Winter Wonderland Albuquerque: 2025 In-Depth Guide

Get ready to sleigh your way into the holidays with Winter Wonderland NM—the dazzling, light-filled experience transforming Expo New Mexico in Albuquerque into a seasonal celebration! Perfect for families, couples, and anyone who loves sparkle and festive fun, this extravaganza guarantees magical new holiday memories.

Lights, Action, Albuquerque!

Winter Wonderland takes over Expo New Mexico (300 San Pedro Dr. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108), turning it into an immersive winter-themed paradise.

The massive outdoor event lets guests drive through a mile-long holiday lights display or park and stroll among paths brimming with twinkling lights, themed zones, and interactive installations. Look for oversized ornaments, animated displays, and zones inspired by New Mexico culture, including the popular Electric Forest and Luminaria sections.

Mark Your Calendars for Holiday Cheer

In 2025, Winter Wonderland NM will run December 4 through December 29 (Thursdays to Sundays), with gates opening at 6:00 PM nightly. The event is closed Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Christmas Day, so plan accordingly.

Pro-tip: Santa photo ops are available Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 6:00–9:00 PM, but end after December 25th.

A Festive Fun-Fest for Everyone

Enjoy kid-friendly animated tunnels, romantic walkways, Instagram-worthy spots, and safe, memorable Santa meet-and-greets.

Designed for all ages, Winter Wonderland offers kid-friendly setups such as animated light tunnels (over 35+ decorated Christmas trees!), classic holiday characters, and interactive displays. Couples can enjoy romantic strolls through sparkling walkways, and groups will find plenty of Instagram-worthy photo spots. Plus, Santa himself is certified and background-checked through Santa America for safe, memorable visits.

Not Your Average Holiday Lights

What sets Winter Wonderland NM apart is its blend of immersive walk-thru sections and relaxing drive-thru experiences. Highlights include:

• Giant holiday inflatables and themed zones
• Santa’s Workshop (photos with Santa available before Dec 25, Fri–Sun)
• Live performances by Disney Princesses and other costumed characters
• Local vendors serving tacos, treats, and hot cocoa
• Traditional New Mexican luminarias, a unique luminary display
• Special holiday sections sponsored by Xfinity and others
• Interactive installations and cultural zones, showcasing New Mexico’s festive traditions

A portion of ticket sales supports local charities—the Ronald McDonald House Charities and Animal Humane New Mexico.

Where to Park the Sleigh

On-site parking at Expo New Mexico is convenient, with general areas close to entrances.

Costs typically range from approximately $5–$10, depending on date and crowd. Parking attendants and signs make navigation easy; walk-thru guests enjoy minimal distances from lot to entrance, avoiding long winter hikes.

Frosty Fun, Zero Stress with Tripster

Embrace the chill and thrill of Albuquerque’s Winter Wonderland without the holiday headaches. Tripster brings together event tickets, cozy hotels, and must-see attractions into one dreamy bundle.

Skip the endless searching — booking with Tripster means exclusive deals, curated vacation packages, and a magical winter escape for couples or families. Whether you’re after festive lights, photo ops with Santa, or local adventure, Tripster handles every detail so you can focus on memory-making moments.

Bundle up and book your Albuquerque winter getaway with Tripster today—because the only thing you should worry about is which mug of cocoa to choose!