Duke City Parents
Hello, November! Sandhill cranes are back, Thanksgiving week brings runs for all ages, and River of Lights kicks off November 28. There are also holiday markets, seasonal events, and plenty of ways to get out with the kids.
Here’s a bunch of family-friendly events and things to do around Albuquerque this month, listed by date.
Easy standbys you can plug into any open morning or evening.
Every Sunday (Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29) · 9 AM–1 PM · 2000 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque · Free general admission
Free admission every Sunday morning is a great budget move. Wander the galleries at kid speed, then grab lunch in Old Town just down the road. Free entry ends at 1 PM.
Wednesdays (Nov 4, 11, 18, 25) · 9:30 AM (some dates also at 11 AM) · Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Dr NE, Albuquerque · Ages up to 6
A weekly story, music and art hour made for babies and preschoolers. It’s a calm, small-group way to get out midweek, and you can explore the balloon displays afterward.
Mondays (Nov 2, 9, 16, 23, 30) · 9–11 AM (reserved slot) · Explora, 1701 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque · Paid Kids 1–11 $7, adults 12–64 $11, seniors 65+ $8, under 1 and members free
Explora opens its hands-on exhibits to toddlers on Monday mornings, so little ones can climb, pour and poke without the big-kid rush. Reserve your slot ahead of time so you aren’t turned away.
Thursdays · 4 PM · Plaza Don Luis, Old Town, Albuquerque · Free
Free live music on the plaza late Thursday afternoons. Let the kids wiggle, then grab dinner nearby. It’s a low-key way to wrap up the week without buying a ticket.
Wed Nov 4, Fri Nov 6, Sat Nov 7, Wed Nov 25, Fri Nov 27, Sat Nov 28 · 7 PM · Rio Rancho Events Center, 3001 Civic Center Cir NE, Rio Rancho · From $15
Pro hockey is a high-energy family night out, and there are six home games this month, including Youth Sports Night (Nov 6), Military Night (Nov 7) and Star Wars Night (Nov 27). Parking is free.
Through Sun, Nov 8 · Daily, all day · 200 N Plaza St NW, Old Town, Albuquerque · Free
A ten-day community celebration through Nov 8, with ofrendas on the Plaza and a candlelight procession after sundown on Monday, Nov 2. Both Saturdays are Family Days with free showings of Coco.
Sun, Nov 1 · 12–5 PM (parade at noon) · Westside Community Center, 1250 Isleta Blvd SW, Albuquerque · Free
A neighborhood parade and celebration that’s easy to miss on the big calendars. Get there for the noon parade, then stick around for ofrendas, music, art vendors and food.
Every Sunday (Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29) · 9 AM–1 PM · Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Dr NE, Albuquerque · Free
The Balloon Museum is free every Sunday morning. Giant balloons, flight exhibits and room to roam make it a great pick for restless kids, and it pairs well with the Albuquerque Museum’s free Sunday.
Sun, Nov 1 · Kids' half-mile run at 11 AM · Civic Plaza, Downtown Albuquerque · $22.84 kids' run · Ages 12 and under
Got a runner in the house? The kids’ half-mile run is open to ages 12 and under, every finisher gets a medal, and it’s capped at 100 kids, so sign up early on RunSignup.
Sun, Nov 1 · 9 AM–2 PM · Expo New Mexico, 300 San Pedro NE, Albuquerque · About $2
Kids outgrow snow gear in a season, so this is a smart stop for secondhand gear before the slopes open. There’s a kids’ gear section, and everyone is welcome. Measure boots before you go.
Sun, Nov 1 · 9 AM–12 PM · 500 Jones Rd, Corrales · Free entry
This is the season finale and the last market of 2026. Pick up late-season local goods and let the kids stretch their legs in the village. Go early for the best selection.
Sun, Nov 1 · 4 PM · Rio Grande Credit Union Field at Isotopes Park, Albuquerque · $22
Pro soccer playoff action at Isotopes Park. A playoff match has a big-game atmosphere kids who like soccer will love, and it’s a great first taste of live sports.
Tue, Nov 3 · 9–10 AM · ABQ BioPark Zoo, 903 10th St SW, Albuquerque
A calmer, quieter hour at the zoo for families who do better with fewer crowds and lower noise. A ticket is required and numbers are limited, so grab yours early.
Wed, Nov 4 · 9 AM–5 PM · 2000 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque · Free
Free admission all day at the museum. Pick one or two galleries that fit your kids’ attention spans.
