These are the 6 must-see holiday events in Albuquerque this season

The holiday season is nearing, and so are the events.

Here are six must-attend holiday events in Albuquerque including everything from holiday shopping, parades and light displays.

Learn more about each event below:

River of Lights at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden

Hosted at the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, this Albuquerque tradition features hundreds of displays corresponding with the BioPark's theme of flora and fauna. Families and friends can stroll more than a mile and a half through the garden to enjoy displays of light and movement.

The River of Lights runs from Nov. 30 to Dec. 30, with closures on Dec. 24 and 25. Ticket sales begin in early November. Prices are as follows:

• Monday-Thursday:
  • Adult: $14
  • Child (3-12 years): $7
• Friday-Sunday:
  • Adult: $17
  • Child (3-12 years): $9

Old Town Holiday Stroll

The Old Town Holiday Stroll is Albuquerque’s official holiday kickoff, set for Dec. 6 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event features local performers filling the streets and vendors offering holiday shopping. This beloved holiday tradition brings families together in the heart of Albuquerque. The evening also includes the city’s tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. Official vendors and performers will be announced closer to the event.

Twinkle Light Parade

The Twinkle Light Parade is a family-friendly event in Nob Hill. On Dec. 14, a mile-long stretch of Route 66 will be closed to traffic, allowing residents to shop locally and enjoy the light parade. Vendors will include local businesses, community groups, schools and organizations.

The parade begins at 5:15 p.m., but Central Ave. will close to vehicles at 3 p.m. to give shoppers the freedom to explore. Arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot. The event is free and will take place rain or shine.

Hanging of the Greens

Hanging of the Greens is the University of New Mexico's oldest student tradition and will take place on Dec. 6. Organized by UNM's premier senior honor society, Mortar Board, the event begins at 5:30 p.m. at the UNM Bookstore. Carollers will stroll across campus, culminating with a reception at Hodgin Hall, where they will present a wreath to the UNM President.

Albuquerque residents are invited to join and encouraged to bring an unwrapped children's book to place under the tree at Hodgin Hall. All books will be donated to the UNM Children's Hospital.

Rio Grande Arts & Crafts Holiday Festival

Held on Thanksgiving weekend, the Rio Grande Holiday Festival offers Albuquerque residents a unique shopping experience. With 185 craftsmen and artisans, live music and food service, festival goers are sure to find something special. The event also features a Kids Creation Station to entertain younger visitors.

The festival runs from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1 at the Expo Fairgrounds. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. You can find out more information on the artist's here.

Railyard Holiday Market

The Railyard Holiday Market is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Head to the Rail Yards and shop locally for your holiday gifts while enjoying a festive atmosphere filled with food, art and music. This event brings together the best of Albuquerque’s small businesses, featuring vendors offering produce, food, healing products and handmade items.

The Railyard Holiday Market will take place from Dec. 14 to 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees can park in the hundreds of free parking spaces on-site, but are encouraged to bike or walk from a downtown parking garage.