Each year Christmas in the Foothills offers an array of vendors selling specialty arts and hand-crafted gifts; door prizes; the raffle of a 2017 Christmas in the Foothills framed / signed poster; and the $49.99 Art Sale, which began many years ago as a way for Hillsboro’s artists, authors, and craftspeople to give back to the community. Each item entered in the show is sold to the winning ticket holder for $49.99, and all items are guaranteed to be worth more than that—often many times more! Posters and holiday cards will be available for sale, with proceeds helping nonprofit organizations that serve Hillsboro and the surrounding areas. In addition to events at the Community Center, Hillsboro’s Main Street merchants will welcome holiday visitors. Hillsboro is located on Highway 152 approximately 17 miles west of I-25 at exit 63. From Silver City take Highway 152 east 57 miles to Hillsboro. Contact: Melody Sears, 575-895-5457, melody21@windstream.net.

Shop in historic Monticello for unique holiday gifts and decorations, all locally-made. Hundreds of items, many organic, will be available, as well as lunch and hot or cold beverages. Cash and personal check only please. Contact: Jane Darland, 575-743-0200, janedarland@gmail.com.

Visit the historic ghost town of Chloride for a look back to a simpler time and a slower-paced holiday season. Many of the original buildings from the 1800s will be decorated with a nod to an old fashion Christmas. The Monte Cristo Gift Shop & Gallery will have items on sale at great prices, and a $25 purchase will get you a free gift. While in town check out the Pioneer Store Museum or take a walking tour of Chloride. If you would like to spend more than just the day, make reservations for the Apache Kid RV Park or one of the restored 1800s cabins. Contacts: Monte Cristo Gift Shop & Gallery, 575-743-0493, montecristogallery@windstream.net; Pioneer Store Museum & Apache Kid reservations: 575-743-2736, dedmund@windstream.net. The Gift Shop & Gallery and the Museum are open daily from 10am to 4pm. Chloride is a point of interest along the Geronimo Trail National Scenic Byway. It is located just 35 miles west of Truth or Consequences via Highway 52.

This festive event includes a Christmas Tree lighting and a light parade. Downtown businesses will be open. Many will run specials and/or offer holiday goodies. Sponsored by MainStreet Truth or Consequences. Contact: director@torcmainstreet.org.