Sat, Nov 7 · 12–4 PM · Sandia Preparatory School, Albuquerque · All ages
A family food festival with ice cream and sweet treats, plus salsa, hot honey, jerky and green chile popcorn tastings. There’s also a DJ, a foam party, carnival games and food trucks. Tasting ticket prices aren’t posted yet.
Sat, Nov 7 · 10 AM–4 PM · NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque · Museum admission
The museum turns 40 with free planetarium and Dynatheater shows all day, included with admission. Dinosaurs, a giant screen and a star show in one stop is hard to beat. Grab show times when you arrive.
Sat, Nov 7 · 10 AM–4 PM · St John's United Methodist Church, 2626 Arizona NE, Albuquerque · Free admission and parking
A cultural festival with live music and a small, community feel. It’s a nice way to introduce the kids to a tradition they may not have seen before. Admission and parking are free.
Sat, Nov 7 · 10 AM–4 PM · UNM Continuing Education, 1634 University Blvd NE, Albuquerque · Free
More than 100 local vendors, and it costs nothing to browse. This year’s theme is The Art of Gifting, so it’s a great place to start holiday shopping and support small makers.
Sat, Nov 7 · 11 AM–2 PM · West Mesa Community Center, Albuquerque · Free · All ages
A free neighborhood fall party with games, a turkey raffle and a pie walk, a cakewalk’s tasty cousin. Come hungry and ready to play. It’s a low-pressure afternoon for any size family.
Sat, Nov 7 · 10 AM–12 PM · 9521 Rio Grande Blvd, Albuquerque · Free · Little learners
This month’s theme is animal tracks, with outdoor discovery built for toddlers and preschoolers. Wear shoes that can handle a little dirt. Registration and an account are required, so sign up first.
Sat, Nov 7 and Sat, Nov 21 · 1–2:30 PM · 2000 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque · $3+ with museum admission · All ages
Drop in for a hands-on art project the whole family can do together, included with museum admission. It runs Nov 7 and Nov 21, and the Nov 7 date pairs nicely with Free Sunday Mornings the next day.
Sat, Nov 7 · 3 PM · International District Library, 7601 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque · Free · Family
The library screens a PG family movie on Saturday afternoons, a low-key, wallet-friendly way to spend the day. Pack comfy layers and get there a few minutes early for a good seat.
Sat, Nov 7 · 8 AM–12 PM · Robinson Park, Downtown Albuquerque · Free entry
The market wraps up its 30th season on this day. Pick up local produce and goods, and let the kids stretch their legs at the park.
Fri, Nov 6 to Sun, Nov 8 · North Domingo Baca Park, Albuquerque · Free entry
A free three-day artisan and vendor expo at the park, a low-key stop for early holiday shopping. Daily hours aren’t posted yet, so pick the day that fits your family.
Sun, Nov 8 · All day · 200 N Plaza St NW, Old Town, Albuquerque · Free
Your final chance to see the Plaza’s Día celebration. Pair it with Free Sunday Mornings at the Albuquerque Museum (9 AM to 1 PM) for an easy two-stop Sunday that costs next to nothing.
Wed, Nov 11 · Parade 9 AM, ceremony 10:30 AM · Ceremony at NM Veterans Memorial Park, 1100 Louisiana Blvd SE, Albuquerque · Free · All ages
A free, meaningful outing for the whole family. The parade starts at 9 AM at USS Bullhead Memorial Park, followed by the 10:30 AM ceremony at NM Veterans Memorial Park. Bring chairs and ear protection for little ones. Rio Rancho holds its own parade at 10 AM.
Fri, Nov 13 · 5:30 PM · Explora, 1701 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque
A quieter evening session at Explora for kids who do best with lower noise and fewer crowds. A calmer room means more time to explore the hands-on exhibits at their own pace.
Sat, Nov 14 · 10 AM–2 PM · NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque · Museum admission
What did dinosaurs eat for their big feast? Museum educators lead hands-on turkey-meets-dinosaur activities for the whole family, included with admission. It’s a fun pre-Thanksgiving science day for curious kids.
Sat, Nov 14 · 12 PM · Center Court, Cottonwood Mall, 10000 Coors Bypass NW, Albuquerque · Free
Free family bingo in Center Court on the Westside. Seating is limited and first come, first served, so show up a little early. It’s short and sweet, a good add-on to a day of errands.
Sat, Nov 14 · 1–3:30 PM · Casa San Ysidro, Corrales · Free
A free afternoon at a historic home museum in Corrales, with this month’s theme on how treasured objects are cared for. It’s a gentle outing for curious kids and a good excuse to stroll the village.
