1. Pueblo Revolt - On December 23, 1680, the Pueblo Revolt began as indigenous peoples in New Mexico, led by Popé, rose up against Spanish colonizers. This event eventually led to the Spanish leaving New Mexico for 12 years before they returned in 1692.

2. New Mexico Becomes a State - December 23, 1911 marks the day that New Mexico officially became a state in the United States. This followed a long period of territorial status since the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the Mexican–American War in 1848.

3. The Alamogordo Historic District - On December 23, 1985, the Alamogordo Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This district includes many buildings and structures from the early 20th century, showcasing the local history of Alamogordo.

4. World's Largest Hot Air Balloon Festival - The first Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta was held on December 23, 1972. Today, it is the most photographed event in the world, attracting over 500 hot air balloons and thousands of visitors each year.

5. Skiing Tradition Begins - On December 23, 1935, the world’s first chairlift began operations at Sun Valley ski resort in Idaho. While not in New Mexico, this event helped popularize skiing in the United States and eventually led to the creation of ski resorts in New Mexico, such as Taos Ski Valley and Ski Santa Fe.