Luminarias (or farolitos, if you’re one of *those*) are a Christmas Eve tradition in New Mexico which dates back more than 300 years. Here’s where to catch the best luminaria displays in the city this year. Displays typically light up right at dusk.

If driving, remember to slow down, turn headlights off when possible and always keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists.

On Foot:

Old Town
Hundreds of luminarias will line the plaza in Old Town for a beautiful, traditional display plus catch the massive Christmas tree at Plaza Don Luis on the West side of the Plaza.

Country Club
Dozens of homes partake in this display. Access from San Pasquale or Laguna on foot and meander through the neighborhood.

Ridgecrest
The small neighborhood which encircles Ridgecrest Park features plenty of luminarias as well as some stunning light displays.

Driving:

North Valley
Drive down Rio Grande from Paseo Del Norte to Alameda, the large homes are spaced widely apart but feature beautiful displays. Check out Lee Acres subdivision and Dietz Farm Place.

South Valley
The Alamosa neighborhood, which sits between Old Coors and Coors has a luminaria display. Drive down Central to Old Coors and travel south to Bridge, then head East to 2nd St and North through the Barelas neighborhood.

Barelas
Begin at the National Hispanic Cultural Center to see its light display, then drive north on 2nd Street through the heart of Barelas.

Mt. Calvary Cemetery
Each year the cemetery honors loved ones with a Christmas Eve Luminaria Remembrance Program. Families are invited to pick up a luminaria bag to personalize with a name, photo, message or drawing in memory of a loved one. On Christmas Eve those luminarias are placed along the cemetery roads and walkways.