Sat, Nov 14 · 10:30 AM · Taylor Ranch Library, Albuquerque · Free
A free story hour with a park ranger, a nice way to mix books and nature. It’s a good fit for preschool and early-elementary kids, and a cozy way to spend a Saturday morning.
Sat, Nov 14 · 3:30 PM · Ernie Pyle Library, Albuquerque · Free
Fold your own paper creations at this free craft program. It’s a good pick for kids who love making things, and the skills carry over to rainy-day fun at home.
Sat, Nov 14 · 5:30 PM · University Stadium, 1111 University Blvd SE, Albuquerque · From $16 · Kids free · All ages
Local college football under the lights, with tickets from $16 and kids free through the Kids Free Initiative. Bundle up, since evening games get chilly. The Lobos are also home Fri, Nov 27 at 2:30 PM.
Sun, Nov 15 · 2–6 PM (Santa photos 2:30–6) · Serendipity Studios, 3107 Eubank Blvd NE Unit 22, Albuquerque · Santa photos $35 + tax for 3 digital images
An early holiday kickoff with a Santa mailbox and highland cows on site. Santa photos run $35 plus tax for three digital images, and you can skip the photos and still enjoy the cows.
Mon, Nov 16 · 3 PM · Alamosa Library, Albuquerque · Free
A free Thanksgiving craft after school, with a gratitude twist. Kids make a keepsake to hang at home and talk about what they’re thankful for. A nice, easy way to start the week.
Tue, Nov 17 · 9–10 AM · ABQ BioPark Aquarium & Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave SW, Albuquerque
A quieter hour with fewer crowds and lower noise, for families who prefer a calmer start. It pairs nicely with the zoo’s sensory morning on Nov 3. A ticket is required and numbers are limited.
Wed, Nov 18 · 3:30 PM · Juan Tabo Library, Albuquerque · Free
Turkey-themed crafts at the library, free and easy after school. It’s a fun way to keep little hands busy before the holiday and get the kids in the Thanksgiving spirit.
Thu, Nov 19 · 3:30 PM · Taylor Ranch Library, Albuquerque · Free
Turn a little pumpkin into a turkey at this free Thanksgiving craft. It makes a cute table decoration for the holiday, and the kids get something to proudly show off at dinner.
Thu, Nov 19 · 5–8:30 PM · 2000 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque · Free night
A free evening at the museum, a nice option after school or work. Come for an hour, see one or two galleries, and you’re home before bedtime. A low-pressure night out that won’t cost a dime.
Thu, Nov 19 · 5:30–7 PM · NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain Rd NW, Albuquerque · By donation
A relaxed evening at the museum with smaller crowds and admission by donation. It’s a good fit for kids who like the dinosaurs best when it’s a little quieter.
Thu, Nov 19 · 6 PM · Popejoy Hall, 203 Cornell Dr NE, Albuquerque · $41+ · All ages
The Heelers are coming to Albuquerque with a live stage show, and toddlers and preschoolers will be thrilled. Everyone needs a ticket, including little ones, so budget for the whole family.
Thu, Nov 19 · 6 PM · Rio Rancho Events Center, 3001 Civic Center Cir NE, Rio Rancho · From $36.25
Elmo and friends bring a singing-and-dancing show to Rio Rancho, a toddler favorite. It’s the same night and time as Bluey, so you’ll need to pick one.
Fri, Nov 20 and Sat, Nov 21 · 6:30 PM · Outpost Ice Arenas, 9530 Tramway Blvd NE, Albuquerque · $18+
Two chances to catch live hockey on the Northeast side, a fun and affordable night out. Ice arenas run cold, so bring layers for the kids. A great first game for new hockey fans.
Nov 20–29 · Fri Nov 20, 7 PM; Sat Nov 21, 2 and 7 PM; Sun Nov 22, 2 PM; Fri Nov 27, 7 PM; Sat Nov 28, 2 and 7 PM; Sun Nov 29, 2 PM · Rodey Theatre, UNM, Albuquerque · $20+ · All ages
The classic musical about the plucky orphan and her dog, with tickets from $20 to $34. The Sunday, Nov 22 matinee is a Relaxed Performance, which is easier on sensory-sensitive kids.
Fri, Nov 20 · 7 PM · Bank of America Theatre, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th St SW, Albuquerque
A family-friendly Christmas concert with a retro rock and roll twist. Ticket prices aren’t posted yet, and it’s an evening show, so plan around bedtime.
Sat, Nov 21 · 9 AM–2 PM · Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors Blvd NW, Albuquerque · Free · Family-friendly
Live birds, crafts and a Crane Dance celebrate the sandhill cranes that winter along the Rio Grande. It’s a free, hands-on morning in the bosque, so wear boots and bring a jacket.
