Good morning, Albuquerque.

Food banks see a surge in holiday donations while needing steady support year-round.

Roadrunner Food Bank in Albuquerque (chief development officer Andrea Nash says 50% of donations come between October and December) urges residents to donate non-perishable items and volunteer to support families facing hunger.

New Mexico in Focus revisits events in Ruidoso, wildfire recovery, and community feedback on Native student needs.

The PBS series also highlights the new medical psilocybin law + guidelines now under development as officials work through 2027 to launch a regulated treatment program.

Albuquerque International Sunport expects 266,000 travelers from Dec.

18 to Jan. 3 with the Sunday after Christmas set to see 19,000 catching flights as local restaurants and shops in the renovated food hall offer holiday treats while gas prices remain lower than last year.

Kerry Cottle, a UNM art MFA alum, is emerging as a rising voice in contemporary painting by blending sustainable materials and hands-on techniques— her work is featured in Mental Ecologies at de boer gallery in Los Angeles through Jan.

3.

Unseen Espiritu will perform at Launchpad on Jan.

24 with Sorry Guerro, Thrall, and Desmadre (NM); local death metal leader Jeff Gallegos and his band continue to energize the Albuquerque music scene.

UNM architecture professor Chris Cornelius was honored with induction into the National Academy at a ceremony held at the Morgan Library & Museum in New York City, and he will donate a signature work next year to join fellow inductees.

Seven Colorado River Basin states (including New Mexico) are working on a five-year water plan as key reservoir levels remain low.

The states must reach an agreement by Feb. 14 while the federal government pushes for a compromise.

Candlelight Christmas Carols on Strings

6:30-7:30 p.m. — African American Performing Arts Center — Tickets required — Experience the enchanting sounds of Christmas carols performed by a string quartet in a beautiful candlelit setting.

River of Lights

5-10 p.m. — ABQ BioPark - Botanic Garden — Adults $21, Youth $12 — Experience New Mexico's largest walk-through holiday light show with dazzling displays and festive activities.

Monday Night Watch Parties at Steel Bender Brewyard

6-7:30 p.m. — Steel Bender Brewyard — Food and drink specials available — Enjoy live NFL action with giveaways and great food.

Midland Concert

6:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Route 66 Casino Hotel — Check venue for ticket prices — Experience the energetic sounds of Midland this New Year's Eve.

Albuquerque Career Fair

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North — Free entry — Meet live with hiring employers and explore career opportunities.

Gene Simmons Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Backstage at Revel — Ticketed event — Experience an unforgettable live performance by the legendary Gene Simmons.

International District Book Group

5-6:30 p.m. — International District Library — Free entry — Engage in lively discussions about inclusive YA books with diverse characters and themes.