Bernalillo Lights Tree and Hosts Whoville Christmas Parade
Bernalillo held its annual Christmas tree and water tower lighting Friday evening, featuring memorial ornaments for residents to honor loved ones. The town will continue celebrations tonight with a Whoville themed parade on Main Street, an event that draws families, supports local businesses, and reinforces civic tradition.
Bernalillo kicked off its holiday weekend Friday, December 5, with a Christmas tree and water tower lighting ceremony at Town Hall. The event began at 6 p.m. and included an opportunity for residents to hang memorial ornaments on the tree in honor of loved ones, a practice that public officials say has become a meaningful part of the community observance.
Town officials scheduled the community parade for Saturday evening, December 6, with a 6:30 p.m. step off on Main Street. This year’s parade embraces a Whoville theme inspired by Dr. Seuss’s classic holiday tale, and organizers are encouraging families and local organizations to attend. “Let’s make this year’s parade the most memorable one yet,” town officials said in announcing the events.
The paired events serve both symbolic and practical roles for Bernalillo. The tree lighting provides a public place for remembrance and gathering, while the parade brings increased foot traffic to Main Street in a season when local retailers and eateries rely on community patronage. For residents, the festivities offer free, family friendly entertainment and an accessible civic ritual that underscores neighborhood ties and volunteer involvement.
Public safety and traffic adjustments are common around the Main Street parade route, and attendees should anticipate street closures and limited parking in the downtown area beginning shortly before the 6:30 p.m. start. Residents seeking to participate in the parade as an entry, volunteer, or community group can contact the Community Development office at 505 771 7133 or email cjones@tobnm.gov for registration details and arrival instructions.
The events reflect ongoing municipal efforts to maintain longstanding holiday traditions while providing inclusive options for remembrance and engagement. As Bernalillo heads into the evening parade, organizers expect a strong turnout from Sandoval County families and visitors drawn by the seasonal programming and community atmosphere.
