December 2014 - The Art World: River of Lights
River of Lights sculpture at the BotanicGarden. Photo Courtesy ABQ BioPark.
More than just a lighting display, it's a work of art. The annual event, River of Lights, is back for the holiday season. Enjoy millions of twinkling lights, live music, food, drinks and holiday gifts until January 3, 2015.
Festive sculptures will blanket the Botanic Garden with wondrous scenery, animated figures and towering displays. This year's main attraction will be a giant sunken ship. Visitors can find the ocean scene in the Festival Green, and enjoy returning favorites spread across the Garden. River of Lights also features holiday music from local performers through December 23rd.
"River of Lights has become a holiday tradition for so many families in New Mexico,"said Maryann Torrez, BioPark Operations and Events Manager. "It's exciting to see families search for their favorite displays, discover new sculptures, listen to the music groups play and take in all the activities we have to offer. They love it."
On select nights in December, guests can also purchase a ticket to board the Polar Bear Express, a train ride with Santa and his elves. Passengers can also enjoy sweet treats, hot cocoa, music and a present from Santa before de-boarding to explore the River of Lights exhibit. Advance tickets are required and will be available-online only-beginning November 7th.
Watch for the special Holiday G-Scale Model Train at the Garden Railroad, Wednesdays-Sundays. Get creative during Holiday Nature Crafts on December 3rd, 10th and 17th. Complete the holiday festivities with a dinner at the Shark Reef Cafe. From December 15th through December 23rd, have Supper with Santa, and adults can enjoy a late-night celebration December 26th-30th during Rockin' Nights at River of Lights.
River of Lights will be open November 29th - January 3rd, 6:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children. Children under 3 are free. Senior and member discounts are not available for this special fundraiser. Groups of 50 or more may qualify for a group discount; please contact us for details. Free park & ride from the Zoo will be available on select nights. Come check out a New Mexico tradition.