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2024 Holiday Event Favorites

Visiting home for the holidays is almost like a trademarked event! Nothing can compare to the cozy smells of firewood, roasted pinon, and green chili stew floating through the air in Raton. Our volcanic peaks and the Sangre de Cristo mountain range is dusted in snow, and downtown is decorated like a Hallmark movie. Check out our hometown favorite events and things to do during the holidays in Raton!


Christmas on the Chicorica in Sugarite Canyon State Park (Photo by IG: jes.in.wonderland)
Christmas on the Chicorica in Sugarite Canyon State Park (Photo by IG: jes.in.wonderland)

City of Bethlehem Display

November 29, 2024 - New Years 2025

Apache Avenue, Climax Canyon


The City of Bethlehem is a drivable nativity scene in our Climax Canyon only blocks from downtown. Heading up Apache Avenue, drive through lit-displays of cartoon characters, better known as Toy Land to enter into the gates of the canyon welcomed by angels. Drive thru the canyon with the kiddos reading the story of Jesus and the reason for the season. 


Raton Tree Lighting at Ripley Park
Raton Tree Lighting at Ripley Park
Raton Mainstreet Festival of Lights and Tree Lighting

Friday, Nov. 29, 2024 at 5:30-7 p.m.

Historic First Street and Ripley Park


Hang out downtown the day after Thanksgiving to kick off the holiday season. Meet at dusk for the Christmas Tree lighting at Ripley Park. Bring the kids to meet Santa Claus and then head to Historic First Street for a stationary light parade and to shop local.


Storytelling & Story-Recording

Friday, Nov. 29, 2024 at 5:30-7 p.m.

130 Park Avenue


Celebrate the magic of Raton’s Festival of Lights with an evening of warmth, memories, and community connections. The Arthur Johnson Memorial Library, El Raton Media Works, and the Rotary Club are excited to present Story-Telling and Story-Recording, a special event to capture and share the spirit of our community. Together, let’s build a lasting legacy of oral histories that celebrate the people, traditions, and stories that make Raton so special.


Storytelling for All Ages: Gather around for heartwarming children’s stories and seasonal tales shared by talented storytellers, while enjoying complimentary hot seasonal drinks to keep you cozy.


Share Your Story: Step into the audio and video recording space provided by El Raton Media Works to record your favorite memories of Raton. Whether it’s a cherished holiday tradition, a moment that makes you smile, or a piece of local history, your story matters! Bring along a friend, family member, or neighbor to help us preserve the unique voices of our community


Christmas on the Chicorica

Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 from 5-8:30 p.m.

Sugarite Canyon State Park


The Friends of Sugarite Canyon will be hosting their annual Christmas on Chicorica creek in the Sugarite Canyon Boardwalk area. Donations are appreciated. Come enjoy a walk among the decorated Riverwalk complete with star gazing and warm beverages. Marshmallow roasting over a barrel fire will be available to visitors. Dress warmly as the event occurs predominantly outdoors. Santa and the his coal miner friend will be present for photographs from 5-7:30pm.


Will and Crystal Yates Performance

Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024 from 7-9 p.m.

The Shuler Theater


The Raton Arts and Humanities Council presents "Will and Crystal Yates" at the Historic Shuler Theater for a benefit concert to support our community and the Raton Fire Department Toy Drive and the Hunger Pantry. Admission is free for those that bring a brand new toy or two (2) non-perishable food items.


The Shuler Theater
The Shuler Theater
A Christmas Carol Performance

Dec. 19-22, 2024 from 7-9 p.m.

The Shuler Theater


The Santa Fe Trail School for the Performing Arts presents our annual production of Charles Dickens' classic tale: A Christmas Carol directed by Sarah Reid with Clint Henson. Purchase tickets at the door.


Thursday through Saturday, Dec. 19-21, 2024 at 7 p.m.

Sunday matinee on Dec. 22, 2024 at 2 p.m.

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