Carlsbad
Carlsbad, NM – Forget about the desert. For that matter, forget about snow! Carlsbad celebrates the season with its award-winning Christmas on the Pecos through Dec. 31.

A magical vista is created along the Pecos River with over 100 homeowners decorating for the event. Carlsbad NM residents show their creativity as much as their community pride. Each year the Holiday Season on the Pecos wraps itself around the riverfront, illuminating backyards, boat docks and islands with millions of lights. The Pecos River Holiday Lights shimmers with color. Wise men and angels glow on sloping lawns.

Board one of four riverboats and cruise the Pecos for an unforgettable experience. Christmas on the Pecos River is a 50-minute tour that sets sail 12-15 times per night between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. to New Year's Eve. Tours depart from the Pecos River Village, a quaint, turn-of-the-century park that is transformed into a wonderland of sparkling lights and delights. Wander through a gallery full of gifts created by local artists and enjoy holiday refreshments at the Pecos River Village before and after your tour.

Call ahead for reservations, tho, because this event is wildly popular. www.christmasonthepecos.com or call 575 628-0952.


Albuquerque area
Bernalillo – Visit the new Gathering of Artists Gallery during the holiday season for a unique chance at some wonderful art. This upscale art complex features the work of its 36 artists from the region. The Gathering of Artists Guild has a membership of 26 professional artists.
A reception for their inaugural holiday show is Saturday, Dec. 6 from 5-8 pm at the Old Town Shoppes complex, 733 S. Camio del Pueblo, one block north of The Range Café. For information, call 505-771-3567
While you’re in Bernalillo, check out the Rt 66 Gallery on N. Camino del Pueblo Rd. Gallery owner/manager Darryl Willison was chosen the New Mexico artist to create a Christmas tree ornament for the national Christmas tree in Washington, DC this year. Congratulations, Darryl!


Carrizozo
Carrizozo – Gallery 408 and The Studios on 12th Street will be having an "Open Studio Night", Friday, Dec. 5 from 5 to 7pm. All of the participating Studio Artists upstairs will have their studios open to the public for all of you shoppers looking for that special gift. Come see the renovations that have been made and all the wonderful art being created in the new Studios on 12th Street. For more information, call 575-648-2598.


Socorro
Socorro – Having a hard time getting in the Christmas spirit with such warm weather? Come down to the Socorro Plaza on Friday, Dec. 5 and stroll among the luminarias during the annual Luminarias on the Plaza Art Walk. From 5-8 pm, artists will exhibit in various businesses around the plaza. Luminarias will lead the way to each of the special venues. Hosts will offer light refreshments and local groups will add music to the festive event. Call 575-835-8927 for more information.

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