10 of the best neighborhoods to see Albuquerque Christmas lights

Editor’s note: This article was updated Oct. 29, 2024. All neighborhoods remained the same based on research, but an additional way to view the neighborhood lights was added.

It’s a family tradition, load up the car, pack some hot cocoa and enjoy the holiday sights with loved ones.

If you’re wondering where to go this year, here’s a list of 10 neighborhoods recommended for their festive Christmas lights in Albuquerque.

This list was put together with the help of online reviews.

Huning Castle neighborhood

This family-orientated and well-maintained community boasts large homes in scenic settings, and provides plenty of “awe-inspiring” sights. This neighborhood will be featured in the Luminaria Tour and has many lit up houses, including one with a synchronized light show.

The Country Club neighborhood

This urban community is located in West Downtown Albuquerque. This plaza is dedicated to residential, commercial space, co-working spaces, and community spaces. Ideal for walking while soaking in the sights of the season. This neighborhood will be a stop on the Luminaria Tour as well.

Village of Los Ranchos de Albuquerque

This historic area was settled in 1661 and is home to multiple community events and programs (including agriculture). Holiday lights sparkle brightly here especially at their decorated gazebo.

Sandia Heights

This community is an outdoor oasis and is home to mountain, nature, and wildlife sights. Dusk is an excellent time for holiday light viewing in this area. Sandia Heights is also close to several neighborhoods to view many decorated homes in one trip.

Ridgecrest

Ridgecrest is a neighborhood where you can find vegetation adding a splash of color to the landscape. The views of the mountains peeking through the trees are dazzling, especially during the holidays. Due to the size of the neighborhood, it is recommended to view lights by vehicle.

Highland Business and neighborhood

Home to this historical Zia park, this is one of the city’s older neighborhoods with a diverse mix of scenery. The neighborhood claims a portion of Central Avenue’s Historic Route 66 (from Washington Street to San Mateo Boulevard).

Nob Hill neighborhood

Nob Hill is made up of six early 20th century automobile-oriented residential subdivisions developed between 1916 and 1945. It is considered one of Albuquerque’s best places for holiday sightseeing. Nob Hill will also be home to the Twinkle Light Parade, where hundreds of floats, cars, marching band and Santa Claus, will come together to celebrate the holiday season.

Dietz Farms

This family-orientated community is a favorite for traditional holiday sights, located off of Montano Road Northwest. If you're looking for a way to see more luminaria's this is an ideal spot. Be prepared for a long wait time as this is a popular destination.

Silver Hill Neighborhood Association

The Silver Hill community has been considered one of Albuquerque's historic treasures since 1910, and there’s a treasure of sights to behold here. See a reindeer display, giant tree and decorated cars on your visit.

Ventana Ranch Community Association

A community-orientated neighborhood with a Christmas light competition - so you know the sights will be good. Expect some stunning Christmas decorations in Ventana Ranch like life-size gingerbread house, roof decorations and much more.

59th Annual ABQ RIDE Luminaria Tour

On Dec. 24, the City of Albuquerque will host its annual ABQ Ride. The 45-minute tour begins and ends at the Albuquerque Convention Center.

Tour times are tentatively scheduled at 5:30 p.m., 5:50 p.m., 6:10 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 7:05 p.m., but are subject to change. Ticket sales begin on Nov. 29.

Pretty lights from past years around ABQ