-- Out-of-the-Ordinary Winter Vacation Ideas--
New Mexico is one of my favorite regions in the US, and though mainly known as a summer destination, it also shines -- literally-- at Christmastime.
With its large Hispanic population, the celebration of Christmas is a major festival. A beautiful aspect of this celebration is the appearance everywhere of "luminarias": "little lanterns" in Spanish, these are little paper bags with sand (for stability) and a small candle inside. inside.
Thousands of these small flames line streets, staircases, doorways. You can enjoy luminaria displays in Old Town Albuquerque, Santa Fe, or in smaller and Taos. (Taos is a great place to visit with kids, not least because of its unique three-story native American pueblo: read about visiting Taos New Mexico.) Taos also offers great skiing a short drive away.
Below are some details on holiday events:
- Albuquerque, River of Lights
At the Albuquerque Biological Park throughout December: featuring hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights in various themes; family activities; entertainment; food and crafts; dinner with Santa; dinner with Father Time.
- Albuquerque and Santa Fe: Luminaria Tour
On Christmas Eve, the main plazas of both cities are decorated with thousands of luminarias. In Santa Fe, cider is served, carols are sung and groups walk to the nearby Cross of the Martyrs.
- Old Town, Albuquerque: Holiday Shop & Stroll
Early in December, this event features late closing for shops, free rides between Old Town and the River of Lights (above), lighting of the holiday tree and a children's parade with Santa Claus.
- Native American Dances
Various animal dances occur during the winter season, including the buffalo, eagle or game animal dances on and following Christmas, at the Jemez pueblo.
*photo courtesy of NewMexico.org.