Sat, Nov 21 · 1:30–3:30 PM · Cabezon Community Center, 2307 Cabezon Blvd SE, Rio Rancho · $15 per person · Ages 3+
Craft and snack time with Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang, with a Thanksgiving twist. This one needs online registration by Nov 13, and there are no drop-ins, so sign up early.
Sat, Nov 21 · 1:30–3:30 PM · UNM Duck Pond, Albuquerque · Free · All ages (under 13 with an adult)
A free, kid-planned bicycle scavenger hunt around the UNM Duck Pond. Kids under 13 need to come with an adult, so make it a family ride. A fun, no-cost way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
Sat, Nov 21 and Sun, Nov 22 · 10 AM–4 PM · Six stops along Hwy 165, Placitas
A pre-Thanksgiving tradition now in its sixth year, with 100-plus artists and artisans at six stops along Hwy 165. Follow the red signs. One stop is a winery, so plan your route with kids in mind.
Sat, Nov 21 and Sun, Nov 22 · 2–3:30 PM · KiMo Theatre, Downtown Albuquerque
A youth cast performs a kid-length version of the beloved musical in a historic downtown theater. The shorter run time is just right for younger audiences, and it’s a nice first trip to the KiMo.
Sat, Nov 21 · 7:30 PM · Popejoy Hall, 203 Cornell Dr NE, Albuquerque · $64+
A Grammy-winning holiday concert with music and multimedia visuals, billed as a tradition for more than 40 years. A 7:30 PM start is a little late for little ones.
Sat, Nov 21 · South Broadway Cultural Center, Albuquerque
A kids’ dance recital full of color and music. Watching other kids perform often inspires little dancers, so it’s a nice way to introduce folklórico to your family.
Sat, Nov 21 · 11 AM–12 PM · Central & Unser Library, Albuquerque · Free
A free video game tournament at the library, great for kids who would rather play than read, at least for an hour. Drop in and see who takes the crown.
Sat, Nov 21 · 3 PM · International District Library, 7601 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque · Free · Family
A free showing of the Peter Pan sequel on the library screen, a good way to end a busy Saturday. Pack comfy layers and settle in with the kids.
Sun, Nov 22 · 2 PM · Rodey Theatre, UNM, Albuquerque · $20+
Sunday’s matinee is a Relaxed Performance, which means a more flexible setting for kids who need to move, make noise or step out. See the full run details under Friday, Nov 20.
Wed, Nov 25 · 11 AM–2 PM · Albuquerque Convention Center, 401 2nd St NW, Albuquerque · Free
A free community meal for neighbors who are homeless or hungry. It’s not a typical fun outing, but it’s a meaningful way to talk about gratitude and giving back with older kids.
Thu, Nov 26 · Tot Trot 8:15 AM, Little Turkey 1 Mile 8:30 AM, 10K 9 AM, 5K 9:05 AM · Balloon Fiesta Park, 9401 Balloon Museum Dr NE, Albuquerque · $12 Tot Trot, $20 1 Mile, $45 5K
The biggest Thanksgiving morning tradition in town, with a Tot Trot and a Little Turkey 1 Mile for kids. Dress in layers, get there early for parking, and register soon, since prices rise closer to race day.
Thu, Nov 26 · 7–11 AM · Free
A free “family, fun, fitness” option on Thanksgiving morning, great if you want to get moving without a registration fee. The window runs four hours, so pick a start time that fits your kids.
Thu, Nov 26 · Tingley Dr SW, Albuquerque · 5K run/walk and Kids 1K
Another Thanksgiving morning option, with a 5K and a Kids 1K fun run near the BioPark. Start times and prices aren’t posted yet.
Thu, Nov 26 · Kids K 10:15 AM, 10K 9 AM, 5K 9:05 AM · Loma Colorado Park, 745 Loma Colorado NE, Rio Rancho · $15 Kids K, $42 5K and 10K
A Rio Rancho Thanksgiving tradition in its 22nd year, with a Kids K, a 5K, a 10K and a 2-mile walk. Registration includes a shirt and medal, and the Kids K price goes up after Nov 1.
Fri, Nov 27 · 9 AM–5 PM · Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th St NW, Albuquerque · Free (donations appreciated) · Family
A day of Native dances, ornament decorating and Santa photos, a Black Friday that doesn’t involve a mall. The first 100 families get a free mug, so arrive early.
Fri, Nov 27 · 2–7 PM · Winrock Park, 2100 Louisiana Blvd NE, Albuquerque · Free
More than 100 local vendors, live music, and free photos with Santa — and the Christmas tree lighting at 5:45 PM. Browse handmade gifts and let the kids soak in the holiday atmosphere without a big-box crowd.
