ride with Santa lets the entire family learn whether Santa prefers skis or snowboards the day after making his big deliveries! Catch him hitting the slopes at 11:30 p.m. for a fun time and maybe even catch a photo op between runs. After he makes his way down the mountain, he’ll be in the lodge, celebrating Christmas with all the little girls and boys.
Sandia Peak
If you’re skiing at Sandia Peak over the holiday season, Albuquerque offers a variety of rich Christmas traditions we think you will love. From old favorites like gingerbread house making competitions to edgy alternatives like Christmas Eve ghost tours, we think you’ll find something to enjoy. See a full list of events sorted by type, date, and more here.
Sipapu Ski and Summer Area
Join the Christmas Eve Party at Sipapu Dec. 24 from 5 to 7 p.m. This free, no reservations required event takes place at Paradise Grill inside the lodge. You’ll be able to enjoy free s’mores, posole with tortillas, and even see Santa Claus! Sipapu will have a photographer available to take photos, which you can purchase so your main focus is enjoying the evening!
Ski Apache
Explore the area around Ski Apache with a variety of Christmas activities suited to different interests and ages. Craft beer connoisseurs will enjoy the Holiday Beer and Cheer event Dec 22 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Lost Hiker Brewing Company. Bring the family to watch the magic of The Nutcracker ballet performance, with various showtimes leading up to Christmas. On Christmas Eve, greet Santa as he rides into the Lincoln Historic site on a Longhorn steer, and drink hot cocoa while watching the town be adorned with luminarias.
Ski Santa Fe
The entire month of December is full of events in Santa Fe. While enjoying some of the best snow in New Mexico, take in the rich regional culture by participating in a torchlight procession at the Picuris Pueblo. Enjoy several beautiful light displays throughout the city, with millions of twinkle lights. Round off your holiday celebrations with seasonal musical performances that are sure to dazzle and delight the whole family. To learn more about events in Santa Fe, click here.
Taos Ski Valley
Did you know Santa Claus is coming to Taos this year? While in town on Dec. 21 for skiing and other fun winter activities, stop by the plaza where you’ll meet santa by the big Christmas tree! He plans to meet with children and families from 3:30 to 5 p.m., so be sure to get there and save your spot in line!
The City of Taos also has several fun Yuletide events planned the entire month of December, from a special procession at the Taos Pueblo, pop-up shops, a torchlight parade, and more! See the list to plan your trip.
We hope you enjoy this holiday season with your family and take in all the culture, joy, and festivities the area you visit has to offer. Be sure to tag your family photos and all your Santa sightings with #skinewmexico so we can join in on the fun!
