Find Festive Freebies and Family Fun at “New Year’s Eve Before Dark”

Ring in the New Year with family-friendly activities during New Year's Eve Before Dark on Sunday, December 31 at various times and venues across the city. Enjoy free admission to the Albuquerque Museum from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where visitors will have the final opportunity to see the O’Keeffe and Moore exhibit before it moves on to its next stop, partake in holiday-themed crafts, and listen to the sounds of Entourage Jazz. Please note the museum will close at 3 p.m. on Dec. 31.

Meanwhile, admission to the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum will also be free from 10 a.m. to noon, and feature fun New Year’s themed activities and a mesmerizing bubble show by Lauren Coons. With Love, Waffles food truck will be onsite offering delicious treats for purchase. 

Five branches of the Public Library of ABQ/BernCo will ring in the New Year before the sun goes down with various movies, crafts and other activities. Locations include Central & Unser; Cherry Hills; Erna Ferguson; International District; and Taylor Ranch. Visit https://libevents.abqlibrary.org/ for events and times.  

Bring on 2024 with a midday celebration at Explora during its annual Noon Year’s Eve balloon drop at 12 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance at http://tinyurl.com/2excz4ac. Please note: Explora will close at 2 p.m. on Dec. 31.

Make a resolution to visit the ABQ BioPark’s animals at the Zoo or celebrate with sea creatures at the Aquarium. Or walk in nature at the Botanic Garden to reflect on 2023. The Zoo will offer special animal enrichment throughout the day. Check the BioPark Connections calendar at http://tinyurl.com/c48h2jfr for a schedule of special moments. All BioPark Connections and animal enrichment activities are included with regular BioPark admission. Purchasing tickets in advance at https://artsandculture.cabq.gov/ is recommended. The BioPark will close at 3 p.m.