Fri, Nov 27 to Sun, Nov 29 · 10 AM–5 PM (Sun until 4 PM) · Expo New Mexico, 300 San Pedro NE, Albuquerque · Adults $10 Kids 12 and under free
A 30-plus-year tradition with about 175 juried artists, so there’s plenty of one-of-a-kind shopping under one roof. Kids 12 and under are free and adults are $10, which helps the family budget.
Fri, Nov 27 to Sun, Nov 29 · Hotel Albuquerque, Old Town, Albuquerque
Another holiday artisan market, this one in Old Town. Pair it with a stroll around the Plaza and lunch nearby for an easy day out with the kids.
Fri, Nov 27 to Sun, Nov 29 · 10 AM–7 PM · Balloon Fiesta Park, 9401 Balloon Museum Dr NE, Albuquerque
A three-day outdoor festival with local artisans, food vendors, live entertainment and family-friendly activities. Admission prices aren’t posted yet.
Fri, Nov 27 · 3 and 7 PM · Kiva Auditorium, 401 2nd St NW, Albuquerque · $43+
A holiday tradition for families who want a splurge night. The 3 PM show is easier on little kids’ bedtimes. Check seating options carefully, since prices span a wide range.
Fri, Nov 27 · 2:30 PM · University Stadium, 1111 University Blvd SE, Albuquerque · All ages
A Black Friday game for football families, a fun way to make the long weekend a tradition. Bundle up, since it can still get chilly in the stands. Ticket info is on the Lobos site.
Opens Sat, Nov 28, through Jan 3 · 5–10 PM (last entry 8 PM), timed tickets · ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, Albuquerque · Last year: $21 adults, $12 ages 3–12
The area’s biggest family light show glows across the Botanic Garden for more than a month. Book a timed ticket ahead and wear warm layers. 2026 prices aren’t published yet, and it’s closed Dec 24–25.
Sat, Nov 28 to Mon, Nov 30 · Main Library and Central & Unser Library, Albuquerque · Free
Kids can write their wish lists to Santa at the library. It’s a cozy, free holiday activity, a sweet way to kick off the season, and a good reason for the kids to practice their writing.
Sat, Nov 28 · 3 PM · International District Library, 7601 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque · Free · Family
A free afternoon movie at the library, perfect after a morning of holiday shopping. Pack comfy layers and settle in with the kids for a classic family favorite.
Sun, Nov 29 · 6 PM · Popejoy Hall, 203 Cornell Dr NE, Albuquerque · From $49 · All ages
A live puppet show for fans of the Jim Henson classic. A 6 PM start runs late for little ones on a Sunday night, so plan an early dinner.
Sun, Nov 29 · 12–4 PM · Oasis Event Center, Albuquerque · New toy or $20 donation
A car show for the whole family, with food trucks and vendors, that benefits Toys for Tots. Bring a new, unwrapped toy or a $20 donation to get in.
A little outside our usual 45-minute radius, but worth the trip.
Sun, Nov 15 · 10:30 AM–2:30 PM · Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, 217 Johnson St, Santa Fe · Free
A free day trip to Santa Fe with art activities and storytime celebrating the painter’s birthday. Make a day of it with a walk around the Plaza.
Sat, Nov 14 and Sun, Nov 15 · Mountainair (Salinas Pueblo Missions) · Free
Storytelling and a glass-making demonstration in the Salinas Pueblo Missions area. It’s a longer drive, so pack snacks and make it a road trip. Check the park’s site for the day’s schedule.
Smaller or looser-detail ideas worth keeping in your back pocket.
Cottonwood Mall from Nov 13, Coronado Center from Nov 21
Photos with Santa start daily at Cottonwood Mall on Nov 13 and at Coronado Center on Nov 21. Costs weren’t confirmed, so check each mall’s site before you go.
Before you go: Three items were still unpublished on the organizers' own sites when we checked on October 26, 2026: River of Lights 2026 ticket prices, BioPark Sensory-Friendly Morning session prices, and New Mexico Artisan Market admission. Please look those up on the organizers' sites before you head out.
Know of something we missed, or spot a detail that changed? Reply to any Duke City Parents email and tell us. We'd love to add it. Get our weekend picks in your inbox every week.
Subscribe to Duke City ParentsDates, times and prices were last checked October 26, 2026 and can change. Always confirm with the organizer before you go. Every listing links to the organizer's own event or ticket page. Where we could not find one, the title is not linked.