Lights aglow: Twinkle Light Parade to travel down Route 66, features 125 entries

Spectators will have a dazzling time watching illuminated groups march down Route 66 in Nob Hill during the Twinkle Light Parade.

The sparkling event begins at 5:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, and rolls west on Central Avenue from Washington Street to Girard Boulevard. The family-friendly parade features local businesses, community and school groups, and a variety of Albuquerque organizations, as well as vehicles decked out in lights.

“With more than 3,500 people in the parade as a part of 125 entries, the parade is ready to twinkle through Nob Hill,” said Bree Ortiz, community events manager for the city of Albuquerque. “This year, there are more new entries than past years, with 53 of the groups being new to the experience.”

Arrive early and get holiday shopping done at various stores throughout Nob Hill. Grab a bite and a beverage before grabbing your spot along the parade route.

Lights aglow: Twinkle Light Parade to travel down Route 66, features 125 entries

“The combination of floats, animals, walking groups, performances and show cars is really highlighting the creativity of the community,” Ortiz said. “We are excited to see the parade come together and entertain. Make sure to get to Nob Hill early to get the perfect viewing spot.”

The event area will be blocked off to traffic to allow pedestrians to freely roam without worry. Public restrooms will be conveniently located at several spots including Central Avenue and Adams Street, Central and Sierra Drive, Central and Hermosa Drive, Central and Bryn Mawr Drive, as well as Central and Dartmouth Drive.

A free park and ride is available to eventgoers at the southwest corner of Lomas and University boulevards. Buses start running at 3 p.m. and will transport attendees to Johnson Field on the University of New Mexico campus. The buses will run until 10:30 p.m. A variety of paid parking lots are also available throughout Nob Hill. Keep in mind, Central Avenue will be closed to vehicle traffic between Girard and San Mateo boulevards. There will not be a way to cross Central in that area.

More information is available at cabq.gov/artsculture/events.

Lights aglow: Twinkle Light Parade to travel down Route 66, features 125 entries