On the second Saturday of each month, Lowe's hosts a building workshop for children, free of charge.  I believe it starts at 10 a.m. and lasts one-hour.

On the first Saturday of each month, Home Depot offers the same sort of workshop between 9 a.m. and noon.  (It only lasts that long if there's enough interest.)

These are free programs and great for both genders.  Free aprons and eye protection are usually included and available for take-home.  Certificates are personalized and offered at the end for successful completion of the project.  Lowe's gives a patch and a sticker.  Home Depot gives a pin for clothing.  These are fun to collect and/or scrapbook.  Take your camera . . . it's a hoot!

2006 Holiday Events
The holiday season is alight with special events sure to make your imagination sparkle. Kick off the holidays with the Twinkle Light Parade through downtown Albuquerque the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Enjoy the walk-through River of Lights Holiday Light Festival at the Rio Grande Botanic Garden throughout the holiday season. Take a holiday shopping stroll through Old Town or Nob Hill to enjoy shopping, carolers, luminarias, music and refreshments. Fine arts and crafts holiday shows take place throughout December. Don’t miss the season’s grand finale during the Old Town Luminaria Tours on December 24th.

Twinkle Light Parade, November 25, 2006
An annual holiday parade in Downtown Albuquerque to kick off the holiday season.
505-768-3556. http://www.cabq.gov/crs/specialevents

A Christmas Carol, November 25-26, 2006                                
A dramatic dance production based on the original story by Charles Dickens.  A show that’s great for the whole family.  2 pm and 7 pm.  Sandia Prep Performing Arts Theater.  532 Osuna Rd. NE.  Admission: adults $15, children (12 and under) $8.  344-8299.  http://www.elitenm.net

River of Lights Holiday Light Festival, November 25-December 30, 2006
Walk through display of spectacular light sculptures, food and musical entertainment.
Rio Grande Botanic Garden 505-764-6200. http://www.cabq.gov/biopark

Nov. 25th

TWINKLE LIGHT HOLIDAY PARADE!
Bundle up and join the crowds along Central Ave. at 5 p.m. to welcome in the holidays.  The annual parade runs westbound along Central starting at Central and 34rd, passes by Old Town and ends at the Rio Grande Botanic Garden in time for opening night of the River of Lights.  Call 768-3556 or 311 for more info.