In the early 1800s, people began to use inexpensive paper bags instead of building bonfires. These small lanterns (called farolitos in norhtern New Mexico), have become a tradition, and are no longer limited to Christmas Eve.
The simple beauty of the luminous paper bags sitting along adobe buildings creates a quiet feeling of journey. Enjoy the magic that a luminaria tour offers as you stroll through the Albuquerque neighborhoods where the tradition brightens the darkness every year.
Luminaria Tours
For some families, touring the luminarias through Albuquerque neighborhoods is a tradition. Walking can be fun, but many choose to take a bus tour, eliminating the need to find parking or getting caught in traffic delays. The City of Albuquerque offers an annual luminaria tour through Old Town and the Country Club area via bus. Sit and relax in the warmth of the bus, where you can forget the crowds and walking in the dark.
Self Guided Luminaria Tours
Old Town
Many choose to walk through Old Town, which has the highest density of luminarias to buildings. It is a wonderful tour and well worth the effort. Old Town is closed to driving tours with the exception of the city bus tours. Parking can be found at the lots east or south of Old Town. There is also parking in the museum lots nearby (Albuquerque Museum, Explora and the Museum of Natural History). While in Old Town, enjoy the San Felipe de Neri Church, which opens its doors to the public, and has several nativity scenes. Look for the Cottonwood Madonna behind the church. The Plaza Don Luis across from the church has a giant Christmas tree that is made of multiple Christmas trees; see if you can discern how it is made. Many like to visit the shops while in Old Town, with some favorite stops being the Christmas Shop and the Old Town Card Shop. Don't miss the kaleidoscopes at Casita de Kaleidoscopes.
Country Club
The Albuquerque Country Club neighborhood creates a winter wonderland every year, dotting the streets with paper bag lanterns. Most people choose to walk, but some do drive, so caution is taken on both sides. The streets in this area meander in all directions, so any route is pleasant. The large houses are decorated in seasonal garlands and the walk can take as little or as long as you like.
Ridgecrest
The Ridgecrest tour can be a walk through, but it is a long walk, so most choose to drive. Begin at Ridgecrest and Carlisle and drive southeast along Ridgecrest Boulevard until Jackson or Truman. Turn at either street and turn around in the Parkland Hills neighborhood before continuing back in the opposite direction along Ridgecrest again.
Before Heading Out


