From holiday lights and family-friendly activities to unique gifts and culinary treats, Farmington offers plenty for travelers seeking a memorable holiday getaway.
Holiday Events and Festivities
The holiday season begins with the annual Turkey Trot and Gobble Wobble on November 22 at Orchard Plaza. This lively community run brings energy and excitement to the start of the holidays, offering visitors a chance to experience Farmington’s local spirit. The celebrations continue the following weekend with Small Business Saturday on November 29, when downtown Farmington shines with festivity. Small Business Saturday showcases the creativity of local artisans and provides opportunities to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts.
Throughout November and into mid-December, craft fairs take place across the county. These fairs are ideal for finding handmade jewelry, art, pottery, and other unique items while supporting local creators. For visitors looking to experience the festive spirit, these events offer both shopping and an authentic taste of the community’s holiday traditions.
December brings a series of highly anticipated events. The Festival of Trees, held at the Farmington Civic Center from December 2 through 7, features beautifully decorated trees and live entertainment. On December 3, visitors are invited to join the community for the lighting of the Community Christmas Tree outside the Civic Center, followed by the Christmas Parade along Main Street on December 4, which showcases sparkling floats, music, and lights.
Other highlights include Riverglo on December 5, when Berg Park and the Riverwalk are transformed with luminarias, carolers, and a live nativity scene. On December 6, San Juan College hosts its annual campus luminarias, creating a breathtaking display of lights for visitors to enjoy. From December 11 to 13, live performances of A Charlie Brown Christmas Story will be held at the Farmington Civic Center. Families can attend Morning with Santa at Sycamore Park Community Center on December 13, where kids can meet Santa, take photos, and enjoy festive activities.
The holiday season also includes performances and seasonal observations. The Silhouettes perform Light of Christmas at the Civic Center on December 19, and astronomy enthusiasts can experience the Winter Solstice Observation at Chaco Culture National Historical Park and Aztec Ruins on December 21 and 22. These events provide a unique combination of cultural and natural experiences for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the season.
Shopping Local in Farmington
After filling your calendar with events, Farmington offers a variety of options for holiday shopping. Local shops and galleries provide unique gifts. Art enthusiasts can explore Artifacts 302, Heart Gallery, and the Three Rivers Art Center, which offer local photography, paintings, handmade jewelry, and pottery.
Shoppers seeking eclectic finds will enjoy A Beautiful Mess, Dusty Attic, Lavanya’s Antiques, Uniques & More, What the Junk, and Junkin’ Around. Each store has its own character, filled with treasures that make finding the perfect gift a fun adventure. For active visitors, stores like 505 Cycles and Sandstone Cycles offer bikes, gear, and repair services, while Ultimate Performance UTV provides parts and custom builds for off-road adventures. Golf enthusiasts can check out My Golf Fix for indoor golf equipment and experiences.
Food and drink make great gifts, and Farmington has options for every taste. Wines of the San Juan offers a selection of wines that reflect the flavors of the region, while NutriMeals provides fresh, ready-to-go meals, snacks, and smoothies for visitors who value healthy options.
Book lovers will find their haven at Amy’s Bookcase and Quill & Quest Bookstore. Amy’s Bookcase houses over 100,000 gently used books across all genres, while Quill & Quest offers new books and a cozy café setting. Visitors can also participate in themed events at Quill & Quest, such as book releases, crafting nights, and reading clubs.
For jewelry and cultural gifts, Farmington’s shops provide high-quality, unique options. J.A. Jewelers & Co. has a wide selection of fine jewelry, while Fifth Generation Trading Company in Historic Downtown Farmington features the largest selection of Indian jewelry and Native American crafts in the region. Shiprock Trading Post, operating since 1894, works with local artists to showcase authentic Native American art and jewelry.
Planning Your Visit
Farmington’s holiday season is packed with activities, shopping, and opportunities to experience the local culture. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trip around events, shop at local businesses, and explore the region’s attractions. Every stop contributes to the community’s vibrancy while offering guests a memorable and festive experience. For more information about Farmington’s holiday events and activities, check out our Community Calendar.